Join the Columbus Arts Festival presented by Time Warner Cable as we celebrate our long-awaited return to the Downtown Riverfront June 1, 2 & 3, 2012!

The Columbus Arts Festival presented by Time Warner Cable will celebrate its long-awaited return to the downtown Riverfront on June 1, 2 & 3.  The downtown Riverfront will be transformed into a stunning outdoor art gallery as the nation's top artists display their work and attract art enthusiasts from all over the country. In addition to hosting more than 240 nationally acclaimed artists, the 2012 Festival will feature fantastic gourmet fare from some of the city's finest local restaurants, live concerts, hands-on art activities and more—there truly is something for everyone.

From its humble beginning as a "Festival of the Arts" on the Statehouse lawn in 1961, the Columbus Arts Festival has grown into one of the most highly acclaimed arts festivals in the nation. Early festivals focused on "a program in cultural achievements" by students of the Columbus City Schools and local colleges, but today the Columbus Arts Festival has evolved into an extravaganza of art and culture. Even more exciting changes are in store as we celebrate 200Columbus, our city's bicentennial, and our move big move back home to the Riverfront.

There are many exciting events to look forward to as we celebrate our return to the newly revitalized Riverfront. Make sure to check out our Emerging Artists featuring upcoming local artists and the Hands On Art Activities area for kids of all ages.  Get a taste of some of Columbus’s finest restaurants at Dine Originals at the Columbus Arts Festival. Can’t get enough of the Festival? Become a Friend of the Festival and receive a special benefits package and a place to relax and enjoy the Festival in style.  Tickets for the VIP Lounge are also available.

The Festival Coordinating Committee is made up of more than 60 volunteers and works with Festival staff year-round to bring you this event. Festival volunteers are invaluable in terms of the work they accomplish, and their input ensures a festival that’s fresh, original and fun – the key elements in maintaining a dynamic ART event. No public money funds the Columbus Arts Festival. We hope you will patronize Festival artists and food and beverage vendors while you’re visiting—and remember the Festival's many generous sponsors! These businesses and individuals make it possible for the Greater Columbus Arts Council to bring you this free event each year.