COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Arts Festival returns this weekend, hosted by the Greater Columbus Arts Council.
Chief Creative Officer Jami Goldstein said the event is recognized as one of the top 10 arts festivals in the United States. Its mission, she said, is to support local artists and boost the city’s economy.
“The festival takes a year to plan. We start again right after it ends,” Goldstein said. “This week, preparations pick up. We chalk the streets today. Electric drops start Monday, and tents begin going up Wednesday.”
Volunteers began marking spaces for tents and vendors downtown on Sunday. The festival will bring artists from 34 states and four countries. Nearly a quarter of attendees come from outside Franklin County each year.
“Artist sales reach about $2.5 million each year, which contributes to local and state sales tax,” Goldstein said. “About $200,000 from our budget goes to creatives and performers, including those who design and run sound for our stages.”
Roughly 300 volunteers will work on site. This year’s festival will feature jazz performances, a fashion show, food vendors and more. Organizers want it to be an event everyone can enjoy.
“I hope people leave with art, smiles and a good experience,” Goldstein said. “My favorite part is seeing people smile. That’s why I do this.”
The Columbus Arts Festival runs Friday, June 12, through Sunday, June 14.