We’ve come a long way, baby, and we continue to fly toward open skies.

Thousands brought Cbus swagger to the grand opening of the Columbus Bicentennial Pavilion last weekend, and the 2012 Columbus Arts Festival promises to keep the party hopping as the festival heads back to the downtown riverfront, June 1-3. It’s a far cry from its humble beginnings in 1961, and we have scoop to share.

The festival footprint covers a wide stroke so pack comfy shoes as you paint yourself in culture. More than 240 individual art galleries from 35 states and Canada will cascade along the Scioto Mile and over the river (but not through the woods to grandma’s house). Dine Originals is on deck with artistic cuisine; Word is ART begins at 2 p.m. on Friday and runs through the weekend, and musicians play back-to-back beginning Friday at 11:30 a.m. (Hmmm, is there a vacay day in your future?)

While there, don’t miss Bicentennial Towers on the Broad Street bridge created by internationally renowned sculptor David Best. The year-long Columbus Public Art 2012: Finding Time brings temporary art installations all across downtown, and designs intend to spark contemplation and conversation. Soon, the next piece Janet Zweig’s “Columbus Never…” will appear on the side of the Key Bank Building at 88 E. Broad Street. Check it out, and let us know what you think.