Blooms and Butterflies
March-September
See colorful butterflies take flight at the Franklin Park Conservatory! The exhibit is open from March until September, and patrons can visit at any time to see a diverse array of butterflies fluttering or basking on the plant life. Experts will be available to answer any questions you might have!
See the Columbus Park of Roses in Full Bloom
Late May, Early June
This Columbus gem welcomes locals and visitors alike year-round, completely free of charge. But while the gardens are gorgeous at all times, we've heard that the best time to visit is spring and early summer. The old garden roses, located in the Heritage Rose Garden, only bloom once a year — and late May is your chance to catch them! Don't miss it.
The Opening of Pearl Market
June 1
Spring marks the opening of local farmers' markets! While there are several great options around town, we are counting down the days until the opening of the Pearl Market in downtown Columbus. Hit the market every Tuesday and Friday starting June 1 to find locally grown produce, freshly baked goodies and hand-crafted trinkets.
The East Meets West Festival at the Ohio Theatre
May 9-13
A multi-media event like nothing you've ever seen before, the East Meets West Festival combines eastern and middle-eastern cultures and colors for a stunning performance. Come to hear a mix of symphony, Chinese opera, pantomiming and original videos.
Rock on the Range
May 18-20
It's no secret that Ohio is home to a thriving rock and roll culture, especially as home to the infamous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Catch a taste of this culture at Rock on the Range, a three-day festival showcasing some of the biggest names in rock. This year's headliners include Alice in Chains, A Perfect Circle, Avenged Sevenfold, Stone Sour, Tool and Godsmack.
Columbus Asian Festival
May 26-27
This free festival welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually, and continues to grow in popularity. Boasting sports, games, culture exhibits, delicious food, shopping, martial arts and stunning performances, the festival showcases the best of Asian culture and promotes the importance of diversity. Don't miss it!
Columbus Arts Festival
June 8-10
The Columbus Arts Festival has been a must-see event for more than 50 years, and it's no wonder why. It has been rated as one of the top festivals in the nation by several national publications, and includes interactive activities, performances, food & bevvies, and incredible work from local, national, and international artists alike. Catch it this June on the Scioto Mile.
Jazz & Juleps
May 11
Enjoy meandering through the German Village at this "garten" centric event, which will include gorgeous flowers and artistic garden accessories on display in the streets. While you're shopping, sip on unlimited juleps, nibble hors d'oeuvre, and listen to live music. Proceeds benefit the German Village Garten Club's projects and educational programs.
Six One Pour: The Ohio Craft Beer Fest
May 12
The 614 is home to a burgeoning craft beer scene. Come celebrate it at this hoppin' festival, which will unite more than 60 Ohio brewers to show their stuff. As the finale to craft beer week, the festival will include free-flowing beer from the tap (including the exclusive, collaborative brew, Confluence IPA), food and live music.
The Short North Food Tour
Ongoing
The warming weather means patio season is finally upon us, and local food trucks will be coming out to show their stuff. Get a taste of springtime flavors by taking one of the Short North Food Tours & Walking Tours. The tours typically include six to seven stops, ranging from brunch options to popular lunch spots and food trucks. Regardless of the tour you choose, you'll be treated to a gorgeous walk, meetings with local food vendors, and a full rundown of the artistic Short North neighborhood.
Photo courtesy of the Columbus Clippers' Facebook
Attend a Soccer Match Ongoing While the Blue Jackets just finished off their season, you can catch our major league soccer team, the Columbus Crew SC, from March until October at the MAPFRE Stadium. Full schedule here. Catch a Baseball Game Ongoing If baseball is more your thing, take yourself out to the ball game to see the Columbus Clippers. Columbus' Triple-A team and affiliate of the Cleveland Indians plays regularly April through September at Huntington Park, which has been named the best ballpark in America. Make sure to take advantage of events and promotions throughout the season, including Monday Dime-a-Dog Nights, which kick off on May 21.