Can’t Miss Festivals in Columbus, Ohio

In today’s day and age, there’s a festival for just about anything — and in Columbus, that’s no exception. Because there’s always something worth celebrating in the Discovery City, you’ll uncover hundreds of festivals yearly. With fun and unique events right outside your doorstep, discover how to celebrate like a true Columbus local.

Due to the sheer number of events held here each year, we’ve compiled a list of the top festivals in Columbus, Ohio, that you should not miss.

Free Festivals in Columbus, Ohio

Jazz and Rib Festival in Columbus

The Jazz and Rib Fest is a three-day free celebration held in the peak of summer. Located along the Scioto Mile downtown riverfront, hundreds of people gather yearly to indulge in smoky barbeque, hand-crafted cocktails, and live jazz music — it doesn’t get much better!

When: July 18-20, 2025
Address: 233 Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215

Cherry Blossom Festival

Inspired by the District of Columbia’s famous festival, the Greater Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates over 100 cherry blossoms in Franklin Park. Featuring authentic Japanese entertainment, music, and exhibits, snap the perfect photo at this gorgeous experience.

When: April 5-13, 2025
Address: 1755 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

Ticketed Festivals in Columbus, Ohio

Food Truck Festival in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus’s highly anticipated Food Truck Festival has been a beloved tradition for 13 years. Gathering 50 of the best food trucks in all of Ohio, this one-day event brings together tasty vendor lineups, live music, and local artisans for a day full of memorable fun. This is a one-day event that foodies can’t get enough of. If you’re searching for other food-related events as you patiently wait for this festival to arrive, check out our culinary events guide in the meantime!

When: The 2025 date is yet to be announced, so stay tuned!
Address: 4100 Columbia St, Hilliard, OH 43026

Buckeye Country Superfest

The Buckeye Country Superfest is a country music event that showcases today’s top artists. Enjoy refreshing food, drinks, concessions, and merchandise purchases while listening to your favorite country music. Check out the website to purchase tickets and view the lineup at one of the best annual festivals in Columbus, Ohio.

When: June 21, 2025
Address: 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210

Sonic Temple

Sonic Temple is a renowned rock and metal festival held right here in Columbus. As one of the biggest music celebrations in the United States, this four-day festival includes over 100 bands and artist merchandise you can’t pass up. Secure your tickets for four days of unforgettable Rock ‘n’ Roll.

When: May 8-11, 2025
Address: One Black and Gold Blvd, Columbus, OH 43211

Columbus Coffee Festival

Gear up for Columbus’s annual Coffee Festival in 2025! Perfect for coffee lovers, connect with the best roasters in Ohio through tastings, food trucks, live music, and shopping. Experience this city’s passion for coffee through expertly curated beans, and leave with your (soon-to-be) favorite Coffee Festival Mug.

When: Fall 2025 (the specific 2025 date is yet to be announced, so stay tuned!)
Address: 4100 Columbia Street, Hilliard, Ohio 43026

The Columbus Italian Festival

Located on St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church grounds, the Columbus Italian Festival takes the city back to its roots. A tradition since 1980, this three-day celebration over Columbus Day weekend includes the finest food, entertainment, and a taste of authentic Italian culture. Learn more about Columbus’s rich history at this festival.

When: October 11-13, 2025
Address: 720 Hamlet St., Columbus, OH 43215

Columbus’s Neverending Festivities

With endless options of year-round celebrations and festivals in Columbus, Ohio, we hope you find the one that keeps you coming back each year. For more information on events and things to do in the Discovery City, check out our blog!