COLUMBUS — From live music to competitive pickleball, Central Ohio is bracing for a lively stretch Oct. 3–5, 2025, as locals and visitors alike can choose from a wide selection of fall-themed, cultural and athletic events.
Highlights to Watch
Pickleball Takes Center Stage
The 2025 APP Women’s Open, Presented by The James, returns to Columbus this weekend. The event features women’s singles, doubles and split-age doubles matches, with amateurs and pros competing for a share of the $75,000 prize pool.
Music, Comedy and Concerts in Columbus
On Friday night, The National Parks will perform at A&R Music Bar, with doors opening at 7 p.m. That same evening, the Columbus Blue Jackets organization hosts a 25th Anniversary concert at KEMBA Live! featuring platinum band O.A.R. Comedy fans can catch a show at the Funny Bone Comedy Club in the Easton area starting at 7 p.m.
Also Friday, the synth-rock act TWRP, with guest Los Angeles Power Disco, plays Skully’s Music Diner as part of The Longest Weekend 2025 Tour. In Newport Music Hall, sombr performs (relocated from A&R).
Saturday brings October Gallery Hop, a monthly event from 4 to 8 p.m., featuring open galleries, local art, performance and activities across downtown Columbus. Meanwhile, the Columbus Coffee Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary Saturday and Sunday at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard, with dozens of roasters, tastings, live music and local vendors.
Also Saturday, Ohio State University holds an Alumni Homecoming Tailgate at the Ohio Union starting about three hours before kickoff.
Family & Seasonal Events
The Olentangy Fall Festival & TreatFest offers a free, family-friendly experience with pumpkins, hayrides, trick-or-treating and costume contests. Nature lovers can wander through Harvest Blooms, beginning Saturday at Franklin Park Conservatory, with fall floral displays and programming. For those seeking local culture, R.L. Stine–themed events run throughout October across the city, including a film showing at the Columbus Commons on Oct. 2 and related pop-ups.
Public Demonstration Scheduled
On Friday, the Ohio March for Life will gather in downtown Columbus. A rally begins at 11 a.m., with the march starting at noon.
What to Know Before You Go
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Tickets and capacity: Some events (like the Coffee Festival) are already sold out for certain time slots.
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Transportation & parking: With multiple events overlapping downtown and near OSU, attendees are encouraged to use public transit, rideshare or park in public garages.
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Weather & timing: As autumn weather can be unpredictable, check local forecasts and event updates for postponements or rain plans.
