Columbus on the Cheap

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Youth events and camps

Upcoming free and cheap activities for kids

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Looking for something to do with the kids? We've gathered a list of day to day activities for kids of all ages, to get out of the house or indoor activities no matter the weather. We're including activities for all ages and at various price points - including lots of free … [Read more...] about Upcoming free and cheap activities for kids

Over 15 Free Summer Reading Programs in Columbus

Summer reading programs are a great incentive to keep kids reading during the Summer months. Students who read over the summer break tend to avoid the "Summer Slide", or Summer learning loss. Students should be reading at least 10-20 minutes each day, and adults should be reading to non-readers … [Read more...] about Over 15 Free Summer Reading Programs in Columbus

Summer Reading Challenge at Columbus Metropolitan Library

Public libraries are a huge resource for free and cheap events and resources in any city, but the Columbus Metropolitan Library wants to reward everyone just for reading this summer. The Summer Reading Challenge runs from May 31 though July 31, 2025 to encourage people of all ages to read, … [Read more...] about Summer Reading Challenge at Columbus Metropolitan Library

KidsLinked’s Free Columbus Children’s Festival

Don't miss the KidsLinked’s Columbus Children's Festival on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at SportsOhio in Dublin from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The free festival celebrates youth and family sports and will feature lots of activities and entertainment for the family, including sports competitions, family … [Read more...] about KidsLinked’s Free Columbus Children’s Festival

Free airplane rides for kids with Young Eagles

In the Young Eagles program, volunteer pilots give kids age 8-17 years old free airplane rides. The flights last about 15 or 20 minutes long. The pilot involves the kid in the pre-flight inspection, and teaches him or her about the instrument panel, aeronautical chart and parts of the … [Read more...] about Free airplane rides for kids with Young Eagles

Youth Aviation Adventure for teens 12-18

Teens interested in flight and aviation can learn all of the ins and outs at the Youth Aviation Adventure. The program is Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 8 am - 3:30 pm, and is just $10 per youth ages 12-18. Learn about Aerodynamics, Airport Operations, Careers in Aviation, Instrument Panels, … [Read more...] about Youth Aviation Adventure for teens 12-18

Thurber House Tours, Book Bar Mixer, and more

Thurber House is a nonprofit literary arts center that serves as an educational gathering place for readers, writers, and artists from all over the world. Since 1984, Thurber House and the Thurber Center next door have held author events, creative programming, writing workshops for kids and … [Read more...] about Thurber House Tours, Book Bar Mixer, and more

2025 Summer Camps at Columbus Metro Parks

Get the kids outside this summer with Columbus Metro Parks. They offer a variety of summer camps and at various metro parks.  Registration opens in early March, and spots go fast! Traditional Day Camps There are 8 weeks of Traditional Day Camps with different themes at Highbanks, … [Read more...] about 2025 Summer Camps at Columbus Metro Parks

Safety Camps in Columbus for Elementary Students

Have you heard about Safety Town Camps for kids? Safety Town camps are typically available for kids ages 5-7 to teach them how to be safe in their community. My kids attended New Albany Safety Town when they were young, and had a blast! As a first camp experience, and they learned so much. There … [Read more...] about Safety Camps in Columbus for Elementary Students

2025 Summer Camps in Columbus, Ohio

It may seem too early to think about Summer Camps for your kids, but registration for Summer camps in Columbus begins in late January - early March for most programs. There are many summer camps in Columbus that cater to a variety of interests, including athletics, STEM, day camp, outdoor … [Read more...] about 2025 Summer Camps in Columbus, Ohio

Overnight Summer Camps create lasting memories

Is your child ready for more of an immersive summer camp experience? Overnight summer camps can be SO MUCH FUN for youth! For many, it's the first time they are "on their own" without parents, though there are plenty of counselors to take care of your loves. There are a variety of overnight … [Read more...] about Overnight Summer Camps create lasting memories

Free Prom Dresses for students with Fairy Goodmothers

Prom is a core experience for many high school students, but not all families can afford to purchase a prom dress. Fairy Goodmothers helps high school students find their dream prom dress for free during three weekends in February and March 2025.  Not in need of a prom dress? Find out how … [Read more...] about Free Prom Dresses for students with Fairy Goodmothers

Central Ohio Stem Expo makes Science, Technology, Engineering and Math fun!

The ASCE Central Ohio Stem Expo returns to Columbus on March 1, 2025 from 9 am - 1 pm at Nationwide & Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center (2201 Fred Taylor Dr, Columbus, OH 43210). Students from Kindergarten through 8th grade will enjoy this free event. Attendees participate in fun and … [Read more...] about Central Ohio Stem Expo makes Science, Technology, Engineering and Math fun!

Teen Night and other teen activities at Westerville Community Center

Teens ages 11-14 can start their weekend in good company at the Teen Night at Westerville Community Center. For more information call (614) 901-6543. Teen Night at Westerville Community Center dates Teens will have access to the gymnasium, climbing wall, eSports, pool, and adventure fitness … [Read more...] about Teen Night and other teen activities at Westerville Community Center

Where to Buy Girl Scout Cookies in Columbus

It’s that time of year again—Girl Scout Cookie season going on (and ends this month)! Whether you’re craving Thin Mints, Samoas, or Tagalongs, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stock up on your favorite cookies while supporting local Girl Scout troops in Columbus. Also....did you know it's … [Read more...] about Where to Buy Girl Scout Cookies in Columbus

Living on the Cheap

Columbus on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.