Spring means new beginnings and the ramping up of Columbus’ annual festivals and events. Enjoy everything from cherry blossoms to professional sports at these can’t-miss events this spring in Columbus.
Find the Arnold statue outside the Greater Columbus Convention Center
The Arnold Sports Festival
When: March 5-March 8
Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center
What: The largest multi-sport festival in the nation is back in Columbus. Don't miss our list of what to do in Columbus when you're in town for the Arnold Sports Festival.
The Pacific Island Water Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory
Blooms & Butterflies
When: February 21-July 5
Where: Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
What: 2026 marks 32 years of Blooms & Butterflies at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Explore the Pacific Island Water Garden Biome, where thousands of exotic butterfly species and gorgeous blooming flowers will surround you. Don't miss the Metamorphosis Lab, where you'll see the life cycle of these enchanting creatures right before your eyes.
The Columbus Crew will look to reclaim its MLS Cup crown in 2026
Watch the Columbus Crew at Home
When: March 7 & 14; April 12, 22 & 25; May 2 & 24
Where: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in downtown Columbus
What: The Columbus Crew takes to the pitch in the Arena District for their home opener on Saturday, March 7. Be sure to check out our season preview for fan activations, concession items, and stadium information before attending a match.
The Columbus Brew Festival takes over the Center of Science and Industry after-hours
Columbus Brew Festival
When: Saturday, March 7
Where: COSI
What: The Columbus Brew Festival takes place at COSI after hours. Attendees can enjoy over 50 breweries and 150 beers - admission provides samples from participating breweries and access to all exhibits. Get tickets.
Franklin Park comes alive in the spring season
5th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival
When: March 22 through April 25
Where: Various locations
What: Enjoy the spectacular views of more than 100 blooming cherry trees along with live entertainment, demonstrations, games and more. Check out our guide to seeing the blooms and eating your way through the food and drink trail.
The view from the outfield at Huntington Park, home of the Columbus Clippers
Root for the Columbus Clippers
When: Four homestands from March 31 to May 24
Where: Huntington Park in downtown Columbus
What: March marks the return of baseball in the Arena District, which also marks the return of cowbells, dime-a-dog nights and all of your other favorite Clippers' traditions. The home opener takes place Tuesday, March 31 at Huntington Park, and you'll have 24 chances to catch a Clippers game before June. There's just something about the charm of Huntington Park during spring in the Arena District. Check out our season preview before going out to the ballpark.
OhioHealth Capital City Half and Quarter Marathon
When: April 25
Where: Downtown Columbus
What: Get ready for Columbus's largest spring celebration of running, walking, and community! More than 12,000 runners and walkers will take over the streets of Downtown Columbus for the 23rd annual OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon, and Columbus Promise 5K.
COSI Science Festival
COSI Science Festival
When: April 29-May 2
Where: COSI and other community locations
What: Celebrate four days of science with the annual COSI Science Festival. On the festival’s final day, COSI and its partners cap off the festival with what they call a Big Science Celebration. It’s a full day packed full of dynamic and interactive science demonstrations as well as activities led by local STEM professionals, researchers and experts. Held in the parks and riverfront surrounding COSI, this incredible gathering brings the public face-to-face with STEM experts from academics to pharmaceuticals to zoology – and everything in between.
