List: 10 things to do this weekend around Columbus for August 14-17, 2025
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — From textile art and outdoor theater to an Archie Griffin appearance, food festivals and even a ghost tour, central Ohio’s calendar is packed with ways to soak up the final weeks of summer.
This week’s lineup brings together a mix of free, family-friendly events and ticketed experiences, including a heart-healthy community walk, clean(ish) comedy, live music soul fest and a celebration of children’s literature. See the list below of these not-to-be-missed happenings in and around Columbus over the coming days.
'A Common Thread' textile art exhibition
Ohio Arts Council's Riffe Gallery, Tuesdays through Fridays until Oct. 3, noon to 5 p.m.
The Ohio Arts Council’s Riffe Gallery is showcasing “A Common Thread,” an exhibition curated by Caren Petersen and Char Norman. Running from July 26 to Oct. 3, this exhibition features contemporary artworks by 16 artists who live and work in Ohio. Admission is free.
'She Kills Monsters' by Qui Nguyen
Schiller Park Amphitheatre, Aug. 14 through 31, Thursdays through Sundays, 8 p.m.
“She Kills Monsters,” performed by the Actors' Theatre of Columbus, is an adventure that explores both the heart and mind. Qui Nguyen’s play blends comedy, action, and a coming-of-age story. This Young Adventurers version is appropriate for all ages and is directed by Dr. Aviva Neff. All performances are free, and donations are appreciated during intermission.
Dick's House of Sport grand opening
Polaris Fashion Place, Aug. 15 through 17
Dick’s House of Sport grand opening celebration will include appearances by Archie Griffin and Jeremiah Smith, an opportunity to donate gently used sporting equipment, $10 off coupon good on purchases of $50 or more, special giveaways, prizes and more.
CBUS Soul Fest
Downtown Columbus Scioto Mile, Aug. 15 and 16, from 4 to 10 p.m.
The CBUS Soul Fest, organized by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, celebrates the culture, music, and spirit of Columbus. It expands on Experience Columbus's CBUS Soul platform, which showcases the city's Black culture, creativity and contributions. This free, family-friendly festival is a highlight of the summer, offering an unforgettable weekend filled with entertainment and community connection.
Clean Up Your Act: Clean(ish) Comedy Show
The Attic Comedy Club, Aug. 15, 9 p.m.
“Clean Up Your Act” is a comedy show featuring carefully selected local and regional comedians known for their “edgy” humor. In this show, these performers will strive to keep their material relatively clean while still offering adult content. However, they will avoid unnecessary “vulgarities.” Admission to the show is $20.
American Heart Association’s 30th Central Ohio Heart Walk
McFerson Commons Park, Saturday, Aug. 16, event opens at 8 a.m.
The community is invited to celebrate the Heart Walk’s 30th anniversary as it mobilizes to fight heart disease and stroke, the leading cause of death in both central Ohio and the United States. NBC4 anchors Jennifer Bullock and Jerod Smalley will emcee the event, which aims to raise critical funds and drive awareness around CPR training, which can double or even triple survival rates when performed by bystanders.
Once Upon Ohio
Ohio History Center, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Celebrate children's literature with the Ohio History Connection. Kids can dress as their favorite storybook characters and enjoy a day filled with book-themed activities, crafts, and storytelling sessions with the Columbus Metropolitan Library. Live children's music will feature The Shazzbots.
Admission prices:
• Adults: $16
• Youths (ages 4-12): $10
• Students and seniors (60+): $14
• Children under 3 and members: free
Columbus Food Truck Festival: Hilliard Edition
Franklin County Fairgrounds, Hilliard, Aug. 16 and 17, starts at 11 a.m.
Now in its 14th year, the festival features an array of cuisines from 50 of the best gourmet food trucks across the Midwest. Guests can enjoy an impressive lineup of live music, explore a selection of handcrafted items from local artisans and crafters, and embark on a unique shopping adventure.
Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999)
CAPA Summer Movie Series, Ohio Theatre, Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 17, 2 p.m.
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, the origin story of the feared Sith Lord Darth Vader begins on the desert planet of Tatooine in the first installment of the “Star Wars” saga. Starring Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman and Liam Neeson. Rated PG. Single tickets are $6, with a discounted rate of $5 for students and seniors.
Ringside Cafe Ghost Tour and Investigation
Columbus Ghosts Tours, Ringside Café, Aug. 16, 11 p.m.
The event begins at 11 p.m. with a paranormal tour of Ringside Café, then patrons can spend time with their own paranormal investigation tools. Columbus Ghosts Tours will have a limited supply of equipment. The event will end at 1 a.m. The bar will be open during the event. Participants need to sign a waiver. Ages 21 and older. Tickets are $50.