COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Central Ohio will be bustling this weekend, Aug. 22–24, 2025, with a lively mix of aviation spectacle, festivals, family-friendly attractions, and cultural happenings.
Headliner: Columbus Air Show
The spotlight falls on the Columbus Air Show at Rickenbacker International Airport, running Friday through Sunday (Aug. 22–24) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The highlight? The legendary U.S. Navy Blue Angels, joined by a compelling lineup of military and civilian aircraft performances and engaging ground exhibits for all ages.
Festivals & Cultural Highlights
The Great Bourbon Affair takes place Saturday, Aug. 23, at East Market—a spirited mingling of rock and country tunes capped by one of Ohio’s biggest bourbon toasts.
Clifton Gorge Music & Arts Festival entertains Friday and Saturday (Aug. 22–23) in Clifton (Greene County), featuring live music, artisan crafts, local food vendors, children’s activities, and a Friday Cruise-In.
Hocking Hills Medieval Festival brings a historic twist Saturday and Sunday (Aug. 23–24) at the Hocking County Fairgrounds in Logan. Expect medieval combat, Viking folk songs, costumed shopping, and themed enchantment.
Live Music & Performances
Nate Bargatze, the acclaimed comedian, will perform across Saturday and Sunday (Aug. 23–24) at The Schottenstein Center.
Meanwhile, music lovers can choose from:
Electric Dream Machine at A&R Music Bar on Friday, Aug. 22
Coheed and Cambria with Taking Back Sunday on Saturday, Aug. 23
311 bringing the Unity Tour 2025 on Sunday, Aug. 24—all at Kemba Live!
Family Attractions & Ongoing Entertainment
Unofficial Galaxies is on display at COSI through September 1, showcasing one of the world’s largest Star Wars fan collections—ideal for all ages.
Downtown Columbus buzzes with free or low-cost events:
CAPA Summer Movie Series continues at the Ohio Theatre
Breakfast at Bicentennial Park and Golden Hour Paddle down the Scioto River
Street Beats live music at the Scioto Mile
Free Movie Night: Love Jones at Columbus Commons on Friday (Aug. 22)
And the ever-popular Columbus Clippers minor league baseball game at Huntington Park Friday evening.
At-a-Glance Event Summary
| Event | When | Where | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus Air Show | Aug. 22–24, Fri–Sun | Rickenbacker Airport | Blue Angels, aerial demos, family fun |
| The Great Bourbon Affair | Aug. 23, Saturday | East Market | Music and bourbon celebrations |
| Clifton Gorge Music & Arts | Aug. 22–23, Fri–Sat | Clifton | Music, crafts, food, kids’ activities |
| Hocking Hills Medieval Festival | Aug. 23–24, Sat–Sun | Logan | Medieval performances, costumes |
| Nate Bargatze | Aug. 23–24, Sat–Sun | Schottenstein Center | Stand-up comedy performances |
| Live Music (various) | Aug. 22–24, Fri–Sun | Kemba Live! | Rock and alternative concerts |
| Unofficial Galaxies | Through Sept. 1 | COSI | Star Wars collection exhibit |
| Downtown activities | Aug. 22, Friday | Various downtown locations | Movies, music, paddle rides, baseball |
Final Note
With events ranging from aerial thrills to medieval fantasy, foodie to family fun, and comedy to community gatherings, Columbus and Central Ohio offer a richly varied weekend lined up for Aug. 22–24, 2025. Whether you’re drawn skyward by the Blue Angels or exploring festivals and live music, there’s something for everyone.