Columbus, Ohio (WSYX) — Downtown Columbus has released its schedule of free summer programming for 2025, with events set to run through the fall and include a wide variety of entertainment for all ages.
The calendar features new additions and returning favorites, such as free kayak days, UnderCurrent festivals, musical performances, and Dorrian Days. Activities will take place throughout Bicentennial Park, Gay Street, The Peninsula, and other downtown venues.
Highlights include the return of the Scioto Mile Fountain, which will be open daily May 23 through Sept. 1 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. An evening light show titled “Fountain Evening Ambiance” will run during those same dates from 7 to 10 p.m., with a sensory-friendly hour scheduled each Monday from 11 a.m. to noon, June 2 through Aug. 25.
The season begins Memorial Day weekend with Fountain Fest on May 24 and 25, featuring music, food trucks, art, live performances, and interactive activities for all ages. Other fitness and dance classes will take place throughout the summer on select Thursdays and Sundays.
The Patio at the Scioto Mile Fountain opens May 23 and will operate Thursdays through Sundays, serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages alongside food trucks and riverfront views. On Aug. 30, a special “Scioto Social” event will include a DJ, light show, and evening fountain access for adults.
Free Kayak Days will be held July 12 and Aug. 9 near Bicentennial Park, offering complimentary rentals of kayaks, tandem kayaks and paddleboards. A discounted rental program called “Wednesdays on the Water” runs from May 28 to July 30, and the “Golden Hour Paddle” series takes place on Fridays in August. Spots are limited, so pre-register here.
Dorrian Days return to Dorrian Green on Tuesdays from June 10 to Aug. 12, with activities including inflatables, COSI van appearances, themed stations, and food trucks. A Party on The Peninsula is scheduled for June 13 at High Water Alley and includes a zipline, food vendors, music, and drinks.
Cornhole leagues will also take place at High Water Alley on Sundays from June 15 to Aug. 3. Street Beats, a live music series, will run Fridays and Saturdays from May 23 through Aug. 30 at various downtown locations.
The UnderCurrent street festival series returns to Gay Street with themed celebrations under Janet Echelman’s “Current” sculpture. Dates include May 15 (UnderCurrent BAM), June 27 (Silent Disco), and July 13 (Bastille Day with Chouette).
All events are free and open to the public. For full event schedules and updates, visit www.DowntownColumbus.com.
