Summer Fun on the Scioto Mile includes dozens of free Columbus events hosted by the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC).

Enjoy free events for every interest, from kid-friendly Dorrian Days to happy hours, free kayaking, silent discos, dance classes, the Scioto Milers running group and more. This series of summer-long happenings complements the dozens of festivals and privately produced events that draw thousands to the Downtown Riverfront. Follow our Facebook page to stay up-to-date with events listed on our site.

RECURRING EVENTS:

FREE Dorrian Days

In partnership with the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department

Kids just wanna have fun. So, bounce on down to Dorrian Green and let ‘em have at it – for free! With giant inflatables, games, the COSI curbside van, a themed activity station, and a food truck, the kids will wanna come back again and again. Plus, get your fountain fix and cool off in the Dorrian Green water feature.

Dorrian Green, 50 S Belle St
June 13 – August 15
Every Tuesday from 11 am – 2 pm

FREE Wednesdays on the Green Concerts

In partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks Department

Enjoy warm summer nights at this chill event with live music, featuring a biergarten and lawn activities.

Dorrian Green, 50 S. Belle Street
Wednesdays, 5-8 pm (See dates below)

May 31: Mojoflo

June 14: Popgun

June 28: Yumbambe

Aug. 9: Honey and Blue

Aug. 30: The Ark Band

Sept. 6: The Floorwalkers

Wednesdays on the Water

Get on the water in Downtown Columbus for a deal. Enjoy 50% off SUP and Kayak rentals on Wednesdays with Windrose Outdoor.

Every Wednesday, May 31 – June 28
Bicentennial Park boat launch, near the Main Street Bridge

FREE Music on the Mile

Pop-up, intimate performances paired with food truck/coffee truck at the Prow.

Wednesday, June 21 and 28, 5 – 7 pm
Friday, June 23 and 30, 11 am – 1 pm
The Prow, 167 S Civic Center Drive

Sips on the Scioto

Join your neighbors, friends and coworkers for an informal outdoor happy hour at Coleman’s Pointe. You’ll enjoy happy hour prices on the most refreshing sips of summer, featuring seasonal selections from Wolf’s Ridge Brewing, Accent Wine, and High Bank Distillery. Come for the get-together and stay for the sunset on the Scioto riverfront.

Coleman’s Pointe, 67 S Civic Center Drive
Third Thursday every other month (June 15, August 17, October 19, December 2)
4 pm – 7 pm

FREE Scioto Milers Running Club

Get your miles in on the Mile. Join new friends and familiar faces for a run along a scenic 5k route or a one-mile walk. Grab a bite or morning jolt from the coffee truck onsite, Black Kahawa. All paces welcome. Join the Facebook group here to follow along with updates!

Coleman’s Pointe, 67 S. Civic Center Drive
Friday mornings, June 9 – Sept. 1
6:30-8 am

POP-UP EVENTS

FREE Silent Disco Dance Party

Here’s your chance to dance like nobody’s watching. You bring the moves, we’ll bring the headphones, DJ, and music. Never been to a silent disco? Here’s your chance! Spectators will hear silence – and see a lot of dancing — but participants hear the music through their headphones and dance to the beat. Join the fun!

Coleman’s Pointe, 67 S Civic Center Drive
Saturday, June 24
4 pm – 8 pm

FREE Morning Pet Playdate

Playdates for pets + coffee for you? Yes, please! Bring your pup for a romp on the river with fellow furry friends while you hang out with their pet parents. Fun for your dog, fun for you.

The Prow, 167 S Civic Drive
Friday, July 28
8 am – 12 pm

FREE Dance Classes

Improve your moves with Columbus Modern Dance with this free workshop-style dance class at Coleman’s Pointe.

Coleman’s Pointe, 67 S. Civic Center Drive
Saturday, July 29
1 – 2 pm

FREE Chalk on the Mile

Here’s your chance to make a mark on the Mile! Chalk up your own creation alongside friends, family, neighbors, and sidewalk chalk artists from Urban Arts Space. Not a creator? Not a problem! Grab a snack from a food truck and watch as the sidewalk comes to life thanks to community creators.

Lower walkway between The Prow (167 S Civic Center Dr) and Coleman’s Pointe (67 S Civic Center Dr)
Saturday, August 12
12 pm – 4 pm

FREE Kayak Days

No doubt the views from the Scioto River are priceless, but on July 29 and August 12 you can experience them at no cost! Head to the boat launch under the Main Street Bridge (near Bicentennial Park) for FREE kayaking, tandem kayaking, and SUP rentals. All experience levels are welcome! Boats, paddles, and floatation devices will be provided. This event is subject to weather and river conditions, so follow along for updates. Please be aware you are responsible for all valuables.

Bicentennial Park boat launch, near Main Street Bridge
Saturday, July 29, and Saturday, Aug. 12
1 pm – 5 pm