COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — From Halloween-tinged festivals to live music and marathon excitement, Central Ohioans have plenty to explore during the weekend of Oct. 17–19. Here’s a roundup of events to consider, with details confirmed through official sources.
🎨 Arts & Culture Highlights
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The Columbus Film, Author & Photography Festival runs across multiple venues beginning Friday. The event spotlights the work of local, national and international creators in film, literature, photography, music and dance.
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On Friday evening, the Columbus Museum of Art hosts Art Celebration 2025, commemorating the 10th anniversary of its Margaret M. Walter Wing, with a black-tie dinner followed by an after-party.
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Also Friday, the “Long Journey Home” Red Mountain String Band 50th Anniversary Concert takes place at Natalie’s.
🎭 Festival & Seasonal Events
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High Spirits Art + Music Festival returns Saturday, Oct. 18, downtown. The immersive, Halloween-inspired festival features performances across multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations and a festive alternative culture vibe.
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Also Saturday, Day of the Dead Columbus is set at Green Lawn Cemetery from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring altar contests, live music, crafts and community programming.
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Howl-O-Ween at Columbus Commons runs Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., a free, pet-friendly Halloween event with costume contests, vendor booths, food trucks, and playful “trick-for-treat” stations.
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The Circleville Pumpkin Show, a longtime fall tradition, continues through Saturday, Oct. 18. The free show includes seven parades, pumpkin contests, pie-eating challenges and more.
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Meanwhile, Boo at the Zoo opens again for the weekend at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium with themed activities and costume fun. Hours are 5–8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.
🎶 Music & Comedy
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Kevin Hart: Acting My Age is scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Schottenstein Center. Tickets from earlier dates remain valid.
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Also Saturday night, progressive metal band Dream Theater performs its Parasomnia tour at the Palace Theatre in Columbus.
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On Friday, AfroSocaLove: Columbus One Love Festival brings Afrobeat, soca, reggae, hip-hop, dancehall and more to 35 E. Gay St. The event is 21+ only.
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Note: a show by KNEECAP at Newport Music Hall scheduled for Oct. 17 has been cancelled; ticket refunds are being processed.
🏃 Sports & Outdoor
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The 2025 Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & Half-Marathon takes place Sunday, attracting more than 15,000 participants from across the country. A non-runner’s guide suggests sampling food and cultural sites along the route.
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For those preferring to spectate or cheer on runners, key spots include The Bluestone (mile 1), Drexel Theatre (mile 4) and Schiller Park (mile 10).
📅 Quick Picks by Day
| Day | Featured Events |
|---|---|
| Friday, Oct. 17 | Columbus Emerging Leaders’ Summit · Film/Author/Photography Festival, CMA Art Celebration, AfroSocaLove Festival · Red Mountain String Band concert |
| Saturday, Oct. 18 | High Spirits Festival · Day of the Dead Columbus · Howl-O-Ween · Dream Theater · Kevin Hart show · Scioto Arts Market (morning) |
| Sunday, Oct. 19 | Marathon & Half-Marathon events · Boo at the Zoo continues through the day |
ℹ️ Tips & Notes
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Many events are outdoors and may be subject to weather; check event websites for last-minute changes.
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For festivals and concerts, arrive early to secure parking and avoid long lines.
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Some events (e.g. High Spirits, Kevin Hart, Dream Theater) require tickets; purchase in advance if possible.
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The Columbus Marathon route offers food and culture stops along the way for both runners and spectators.
Whether you’re into arts, music, seasonal fun or sports, Columbus and central Ohio have a busy weekend in store.