COLUMBUS, Ohio — As summer gives way to fall, Central Ohio comes alive this weekend with outdoor festivals, family-friendly activities and cultural happenings. Here’s a look at what’s going on around Columbus and the region from Friday, September 19 through Sunday, September 21, 2025.
What’s On
Scioto Fest
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Where: Scioto Audubon Metro Park, Columbus
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When: Friday, Sept. 19 (starting at 5 p.m.) through Saturday, Sept. 20.
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What: Outdoor recreation, live music, food trucks, beer from Nocterra, DJ performances, river floats and climbing wall activities. Camping is also part of the weekend offering.
North Market Wine Fest at Bridge Park
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Where: Bridge Park, Dublin
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When: Friday, Sept. 19, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 20, 2-10 p.m.
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What: Wine tasting event featuring domestic and international distributors and wineries. Includes food vouchers and souvenir glasses. VIP and general admission available; non-alcoholic companion tickets offered. Must be 21+ to sample wine.
Family-Friendly Fun
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Leeds Farm opens for fall farm experiences starting Saturday, Sept. 20 — pumpkin patches, hayrides, farm animals, and more for children and families.
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“Young Art Explorers” at Miller Park Branch of the Upper Arlington Public Library (for ages 2-5) offers an arts & crafts opportunity on Friday.
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Sundays at Scioto in Dublin features a free concert (Angela Perley with High Definitions) Sunday evening, along with food trucks and a blanket-or-lawn-chair atmosphere.
Festivals & Local Culture
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Germania Oktoberfest in Columbus runs through the weekend.
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Arts in the Alley in Grove City: art and cultural exhibits throughout the weekend.
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Clyde Fair in Clyde, Ohio: rides, food, family events.
Sports & Athletics
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The Columbus Challenger tennis tournament (ATP Challenger Tour) is ongoing through Sunday, Sept. 21 at the Ohio State Varsity Tennis Center.
What to Know / Tips
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Many events are outdoors — bring appropriate clothing. Fall evenings can be cool.
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For wine or beer events, bring valid ID; non-alcoholic companion options may be available.
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Some events require advance tickets or have VIP options; check pricing ahead of arrival to plan budget.
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Traffic and parking may be heavier than usual, especially for festivals. Arriving early can help.
Why It Matters
These events reflect the region’s shift into autumn, when outdoor spaces are once more in full use, local agriculture (pumpkins, harvests) plays a bigger role, and arts & culture offerings expand. They offer both community gathering opportunities and support for local businesses and artisans, while also giving families more ways to connect and celebrate the changing season.
