columbus ohio loves cupcakesThis summer is full of fun and interesting entertainment, food and other unforgettable adventures just waiting to be pursued. We came up with a short but detailed list of those special events we recommend. Enjoy our Columbus, Ohio 2013 Summer Guide to fun around our city! (All listings are in chronological order).

Wicked June 5th – June 23th (Times Vary By Date)

Ohio Theatre – 39 E State St Columbus, OH 43215 – (614) 469-0939

One of the most popular and incredible productions on Broadway comes to Columbus tomorrow, Wednesday, June 5th and will continue until the end of the month of June. Tickets can be purchased by Clicking Here. (Tickets Available While They Last)

Columbus Arts Festival June 7th (6/7 & 6/8 11-10:30PM, 6/9 11-5PM)

Downtown Riverfront – Columbus, OH 43215

Are you a lover of the arts or just enjoy critiquing local work and galleries. Our downtown riverfront will be transformed into an outside street fair of artists from far and wide. This event is free. Check out their artsy and colorful website to learn more about all vendors and share the countdown before the big event.

Zoofari – June 15th (Events start at 5PM)

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – 4850 Powell Rd Powell, OH 43065 -(614) 645-3400

This is a must-see event for any adult. You’ll enjoy a sampling of over 100 bars serving appetizer portions of their entrees. Entertainment is also supplied at the event; as well as, a VIP party and main event. To read more information and to purchase tickets ($135 pre-sale / $150 at the door) click here to be redirected to their website

Father’s Day – June 16th  (11-4PM)

Franklin Park Conservatory – 1777 E Broad St Columbus, Oh 43203 – 614.715.8000

Celebrate Dad and bring the family and enjoy special crafts and family entertainment; as well as, a summer barbeque (1pm-4pm $2 per tasting). (Event is free with Admission). To read more information about the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens; as well as, find their admission prices, visit their website.

ComFest June 28th/29th/30th

Goodale Park, Short North – 850 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

If you’re in the mood to people watch or just in the Short North area during this weekend, ComFest is an event everyone should experience at least once. Leave your judgements at the gate and just “relax” on this last week of June. This event is free but there is restricted/metered parking for this event. To learn more about the festivities at ComFest click here to visit their event website.

Red White & Boom – July 3rd – Noon-11PM

Downtown Columbus

One of the most popular summer activities in the city and state of Ohio are the Downtown Columbus fireworks. Families travel for miles and from surrounding states to see and participate in all the festivities. Make sure to make a day of it, and get there early if you’re planning on parking. To learn more about all the events during Red White and Boom check out their website

Franklin County Fair – July 13th-20th

Franklin County Fairgrounds – 4100 Columbia St Hilliard, OH 43026 – (614) 876-7235

Show your support of Franklin County and celebrate the county fair’s 96th event. There are many photo opportunities and fun family moments during this year’s fair. To read more about the daily schedule and Battle of the Bands information visit their website . Expect parking and admission fees

Picnic With The Pops Festivals All Summer

Ohio Statehouse – 1 capitol square Columbus, OH 43215

Picnic with the Pops is a special event hosted by the Columbus Symphony and occurs almost every other weekend during the entire year. Starting in Spring and Summer months, all artists/performers are featured at the State House lawn where they welcome Chaka Khan on Friday, June 14th. To learn more about Picnic with the Pops individual or group tickets visit their website or contact the CAPA Ticket Center 614.228.8600

WingZing July 18th (LC Pavilion – 3:00PM)

LC Pavilion – 405 Neil Ave Columbus, OH 43215 – (614) 461-5483

If you like beer, wings and GREAT music, the annual Wing Zing is an event you can’t miss. This year the lead performers/ group is Cheap Trick. Plus, you can’t beat the Cheap pre-sale tickets of $18 or $22 at the door… that’s no Trick. To learn more about the drinking and eating fest. Visit QFM96’s website.

Jazz and Ribs Festival July 19th ( 7/19 11-11PM, 7/20 11-11PM, 7/21 11-8:30PM)

The Arena District: North Bank Park, McFerson Commons, and Spring & Long Streets in Downtown Columbus

If you didn’t get enough of the juicy wings at the Wing Zing the day before, we’re highly recommending you take a trip downtown where you’ll be able to enjoy this event for free! (Parking/Metering Fees may apply). To visit their website for more information about the schedule of events and performers, check out their website .

Ohio State Fair July 24th – August 4th (9-10am, Closes early at 8PM on August 4th)

The Ohio Expo Centere – 717 E 17th Ave Columbus, OH 43211 – (614) 644-3247

Everyone has to attend our state fair at least once while they open their gates to the masses. There are hundreds of performers, food vendors and rides. Honestly we’d be surprised if you aren’t already planning your family trip. To read more about the admission and parking fees, click here to visit their website.
Have a great Summer!