COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Central Ohio is set for a lively weekend as fairs, festivals, concerts and family events unfold from Friday, July 25, through Sunday, July 27, 2025.
🎪 Ohio State Fair Hits Full Swing
What & When: The annual Ohio State Fair runs through Sunday, Aug. 3, at the Ohio Expo Center, featuring rides, exhibits, and a diverse vendor scene. A special Boxing Invitational (July 24–26) brings top regional amateur fighters to the fairgrounds.
Who: The Celeste Center hosts big-name acts, including Warren Zeiders on Friday, July 25, and funk legends Morris Day & the Time on Saturday, July 26, with Tauren Wells closing out the weekend on Monday, July 28.
Note: Fairgoers can beat the summer heat in air-conditioned zones like Kasich Hall, the Cox Fine Arts Center and Celeste Center.
🎶 Concerts & Live Music
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Vince Gill brings his country classics to the Palace Theatre on Friday, July 25, at 7:30 p.m. Trip.com+4Columbus Performing Arts+4Axios+4.
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Ohio State University Marching Band teams up with the Columbus Symphony for an evening of patriotic tunes and fireworks at Columbus Commons, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Columbus Symphony.
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Lakeside fans of acoustic rock won’t want to miss Ben Burnley of Breaking Benjamin with Josh & Lacey Sturm at the Columbus Athenaeum on Saturday, July 26.
🏞️ Family Fun & Outdoor Activities
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COSI continues its Star Wars–themed “Unofficial Galaxies” exhibit through September.
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Franklin Park Conservatory showcases Sean Kenney’s “Nature Connects” LEGO sculpture exhibit until early September.
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Free movie nights, splash pads, and farmers markets appear throughout the weekend per Columbus on the Cheap listings.
🌳 Parks & Community Events
Columbus Metro Parks and community planners host local activities:
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Lancaster Festival runs Saturday, July 26, across Fairborn and nearby towns.
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Nature trails like disc golf, creek exploration, and peach/ apple picking trips are recommended family outings.
ℹ️ What to Know
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Fair admission: $6–$10; concerts may require extra tickets.
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Beat the heat: Seek out air-conditioned buildings at the fair.
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Plan ahead: Popular shows, especially at the Celeste and Palace theaters, may sell out.
From classic country music, marching bands and fireworks to state fair thrills and family-friendly exhibits, Columbus offers an engaging weekend from July 25–27. Whether you’re in the mood for culture, outdoor fun or nightlife, Central Ohio has something for everyone.
