Columbus has a strong sports culture, with plenty of competitions and events year-round! No matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty of action on the field, court, or ice in Columbus.
Spring
Ohio Roller Derby
Ohio Roller Derby hosts fast-paced flat track matches at the Ohio Expo Center from February through June. Expect hard-hitting action, high-energy crowds, and an electric atmosphere as skaters battle it out on the track!
Ohio State Buckeyes Spring Game
Held at Ohio Stadium each April, the Spring Game (Spring Showcase in 2025) is the Buckeyes’ final football practice of the spring season. Ohio State’s offense faces off against its defense in a game open to the public, giving fans an early look at the team. Tickets are on sale now.
Memorial Tournament
The Memorial Tournament, held at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, showcases some of the world's best PGA golfers and honors distinguished figures in golf. The event, supporting Columbus area charities, will take place May 26 through June 1, 2025.
Summer
OHSAA State Track & Field Championships
The first OHSAA championship was in track & field in 1908. More than 100 years later the boys and girls championships take place each spring at Jesse Owens Stadium. The 2025 version is on June 6-7.
OHSAA State Lacrosse Championships
Historic Crew Stadium is the home for the boys and girls state championships each June. Another great weekend for high school sports in Columbus as the Lacrosse championships are set for June 7-8, 2025.
Columbus Crew
The Columbus Crew, the city’s Major League Soccer team, kicks off its regular season in late February, running through mid-October. Home matches occur at Lower.com Field in the Arena District, where fans pack the stands for a buzzing game-day atmosphere.
Columbus Clippers
The Columbus Clippers are our city’s Minor League Baseball team and the Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. Home games are played at Huntington Park, and the 2025 season begins on April 1, 2025. The regular season runs through September. Play ball!
Draft Horse Show at the Ohio State Fair
The Draft Horse Show is a highlight of the Ohio State Fair, showcasing the strength and skill of these majestic horses. The event builds up to its main competition, the Governor’s Cup, drawing horse enthusiasts from across the region. The 2025 Ohio State Fair runs from July 23 to August 3, 2025.
Pelotonia
This annual bike ride supports cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. Riders of all levels come together for a weekend of cycling and fundraising, with the Opening Ceremony on August 1, 2025, and the Ride Weekend from August 2 to 4, 2025.
Fall
Ohio State Football
The Ohio State Buckeyes kick off their 2025 football season on August 30, with games running through November. The season builds to its biggest matchup against their longtime rivals on November 29. Home games take place at Ohio Stadium, where fans pack the stands for one of college football’s most electric atmospheres.
All-American Quarter Horse Congress
The world’s largest horse show takes over the Ohio Expo Center each fall, bringing together top equestrians for a month of competition. Along with thrilling events, the show features sales, auctions, and educational seminars. The 2025 event runs from September 27 to October 26.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon
The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & Half-Marathon supports Nationwide Children’s Hospital, bringing thousands of runners annually to the city. Race Weekend features a variety of events, including a 5K, 1-mile race, Kids Race, and the Gold Medal Challenge. The 2025 marathon starts on Sunday, October 19, with events running throughout the weekend.
Winter
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Columbus Blue Jackets National League Hockey team plays home games on the ice at Nationwide Arena. The regular season begins each October and this year, will run through April 13, 2025.
Ohio State Men’s Basketball
The Ohio State men's basketball team plays at Value City Arena at the Schottenstein Center. The season begins in November and the last regular season game of 2025 will be on March 8.
Ohio State Women’s Basketball
The Ohio State women's basketball team plays at Value City Arena at the Schottenstein Center. The season begins in November and the last regular season game of 2025 will be on March 2.
OHSAA State Cross Country Championships
Located just 15 minutes south of downtown, Fortress Obetz hosts the boys and girls cross country championships. It's a one-day event held this year on November 1.
OHSAA State Soccer Championships
Boys and girls state soccer championships are held at Historic Crew Stadium each November. This year's event is slated for November 4-7.
Columbus Fury
The Columbus Fury is part of the Pro Volleyball Federation and Columbus' first professional indoor women's volleyball team. Games are held at Nationwide Arena. The regular season begins on January 11, 2025 and runs through May 4, 2025.
Arnold Sports Festival
The Arnold Sports Festival will happen from February 27 to March 2, 2025, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. This multi-sport event features an expo, live competitions, and the prestigious Arnold Classic for professional bodybuilding. Spectators can watch top athletes compete in strength, fitness, and endurance challenges while exploring the latest in sports and wellness.
OHSAA State Wrestling Championship
The OHSAA Wrestling Boys & Girls State Championship will take place March 7-9, 2025 at the Value City Arena in the Schottenstein Center on the campus of The Ohio State University.
OHSAA State Ice Hockey Championship
On March 8-9, 2025, the OHSAA Boys Ice Hockey Championship returns to Nationwide Arena. Two venues, two sports, one city. What a weekend for high school sports!
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Plan your next sports outing in Columbus today! Check our events calendar for the latest local games and tournaments, and contact us for help hosting your own event in town.
