Event Permits
The CRPD Office of Special Events assists Event Coordinators plan a successful event in the City of Columbus, while providing a positive impact to the residents and businesses.
The City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Office of Special Events is declaring a moratorium on all new special events and race events (as defined in the Event Planning Guide) in the downtown area starting February 1, 2020, until further notice. The primary areas affected by this moratorium will be Genoa Park, Bicentennial Park and West Bank Park.
This declaration is based on a number of factors, including high demand and new and ongoing construction projects in the area, which will drastically reduce the use of surrounding streets such as Washington Boulevard, Belle Street and the Town/Rich Street Bridge.
Staff will review any pending applications for feasibility, but recommends no new events plan or start an application for this area.
Special Events Rescheduling Policy in Response to COVID-19
Event Permit Calendar
The CRPD Office of Special Events maintains a calendar for events and races requiring a permit. Calendar postings are made as soon a date and location are confirmed. All events are tentative until a permit has been issued.
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Event Permit
The CRPD Office of Special Events annually publishes an Event Planning Guide to help Event Coordinators use the requirements that are in place to efficiently plan and execute a successful event. This guide includes permit applications, a directory of city department contacts, selection of venue maps, an overview of city regulations and fees for city services.
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Parade Permit
The City of Columbus License Section and Columbus Division of Police coordinate to permit parades on any streets or public thoroughfares.
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Rentals
The CRPD Rental Services Section can assist in coordinating the rentals of shelter houses and gazebos.
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Special Event Support Program
The Special Event Support Program (SESP) provides funding to Columbus based organizations which have established reputation for excellence and credibility that enhances the Columbus’ overall cultural environment supports the City’s economic vitality and increases the visibility and reputation of Ohio’s capitalcity as a desirable destination for visitors. Special events that also celebrate a community, a neighborhood or a shared cultural interest are eligible for funding if they are held in public spaces and open to the entire public.
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Department Events
The Office of Special Events coordinates high quality events that celebrate and showcase the City of Columbus.
Rhythm on the River Music Festival
Columbus Recreation and Parks Department welcomes a variety of performing artists to Bicentennial Park for the Rhythm on the River Music Festival.
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Jazz & Rib Fest
This highly anticipated summertime tradition offers both jazz and rib connoisseurs the finest in music and barbeque. With the addition of 33 acres of parkland along the Scioto Mile, the newly revitalized downtown riverfront provides the perfect location for hot ribs and cool jazz.
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An Evening of Dance with BalletMet
Join the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department downtown for a night on the Scioto Mile featuring an exquisite dance performance under the stars by BalletMet.
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WinterFest
Join us for WinterFest, a celebration of giving featuring local and national musical acts, seasonal ales from hometown breweries and favorite dishes from Columbus food trucks.
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