Things to Do in Columbus for Memorial Day Weekend 2025

Memorial Day weekend in Columbus brings more than just an extra day off. It’s a time to honor those who served, gather with community, and officially kick off summer in the city. There’s something for everyone happening across Central Ohio this holiday weekend.
Here’s your guide to what’s going on in and around Columbus for Memorial Day:
RELATED: What’s Open and Closed on Memorial Day in Columbus?
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
There’s no better place to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day than the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. NVMM is dedicated to honoring veterans and their families from all branches and eras. On Memorial Day, admission is free, and the museum has special programming planned throughout the day. Visit their website for the list of events
Local Memorial Ceremonies & Parades
Dublin Memorial Day Ceremony
May 26, 11:30 a.m.
The City of Dublin and American Legion Post 800 will host a remembrance ceremony at the Grounds of Remembrance in Dublin Veterans Park.
Grandview Heights Memorial Service & Parade
Service: May 22, 7:30 p.m. | Parade: May 24, 10 a.m.
A two-part tribute with a Thursday night service at Memorial Park and a Saturday morning parade.
Worthington Memorial Day Parade
May 26, 10 a.m.
A longstanding tradition that winds through the heart of Worthington. Catch it at High Street and Dublin Granville Road.
Gahanna Memorial Day Ceremony
May 26
This citywide tribute includes multiple stops, from local cemeteries to Veterans Memorial Park and the bridge at Creekside.
Upper Arlington Memorial Day Run
May 26, 8:30 a.m.
Start your Monday with a five-mile or one-mile run through UA. A Memorial Day tradition since 1971, this race is open to both serious runners and casual participants.
Kick Off Summer the Fun Way
Zoombezi Bay Opens for the Season
Starting May 24
Columbus’ favorite water park is back! Look forward to the return of the tipping bucket, wave pool, basketball activities, and all-new ZOOMpass wristbands. Adults can also take advantage of new premium loungers.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The Zoo’s long-anticipated North America Trek opens this May, with brand-new habitats for black bears, bald eagles, and more across 14 acres.
Bicentennial Park Fountain Fest
May 23–24
The Scioto Mile fountain officially reopens with two days of live music, food trucks, and free ice cream.
Tacos, Ice Cream, and Local Vibes
Columbus Taco Fest at Goodale Park
May 24–25
Tacos, tequila, live music, and even a puppy costume contest. This is free entry
Utica Ice Cream Festival
May 24–26
Held at Velvet Ice Cream Company’s Ye Olde Mill in Utica, this event includes ice cream eating contests, classic cars, and more.
Nightlife & Memorial Weekend Parties
Mayhem Bash at Skully’s
Saturday, May 24
Hosted by 614Darrel & Playboiirello, with a live performance from local rapper Raq Baby. Tickets available on Eventbrite.
Our House Party at The Kee
Sunday, May 25
The party continues at The Kee with a Memorial Weekend function full of local DJs. Tickets on Eventbrite.
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- Things to Do in Columbus for Memorial Day Weekend 2025
Things to Do in Columbus for Memorial Day Weekend 2025 was originally published on mycolumbuspower.com