Top Ohio Festivals 2025: Date, Location, Significance and Activities

Experience the Buckeye State's Vibrant Festival Scene

Ohio, known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic communities, offers a diverse array of festivals throughout 2025. From music and arts to food and historical commemorations, these events cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're captivated by the electrifying atmosphere of the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival, the soulful melodies at the Cincinnati Music Festival, or the traditional charm of the Ohio State Fair, the state's festivals promise unforgettable experiences for all attendees.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

Ohio Festivals 2025

Overview of Ohio Festivals in 2025

Ohio's festival calendar 2025 is a testament to its cultural diversity and community spirit. Each event highlights unique aspects of the state's identity, from the bustling cities to the serene landscapes of its rural areas. The year kicks off with the Winter Beerfest in January, celebrating craft beers from around the region, and culminates with festive holiday markets and performances in December.

Music enthusiasts can look forward to events like the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival and the Nelsonville Music Festival, while art and film aficionados might enjoy the Cleveland International Film Festival. Food lovers can indulge in culinary delights at festivals such as the Taste of Cincinnati and the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival. No matter your interests, Ohio's festivals offer a vibrant and enriching experience that reflects the state's dynamic culture.

List of Ohio Festivals by Month (2025): Date, Location, Significance, Activities

January

1. Winter Hike Series

• Date: Throughout January 2025
• Location: Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, OH
• Significance: A chance to explore Ohio’s natural beauty during the serene winter season.
• Activities: Guided hikes through frozen waterfalls, caves, and scenic trails.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the park entrance; carpooling is encouraged.

2. Columbus Winter Beerfest

• Date: January 19–20, 2025
• Location: Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH
• Significance: A celebration of craft beer, featuring brewers from across the country.
• Activities: Beer tastings, food trucks, and live music.
• Tickets: Available online; early bird pricing for advanced purchase.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking available at the convention center.

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February

1. Groundhog Day Festival

• Date: February 2, 2025
• Location: Marion, OH
• Significance: A quirky celebration featuring Buckeye Chuck, Ohio’s official groundhog.
• Activities: Groundhog prediction ceremony, parades, and family-friendly activities.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown.

2. WinterFest at Cleveland Metroparks

• Date: February 17, 2025
• Location: Cleveland, OH
• Significance: A fun-filled event showcasing winter activities in the city.
• Activities: Ice skating, sledding, food stalls, and live entertainment.
• Tickets: Free entry; some activities may require tickets.
• Transportation: Accessible via RTA trains and buses; parking available near the park.

March

1. Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade

• Date: March 16, 2025
• Location: Downtown Cincinnati, OH
• Significance: Celebrates Irish heritage with a vibrant parade.
• Activities: Floats, Irish dancers, and live music performances.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Street parking available; public transit recommended.

2. Cleveland International Film Festival Spring Preview

• Date: March 20–24, 2025
• Location: Tower City Cinemas, Cleveland, OH
• Significance: A sneak peek of the main film festival later in the year.
• Activities: Film screenings, director Q&As, and networking events.
• Tickets: Single tickets and multi-day passes available online.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; public transit options include buses and trains.

April

1. Akron Arts Expo Spring Showcase

• Date: April 12–13, 2025
• Location: Akron, OH
• Significance: Highlights the artistic talents of local creators.
• Activities: Art exhibitions, live demonstrations, and workshops.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue.

2. Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival

• Date: April 20–21, 2025
• Location: Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus, OH
• Significance: Celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms and Japanese culture.
• Activities: Tea ceremonies, cultural performances, and craft vendors.
• Tickets: Available online or at the conservatory entrance.
• Transportation: Public transport accessible; parking on-site.

May

1. Ohio Renaissance Festival Spring Weekend

• Date: May 4–5, 2025
• Location: Waynesville, OH
• Significance: A step back in time to experience medieval life.
• Activities: Jousting tournaments, artisan shops, and themed performances.
• Tickets: Available online; family packages offered.
• Transportation: Free parking available; shuttle services from nearby towns.

2. Cleveland Asian Festival

• Date: May 25–26, 2025
• Location: AsiaTown, Cleveland, OH
• Significance: A celebration of Asian culture and heritage.
• Activities: Cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, and authentic cuisine.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking available nearby.

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June

1. Columbus Arts Festival

• Date: June 7–9, 2025
• Location: Scioto Mile, Columbus, OH
• Significance: A premier arts festival showcasing talent from across the nation.
• Activities: Art exhibitions, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit recommended; parking available in downtown Columbus.

2. Dayton Air Show

• Date: June 15–16, 2025
• Location: Dayton International Airport, Dayton, OH
• Significance: A thrilling air show featuring aerobatic performances and military aircraft displays.
• Activities: Aerial stunts, static aircraft exhibits, and kid-friendly zones.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online.
• Transportation: Parking available at the airport; shuttle services to the event area.

July

1. Red, White & BOOM!

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Downtown Columbus, OH
• Significance: The largest fireworks display in the Midwest.
• Activities: Live music, food trucks, and a grand fireworks finale.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit highly recommended; parking is limited.

2. Ohio Brew Week

• Date: July 15–21, 2025
• Location: Athens, OH
• Significance: A week-long celebration of Ohio’s craft beer scene.
• Activities: Brewery tours, beer tastings, and live entertainment.
• Tickets: Event-specific tickets available online.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; shuttle services to breweries provided.

August

1. Dublin Irish Festival

• Date: August 2–4, 2025
• Location: Dublin, OH
• Significance: One of the largest Irish festivals in the U.S.
• Activities: Irish music, dance performances, and cultural exhibits.
• Tickets: Available online or at the gate.
• Transportation: Free parking available; public transit accessible.

2. Cleveland Garlic Festival

• Date: August 24–25, 2025
• Location: Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH
• Significance: Celebrates garlic and its culinary versatility.
• Activities: Cooking demos, garlic tastings, and live music.
• Tickets: General admission available online.
• Transportation: Parking available near Shaker Square.

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September

1. Ohio Pawpaw Festival

• Date: September 13–15, 2025
• Location: Lake Snowden, Albany, OH
• Significance: Celebrates Ohio’s native fruit, the pawpaw, with an emphasis on sustainability and community.
• Activities:
  • Pawpaw tastings and cooking demonstrations.
  • Live music performances and craft vendors.
  • Educational workshops on sustainable farming and local ecosystems.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online or at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available near the festival site; shuttles run from designated lots.

2. Cincinnati Oktoberfest (Oktoberfest Zinzinnati)

• Date: September 20–22, 2025
• Location: Downtown Cincinnati, OH
• Significance: The largest Oktoberfest celebration in the U.S., drawing inspiration from German heritage.
• Activities:
  • Traditional German food and beer.
  • Live polka music and cultural dances.
  • Contests, including the famous bratwurst-eating competition.
• Tickets: Free admission; VIP beer tent tickets available.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking is available in nearby garages.

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October

1. Circleville Pumpkin Show

• Date: October 16–19, 2025
• Location: Circleville, OH
• Significance: Known as the “Greatest Free Show on Earth,” this festival celebrates pumpkins in all forms.
• Activities:
  • Giant pumpkin weigh-offs and carving contests.
  • Pumpkin-flavored foods and desserts.
  • Live music, parades, and carnival rides.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near festival grounds; shuttle services offered from surrounding areas.

2. Haunted Hocking: A Halloween Campout

• Date: October 25–26, 2025
• Location: Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, OH
• Significance: Combines outdoor adventure with spooky Halloween activities.
• Activities:
  • Night hikes with ghost stories.
  • Costume contests and themed campsite decorations.
  • Family-friendly crafts and games during the day.
• Tickets: Campsite reservations required; limited availability.
• Transportation: Parking available within the park.

November

1. Dayton Holiday Festival and Grande Illumination

• Date: November 29, 2025
• Location: Downtown Dayton, OH
• Significance: Kicks off the holiday season with a festive lighting ceremony and parade.
• Activities:
  • Tree-lighting ceremony and live performances.
  • Children’s activities, including crafts and rides.
  • Holiday shopping at pop-up markets.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and parking garages available downtown.

2. Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, 2025
• Location: Columbus, OH
• Significance: Honors veterans and active-duty military personnel.
• Activities:
  • Patriotic parade with floats and marching bands.
  • Special tributes and speeches at the Ohio Statehouse.
  • Veteran resource fairs and exhibits.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Street parking available; public transit is recommended.

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December

1. Dickens Victorian Village

• Date: December 1–31, 2025
• Location: Cambridge, OH
• Significance: Transforms downtown Cambridge into a charming Victorian-era Christmas scene.
• Activities:
  • Life-size Dickens-themed displays along Main Street.
  • Evening courthouse light shows synchronized to holiday music.
  • Horse-drawn carriage rides and holiday markets.
• Tickets: Free admission; carriage rides available for a fee.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; walking is the best way to enjoy the displays.

2. Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

• Date: December 1–30, 2025
• Location: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Powell, OH
• Significance: A dazzling holiday lights display featuring over three million lights.
• Activities:
  • Holiday-themed animal encounters.
  • Seasonal treats and hot cocoa.
  • Photos with Santa and live music performances.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online; discounts for zoo members.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; public transport options include buses.

Conclusion

Ohio’s 2025 festival calendar is a celebration of the state’s cultural diversity, rich history, and vibrant community spirit. From winter hikes and craft beer celebrations to summer music festivals and dazzling holiday lights, Ohio offers something for everyone year-round. Whether you’re exploring small-town traditions or big-city events, the Buckeye State promises unforgettable experiences in every season.

FAQs About Ohio Festivals 2025

1. What’s the best time of year to visit Ohio for festivals?

Ohio has festivals year-round, but spring and fall are particularly vibrant, with events like the Ohio Renaissance Festival and the Circleville Pumpkin Show drawing large crowds.

2. Are Ohio festivals family-friendly?

Yes, many festivals, such as the Dayton Holiday Festival and Dickens Victorian Village, are designed with families in mind, offering activities for all ages.

3. Can I find free festivals in Ohio?

Absolutely! Many events, including the Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Ohio Pawpaw Festival, offer free admission or low-cost activities.

4. Are there food-focused festivals in Ohio?

Ohio is famous for its food festivals, from the Cleveland Garlic Festival to the Taste of Ohio Café at the Ohio State Fair. There’s something for every foodie.

5. How can I best experience Ohio’s holiday festivals?

Plan ahead to attend iconic events like Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo or the Dayton Holiday Festival. Arrive early to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the crowds.

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