Family Events

Let's Play!

Whatever you play, do it at the Commons

At Columbus Commons, there’s ample opportunity for FREE fun for the whole family. Enjoy themed programming, educational activities, movie nights and more.

Commons for Kids

Presented by Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Fridays, June 6- August 8

10 am – 1 pm

*No event on July 4

Every Friday, kids of all ages can enjoy hands-on educational activities that align with the theme of the week. Plus, take free carousel rides, explore lawn games or take a lunch break at one of the food trucks.

Activities vary weekly. Click below for details.

Free Play

Tuesday and Thursdays

11am – 4pm

Come Downtown and take a free spin on the Carousel, play under the parachute, build with our Imagination Playground big blue blocks, kick a soccer ball, or make your own fun. Plus, enjoy storytime with Columbus Metropolitan Library on the first Tuesday of the month!

Storytime with Friends of the Columbus Metropolitan Library

First Tuesday of the Month

11 – 11:30pm

Join Friends of the Columbus Metropolitan Library for a monthly storytime at Columbus Commons. Sing, rhyme and read along to your favorite stories and songs! Bring the entire family along for this fun park pop-up. Storytime runs from 11 am to 11:30 am on the first Tuesday of the month between May and September.

Family Movie Nights

Select Fridays

7 pm

Settle in for a family-friendly movie at the park. Bring a chair, blanket or hang out on the lawn and enjoy the movie.

Popcorn Pops

Presented by Nationwide

June 20 & July 18

5:30pm – 8:30pm

Fun for the whole family, Popcorn Pops is back for two select dates this summer. You can expect an evening full of music, dancing, and of course, Beethoven!

Harvest Fair

Presented by Molina Healthcare

Saturday, September 6

12 pm – 4 pm

Enjoy fall-themed fun for everyone. Wander through Harvest Fair and explore the barn with farm animals, fall-themed inflatable games, face painting, a pumpkin patch, apple cider and so much more.

Sunset Movie Series

Presented by Downtown Columbus, Inc. and CAPA

Enjoy classic flicks under the stars and city skyline at this free movie series for grown-ups. Bring a blanket, grab a drink from the bar and enjoy the movie! 

Howl-O-Ween

October 18, 2025

This free dog-centric event will surely have your furry friend wagging their tail!

Family Fun Day

Presented by Molina Healthcare

Saturday, May 24

11 am – 4 pm

What’s more fun than a party at the park? Enjoy large inflatables, face painting, balloon animals, hands-on activities, live music, food trucks and more during this mega-fun event.