List: 8 things to do this weekend around Columbus for August 1-3, 2025

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Big events are happening this weekend in central Ohio, from the opening of the Columbus Zoo's Lantern Festival to the return of the Dublin Irish Festival and Pelotonia's Ride Weekend.

Ohio State Fair

Ohio Expo Center, through Aug. 3

• The State Fair is back in Columbus with rides, food, entertainment, contests and more. Tickets are $12 for adults (ages 13-59), $10 for kids (6-12) and seniors (60 and up). Children under 5 are admitted free.

Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, July 31 through Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

• The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival is a family-friendly event, recurring weekly on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. It features over 70 sets of Asian lanterns highlighting wildlife scenes as well as mythical creatures, for an imaginative twist to the displays. Multicolored LED animal lanterns illuminate paths throughout various areas of the Zoo, creating an unforgettable experience.

Actor's Theatre of Columbus, SHANE by Karen Zacarías

Schiller Park Amphitheater, through Aug. 10, 8 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays

• Adapted from the novel by Jack Schaefer, Shane is the iconic hero of the American West, a quiet man who takes on the burden of protecting a family from wealthy ranchers who want to force them out. Karen Zacarías's stage adaptation is faithful to the story, depicting the struggle of people fighting to live the frontier life. Admission is free, with donations accepted during intermission. Bring a blanket or chair and pack a picnic or snacks.

Millennium: A 2000's Musical

Shadowbox Live, through Aug. 29

• With laughter, poignant drama, and a soundtrack featuring the biggest hits of the 2000s, Millennium is a dynamic theatrical experience that captures the courage, resilience, and spirit of a generation. Admission is $52 to $312, sold by the table to accommodate food and drink service before the show.

Dublin Irish Festival

Dublin's Coffman Park, Aug. 1 through Aug. 3

• The largest three-day Irish Festival worldwide, the Dublin Irish Festival, has taken place for nearly 40 years. More than 100,000 attendees are expected during the three-day event, which hosts hundreds of performers and offers food, fun and cultural activities for visitors.

Columbus Crew vs. Puebla (Leagues Cup)

Lower.com Field, Aug. 1, 7 p.m.

• The Columbus Crew take on Puebla at Lower.com Field. Tickets range from $30 to $200.

Pelotonia Ride weekend

Across central Ohio, Aug. 2 and Aug. 3

• Thousands of cyclists participate in Pelotonia's Ride Weekend to raise funds for innovative cancer research at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute. Routes across central Ohio range from 24 to 190 miles, including one- and two-day ride options.

Columbus Back to School Bash & Fam Jam

Goodale Park, Aug. 2, from noon to 3 p.m.

• A back-to-school kickoff full of fun, freebies, and family-friendly activities. Free school supplies, free pizza and on-site school enrollment. Entertainment and activities include a bounce park, a live magician, a visit from Sully of Monsters, Inc. and much more.