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What Should We Do This Weekend? Columbus, Ohio, January 14-17, 2022: MLK Jr. Weekend

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

This weekend’s list includes events for Martin Luther King Jr. Day!

Please double check the link and/or call to make sure events are still happening! Lots of things are changing during this time and this information may change after it is published!

1. Marvel Universe of Super Heroes at COSI

Visit this exclusive Marvel Super Hero exhibit that will be on display through May. Weekly, COSI is open Thursday through Sunday.

Related: Top 10 Things to do with Kids in Columbus, Ohio

2. Celebrate Dr. King’s Legacy All Month Long with Seeds of Caring

Looking for a fun AND meaningful family activity to do during these chilly January days at home? Join Seeds of Caring and participate in our MLK Day of Service: I Have a Dream Anywhere project running through 1/31! Participants will discuss the topic of racism and learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. while creating art and bookmarks promoting equity and inclusion. Partnering with Harper’s Corner, this project is great for families, classrooms, scout troops or any group. Sign up today!

3. Riverside Crossing Park Ice Rink in Dublin

A brand-new, temporary ice rink is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through mid-March at Riverside Crossing Park in Dublin. Admission is $10 per person and includes skate rental.

4. Kids Dream Family Film Series at Marcus Theatres

On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays you can see a family-friendly film at Marcus Theatres at Crossroads or Pickerington. Get a voucher for 2 free tickets courtesy of American Family Insurance (see link). Cost is $3/ticket.

5. Harriers & Short-ears at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

Hike through the wetland at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park on Friday at 4:30 PM to look for Harries and Short-eared Owls. Dress for muddy trail conditions.

6. PBJ & Jazz: Jammies Jam at Lincoln Theatre – CANCELLED

See a family-friendly jazz concert featuring a a pajama party with the Crossbop Collective. The concert takes place on Saturday at 10:00 AM. Click the link for all the details including how to buy tickets in advance.

7. I-Spy Nature Challenge at Sharon Woods Metro Park

From 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Saturday, pick up a challenge sheet at the Naturalist Office at Sharon Woods Metro Park and complete it by 2:00 PM to win a prize!

8. For Families: Winter Hike with Your Dog at Highbanks Metro Park

Bring your dog on a 1.5 mile flat hike on Sunday at 1:00 PM! Dogs get a treat at the end!

Related: Kid-Friendly Trails at Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks

9. Delaware County Model Railroaders Open House at Sandel Legacy Trail

Visit the model train exhibit and learn about the history of America’s railroad systems at Sandel Legacy Trail. Hours are 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM on Sunday.

10. Family Painting: Winter Landscapes at Blacklick Woods Metro Golf Course

Follow along to paint a winter wonderland. All materials provided. This is a free event on Sunday at 12:00 PM.

11. MLK Jr. Day at Ohio History Center

Ohio History Center is partnering with the King Arts Complex to provide programs and activities honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Activities include an open house, art activities, educational opportunities, a film screening and more. Activities take place on Monday at Ohio History Center beginning at 10:00 AM and at King Arts Complex from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM.

12. Worthington Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration

This event celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is virtual and will feature readings by students from Worthington Schools, musical performances, and a preview of an art exhibit by Lance Johnson. The event starts on Monday at 11:00 AM.

13. MLK Day Skating at Skate Zone 71

Skate Zone 71 will have public skate from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM on Monday. From 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM $13 admission will include skate rental, slice of cheese pizza and a drink.

14. Natural Play Area Adventure: Fort Building at Sharon Woods Metro Park

Get muddy while exploring off-trail locations at the Natural Play Area at Sharon Woods Metro park and building forts using natural items! Event takes place Monday at 2:00 PM.

Related: 11 Central Ohio Metro Park Playgrounds

15. Fall & Winter Paint Night – “Mister Moose” at Libby Lou’s Fun Factory

Paint a moose on a canvas while enjoying treats from Libby Lou’s Fun Factory! Tickets are limited. Kids 8 and up can be dropped off. This event takes place on Monday at 5:00 PM.

things to do this weekend in columbus ohio

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*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!*