What Should We Do This Weekend? Columbus, Ohio, June 30-July 2, 2023

Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Columbus? Try out one of these family-friendly Columbus and Ohio–based events and activities!

This list includes some Independence Day events around Columbus, but for a full list, make sure to check out my list of 4th of July and Independence Day Celebrations in Columbus and Central Ohio!

Family-Friendly Things to do this Weekend in Columbus, Ohio:

1. Pencils ready?! Back-to-school supply drive with Seeds of Caring

Help make sure families supported by Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority have the supplies their kids need in time for the first day of school! This group-friendly Anywhere Project from Seeds of Caring teaches kids that they’re never too young to make a difference, with a school supplies drive and packing Back-to-School Kits. It’s the perfect opportunity to get your troop, team, church, or neighborhood involved in a summer service project through 7/31!

2. Commons for Kids at Columbus Commons

Every Friday this Summer from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM enjoy activities for kids at Columbus Commons! There will be free carousel rides, inflatables, face painting, balloon twisting and a theme each week. This week’s theme is Games!

3. EcoKids at The Works

Learn about habitats and the natural world in the outdoor habitat exhibit at The Works! This event takes place every Friday from 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM and is included with admission. Perfect for ages 3-6.

4. Storytime at Blendon Woods Nature Center

Enjoy a story time at Blendon Woods Metro Park. There will be stories, songs and large motor activities. Meet at the Nature Center at 10:00 AM on Friday.

5. Blueys Big Play at the Palace Theatre

Bluey’s Big Play is coming to the Palace Theatre June 30-July 1! This brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy® award-winning children’s television series, with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush features larger than life sized puppets. Tickets are available online.

6. Cinema Under the Stars at Friendship Park

Watch Top Gun: Maverick in Friendship Park. Before this free movie there will be yard games, crafts and other activities. Food and drink will be available for purchase. The activities begin at 7:00 PM on Friday.

7. Kids Workshop at The Home Depot

On the first Saturday of each month, The Home Depot offers free in-person workshops for kids from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM while supplies last. Sign up online.

8. Independence Day Celebration at Ohio Village

Celebrate Independence Day 1890’s style with old fashioned games, artisans, and fun activities where you can learn about how the 4th of July was celebrated in the late 1800’s!

9. Kids Series at Grandview Theater & Drafthouse

Grandview Theater and Drafthouse is offering free admission for kids to movies on Saturdays and Wednesdays! This Saturday’s movie is Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and it will be shown at 10:30 AM.

Related: 17 of the Best Restaurants in Grandview

10. Monster Truck Madness at Destination Outlets

This event includes free Monster Truck rides and photos! This event takes place on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

11. Columbus Eagles FC vs. FC Spirit at Historic Crew Stadium

Watch the Columbus Eagles FC (Columbus’ Women’s Soccer team) take on FC Spirit at Historic Crew Stadium on Saturday at 12:00 PM.

12. Granville Kiwanis July 4th Celebrations

The Granville Kiwanis July 4th Celebrations take place July 1-4 and include several contests and events! Daily you can enjoy midway concessions and rides (beginning Saturday at 1:00 PM)! Party in the Park takes place on July 2nd at Wildwood Park from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM and includes live music and food vendors. Fireworks take place on July 2nd at 10:00 PM.

13. Live Animals with Cool Critter Outreach at CML Main Library

On Saturday at 1:30 PM see live animals at the Main Library! Learn about these rescued animals and their natural habitat.

14. Buggin’ Around at Blacklick Woods Nature Center

Hike the mud run trail to hunt for insects! This event takes place on Saturday at 2:00 PM at Blacklick Woods Metro Park Nature Center.

15. Freedom Fest in Hilliard

Freedom Fest in Hilliard takes place on Saturday, July 1 in Municipal Park. It includes live music, food trucks, swimming, a Kid Zone and a fireworks. Food Trucks begin at 3:00 PM. The Kid Zone takes place from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM and requires the purchase of a wristband. All other activities take place between 5:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Fireworks will be set off at approximately 9:45 PM.

16. Somali Cultural Festival at Innis Park

The Somali Cultural Festival takes place on Saturday from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and includes food, Somalian music and more.

17. Summer Music Series in Historic Dublin

Enjoy live music in Historic Dublin on Saturday from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

Related: 27 of the Best Things to do in Dublin, Ohio

18. Community Day at Franklin Park Conservatory

On the first Sunday of every month residents of Columbus and Franklin County receive free General Admission to Franklin Park Conservatory. Identification is required. Hours are from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM There will be additional programming on Sunday including performances by Global Water Dances, a Children’s Dance Workshop and more!

19. Sundays in the Park at Topiary Park

Sundays in Topiary Park and Kaufman Plaza include food trucks, live music and games! This event starts at 1:00 PM on Sunday.

20. Sounds of Summer Concert Series in Westerville

This free concert takes place at the Alum Creek North Park Amphitheater at 6:30 PM on Sunday. This week’s music is provided by the Westerville Symphony.

Related: 5 Super Fun Playgrounds in Westerville

*Please be aware,  information is gathered from multiple community sources.  Times, dates and locations are subject to change. There may be a fee to participate in a featured activity.  Please call ahead or check links to confirm activities. Inclusion of an event on this list is not considered an endorsement. Please use your best judgement when attending public events and consult your doctor if you have questions regarding the safety level of a public event. Read my disclaimer here. Enjoy what you do today!*