Cap City Festivals return to local communities for the summer

Columbus has a full list of festivals coming up this summer. Whether it be food, music, culture, art — you name it, it's happening.

But don't fret if you can't make it to all of them. There's another summer event that's bringing a combination of these festivals right to your backyard.

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department is hosting the annual Cap City Festivals in several community centers around the city. These festivals will have carnival-themed activities for all ages.

Dawn Turnage, assistant director for youth development, said Cap City Festivals, which has been operating for over a decade, intends to promote community engagement, unity and wellness.

"A lot of these communities don't have an opportunity to reach the major festivals that we already have in the area," Turnage said. "We're bringing the festival to them and creating a space where neighborhoods can come together and make lasting memories."

The first Cap City Festival took place in April at William H. Adams Community Center with a crowd of over 500, Turnage said. Each event to follow will include similar activities, allowing different communities a chance to experience the same festival in their area.

Each festival will last from 4-8 p.m. and is free. Youth in the community can participate in a job readiness program to help make the event fun. Volunteers are also encouraged to sign up at columbusrecparks.com/capcity.

Here's what to expect at upcoming Cap City Festivals:

Driving Park Community Center and Driving Park Pool

Guests of all ages can enjoy zip-lining, laser tag, gaming trucks, bounce houses, climbing walls, flying kites and more. A free pool party will take place at this location, along with COSI bringing in hands-on STEM activities.

The primarily outdoors event will also include indoor activities from yoga classes, line dancing and more that regularly take place at the center.

When and where: May 30, 1100 Rhoads Ave.

Barack Community Center and Lincoln Pool

Cap City Festivals takes a break during June and July, as many tend to be away on vacation, Turnage said.

The festivals will return at the Barack Community Center with a similar carnival theme as the event before. This is where the second free pool party will take place, along with a DJ, food trucks and the same gaming opportunities.

When and where: Aug. 8, 580 E. Woodrow Ave.

Cap City Festivals will provide activities for guests of all ages, including a zip-line course at some locations.

Nafzger Park

Neighborhoods on the Southeast Side can experience the standard Cap City Festival on Aug 23. Food is free while supplies last and similar outdoor activities will take place, such as zip-lining, laser tag and gaming trucks.

When and where: Aug. 23, 2845 Noe Bixby Road

Maloney Park

In honor of back-to-school season, this festival is themed "Back to School. Back to Basics" to help prepare students for school with supplies, activities and a final taste of summer fun.

When and where: Sept. 19, 1701 Joyce Ave.

Westgate Community Center

This festival is a fall harvest and will mostly take place indoors. Guests can enjoy free hot cider and fall-themed activities to help welcome the new season.

When and where: Oct. 24, 455 S. Westgate Ave.