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
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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.
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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.
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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
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Nate Bargatze, the acclaimed comedian, will perform across Saturday and Sunday (Aug. 23–24) at The Schottenstein Center.
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Meanwhile, music lovers can choose from:
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Electric Dream Machine at A&R Music Bar on Friday, Aug. 22
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Coheed and Cambria with Taking Back Sunday on Saturday, Aug. 23
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311 bringing the Unity Tour 2025 on Sunday, Aug. 24—all at Kemba Live!
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Family Attractions & Ongoing Entertainment
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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.
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Downtown Columbus buzzes with free or low-cost events:
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CAPA Summer Movie Series continues at the Ohio Theatre
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Breakfast at Bicentennial Park and Golden Hour Paddle down the Scioto River
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Street Beats live music at the Scioto Mile
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Free Movie Night: Love Jones at Columbus Commons on Friday (Aug. 22)
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And the ever-popular Columbus Clippers minor league baseball game at Huntington Park Friday evening.
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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.
