Arnold’s Sports Festival
When: March 3-6
Where: Columbus Convention Center
How much: $25 or more
Billed as the largest multi-sport festival series in the world, the Arnold features 20,000 athletes from 80 different countries competing in over 60 different events. The results? A truly eclectic and totally massive weekend that solidified itself as a Columbus icon.
Ascalon Sword Festival
When: March 11-13
Where: Ohio Expo Center (Kasich Hall)
How much: Free
We’ll just say it: sword fights are pretty cool. At the first-ever Ascalon Sword Festival (formerly part of The Arnold), you can live out your Pirates of the Caribbean fantasy, compete in an Olympic-level competition, or even just try fencing for yourself. Just be careful, we’ve heard these things are pretty sharp.
Downtown Nightclub
When: 12th of March
Or: The Blue Stone
How much: $29.99
The Bluestone returns to the disco era for just one night, and we’re all invited. Not only is the venue itself getting a makeover, but attendees are also encouraged to come in costume, for what The Bluestone calls a “multi-generational party.” Be sure to act quickly, as only 800 total tickets are available.
Ohio Vintage Festival
When: 12th of March
Or: Ohio Expo Center (Rhodes Hall)
How much: $5
The very first Ohio Vintage Fest took place late last year to widespread acclaim. So much so that the organizers of the event decided to relaunch it for a second iteration, less than six months after the launch of the original. Visitors will be able to check out 70 different vintage clothing vendors from across the Midwest.
Henry Rollins, good to see you Tour
When: March 14
Or: South Theater
How much: $37
Former Black Flag frontman Henry Rollins is coming to town and, oddly enough, it’s not to play music. During his Good to See You tour, the infamous punk icon will opt for the spoken word, recounting strange and fascinating events in his life. Because, you know, when Henry Rollins has a story, you should probably listen.
Alton Brown Band
When: March 18
Or: Palace Theater
How much: 32-85$
Longtime Food Network personality Alton Brown is coming to Columbus this month with a mesmerizing purse of a performance in tow. Not only will Brown perform live music with his band, but the evening will also include unusual cooking demonstrations, comedy and “potentially dangerous science stuff.”
animal collective
When: March 23
Or: Newport Music Hall
How much: 30-65$
Avey Tare, Panda Bear, Deakin and Geologist are back, this time on the heels of their brand new album Time Skiffs (released February 4). Experimental indie stalwarts are always up for a fantastic show, and who knows, they might even do a live version of “My Girls” if you’re lucky.
If you like this, read: Popular Old North bar, music venue reopened after extended closure
