Columbus Arts Festival
About the Festival
The Columbus Arts Festival presented by Time Warner Cable proudly celebrated its 49th anniversary this year on June 4, 5 & 6. Columbus' Discovery District was transformed into a stunning, outdoor art gallery as the nation's top artists displayed their work and attracted art enthusiasts from all over the country. In addition to hosting over 230 nationally acclaimed artists, the 2010 Festival featured fantastic gourmet fare from some of the city's finest local restaurants, live concerts, hands-on art activities and more - enjoyed by all ages!
From its humble beginning as a "Festival of the Arts" on the Statehouse lawn in 1961, the Columbus Arts Festival has grown into one of the most highly acclaimed arts festivals in the nation. Early festivals focused on "a program in cultural achievements" by students of the Columbus City Schools and local colleges, but today the Columbus Arts Festival has evolved into an extravaganza of art and culture.
The Festival Coordinating Committee, made of more than 50 volunteers, works with Festival staff for almost year-round to bring you this event. Festival volunteers are invaluable in terms of the work they accomplish, and their input ensures a festival that’s fresh, original and fun – the key elements in maintaining a dynamic ART event.
No public money funds the Columbus Arts Festival. So, we hope you will patronize Festival artists and food and beverage vendors while you’re visiting—and remember the Festival's many generous sponsors! These businesses and individuals make it possible for the Greater Columbus Arts Council to bring you this free event each year.
The Columbus Arts Festival is busy planning for our big 50th anniversary blow-out celebration in 2011, so stay tuned!
