Get ready to celebrate everything green and growing at the first Columbus ArborFest!
Whether you’re a tree lover, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a fun family day out, this festival has something for everyone. Held in scenic Whetstone Park, ArborFest is the perfect way to spend a day outdoors while learning about our local ecosystems, enjoying live entertainment, and connecting with organizations dedicated to sustainability.
Discover and learn
Columbus ArborFest is all about connecting with nature, and the best way to do that is with guided walks through the park. You can explore nearby waterways, forests, and the beautiful gardens of the Park of Roses. For the curious, Whetstone Prairie offers a unique glimpse into a restored natural habitat. If you’ve always wanted to learn more about the trees in your own backyard, Columbus City Arborists are available to give you a personalized look at our local green spaces.
For the little ones, the Davey Tree Seedling Center has a dedicated children’s area where they can experience nature up close. From arts and crafts to singing along, there is plenty to keep the children entertained while they learn about the environment.
Shop and grow
If you’re looking to spruce up your lawn or garden, don’t miss the native plant sale. Local nurseries offer a variety of plants that are perfect for Ohio’s climate and will help you create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. Plus, you can pick up a free seedling courtesy of Davey Expert Tree Company at the Davey Tree Seedling Center. It’s a great way to add a new tree to your yard while helping the environment.
Relax and enjoy
ArborFest is not just about learning, it’s about fun too! Relax with free wellness classes on the Yoga Field or enjoy live music from local band Six Feet Apart. If you like poetry, don’t miss the “Poe Tree” readings by EcoPoetry of Columbus, where nature and poetry come together in a beautiful way. And for something different, check out the modern dance performances by CoMo Dance.
Connect with the community
The festival is also a great opportunity to learn about organizations working hard to support our local ecosystems. Throughout the event, booths will be set up by groups like Franklin Park Conservatory, OSU Master Gardeners, Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed, and many others. Whether you’re interested in gardening, conservation, or sustainable living, you’ll find plenty of information and resources to help you get involved.
Food and fun
No festival is complete without delicious food, and ArborFest has it all. Local food trucks like Hisham’s, Dos Hermanos, Tabouli Cafe and Kona Ice serve up tasty fare to fuel you throughout the day. And if you like big vehicles, don’t miss the chance to hop in the OSU BUGmobile, logging vehicles and the Ohio 811 interactive educational trailer. For those interested in eco-friendly transportation, Drive Electric Columbus hosts an electric vehicle show.
Arrival
ArborFest is easily accessible by foot, bike, bus or car. The festival is located right on the Olentangy Trail, making it an ideal destination for cyclists. Free bike parking is available for cyclists. If you are taking public transportation, COTA lines #2 and #102 run frequently along High Street, and a shuttle will take you from the library parking lot to the event.
For those arriving by car, limited parking is available at Whetstone Park. Additional parking is available at the Whetstone Library and Community Center. Several local organizations have generously opened their parking lots to festival-goers as well, so you have plenty of options.
Whetstone Park is located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214. To learn more about the Columbus Arborfest, you can click here.
