Gateway Film Center and Columbus Metropolitan Library offers FREE movies with the beloved series, From Book to Film. Head to Gateway Film Center for FREE family-friendly movies every weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day. As part of the film center’s ongoing efforts to improve the … [Read more...] about Last weekend! Free Movie Admission: From Book to Film at Gateway Film Center
Events for Families and Kids
The Grove City EcoFest Zero-Waste Celebration
The Grove City EcoFest is a naturally fun celebration showcasing green exhibitors and interactive family activities on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The waste-less festival inspires healthier living and preserving our environment. The mission of the Grove City … [Read more...] about The Grove City EcoFest Zero-Waste Celebration
Outdoor Public Pools in Columbus and Central Ohio
Sometimes it's just too hot to be outside without being in a pool. If you don't have a friend or family member to visit with a pool, head to one of these public pools in Columbus to cool off. Check out the full list of public pools that are open around Central Ohio, and offer day … [Read more...] about Outdoor Public Pools in Columbus and Central Ohio
Cedar Point: Free admission for Military appreciation May 22-25
Cedar Point is honoring the service and sacrifice of U.S. military members and veterans during Military Appreciation Days, happening Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25, 2026. In recognition of Memorial Day Weekend, eligible guests can enjoy free admission to the park, plus access to … [Read more...] about Cedar Point: Free admission for Military appreciation May 22-25
Free admission Memorial Day Weekend for Kings Island Military Appreciation
Kings Island is honoring our nation’s heroes with Military Appreciation Days this Memorial Day Weekend, from Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25, 2026. It’s the park’s way of saying thank you to the men and women who have served — and continue to serve — in the U.S. Armed Forces. They can also … [Read more...] about Free admission Memorial Day Weekend for Kings Island Military Appreciation
Family Funday at the Columbus Commons during Memorial Weekend
Bring the family out for a good time at the Columbus Commons for Family Funday on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 12 pm - 4 pm. Enjoy free family-friendly games, crafts, face painting, carousel rides, live music, inflatables and more. More fun events include: Face … [Read more...] about Family Funday at the Columbus Commons during Memorial Weekend
Visit Zoombezi Bay Waterpark; discounts, special days, and more
Zoombezi Bay Waterpark is one of the top fun spots during summertime in Central Ohio! Featuring thrilling water slides, roaring rapids, lazy river, wave pool, and so much more, there's something for everyone! You'll never run out of things to do at Zoombezi Bay, and your admission include Zoo … [Read more...] about Visit Zoombezi Bay Waterpark; discounts, special days, and more
Memorial Day Parades and Ceremonies around Columbus
Memorial Weekend is often celebrated as the first long weekend of the Summer, when weather has finally warmed up. There are Memorial Day events and ceremonies around Columbus to honor our heroes. Make sure you take time to remember those who gave their lives for our country this Memorial … [Read more...] about Memorial Day Parades and Ceremonies around Columbus
All Ohio Balloon Fest in Marysville returns August 2026
The All Ohio Balloon Fest returns to Marysville in 2026 for the 50th anniversary on August 21-22, 2026. There will be over 15+ Hot Air Balloons in the sky, plus helicopter, plane, and balloon rides, live music, food, and beverage. All Ohio Balloon Fest Each day, the Hot Air … [Read more...] about All Ohio Balloon Fest in Marysville returns August 2026
Free Adventure Nights at Zoo and Zoombezi Bay with movies and more
Play all day in the sun at the Zoo or Zoombezi Bay or show up late for Adventure Nights on Friday and Saturday nights, June 26 – July 25, 2026. Zoombezi Bay Adventure Nights Friday and Saturday nights, June 26 – July 25, 2026 Adventure Nights is the Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay’s debut … [Read more...] about Free Adventure Nights at Zoo and Zoombezi Bay with movies and more
Explore at Touch-a-Truck in Powell – May 1
Kids can check out lots of different vehicles at the Touch-a-Truck in Powell on Friday, May 1, 2026 from 9:30 am - 11:30 am. All ages love climbing and exploring dozens of vehicles in Adventure Park including emergency vehicles, farm equipment, and city vehicles. Kids will learn up close … [Read more...] about Explore at Touch-a-Truck in Powell – May 1
Visit Lancaster’s Skyview Drive-in movie theatre for double feature fun and flea markets
No matter how many years go by, drive-in movies are still fun! We are fortunate to have many drive-in theaters in Ohio, including a couple in Central Ohio. Skyview Drive-in is located in Lancaster, which less than 40 minutes from downtown Columbus! Skyview Drive-in is also having a flea market on … [Read more...] about Visit Lancaster’s Skyview Drive-in movie theatre for double feature fun and flea markets
Summer bucket list of free and cheap fun for kids in Columbus
There's so much free and cheap fun for kids around Columbus in the summertime, and we've gathered a huge Summer Bucket List for Kids in Columbus for you to explore! Whether you want to enjoy the sun or avoid it, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor options to keep busy on the … [Read more...] about Summer bucket list of free and cheap fun for kids in Columbus
Run or Walk – 5k Races in Columbus for 2026
Race entry frees aren't exactly cheap, but registering for races helps people stay accountable with a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine. Being healthy IS frugal. Find races in Columbus that support causes close to your heart, or that have the best swag bag! Running in the USA already has 70+ … [Read more...] about Run or Walk – 5k Races in Columbus for 2026
Huge list of Outdoor movies around Columbus
Enjoy movies under the stars with friends and family around Columbus throughout the summer and fall. Many community-sponsored movies are returning for 2026. There are also plenty of drive-in style movies that give you the outdoor movie experience in your car. Please check individual … [Read more...] about Huge list of Outdoor movies around Columbus
