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October 02.2025
3 Minutes Read

Explore Fun Family-Friendly Activities This Weekend in Columbus, Ohio

Stylized Columbus Ohio skyline with autumn leaves overlay.

Family-Friendly Fun Awaits This October Weekend

As autumn settles over Central Ohio, families have a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy, catering to every interest—from thrilling haunted adventures to cozy fall festivals. Whether you're gearing up to dive into corn mazes or indulging in seasonal treats, here's a curated guide for family-friendly events happening in Columbus this October 3-5, 2025.

Embrace Fall Festivities at Local Farms

The vibrant colors of fall are best experienced on a farm, and Central Ohio boasts numerous locations that are embracing the season. Notably, the Fall Fun at Olentangy Caverns is ideal for families looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with games such as rubber duck races and pumpkin bouncers. Admission includes access to an engaging activity area plus live music from local teen rock band, Short Fuse, this Sunday at 3:30 PM.

For families who love a good scare, the Haunted Maze at Hoover Gardens offers a spooky yet fun experience every day for just $3 per person. The whole month of October is packed with festive events, including Scarecrow City in Olde Town, where over 300 scarecrow displays will astound walkers with their creativity!

Spook-tacular Events for All Ages

The Brick or Treat Monster Party at LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a big hit among younger children. Running daily through October 31st, this event includes a special LEGO 4D Halloween movie, scavenger hunts, and monster games, all included with regular admission. Plus, for a magical literary twist, the Wizards & Wands Festival at Westerville Public Library welcomes young readers throughout the month to explore themed areas and participate in magical activities.

Special Community Initiatives to Highlight Kindness

This weekend, you can also contribute to a heartwarming initiative known as 'Share Happy Birthday Wishes.' This program, running through October 5th, allows families to pack birthday bags for children supported by the YMCA Van Buren Center. Kids aged 4-12 will learn about community support and the joy of celebrating birthdays—truly a valuable lesson in empathy and kindness as they gather cake mixes and decorations for children in need.

Ongoing Events: Lanterns and Story Times

For those interested in evening escapades, the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival runs on weekends from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM until October 5th, illuminating the zoo with stunning Asian lanterns resembling wildlife. On the literary front, Family Storytime: Snug as a Bug takes place at the Main Library on Friday at 10:30 AM, featuring bug-themed stories ideal for children aged 0-6.

Movies Under the Stars: Flicks & Tricks

The weekend culminates with a cinematic experience at the The Yard at Easton on Friday evening where families can gather for an outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus paired with a magician's performance starting at 6:00 PM. This event is not only a great way to celebrate Halloween in a friendly atmosphere, but also an excellent opportunity for community bonding!

Conclusion: Make the Most of Family Time

This October weekend, seize the chance to immerse your family in the warmth of fall festivities. Attend a local pumpkin patch, engage in community projects, or simply gather for a movie night under the stars. Each of these activities fosters connection and creates lasting memories for families in Central Ohio. Be sure to check event timings and transport arrangements before heading out!

For more family-friendly activities and events this fall, visit local listings and community boards for ongoing updates and special offerings.

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Discover the Best Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Columbus, Ohio

Update The Exciting Halloween Scene in Columbus, Ohio As the leaves turn shades of orange and gold, Columbus transforms into a Halloween wonderland, bursting with festive energy and family-friendly activities. Parents and caregivers in Central Ohio are in for a treat this October, as the city showcases a variety of exciting events fitting every age and taste. From haunted mazes to wholesome trick-or-treating experiences, families can find something delightful to fill each autumn evening. Trick-or-Treating: A Beloved Tradition One of the highlights of Halloween in Columbus is the cherished tradition of trick-or-treating. Residents eagerly decorate their homes with spooky ornaments and bright lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for children. As night falls, the streets fill with excited kids dressed in colorful costumes, jumping from house to house in search of sweet treats. For families participating in this joyous custom, safety is key. Local communities often set designated trick-or-treating hours, ensuring families can venture out together with peace of mind. Some suggested neighborhoods known for their festive spirit include German Village, Clintonville, and the Short North district, each displaying unique decorations and offering trick-or-treating delights all around. Engaging Activities for All Ages Columbus is not just a great backdrop for trick-or-treating; the month is packed with an array of family-friendly events. Local businesses and community centers offer a variety of Halloween-themed parties filled with face painting, costume contests, and even spooky movie nights. Events like the Halloween Hootout at the National Trail Raceway and the Boo at the Zoo at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are popular favorites, where kiddos can enjoy thrills day and night. Costume Contests and Parades: Celebrating Creativity Throughout the month, many neighborhoods host costume contests and parades, bringing families together to celebrate creativity and community spirit. These gatherings allow families to showcase their unique costumes while enjoying fun activities. Local businesses often get involved, providing prizes for categories such as "Most Creative Costume" or "Best Group Costume," which encourages the community to come together and celebrate. Destination Pumpkin Patches and Crafting Fun No Halloween is complete without pumpkin picking! Families can visit local pumpkin patches and farms like Harvest Moon Acres, where they can select their perfect pumpkins, embark on hayrides, and even visit corn mazes. Picking pumpkins offers a wonderful opportunity for quality family time, supporting local agriculture and enjoying the beautiful fall ambiance. For those interested in arts and crafts, engaging in DIY Halloween themed projects at home can be an enriching experience. Families can create spooky decorations or personalized costumes, fostering creativity and teamwork among family members. Crafting together not only brings joy but also leaves lasting memories etched into autumn traditions. Conclusion: A Columbus Halloween to Remember Celebrating Halloween in Columbus offers a unique blend of excitement and togetherness. From thrilling trick-or-treating adventures to cozy family crafting sessions, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in Central Ohio. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore the multiple engaging activities available throughout the month and immerse themselves in the local culture. Maximize this spooktacular season by participating in community events, and don't forget to spread joy and laughter along the way! As you embrace the magic of Halloween with your loved ones, consider planning your family's involvement in events that promote engagement and creativity in your community. Discover the joy of making memories while celebrating alongside your fellow Central Ohioans.

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Explore Family-Friendly Events This Weekend in Columbus, Ohio

Update Discover Family-Friendly Events This Weekend in Columbus! As the leaves begin to change and the cool Autumn air sweeps in, families in Columbus, Ohio, are gearing up for a memorable weekend filled with activities to delight every member of the family. From engaging festivals to fun-filled farm visits, the city's vibrant pulse is alive with a variety of events tailored just for families. Whether you're looking to enjoy some outdoor adventure or savor delicious local cuisine, here's your guide for an awesome weekend! Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival: A Night of Wonder One of the highlights this weekend is definitely the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival, running every weekend until early October. As dusk falls, the zoo transforms into a breathtaking landscape illuminated by beautiful Asian lanterns that depict various wildlife scenes. It’s a magical visual treat not only for kids but for adults as well, making it a perfect stop for a family night out. Don’t forget to grab tickets online before heading in! Fall Fun at Olentangy Caverns: Seasonal Thrills Await Another fantastic spot this weekend is the Fall Fun Activity Area at Olentangy Caverns, opening daily until Halloween. Here, families can enjoy a plethora of activities, from rubber duck races and pumpkin bouncers to obstacle courses made of straw bales! Plus, the very captivating Gus the Squash Carver will be in action carving a giant 500-pound pumpkin, an event perfect for anyone who loves art and creativity. Art and Kindness Come Together: Warm Cups, Warm Hearts For those who wish to blend creativity with compassion, take part in Warm Cups, Warm Hearts with RMHC. This unique initiative invites kids aged 4-12 to craft artwork on cardboard coffee sleeves, intended to support families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Columbus. It’s a beautiful way to spread kindness through art while engaging in a meaningful community service project before the event wraps up on Sunday. Gastronomic Delights: Columbus Mac and Cheese Festival Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Catch a taste of the local culinary scene at the Columbus Mac and Cheese Festival on Friday at The Yard at Easton. Enjoy samples from various local eateries, live entertainment, and a designated kid’s zone. This event supports the OSUCCC-James, making it a delicious option for a family outing with a cause! Adventure Awaits at Scioto Audubon Metro Park For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the Family Tram Tours at Scioto Audubon Metro Park provide a scenic outing on Friday. With tours running from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, it’s an excellent way for families to explore the park’s natural beauty while enjoying a ride together. Ensure to check out the unique activities the park has to offer while you're there! Don’t Miss These Unique Experiences! With so many options, don’t forget about the following local gems: Fall Friday at Ethos + Co Cafe: Enjoy live music, a petting zoo, inflatables, and fun food options on Friday from 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM. Fourth Friday in Uptown Westerville: Check out live music, food trucks, and pop-up vendors this Friday evening. Free Concert at Columbus Commons: Relax on Friday night at Columbus Commons for a free concert starting at 7:00 PM, featuring The Navigators! Fallapaolooza at Hoover Gardens: Celebrate the bounty of the Fall season at Hoover Gardens’ Harvest Festival! So, gather your family, grab your calendars, and plan for a weekend brimming with excitement and adventure in Columbus! Your Columbus Weekend Starts Now! Ready to dive into the vibrant weekend events Columbus has to offer? See how family time can be both fun and enriching through these diverse local activities. Get out there and enjoy all the joy this CDC (Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati) city has to share!

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Discover Family-Friendly Activities This Weekend in Columbus, Ohio

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