Up Front in Cbus | Fall 2024

November

Food & Drink

🍽️ Plan Your Holiday Festivities
Book now to reserve for special occasions, holidays, and big celebrations! Explore dining and catering options in the Arena District to make your holiday meal prep a breeze.

🍨 Apple Pecan Crisp is Back at Ted’s Montana Grill

Indulge in the perfect fall treat with sliced Granny Smith apples, buttery cinnamon sugar, and a crunchy oat and pecan topping. Served hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert you won’t want to miss!

🍝 Savor the Flavors at Buca di Beppo!

Perfect for a cozy date night or a fun gathering with friends, Buca di Beppo is offering special prices for parties of 2-4 now through November 24!

🍻 Seasonal brews & comfort food awaits at Moran’s!

Looking for the perfect spot to cozy up before a Jackets game? Swing by Moran’s Bar & Grille for a brew and some mouth-watering comfort food. Whether you’re there for the drinks or the eats, they’ve got you covered.

Arena District All Stars

This month, we’re excited to launch a brand-new series, ‘Arena District All-Stars,’ where we’ll shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals and vibrant personalities behind the various venues in the Arena District.

Introducing: Dave Redelberger, a.k.a. Dave, The Arena Dude

Dave Redelberger is the Director of Communications and Interactive Marketing for Columbus Arena Sports and Entertainment. That means you’re likely to see Dave running around with media at shows at Nationwide Arena, The Schottenstein Center, Ohio Stadium and Mershon Auditorium. Dave also can be seen and heard making regular TV and radio appearances as his alter-ego, “Dave, The Arena Dude,” connecting with audiences and promoting live entertainment across the city.

Instagram: @davethearenadude

Watch artist interviews on YouTube: Dave, The Arena Dude – Columbus’ Concert Insider

What’s your all-time favorite concert or event that you’ve experienced, and why?
Prince will always be my all-time favorite. He was electrifying, full of energy, and a master on the guitar. His performance had a level of funky soul that no one can replicate.

How do you (with the Arena team) create memorable moments for the audience?
We love to connect with the fans. You’ll often find me interviewing the crowd outside the arenas before a show to find out just what they love so much about the artist they are coming to see. We then share their passion through our social media. It’s such a blessing to be a part of a night fans will remember for years to come.

Everyone loves a good backstage tale! What’s an exciting behind-the-scenes story from one of your events?
From Charli XCX just walking out into the Arena District before her show to Sting riding his bike all over Columbus, we’re lucky to see a lot of stars as they discover Columbus. One of my favorite stories was an artist who was feeling very homesick for their pet goat. We made special arrangements with a local farmer to bring a goat backstage before the show. Let’s just say, the goat wasn’t used to being backstage at an arena show & made quite the mess.

What’s your favorite annual event in Columbus?

Personal bias, I do love Buckeye Country Superfest every year at Ohio Stadium. There’s something special about singing along to your favorite songs under the summer sky with 60,000+ other live music lovers. Nothing in the world beats that feeling.

What artist/entertainers are on your bucket list to meet?
Would love to meet Paul McCartney. Have been lucky to see Paul several times – but who wouldn’t love to chat with one of The Beatles.

What sets the Columbus live events scene apart from other cities?

The diversity of the Columbus live events scene is what truly sets it apart. This city shows incredible support for artists across all genres—whether it’s country, rock, rap, pop, or R&B. Columbus has a deep appreciation for live music, and that passion allows us to keep bringing a wide range of artists back to the city time and time again.

Entertainment

🎶 November is packed with exciting performances at KEMBA Live! and Nationwide Arena. Here’s a sneak peek:

🎟️ November Ticket Raffle: Enter for a chance to win tickets to see Cory Wong at KEMBA Live! on November 17.

Community

🏋️‍♂️ Stay Fit and Warm: Bring Your Workouts Indoors This Fall!

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, their top-of-the-line equipment and expert trainers are here to help you achieve your goals. From group classes to personal training, The Arena District Athletic Club has something for everyone.

Experience the best in fitness and community. Your health and wellness journey starts here: Arena District Athletic Club – Downtown Columbus Ohio Gym

🏃 November 17 – Columbus Hot Chocolate Run
Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate after the race. This sweet event is perfect for runners and walkers alike, offering a cozy way to enjoy the crisp fall weather. Register here

🛍 Discover the Experience Columbus Visitor Center!

Shop locally produced gifts, souvenirs and postcards. The Columbus Visitor Center staff can assist you with recommendations and directions on what to see, do, and eat while you are in Columbus.

Holiday Toy Drive

Starting Nov. 6, Experience Columbus and the Greater Columbus Sports Commission invite you to bring holiday cheer to children in need through a special toy drive for Franklin County Children Services. Simply choose a holiday wish tag with a suggested new toy, or select one of your own, and drop off your unwrapped gift by Dec. 6 at the Experience Columbus Visitor Center, located at 277 W. Nationwide Blvd., Ste. 125. Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (Closed Sunday).

Sports

Columbus Blue Jackets
🏒 November is heating up with a lineup of home games you won’t want to miss. Get the full schedule.

November 1 | Columbus vs. Winnipeg
November 15 | Columbus vs. Pittsburgh
November 21 | Columbus vs. Tampa Bay
November 23 | Columbus vs. Carolina
November 27 | Columbus vs. Montréal
November 29 | Columbus vs. Calgary

Columbus Fury

🏐 Volleyball fans, tickets for the Columbus Fury 2025 season are now available! Grab your tickets here.

September

Sports

Columbus Crew
⚽ Root for the Crew and hit the stands—come out to Lower.com Field and support the Black and Gold. Check out the Columbus Crew schedule and score your 2024 fan gear here!

September 7 | Columbus vs. Seattle
September 21 | Columbus vs. Orlando

Columbus Clippers

⚾ Don’t miss out on the action with the Columbus Clippers! Check out the full schedule and mark your calendar for the post-game fireworks on September 14. For more, visit Columbus Clippers Promotions.

September 2 – 8 | Columbus vs. Durham
September 10 – 15 | Columbus vs. St. Paul

Columbus Blue Jackets

🏒 Pre-season hockey is back! Catch the Columbus Blue Jackets at their first home preseason game on September 25. View the full schedule.

September 25 | CBJ vs. Philadelphia
September 28 | CBJ vs. Buffalo
September 30 | CBJ vs. Washington D.C.

Entertainment

🎤 September is packed full of exciting performances at KEMBA Live! and Nationwide Arena. Don’t miss these must-see artists:

Food & Drink

Heading to an event in the Arena District? Don’t miss out on these tasty restaurants nearby⤵

🥪 Jimmy Johns
Don’t miss the limited-time $10 meal deal at Jimmy Johns! Get an 8′ original sandwich, chips, a cookie, and a drink all for just $10. Plus, don’t miss their Mediterranean Wrap with all-natural chicken and Sabra Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – perfect for a quick, delicious meal!

🍷 Buca di Beppo
Celebrate Wine Wednesdays with a selection of wines by the glass for only $5 every Wednesday! Get more details.

🥪 Discover the Flavors of Peru at Si Señor!

Need a quick meal without skimping on quality or flavor?? Head over to Si Señor Peruvian Sandwiches in the Arena District! From the mouthwatering Chicharron Peruano to the refreshing Cilantro Cream Pasta Salad, every bite is a taste of Peru. Perfect for lunch or a quick bite before catching a game or concert.

🍕Boston’s Pizza

The ideal place to relax and enjoy great food with friends, Boston’s Pizza offers a variety of delicious pizzas, wings, and more! Don’t miss out on their limited time menu, featuring options like a Thai Chicken Bowl, Pulled Pork Sandwich and a Keto-friendly Chili Lime Shrimp Bowl! See the full list of specials.

Community

🥨 Oktoberfest at Hofbrauhaus Columbus

Get ready to raise your steins and celebrate Oktoberfest in true Bavarian style at Hofbrauhaus. The festivities will be kicking off Thursday, September 5, and followed by 3 full weekends of live music and entertainment! Learn more: Hofbräuhaus Columbus

🎥 September 19 – Ghostbusters at Ray DeGraw Park
Bring your lawn chair and blankets to Ray DeGraw Park in Grandview Yard for a FREE outdoor movie experience under the stars.

🗺 Take Advantage of Experience Columbus’ Visitor Center Offerings
Did you know the Experience Columbus Visitor Center at 277 W. Nationwide Blvd. Suite 125 isn’t just for tourists?
Here’s what you can enjoy:

Purchase “Welcome to Columbus Boxes” for newcomers or to give as a gift
Enjoy free local publications like 614 Magazine and city guides
Get detailed information on upcoming local events
Claim prizes from free experiential passports

Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, there’s always something to discover about Columbus. Stop by Experience Columbus and see what your city has to offer!

October

Sports

Columbus Blue Jackets

🏒 HOCKEY IS OFFICIALLY BACK! Cheer on the Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena as they kick off the 2024-25 season. View the schedule and get ready for the puck drop!

October 3 | Columbus vs. Pittsburgh
October 15 | Columbus vs. Florida
October 17 | Columbus vs. Buffalo
October 19 | Columbus vs. Minnesota
October 22 | Columbus vs. Toronto
October 28 | Columbus vs. Edmonton
October 30 | Columbus vs. New York

Columbus Crew
⚽ Continue supporting the Crew as the season wraps up at Lower.com Field! See the full season schedule, and don’t forget to grab your favorite fan gear to show your support!

October 2 | Columbus vs. Miami
October 5 | Columbus vs. Philadelphia
October 12 | Columbus vs. New England

Entertainment

🎸The October line-up is packed full of exciting performances at KEMBA Live! and Nationwide Arena—here is a sneak peek at what’s in store:

10/03 | KEMBA Live! – Dayglow
10/04 | Nationwide Arena – Twenty One Pilots
10/05 | Nationwide Arena – Twenty One Pilots
10/25 | KEMBA Live! – Haunted Fest

🎟️ October Ticket Raffle: Enter for a chance to win tickets to see The Dead South at KEMBA Live! on October 21. Enter here!

Community

🎥 October 17 – Monsters University at Ray DeGraw Park
Enjoy a FREE movie night under the stars! Gather your loved ones for a fun evening watching “Monsters University” at Ray DeGraw Park in Grandview Yard.

🏃 October 20 – Columbus ½ Marathon and 5k
Register and join the race, or cheer on participants as they cross the finish line.

👻 October 26 – Highball Halloween
Get ready for the ultimate costume party! Highball Halloween is one of the most anticipated events of the year, and the Arena District is just steps away from all the action. Enjoy the creative costumes, live entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere. Find out more.

Food & Drink

Headed to the Arena District for an event? Check out these local favorites while you’re here:

🥞 Sunny Street Café
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pumpkin pancakes, spiced to perfection at Sunny Street Cafe. Available until November!

🍻 R Bar
Looking for the ultimate spot to kick off and wrap up your Columbus Blue Jackets game day? Whether you’re gearing up for the game or celebrating after, R Bar has you covered with great drinks, good vibes, and all the hockey action you can handle.

🍹 Nada
Enjoy some delicious food and drinks featuring Nada’s world-famous braised chicken enchiladas, sizzling fajitas and tacos galore. Don’t forget the margaritas!

🥩Ted’s Montana Grill

Enjoy hearty, all-natural American dishes, including steaks and bison burgers, in a rustic setting at Ted’s Montana Grill. From mouth-watering bison burgers, fresh salads, and more, Ted’s is the perfect spot to fuel up and unwind.