Commons for Kids – Celebrate Summer
Summer celebration at Columbus Commons with activities for kids.
Commons for Kids – Celebrate Summer brings free activities to downtown Columbus every Friday from early June through mid-August (with a couple exceptions). Presented by Nationwide Children's Hospital, this series offers kids plenty to do at no cost, with activities organized by local community groups. You'll find face painting, balloon twisting, inflatable bounce structures, crafts, and lawn games throughout the morning. The Columbus Metropolitan Library brings their mobile collection so families can browse and check out books, while Girl Scouts run activations and stilt walkers roam the grounds.
Beyond the structured activities, there's carousel rides available (weather permitting), and families are welcome to bring a picnic or grab food from the nearby vendors and restaurants at Columbus Commons. It's a casual, low-pressure way to spend a summer morning downtown with your kids—just show up and enjoy whatever catches their interest. With free parking garages nearby and the park's central location, it works well whether you're making a dedicated trip or stopping by while downtown.