Looking for 2019 Fourth of July events? Check out our most recent guide: 13 Fourth of July Events + Fireworks Displays in Columbus, Ohio

241 years ago, our founding fathers signed our great nation into existence — giving us freedom as well as one heck of a reason to celebrate. Fourth of July weekend is finally upon us, bringing with it the chance to gather with friends and family and enjoy one of the most anticipated highlights of the season. While hosting a picnic and lighting sparklers at home is great, there are so many exciting events in Columbus, and it would be a shame to miss out on the fun. Fireworks will go off around town on the evening of Independence Day, but we plan on celebrating all weekend long with concerts, 5Ks, festivals and more. Below, we've gathered up some of our favorite events in town, so don your star-spangled apparel and get ready to make this weekend one for the books.

New Belgium Brewing's Tour de Fat | July 1

This brewery based out of Fort Collins, Colorado knows how to bring the party, and they're bringing it to Columbus this Fourth of July weekend! New Belgium's Tour de Fat will feature a full day of live music, circus-like antics, a bike parade, costumes (highly encouraged), and of course plenty of cold brewskis. Additionally, you'll be able to try your luck in the bike arena, which offers the chance to ride (or attempt to ride) the weirdest bikes you've ever seen.

 

The Columbus Symphony's Patriotic Pops | July 1

Photo courtesy of Randall Schieber via the Columbus Symphony

This summer tradition with the Columbus Symphony is always a night to remember. Come enjoy an evening of patriotic favorites and Sousa marches with brilliant light displays. Of course, the beloved event would not be complete without fireworks, which will take place after the show.

Reel Big Fish: The Beer Run | July 1

Graphic courtesy of Reel Big Fish's Facebook Page

Celebrate the long weekend with a day of ska, craft beer and good times. While you're sampling craft brews from all over the country (and participating in a few drinking games) at Newport Music Hall, you'll be dancing along to lively tunes from the Expendables, the Queers, Tunnel Vision, and headliner Reel Big Fish.

The Charity Day 5K | July 2

Photo courtesy of the Charity Day 5K

Feel like giving back (and working off some of those burgers and brats while you're at it)? Don't miss the Charity Day 5K, during which runners and walkers alike will take to the streets of downtown Columbus in honor of several charitable organizations. During registration, participants can choose their beneficiary to be sure they're racing for a cause they truly care about! After the race, enjoy a post-race party hosted by Red, White & Boom. Register here.

Red, White and BOOM | July 3

Photo courtesy of Red, White & BOOM

More than 400,000 people will gather in downtown Columbus for the largest fireworks display in the state! Red, White & BOOM began in 1981 as a small celebration, and has grown exponentially over the years. It's not tough to see why the event is so popular! Sure, the fireworks are spectacular, but there will also be a grand parade, live music, dancing, and an after party to conclude the night!

The Doo Dah Parade | July 4

Photo courtesy of the Doo Dah Parade

The self-proclaimed celebration of liberty and lunacy will return to Columbus this year! Everything will go topsy turvy at the craziest parade in town. Antics kick off at 10 am and continue all day, and the parade will begin at 1 pm. While you're not watching, enjoy free live music, vendors, beer and bites from local restaurants.

Dublin's Independence Day Celebration | July 4

The Independence Day celebration in nearby Dublin is one of the best around, offering a full day of food, music, and fun for all ages. Come early to witness the Sherm Sheldon Fishing Derby at 8am, and then spend the rest of the day eating ice cream, enjoying the parade, watching the dogs in a canine frisbee competition, and dancing along to the tunes of Peter Frampton. The event will conclude with a massive fireworks display at the high school stadium.

Enjoy Your Long Weekend!

Spring has come and gone, and the summer sun is heating up Ohio. While we're loving this warm weather, we're also finding it hard to resist a refreshing dip in the pool to cool off. Splashing around in the water is fun for all ages, and for that reason, Cleveland's public pools can get fairly crowded during the summer months. When you're looking to make a splash without wading through people, perhaps look to our natural watering holes instead! We're lucky to have Lake Erie at our fingertips (which comes with sandy beaches and calm water), but there are also a number of swimming holes scattered around the area. Some are secret, some are well traveled, but all offer a new adventure. We've gathered up some of our favorites below, so go ahead and jump in — the water's fine!

Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

Nestled in the 250 acres that make up this gorgeous park lies a swimming hole of epic proportions. The deep turquoise waters and surrounding ledges make it a popular destination for cliff jumpers, but you could spend an entire day here paddling, hiking, and even snorkeling or scuba diving. Afterwards, you can avoid a long trek home by pitching a tent in the park and staying the night.

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is both spectacularly beautiful, and spectacularly popular. The area is home to a wide array of wildlife, and serves as an oasis for anglers and swimmers alike. If you're not in the mood for a dip, shaded picnic areas high above the beach allow onlookers to enjoy the water without being splashed by the waves. Fun fact: In 2011, Huntington Beach reached a new standard for success by becoming Blue Wave Certified beach on Lake Erie. The Blue Wave certification is a national, environmental certification.

Punderson State Park  

The natural lake at Punderson State Park covers more than 150 acres, and offers plenty of opportunities for splashing around. With cozy cabins and cross country skiing courses, the park is actually known as a winter destination, but don't miss out during the warmer months! After playing a round at the 18-hole golf course or hiking/biking on the trails, venture over to the 600-foot public swimming beach.

Squaw Rock

Squaw Rock is a cultural landmark located in the South Chagrin Reservation. Named for the subject engraved on the sculpture by a man named Henry Church, the rock has been around since 1885. A river borders the eastern end of the reservation, and provides ample opportunities for splashing around, especially to cool off after exploring the nearby falls on foot. The waters are not very deep — so no jumping here.

Chagrin Falls

Photo courtesy of Chagrin Falls

Smack dab in the center of town, you'll find a gorgeous waterfall that is the namesake of Chagrin Falls. The falls are perfect for an afternoon picnic, and the water offers an oasis for cooling off if you spend too much time in the sun — people enjoy fishing here, too. Walk down the stairs past the falls for access to all of it!

Fairport Harbor

Fairport Harbor is protected by a break wall — which means the water is calmer here than at most Lake Erie beaches. The amenities (including a playground, volleyball courts, and rental stations for water sports) make it a favorite for families with kids. The beach is expansive and offers plenty of room to lay down a towel and soak up the sun. Bonus: Fairport is also one of the few beaches in Ohio that welcomes dogs to the shore, and includes a special dog swim area on the eastern end of the beach.

Kelleys Island State Park Beach

Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft

Commonly known as Lake Erie's Emerald Isle, Kelleys Island State Park is a relaxing, waterside retreat with plenty to do. Enjoy hiking on one of  the island's many trails, marveling at the unique geological and archeological features, and spending time on the water (of course). You can swim from the 100-foot swimming beach, which is easy to find. Afterward, make camp on the island or stay in a nearby lodge.

Dundee Falls

The trek to Dundee Falls is as beautiful as it is entertaining. Once you arrive at the idyllic waterfall, hidden away in the Beach City Wildlife Area of Tuscarawas County, it'll be tough to pull you back to reality. Spend the afternoon picnicking, enjoying the scenery, and splashing around in the falls — and remember to take pictures!

Just Keep Swimming!