Spring means new beginnings and the ramping up of Columbus’ annual festivals and events. Explore everything from cherry blossoms to professional sports at these can’t-miss events this spring in Columbus.
Find the Arnold statue outside of the Greater Columbus Convention Center
The Arnold Sports Festival
When: February 29-March 3
Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center
What: The largest multi-sport festival in the nation is back in Columbus, with 2024 marking the 35th anniversary of the Arnold Classic. Here's what to do in Columbus when you're in town for the Arnold Sports Festival.
The Pacific Island Water Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory
Blooms & Butterflies
When: Starting February 24
Where: Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
What: 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of Blooms & Butterflies at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Explore the Pacific Island Water Garden Biome where you'll be surrounded by thousands of exotic butterfly species and gorgeous blooming flowers. Don't miss the Metamorphosis Lab where you'll see the life cycle of these enchanting creatures right before your eyes.
The Columbus Crew will look to reclaim their MLS Cup crown in 2024
Watch the defending MLS Cup Champion Columbus Crew
When: March 9, 12, 16, April 6, 20, 27
Where: Lower.com Field in downtown Columbus
What: Fresh off their 2023 MLS Cup Championship, the third in franchise history and second title since 2020, the Columbus Crew take to the pitch at Lower.com Field in the Arena District for their 29th season and third full year at the still absolutely stunning Lower.com Field. The Crew were the highest scoring team in MLS in 2023, and their exciting brand of soccer makes for an enthralling day in the heart of the city.
The Columbus Brew Festival takes over the Center of Science and Industry after hours
Columbus Brew Festival
When: Saturday, March 9
Where: COSI
What: The Columbus Brew Festival takes place at COSI after hours. Attendees can enjoy over 50 breweries and 150 beers - admission provides samples from participating breweries and access to all exhibits.
Franklin Park comes alive in the spring season
Third Annual Cherry Blossom Festival
When: April 6-13
Where: Franklin Park
What: The third-annual event takes place April 6-13 throughout Columbus. The finale will be in Columbus’ Franklin Park and will feature food trucks, entertainment, exhibits and cultural displays on April 13 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The view from the outfield at Huntington Park, home of the Columbus Clippers
Columbus Clippers Home Opener
When: Tuesday, April 2
Where: Huntington Park in downtown Columbus
What: April marks the return of baseball in the Arena District, which also marks the return of cowbells, dime-a-dog nights and all of your other favorite Clippers' traditions. The home opener takes place Tuesday, April 2 at Huntington Park, and you'll have 13 chances to catch a Clippers game before May. There's just something about the charm of Huntington Park during spring in the Arena District.
Biking along the Scioto Mile
Celebrate Trails Day
When: April 27
Where: Genoa Park
What: Hosted on the fourth Saturday of April, Celebrate Trails Day is an annual spring celebration of America’s trails. Started by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy in 2013, the celebration encourages people across the country to get outside and enjoy the nation’s exceptional trails and trail systems. Join the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission and other partners for a day full of free family fun. Check back for more information on this year's event.
COSI Science Festival
COSI Science Festival
When: May 1-4
Where: COSI and other community locations
What: Celebrate four days of science with the annual COSI Science Festival. On the festival’s final day, COSI and their partners cap off the festival with what they call a Big Science Celebration. It’s a full day packed full of dynamic and interactive science demonstrations as well as activities led by local STEM professionals, researchers and experts. Held in the parks and riverfront surrounding COSI, this incredible gathering brings the public face-to-face with STEM experts from academics to pharmaceuticals to zoology – and everything in between.
