COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A wide array of events will entertain Central Ohio residents from Friday, July 11 through Sunday, July 13, 2025, offering something for literature lovers, music fans, car aficionados and community seekers alike.
BOOK FESTIVAL ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
The annual Columbus Book Festival returns to the Main Library and Topiary Park featuring more than 200 authors, panel discussions, book signings and family activities aimed at literacy and community engagement.
WESTERVILLE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL
Also on Saturday, the Westerville Music & Arts Festival takes place at Heritage Park and Everal Barn from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The 51st annual event showcases over 125 fine-art and craft vendors, plus around 30 musical acts.
GOODGUYS PPG NATIONALS HOT ROD SHOW
Car fans can check out the Goodguys PPG Nationals at the Ohio Expo Center, running all three days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and until 3 p.m. Sunday. The event features more than 6,000 pre-2000 hot rods, customs, muscle cars and trucks, along with live music, kid-friendly activities and award ceremonies including the Buckeye Shootout AutoCross.
PICNIC WITH THE POPS: DOLLY PARTON SYMPHONY TRIBUTE
Saturday evening at Columbus Commons, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents “Picnic with the Pops: Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony,” featuring orchestral renditions of Dolly Parton’s music.
DUDE PERFECT HERO WORLD TOUR
On Sunday, YouTube stunt team Dude Perfect performs their Hero World Tour at the Schottenstein Center at 6 p.m. Known for trick shots, comedy, audience interaction and athleticism, the show guarantees family‑friendly entertainment.
ADDITIONAL WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS
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A Short North Mini Golf Crawl winds through nine bars and restaurants featuring pop‑up courses, continuing throughout the weekend.
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A Bastille Day street festival celebrates French National Day outside Chouette restaurant downtown, featuring French food, music and cultural events.
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Beer lovers can enjoy a “Superman‑themed beer tasting” at Studio 35 Cinema & Drafthouse, pairing beers with special film screenings.
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Two free kayaking events are available over the weekend—one on the Scioto Mile and another on the Olentangy River.
LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
In Hilltop’s Westgate Park on Saturday, the free Summer Jam West festival offers live music, arts, crafts, children’s face painting and a community arts area. The event supports local artists and families in the neighborhood.
PLAN AHEAD
Organizers recommend confirming exact times, locations and admission fees on official websites. Many events are free, while others require tickets. With such a diverse lineup, Central Ohio promises a vibrant weekend filled with engaging and safe public events.