COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – From festivals and live music, to farmers markets and Mother’s Day events, here are things to see and do this weekend in central Ohio.
Sonic Temple Art and Music Festival
Historic Crew Stadium, May 8-11
- The annual festival with a lineup of rock and metal music is returning to Columbus. The event will feature more than 110 bands performing across four stages over four days. Sonic Temple first launched in 2019 and has hosted a wide range of performances including Metallica, Foo Fighters, Slipknot and more. Tickets are on sale now.
Empower Summit and Challenge Columbus
Columbus Museum of Art and Coffman Park, May 9-10
- The two-day event is dedicated to advancing knowledge, inspiring action and uniting the autism community. Day one will feature engaging sessions led by experts and advocates, while day two will feature the 5K at 8:30 a.m. Participants can run, ride or walk with the community to raise funds and awareness.
Brews and Blooms
Boardman Arts Park, May 10 from 9 a.m. to noon
- Plan a perfect morning at the park for the mom in your life with coffee brews and plant blooms. Shop flower baskets and plants the day of the event and enjoy a selection of coffee options for purchase.
2025 NCAA Men’s Volleyball Championship
Covelli Center, May 8-12
- The NCAA Men’s Volleyball Championship returns to the Covelli Center. The event will also host a Fan Fest on May 10 outside of the facility from 3 to 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now.

Men’s Mental Health & Wellness Expo
Ohio Union, May 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Obie Stillwell, former Ohio State Buckeye and current facilitator of Obie’s Breakfast Club, announced the first Men’s Mental Health Expo. This event will bring members of the community together to have candid conversations about mental health.
Hops on High
High St., from E. 2nd to Russell St., May 10 from noon to 8 p.m.
- Hops on High is Columbus’ largest open-streets event series, where High Street is transformed into a pedestrian-only, arts-forward, free experience. Visit a variety of vendors, art and much more.
Blooms and Butterflies
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, through July 6
- Explore the exhibit featuring hundreds of exotic, vibrant butterflies. Visitors can also check out the Metamorphosis Lab to watch new butterflies emerging from their chrysalises each day. The exhibit is open now through July 6 with the best times to view the butterflies from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Farmers Markets across central Ohio
Central Ohio boasts numerous farmers markets throughout the area offering locally grown produce, art, clothing, and more. Click here to find when and where local markets are selling near you below.