Community Celebrations Overview
The Bexley community is at its best when we are able to gather for a city-wide celebration. All throughout the year, Bexley Recreation and Parks and Bexley Celebrations and Events work hard to provide fun and engaging events for all Bexley residents and families.
Individual event details can be found by clicking "Learn More" under each event description.
Arbor Day
The Bexley Arboretum spans neighborhoods, streets, parks, and pockets of oasis throughout our City. Every year in the spring, we celebrate Arbor Day as a community. There are several opportunities explore the Arboretum we call home!
Community campout
Families will be able to enjoy a wide array of activities, games, a bonfire, and food between Saturday night and Sunday morning at Jeffrey Park. This is a great way to enjoy time with family without having to plan an entire trip! This event occurs in the spring.
Egg Dash
Each spring, there are thousands of prize-filled eggs scattered across Jeffrey Lawn, behind the Mansion. This event lasts only a few minutes! This event occurs in April.
Fourth of July
A Bexley favorite! We kick off Independence Day with the annual John Barr 5k, followed by the infamous parade, community celebration on Main Street, and a mesmerizing display of fireworks. You won't want to miss this one!
Trick-or-Treat
& Halloween
Patrol
Grab your favorite costume and get ready for Trick-or-Treat in Bexley. Every Halloween, we rely on our Halloween Patrol volunteers to help keep participants safe while they try to collect the most candy. Thank you to our community volunteers!
Harvest Festival
Bask in the beauty of Jeffrey Park while the leaves change color! The Harvest Festival is a great time for the entire family. Activities include a corn maze, hay rides, enchanted walk, live music, balloons, face painting, food and a bonfire! Several community groups will be selling food! This event occurs in October.
Holiday Tree Lighting
Spread some holiday cheer at our annual Tree Lighting! At this event, participants will enjoy the sounds of various community vocal ensembles, hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Don't forget a gift for the giving tree!
Jeffrey Woods Festival
Gain a true appreciation for the Bexley Arboretum with our annual Jeffrey Woods Festival and Maple Syrup Workshop! Participants will experience Bexley maple syrup production, axe sharpening, a sawmill demonstration, wood working projects, and more! This event occurs in March.
Jazz in the Park
On four Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, local Jazz ensembles join us at Havenwood Park for Jazz in the Park! Accompanied by some of Columbus' favorite food trucks, it's an afternoon that's perfect for the entire family.
Bexley Summerfest
Join us for an unforgettable day at Bexley Summerfest, our vibrant community celebration packed with fun for all ages! Explore 50+ artist booths, live music, enjoy hands-on kids activities, and don't miss the famous Egg Drop—a crowd favorite! Grab a bite from delicious food trucks and sip your way through Brewfest, featuring craft brews from regional favorites. It’s the perfect way to wrap up summer—free to attend and fun for everyone!
Main Event
Throughout the summer, the Main Street lawn on Capital's campus is transformed into an outdoor theatre and entertainment space for one of our favorite Friday night traditions, the Main Event. We show five different movies throughout the summer, and coordinate activities and food trucks for each movie!
National Night Out
Join the Bexley Police Department for National Night Out at Commonwealth Park. This free, family-friendly community event features food, bounce houses, a dunk tank, and a chance to check out plenty of cool vehicles, including a helicopter! Best of all, you’ll have the chance to spend time getting to know Bexley’s amazing police officers.
Pancake Breakfast
The Bexley Historical Society and Bexley Recreation and Parks decorate Jeffrey Mansion in all kinds of holiday splendor! Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, juice, and coffee. Proceeds raised support the Historical Society. This event occurs in December.
Poker Tournament
Developmental Assets Resource Network (DARN) hosts the annual Texas Hold’em Poker Fundraiser. By fundraising and outreach, DARN helps to gather Bexley community resources for those who need it most. They receive 50% of the player fees (including Re-Buys). Subs, provided by event sponsor Jimmy John’s, and drinks will be included in the player fee! This event occurs in the fall.
