Looking for 2019 Fourth of July events? Check out our most recent guide: 13 Fourth of July Events + Fireworks Displays in Columbus, Ohio
241 years ago, our founding fathers signed our great nation into existence — giving us freedom as well as one heck of a reason to celebrate. Fourth of July weekend is finally upon us, bringing with it the chance to gather with friends and family and enjoy one of the most anticipated highlights of the season. While hosting a picnic and lighting sparklers at home is great, there are so many exciting events in Columbus, and it would be a shame to miss out on the fun. Fireworks will go off around town on the evening of Independence Day, but we plan on celebrating all weekend long with concerts, 5Ks, festivals and more. Below, we've gathered up some of our favorite events in town, so don your star-spangled apparel and get ready to make this weekend one for the books.
Photo courtesy of Randall Schieber via the Columbus Symphony
This summer tradition with the Columbus Symphony is always a night to remember. Come enjoy an evening of patriotic favorites and Sousa marches with brilliant light displays. Of course, the beloved event would not be complete without fireworks, which will take place after the show.
Graphic courtesy of Reel Big Fish's Facebook Page
Celebrate the long weekend with a day of ska, craft beer and good times. While you're sampling craft brews from all over the country (and participating in a few drinking games) at Newport Music Hall, you'll be dancing along to lively tunes from the Expendables, the Queers, Tunnel Vision, and headliner Reel Big Fish.
Photo courtesy of the Charity Day 5K
Feel like giving back (and working off some of those burgers and brats while you're at it)? Don't miss the Charity Day 5K, during which runners and walkers alike will take to the streets of downtown Columbus in honor of several charitable organizations. During registration, participants can choose their beneficiary to be sure they're racing for a cause they truly care about! After the race, enjoy a post-race party hosted by Red, White & Boom. Register here.
Photo courtesy of Red, White & BOOM
More than 400,000 people will gather in downtown Columbus for the largest fireworks display in the state! Red, White & BOOM began in 1981 as a small celebration, and has grown exponentially over the years. It's not tough to see why the event is so popular! Sure, the fireworks are spectacular, but there will also be a grand parade, live music, dancing, and an after party to conclude the night!
Photo courtesy of the Doo Dah Parade
The self-proclaimed celebration of liberty and lunacy will return to Columbus this year! Everything will go topsy turvy at the craziest parade in town. Antics kick off at 10 am and continue all day, and the parade will begin at 1 pm. While you're not watching, enjoy free live music, vendors, beer and bites from local restaurants.
The Independence Day celebration in nearby Dublin is one of the best around, offering a full day of food, music, and fun for all ages. Come early to witness the Sherm Sheldon Fishing Derby at 8am, and then spend the rest of the day eating ice cream, enjoying the parade, watching the dogs in a canine frisbee competition, and dancing along to the tunes of Peter Frampton. The event will conclude with a massive fireworks display at the high school stadium.
Photo courtesy of Angela Perley & The Howlin' Moons
The Rock 'n' Roll beats of Angela Perley & The Howlin' Moons are as danceable as they are enviable. Perley's voice has the perfect balance of edge and clarity, and simply floats over the hard hitting bass and electric guitar. The band credits Tom Perry, Led Zeppelin, Nebula and David Gilmour as influences, but have created a sound that is truly their own. They play in their hometown (Columbus) fairly often, but have also embarked on many tours nation-wide (including the notorious South by South West festival in Austin, Texas).
Photo courtesy of Hillary Jones via All Dogs
This pop punk quartet hails from Columbus, but is known to play shows all over Ohio. They released a split cassette with Slouch, another Ohio band, before debuting with a full album, Kicking Every Day in 2015. The music is an impactful collision of soft vocals, rolling drums and snappy guitar, and is the perfect mix to listen to on a "Sunday Morning" with the windows rolled down.
Photo courtesy of Bridgette McCullough via Red Wanting Blue
Red Wanting Blue came to life back in 1996, when leader Scott Terry was in school at Ohio University, and was immediate success story. By 1998, the band had already released its second full-length album entitled The Image Trigger, and has since toured the country over two decades, playing an average of 200 shows a year. The band features toe-tapping, finger-snapping beats, as well as deep vocals and lyrics that are sure to stay with you long after the first listen.
Photo courtesy of the New Bomb Turks
The New Bomb Turks are masters of the garage punk genre, featuring a collision of danceable rock 'n' roll beats and the rebellious punk vocals that we know and love. They've been around for awhile, evolving from a college band at Ohio State University in 1990 to a European tour in 2017. Explore their ten full-length albums, two EPs and twenty singles — you won't regret it.
Photo courtesy of Ryan Miller via Earwig
Earwig oozes an attitude that is oh-so enviable, and with clear vocals and hard-hitting guitar, they've got everything a great rock band needs. The band has released several full-length albums, each with a unique sound. Gibson Under Mountain was the most recent of these, released in 2014.
Photo courtesy of Shrub
In 2010, Jay Shrub decided that a white-picket fence life didn't sound as rewarding as the life of a musician, and released a reggae/rap album created in his basement studio (to his friends). Luckily the sound took off, and now Shrub has evolved into a seven piece band that performs locally and across the country. Their humor and musical talents are sure to put you in a good mood.
Photo courtesy of Two Cow Garage
The husky vocals and fast-paced beats of this alternative rock band will draw you in immediately. The band was formed in late 2001 by singer and guitarist Micah Schnabel, and has since released seven full-length albums. You'll find them touring the state and capturing the hearts their listeners — with a name as Ohioan as Two Cow Garage, how could they not?
Photo courtesy of Jonny Costa via Like Moths to Flames
If you're more of a metalcore fan, Like Moths to Flames will impress with their hard-hitting guitar and strong vocals. Since the band's formation in 2010, they have released two EPs and three full-length albums, the most recent of which was released in late 2015. Fans hope there's something else up their sleeves!
Photo courtesy of RJD2
The famed RJD2 now hails from Philly, but his roots are in Columbus. This artist is a master of the psychedelic hip-hop genre, paving the way for this trancy, catchy music with hits like "Ghostwriter" and "A Beautiful Mine" (the theme song for Mad Men). If you're as captivated by these songs as we are, check out his newest album Dame Fortune, which was released last year.This post was updated on April 9, 2019 to include up-to-date information.
When the weather gets warm, Columbus residents know there is no better place to be than outside enjoying the sunshine. While our town is home to a variety of outdoor experiences and patios perfect for soaking up some Vitamin D, we also have a large number of farmers' markets that serve a dual purpose — allowing you to enjoy the day while purchasing locally produced groceries for the week. Sure, supermarkets are fine, but no one can deny that meals just taste better when created with farm-fresh produce and breads you picked out at the market that day. During the summer months, there are a plethora of markets around the city open almost every day of the week (some are even open daily). We've broken them down by day, so pick a time, find the one closest to your neighborhood, and enjoy!
Pearl Market
May 24 through October 11
Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:30 am-1:30 pm
The opening of Pearl Market is highly anticipated every year, and every year, it manages to live up to the hype. Here you'll find all kinds of loot, from hand-crafted clothing and woodwork to delicious food. It's a great place to spend the morning, grab lunch, or simply swing through for a mood-booster.
The Hilliard Farm Market
May 28 through September 10
Tuesdays 4-7 pm
At the Hilliard Farm Market (as with most markets in the area), all of the items sold are grown or made by the vendor. This guarantees a freshness and a quality that you just don't find at the supermarket, as well as wonderful conversations throughout your shopping experience.


Pearl Market
May 24 through October 11
Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:30 am-1:30 pm
The opening of Pearl Market is highly anticipated every year, and every year, it manages to live up to the hype. Here you'll find all kinds of loot, from hand-crafted clothing and woodwork to delicious food. It's a great place to spend the morning, grab lunch, or simply swing through for a mood-booster.
The Clintonville Farmers' Market
Beginning on April 27
Saturdays 9 am-noon
Stop by the Clintonville Farmers' Market on Saturday mornings, and start your weekend off right! 2017 marks the market's 15th season, so the vendors are obviously doing something right. If you choose to ride your bike (or bring a stroller), you can park it at the Baer Wheels Bike Corral!
Westgate Farmers' Market
June 1 through October 19
First and third Saturdays, 9 am-1 pm
The Westgate Farmers' Market was created by a group of like-minded local residents with one goal in mind: to make healthy, locally produced foods more accessible to the community. Since the market opened, it has grown each year, drawing Columbus farmers and artisans to show their stuff and build relationships with Westgate community members.
The Canal Winchester Farmers' Market
May 25 through September 28
Saturdays, 9 am-12 pm
Now in its 19th season, the Canal Winchester Farmers' Market continues to grow every year, offering varying supplies of fresh produce, warm baked breads and pastries, flowers and artistic trinkets to its guests — all while maintaining the atmosphere of a friendly, old-fashioned marketplace.
The Worthington Farmers' Market
Year-Round
May through October | Saturdays, 8 am-noon
November through April | Saturdays, 9am-noon
The Worthington Farmers' Market is the largest in the area, boasting more than 70 farmers, artisans, bakers and more from Columbus and the surrounding neighborhoods. The market is open year-round, but moves indoors for the colder winter months. Here you'll find everything you need to make a fantastic wholesome meal, from maple syrup and breads to high quality cuts of meat, dairy, and fresh produce.
Grove City Chamber of Commerce Farmers' Market
May 18 through September 7
Saturdays 8 am-noon
Peach chipotle barbecue sauce, apple jelly, fresh breads, oh my! Find all of this and more at the Grove City Chamber of Commerce Farmers' Market.

Photo courtesy of Nathan Ward via Seventh Son Brewing Company
Tucked into a charming corner of Columbus's Italian Village lies Seventh Son Brewing Company — a collaboration between childhood friends and a stellar spot to enjoy a beer. Stop in for a unique brew in a range of flavors and varieties, and be sure to accompany your choice with a bite from the food truck of the day. Beer to try: The Humulus Nimbus This strong pale ale toes the line between an IPA and a pale, and includes berry-piney hops and light malts. Mmm mm good! ABV: 6%
Photo courtesy of Sideswipe Brewery
This small-operation brewery focuses on quality, not quantity — and that might be why a pint here is so dang delicious. The cozy taproom is located mere steps from downtown Columbus, and offers a no-frills experience with a friendly atmosphere, fun games and great company. Beer to try: The Coop Looter This American-style saison is made with whole white wheat and aromatic Belgian malts, and is packed with effervescent flavors, thanks to the hints of grapefruit and cracked pepper. ABV: 6%
Photo courtesy of Pigskin Brewery
This friendly brewery in Gahanna offers excellent brews created and served with love — and excellent food to boot! Stop in for Won off Wednesdays, during which the company will share a unique weekly small batch brew for one time only. Once it's gone, it's gone for good! Proof that the best things in life are fleeting. Beer to try: Autumn Wind Russian Imperial Stout An intensely roasty, dark brew with complex malts and hops. Look for notes of chocolate and coffee. ABV: 10.5%
Photo courtesy of Wolf's Ridge Brewing
Wolf's Ridge Brewing is where elegance meets adventure. Stop in at either the tap room or the more formal dining room to get a taste of incredible beer and delectable bites. In the tap room, you'll find bar snacks, shareables and sandwiches, and in the dining room you'll find more upscale fare. Look out for the Hudson Valley foie gras, the shrimp and grits, the scallops, and the New Zealand lamb rack — and make sure to chase down your choice with a house-made beer. Beer to try: Clear Sky Cream Ale This easy-drinking, crisp ale took home first place in the 2017 Beer Army Beer Wars. Pick up a bottle or a pint on draft, and we're sure you'll taste the winning quality. ABV: 5%
Photo courtesy of North High Brewing
North High Brewing, located on (surprise!) North High Street, offers a new kind of experience — one that focuses on the actual brewing of the beer! While you can stop in anytime to enjoy a signature brew on draft (and we highly recommend that you do), you can also "Schedule a Kettle" and brew your own beer with the help of the owners using a North High recipe. Beer to try: The North High Pale Ale The North High Pale Ale is an easy-drinking brew with plenty of hops and caramel malt to balance the flavor. You might feel like a champ for drinking it, as this winning beer has secured a gold medal at Beer Wars, a silver at the 2016 World Beer Cup, and a bronze at the Best of Craft Beer Awards in Bend, Oregon. Look out for notes of tropical fruit, citrus and herbs. ABV: 5.5%
Photo courtesy of Chris Heidel via Zauber
This brewery offers traditional German and Belgian beers served in a quirky, low-key environment that is 100% American. Zauber initially opened as a small alley-side growler fill station in 2012, but is now a lively, full-service bar and taproom nestled on 5th avenue. Stop in on Wednesday for board game night, or on weekend morning to catch the EPL soccer games. Beer to try: Wunderland A Belgian strong dark ale brewed in the traditional way, with only yeast, malt and hops. Still, the flavor is rich, complex and strong. ABV: 8.7%
Photo courtesy of Matthew Carbone via Land Grant Brewing Company
Born from a passion for great beer, intriguing design and midwestern sports, Land Grant Brewing Company has certainly become a Columbus staple since it opened in 2014. The founders all come from different backgrounds, which means each offers an interesting perspective on the style of the taproom and of the beers themselves. Everything about Land Grant is a collision of flavor and culture! Stop in seven days a week to try the beer and sample from an impressive lineup of food trucks. Beer to try: Son of a Mudder A brown ale that is truer than true. Brewed with toasty hops and balanced with seven different malt varieties, you'll find flavors of toffee, caramel and coffee. This beer is sure to warm you to the core! ABV: 6.1%
Photo courtesy of Cheryl Harrison via Smokehouse Brewing
Smokehouse Brewing is the spot to settle if you're looking for a bit of barbecue with your beer. While the juicy wings, sauerkraut balls and messy ribs are certainly delightful, the refreshing beers are certainly the main event. The tart IPAs and bold stouts pair well with the sauces, and always leave you wanting another. Beer to try: The Woody Haze Barrel Aged Scotch Ale Brewed every Valentine's Day, this dark, amber ale is a celebrated staple of Smokehouse Brewing. The bourbon barrel-aging process gives the brew a rich flavor that pairs well with gamey meats.