What to do this weekend: Here are 10 things we suggest in Greater Columbus – The Columbus Dispatch
Ah, the weekend is almost here, and that means it’s time to plan out how to fill the hours with fun things to do.
Blake Lynch has the pulse on comedy, literally. Known as Nurse Blake during performances, he’s likely to keep audiences in stitches during his show at the Riffe Center on Saturday.
In the mood for some rhythm-and-blues? If so, Keith Sweat will be joined by Tank, Tevin Campbell, Dru Hill and Silk during an evening of music at Nationwide Arena on Friday.
And ‘Young Frankenstein’ will begin a run at Short North Stage. It, too, is bound to keep you in stitches!
And there are plenty of family events to choose from, too.
Things to do in Columbus this weekend:Food, bocce, music — and more food — among highlights of Italian Festival
Happy weekend!
Comedian Nurse Blake to bring laughs to Riffe Center
Orlando native Blake Lynch, who performs as Nurse Blake, was a nurse before he became a comedian and internet sensation with millions of views, known for his humorous videos on the lives of nurses and patients and his successful campaign through his BannedforLife organization to repeal an outdated FDA ban on gay men donating blood. His comedy act, suggested for ages 18 and older, will be performed at 8 p.m. Oct. 9 in the Riffe Center’s Davidson Theatre, 77 S. High St. Masks and proof of vaccination or negative COVID test required. Tickets cost $34 to $109 at CBUSArts Ticket Center (614-469-0939, www.cbusarts.com)
Comedy shows in Columbus:Everyone is ready to laugh again, and 23 comedians are on their way to Columbus to help
‘Young Frankenstein’ coming to Short North Stage
Short North Stage will present the Broadway musical “Young Frankenstein,” revived from a popular 2020 run cut short by the pandemic. Adapted by Mel Brooks from his classic 1974 horror-comedy film, the musical imagines Dr. Frankenstein’s grandson returning to Transylvania to reconnect with his family legacy. Performances are 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays from Oct. 7 through Nov. 7 at the Garden Theater’s Main Stage, 1187 N. High St. Masks and proof of vaccination or negative COVID test required. Tickets cost $44 to $54, with $20 student rush tickets. (614-469-0939, www.cbusarts.com, www.shortnorthstage.org)
Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus to perform
The Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus will kick off its season with a return appearance outdoors at Huntington Park, where it has performed several times during the pandemic. At 7 p.m. Oct. 9, the chorus’ 18-member VOX ensemble will perform at the home of the Columbus Clippers, 330 Huntington Park Lane. The concert will feature the chorus performing songs by notable British singers and acts, including The Beatles, Queen and Adele. Masks are required except when eating or drinking. Tickets cost $21, or $16 for senior citizens, $6 for age 18 and younger. (www.columbusgaymenschorus.com)
Festival for Good, Franklinton Fridays on tap
Find out about local socially active businesses and other organizations while practicing some “conscious capitalism” from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Oct. 8 at the Festival for Good, 480 W. Broad St. Enjoy a beer and some food truck specialties while kids take part in parachute games, get their faces painted, paint a mural and enjoy activities sponsored by COSI. Masks are recommended for the outdoor event, which will be followed by Franklinton Fridays. (festivalforgood.org)
Mums & Mummies, anyone?
Spend an afternoon with family or friends from 1 to 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the 8th Annual Mums & Mummies celebration at the Westgate Park Shelterhouse, 3175 Wicklow Road. Buy locally grown mums from the Friends of Westgate Parkhttps://friendsofwestgatepark.org/. Costume parades and contests include separate events for pets, babies, kids and families or groups, followed by a Best in Show. Hot dogs and cider will be served, and there will be plenty of games and activities. Admission is free. (westgateneighbors.org)
Days of Knights a step back in time
Travel through time from the Roman Empire to the Renaissance at the Days of Knights living history event. The free event — which will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 9-10 at Alley Park, 2805 Old Logan Road NE, Lancaster — will include encampments from various periods of history, where guests are encouraged to interact with re-enactors. Also on the schedule are Roman drills, a display of weaponry of the 16th century and Viking combat. (thedaysofknights.com)
Theresa Caputo to visit Columbus
TLC’s Long Island Medium, Theresa Caputo, will take to the stage at the Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St. at 7:30 Oct. 9 to connect with audience members and possibly those they’ve lost in a live show. Expect Caputo to walk out among the audience armed with plenty of questions. Tickets for remaining seats are $42.25 to $95.25. Masks and proof of vaccination or negative COVID test are required. (614-469-0939, capa.com
Keith Sweat to perform at Nationwide
Relax to the smooth sounds of Keith Sweat and other R&B singers at 8 p.m. Oct. 8 at Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd. Sweat, who hit his stride in the ’80s and ’90s and now hosts the radio program “The Sweat Hotel,” will be joined by Tank, Tevin Campbell, Dru Hill and Silk. Tickets are $71 to $101. Masks are required and tickets must be purchased electronically. For more information, call 614-246-2000 or visit www.nationwidearena.com
Wizards & Wands Festival a magical experience
Escape the present and visit enchanted lands during the Wizards & Wands Festival at the Westerville Library. Earn points for prizes in various events from Oct. 1-24, walk through the Enchanted Forest, Dragon Hatchery, Medieval Village and several more realms Oct. 11-24; and don’t miss Hilda, the 30-foot smoke-breathing dragon on the library’s roof Oct. 1-31, which roars and lights up every half hour from 5 to 9 p.m. daily. The library, 126 S. State St., Westerville. Admission is free, and the library is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Masks are required. (614-882-7277, westervillelibrary.org)
’70s music to take the stage … again!
Those who remember the Columbus music scene of the ’70s, as well as those who, for whatever reason, don’t, will get a nostalgic treat at the new exhibit, “The 70’s Music Explosion in Columbus, Ohio,” at the Columbus Historical Society. The society will host a reception for the exhibit from 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 10 at 717 W. Town St. The exhibit is ongoing. Live music will be provided by Marquis66 and light refreshments will be available. Admission is free but tickets are required. Masks are required. (614-224-0822, (www.columbushistory.org)