This Labor Day weekend, Columbus and Central Ohio will hum with a dynamic mix of cultural festivals, sporting drama, and lively community events— appealing to families, fans of nerd culture, foodies, and art lovers alike.
Matsuricon Marks Its 20th Anniversary
Kicking off Thursday, Aug. 28, and running through Sunday, Sept. 1, Matsuricon returns to the Greater Columbus Convention Center and Hyatt Regency Columbus for its landmark 20th year. Known for catapulting “nerd culture” into the mainstream, the convention draws an estimated 10,000 attendees, featuring panels, cosplay contests, celebrity meet-and-greets, karaoke, gaming, a weapons demo, and even a service dog that participates in Dungeons & Dragons. Ticket prices range from $40 to $60 for daily access, with an $80 weekend pass; children under 11 enter free.
Buckeyes vs. Longhorns Season Opener at Ohio Stadium
On Saturday, Aug. 30, the Ohio State Buckeyes—ranked No. 3—open the 2025 football season at home against No. 1 Texas. It’s expected to be quarterback Julian Sayin’s first start, stepping into the spotlight after Will Howard’s departure to the NFL. Fans looking to catch the showdown can find tickets starting at around $42 on Vivid Seats.
Greek Heritage Shines at Columbus Greek Festival
Spanning Aug. 29 through Sept. 1, the Columbus Greek Festival takes place at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Visitors can immerse themselves in Greek culture through traditional music, dance performances, authentic cuisine, and cathedral tours.
Obetz Zucchinifest Celebrates Family Fun
Also from Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, Fortress Obetz hosts the quirky Obetz Zucchinifest, a free, four-day family festival packed with zucchini-themed attractions and outdoor concerts.
Arts and Culture at Labor Day Arts Festival in Upper Arlington
On Monday, Sept. 1—Labor Day—the Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival draws more than 20,000 visitors to Northam Park. The day promises live music, hands-on art activities, and fine art and crafts from approximately 150 artists across diverse media.
Classical Music Meets Community at VIVO Music Festival
Starting Aug. 25 and extending through Aug. 31, the 11th Annual VIVO Music Festival brings world-class classical and chamber music to Columbus with performances designed to connect audiences of all ages. Columbus Underground
Columbus Crew Watch Party and Chamber Showcase at CAPA
On Saturday, Aug. 30, the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) hosts a free Columbus Crew Watch Party, offering a community hub for soccer fans. On Sunday, Aug. 31,
VIVO: Momentum, a chamber music concert, takes center stage at the CAPA performing arts venue.
Short North Delights: Food Tours and Comedy
In the Short North Arts District, the Short North Food Tour explores the neighborhood’s culinary gems on Friday, Aug. 29, and again on Saturday, Aug. 30, with North Market as a starting point. Also on Aug. 30, the Hashtag Comedy Club opens its mic for a Free Open-Mic Night, offering a local platform for emerging comedians.
Weekend Calendar at a Glance
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Aug. 28–Sept. 1 | Matsuricon | Greater Columbus Convention Center |
| Aug. 29–Sept. 1 | Columbus Greek Festival | Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral |
| Aug. 29–Sept. 1 | Obetz Zucchinifest | Fortress Obetz |
| Aug. 29 (Fri) | Short North Food Tour | Short North / North Market |
| Aug. 30 (Sat) | OSU vs. Texas Football Game | Ohio Stadium |
| Aug. 30 (Sat) | Hashtag Comedy Open Mic | Short North (Hashtag Comedy Club) |
| Aug. 30 (Sat) | Crew Watch Party | CAPA |
| Aug. 29–31 | VIVO Music Festival | Columbus (various venues) |
| Aug. 31 (Sun) | VIVO: Momentum (Chamber Music) | CAPA |
| Sept. 1 (Mon) | Labor Day Arts Festival | Northam Park, Upper Arlington |
Enjoy a vibrant, diverse weekend ahead—whether you’re diving into pop-culture fandom, savoring Greek flavors, sketching in the park, cheering at The Horseshoe, or discovering Columbus through music and food.
