CityScene May/June 2024

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ColumbusArtsFestival

ANGELA PERLEY

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Dave Prosser Chief Creative Officer

Maisie Fitzmaurice, Rachel Karas, Tyler Kirkendall Editors

Garth Bishop Contributing Editor

Ria Akhilesh, Cailyn Burr, Jane Dimel, Mary Nader, Amber Phipps Editorial Assistants

Megan Brokamp, Rae Moro, Laura Pappas Advertising Sales

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The Place for Local Arts

Columbus Arts Festival season returns bigger and better than ever

By Jane Dimel

Photos by David Heasley, courtesy of the Greater Columbus Arts Council

ART HAS NEVER been more exciting – or accessible – than it will be at the 62nd annual Columbus Arts Festival. With the Kids Hands-On Activities Village, the Big Local Arts Village, the Children and Teen Art Gallery and live performances every day, the festival is designed for the enjoyment of as many different groups of people as possible.

Festivities begin on June 7, kicking off the three-day event with multiple musical and theatrical performances as well as shoppable, local art all along the Scioto Mile and in the surrounding area Downtown.

“The festival is the city’s ‘welcome to summer’ event, and it has been for a long time,” says Jami Goldstein, vice president of marketing, communications and events for the Greater Columbus Arts Council. “It’s also one of the most wonderful free ways to experience art in all its forms. We turn the entire downtown riverfront into this stunning outdoor gallery, (so) it’s also a place where people can see ballet and music and theater. We really pride ourselves on bringing the arts to the people through the arts festival.”

Arts galore

The festival is a great place to experience local music and arts, with live performances and art collections each day.

This year’s music headliners include Columbus-based musicians including Angela Perley, Joe Peppercorn, Parker Lewis and DrippDaDon.

The festival will also bring in more than 250 artists, including 75 Ohio artists, to sell and exhibit their art during the weekend.

Twenty-three local up-and-coming artists will be featured in the festival’s Emerging Artist program, which offers new artists the means to learn about the festival circuit. Read more about the Emerging Artists program and some of this year’s emerging artists on page 36.

The festival’s lineup of artists represents 34 states and four countries, bringing a diverse scope of art, from woodturning to Japanese calligraphy and more, for patrons and visitors to appreciate and buy.

“So many people really love coming to the festival because they get to meet the artists. It deepens the connection to their purchase, and whatever that piece of art is that they’re going to put in their home or their office or wherever they choose to have it,” Goldstein says. “I think that’s really a sort of ephemeral thing, but it’s also super tangible. My house is filled with art, and I know probably 80 percent of the artists. That makes the pieces mean more to me.”

Days and Times

Friday, June 7: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Saturday, June 8: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Sunday, June 9: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fun Fact

Planning for the Columbus Arts Festival starts as soon as the previous festival ends, with an almost 90-person coordinating committee and more than 300 volunteers on-site the weekend of the festival. Volunteer responsibilities range from planning and manning the artist market to helping with security.

A detailed list of the artists and types of arts exhibiting each day is available in the online Guidebook on the festival website, www.columbusartsfestival.org.

More features and tips

Many of last year’s favorites are returning to the festival this year. For example, after its exciting debut last season, the fashion show returns to its Friday night slot. Fashion Fri-

day features pieces from Columbus-based designers, including J Casey Immel-Brown, Dominic Ciucci and Tracy Powell.

The festival will also incorporate the new-and-improved Bicentennial Park Stage by locating the Word is Art performance there on Friday. Word is Art then moves to the Cultural Arts Center as other performances take over Bicentennial Saturday and Sunday.

The Columbus Children’s Theatre, which is helping to plan all stage performances, is also bringing a large-scale set piece to paint in the Kids Hands-On Activity Village.

This year’s festival also brings accessibility accommodations, offering an adult changing station and a Sensory Calming Tent in the Kids Hands-On Activity Area thanks to a partnership with the Autism Society of Central Ohio. CS

Jane Dimel is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Parking Tips

Though it’s not necessary to drive to the festival thanks to options such as COTA, ride-sharing and bike corrals, there is a great resource for parking.

Downloading the ParkColumbus/ Park Mobile app makes it possible to reserve a spot in the garage or find available street parking.

Visit www.columbusartsfestival.org/ visit/parking/ for more tips on transportation, the VIP Patron Package and planning for this festival season!

2024 Nationwide PICNIC WITH THE POPS

8PM | Columbus Commons

Stuart Chafetz, conductor

June 15

June 22

June 29

July 6

July 13

July 20

July 26 & 27

Generation Radio with Jason Scheff (Chicago) and Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts)

Violent Femmes

Patriotic Pops

A Gershwin Celebration

Windborne

The Music of Led Zeppelin

Nas with the Columbus Symphony

Cody Fry

Gary Fry, conductor

The OSU Marching Band

Nas

Cody Fry

Generation Radio

Violent Femmes

Windborne The Music of Led Zeppelin

Top Tips

Keep yourself and your family healthy with advice from local docs

Pet Summer Safety Tips

Edward Cooper, VMD, MS, DACVECC Clinical Professor,

Small Animal Emergency

&

Critical Care

Section Head at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center

Heat stroke is a big concern for pets during the warm summer months. This occurs when your pet’s body temperature gets to dangerously high levels and can be life-threatening. Here are some tips to help protect your pet from heat stroke, how to recognize it and what to do if it occurs.

The best approach is to avoid situations that could lead to heat stroke, especially when the temperature outside is higher than 85-90 degrees. Walks and play time outside should be shortened as heavy exercise can cause body temperature to quickly rise.

Make sure they have good access to water both inside and outside. Most importantly, never leave your pet in the car. Within minutes, a car can get to dangerously high temperatures, even with the windows down.

Recognizing the signs of heat stroke is essential to limit the damage that can occur. When the body temperature gets high, they may pant excessively, with the saliva becoming thick and sticky. They may feel warm and have a bright red tongue, gums or skin. As heat stroke progresses, they may become weak, less responsive and even collapse.

If there is any concern that your pet has developed heat stroke, seek veterinary care immediately. While lowering body temperature is important in these circumstances, avoid submerging your pet in icecold water, as this can make the condition worse. Instead, you can wet the fur with cool/room temperature water and place him or her in front a fan while you prepare to visit a veterinarian.

Missy

Baker, D.D.S.

The Gentle Dentist

Dental Health Tips

Missy Baker, D.D.S.

The Gentle Dentist

Did you know that your dental health affects your overall health? Studies show that good oral hygiene not only decreases inflammation throughout the body, but it is also well documented that the bacteria in our mouths that cause gingivitis and periodontitis travel to blood vessels everywhere in the body, where they can cause damage. People with dental disease are more likely to have coronary artery disease and stroke, and are at a higher risk for pneumonia and pregnancy complications such as low birth weight.

Top Tooth Tips!

• Floss daily; if you do not floss, you miss 35% of your tooth’s surface.

• In addition to brushing and flossing daily, using mouth rinse with fluoride every day should become part of your routine to ensure optimal oral health.

• Visiting your dentist two times a year for a thorough cleaning and exam, gum charting, cavity-detecting X-rays, and oral cancer screening can help ensure you are appropriately monitoring your oral health.

• Avoid a poor diet, especially one high in sugar; excessive alcohol use; tobacco use and chronic stress.

Anish Parikh, M.D. Columbus Oncology & Hematology

Edward Cooper, VMD, MS, DACVECC The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center

• Make sure you go to bed with a clean mouth. Do not go to bed without brushing and flossing your teeth.

• Keep in mind snoring may affect your teeth! Ask your dentist if they notice any signs of snoring/airway issues.

Cancer Risk Reduction Tips

Anish Parikh, M.D. Columbus Oncology & Hematology

Cancer is a life-changing diagnosis. While tremendous strides have been made in recent years with regard to improving outcomes for patients with this dreadful disease, the prevalence of cancer overall is increasing around the world. Fortunately, there are several things you can do for yourself to decrease your own risk of developing cancer.

Know your family history. Genetic factors play a key role in determining risk for many different types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic and colon cancers. Be proactive by knowing and discussing your family history of cancer with your doctor.

Get screened. Recommendations for various cancer screening tests – including mammograms, colonoscopies and pap smears – can vary. However this much is

clear: Prevention and early detection of cancer through regular screenings saves lives. Talk to your doctor to develop your personalized screening plan.

Live healthy. Diet and lifestyle choices significantly affect your health and cancer risk, particularly as you age. Avoid tobacco. Minimize alcohol, processed foods and prolonged sun exposure without protection. Increase water, fruits, vegetables, and physical activity.

By following these tips, you can address some of the most important determinants of cancer risk as well as optimize your overall health and well-being.

Oral Surgery Tips

Brian Stern, D.M.D.

Joshua Smith, D.D.S.

Oral Surgeons at Greater Columbus Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, Grove City and Powell

Tip #1: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are generally addressed

between the ages of 1725.  Due to the risk of pain, adjacent teeth damage and infection, most people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed to prevent these problems. The extraction process in younger patients is significantly less traumatic and recovery is much quicker, which is why extraction is sometimes recommended even before symptoms arise.

Tip #2: Impacted teeth are defined as teeth that are prevented from erupting into the correct position due to lack of space or other impediments. These impacted teeth are frequently associated with cysts and tumors in the jaw bones, and can become a serious medical condition. It is therefore imperative that any impacted tooth be monitored for the development of any associated pathology and treated promptly.

Tip #3:  There are several tooth replacement options, but a dental implant

is considered to be the gold standard. The implant fixture is made of a titanium alloy, which integrates with the bone, making it a permanent part of the body. The success rate for dental implants is up to 98% when the procedure is performed by a well-trained surgeon. Any patient interested in missing tooth replacement should discuss their options with an oral surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for this procedure. CS

Jasonway Cancer Center 810 Jasonway Ave. Columbus, Ohio 43214

Dublin Cancer Center 6700 Perimeter Drive Dublin, Ohio 43016

All Physicians are Board Certified

Peter Kourlas, M.D.

Nse Ntukidem, M.D.

Thomas Sweeney, M.D.

Emily Saul, D.O.

Anish Parikh, M.D. Joy Tang, M. D.

Jarred Burkart, M.D. Shabana Dewani, M.D. Andrew Grainger, M.D. Joseph Hofmeister, M.D. Augustine Hong, M.D. Elizabeth Kander, M.D.

Erin M.Bertino , M.D.

Kavya Krishna, M.D.

Erin Macrae, M.D. Shylaja Mani, M.D.

Joshua Smith, D.D.S.

Brian Stern, D.M.D.

Oral Surgeons at Greater Columbus Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, Grove City and Powell

New Albany Walking Classic® Celebrating 20 Years

September 15, 2024 • 8:00 am

Distance: 5k (3.1 miles) or 10k (6.2 Miles)

Location: New Albany, Ohio

newalbanywalkingclassic.com

BENEFITS GALORE!

● Specially designed high end fleece hoodie

● One-of-a-kind soft as silk tee shirt

● An over-the-top medal you’ll be proud to display

● Post-race party featuring music and event-logoed craft beer

● Plenty of food!

Hosted by Phil and Sheryl Heit

OHIO IS KNOWN around the nation for being an agricultural haven. Farm-fresh meat and produce are available around every corner, and nobody takes better advantage of local resources than Columbus’ iconic steakhouses.

“We do a tremendous amount of tastings, and we’re always on the lookout (for new suppliers),” says Joe Saccone, president of Hyde Park Restaurant Group. “Meat is a science. It’s not just going to the store and saying, ‘Give me USDA Prime this.’ I try to describe it to people: It’s like buying wine. It’s about the genetics (and source).”

The more you learn about steak, the higher your expectations may become. Before you get your grill piping hot for the first sear of the summer, try to find inspiration from some of central Ohio’s best.

The following three steakhouses share a common goal – making the best steak in the city. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse and Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse both provide a luxurious, modern take on a traditional steakhouse experience. The Avenue Steak Tavern is a “neighborhood steakhouse” according to its executive chef; it’s great for a steak on a special occasion, or post-work happy hour drinks and apps.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse

This traditional “white dining cloth” steakhouse has locations in Upper Arlington, Dublin and downtown Columbus.

Hyde Park ensures the quality of its meat by knowing every place it has been before it reaches the kitchen.

“That starts with 35 years of being in business. And it’s changed over 35 years

raising the steaks

Columbus’ leading steakhouses share cooking philosophies

By Tyler Kirkendall

Photos courtesy of Hyde Park Restaurant Group and The Avenue Steak House

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse

since when we started, in 1988,” Saccone says. “Beef has gotten to the point (where) it’s (about) what they’re feeding to the animals. Of course, no hormones, no antibiotics, and all those things are important today.”

Meat suppliers aren’t the only things Hyde Park is constantly revisiting. The options for sides begin with “classics” from the original steakhouse pioneers in New York City and Chicago, Saccone says, and Hyde Park is always checking in with the market to see what it should add and subtract from the menu.

“You’re always going to have your staples – creamed spinach, potatoes au gratin, baked potato, some form of mashed potatoes, right?” he says. “It’s funny because asparagus always sells, but it wasn’t selling as much (steamed with a bearnaise sauce), then we switched over to sauteing asparagus in extra virgin olive oil and then sprinkled it with a little parmesan. And we’ve been doing that for about 10 years. Roasted Brussels sprouts became the big thing about 10 years ago, so we have that on the menu now.”

Keeping ears to the ground and constantly checking in with guests’ desires and feedback, Saccone says, is the key to creating a memorable experience for each visitor.

“I think the No. 1 thing we’ve always strived to do is be better tomorrow than we are today and to have the best steak in the city,” he says, “(to) try to allow the best product that we can (and) put that on the menu and create that memory: ‘That was a great steak.’”

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

Among the most prestigious and glamorous locations in the city, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is known for attracting big names and dishes dressed as lavishly as its guests.

“I do think the experience that’s created inside our restaurant – the emotional connection, the guests coming back and requesting the servers – all of those things tie in,” says Nick Ellison, Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment’s culinary director. “It’s better than having the best steak. … It’s all into creating that show and creat-

ing that ambiance for the guests. That’s why they keep coming back time and time again.”

Ellison echoes Saccone’s passion for careful meat sourcing. He spent a week in Japan last year meeting the farmers who supply Jeff Ruby’s wagyu beef, and says it gave him a revitalized perspective on the importance of sourcing exceptional beef.

Looking for more?

The Top Steakhouse offers Columbus’ most authentic 1950s supper club experience.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House, an upscale traditional experience, is a worldfamous classic.

Smith & Wollensky is seeking a new home for its surf and turf, leaving its iconic Easton corner.

Eddie Merlot’s on Polaris Parkway offers innovative seasonal and special occasion meals.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse

“That’s the key to how we start serving some of the best steaks that you can get,” Ellison says. “The second is our seasoning. We have a proprietary Jeff Ruby seasoning that almost all our steaks on the menu get seasoned with. … It’s a family recipe. (A) secret recipe that we’ve used for over 40 years.”

Jeff Ruby’s entrees also come from traditional steakhouse offerings and are even labeled specifically as “Steakhouse Sides” on its menu. Additional sides are everchanging, depending on the season and chef in charge at a specific location.

“Although we are a growing company and a large company, what I think sets us apart is that we are still very much chef-focused,” Ellison says. “A good chunk of our menus are still handled by the chefs in each location. … They live in these cities, they’re working there, they’re interacting with the guests (and) getting feedback.”

Where Hyde Park has menu items named after Cleveland and Ohio State athletics icons, Jeff Ruby’s menu is influenced by the founder’s hometown in the southern portion of the state. The steak Collinsworth comes with king crab and asparagus, or you can crown your steak “Burrow” style, with creole crawfish sauce alluding to the quarterback’s days at Louisiana State University.

The Avenue Steak Tavern

At The Avenue Steak Tavern – with locations in Grandview Heights and Dublin – a fun guest experience is at the center of everything.

“Our philosophy is, ‘Yes is the answer, what’s the question?’” says Jeff Lindemeyer, executive chef at The Avenue. “If we have a guest come in and they want something different, we can do different things. If someone wants a side of sauteed spinach, or they want a totally different vegetable or something that we don’t even have, if they give us enough time, we’ll make it happen.”

After 24 years in different Cameron Mitchell restaurants, Lindemeyer has led The Avenue’s team since it was just an idea. His experience has taught him that making guests happy starts with his staff buying in and doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching.

“I always tell my cooks to put love in their food. That’s something you can’t teach,” he says. “It’s cooking it correctly and using care when you’re doing it. We’re not squeezing our steaks as they’re cooking. We’re being nice to the food. It took a lot of preparation ahead of time.”

The Avenue keeps it simple – only putting salt and pepper on the steak before cooking – with an additional cup of seasoning on the side for those who want to spice things up. Lindemeyer keeps the sides list to 13 items – mostly steakhouse staples – similarly inspired by culinary pioneers in big cities.

“I was part of the opening team for this restaurant as the executive chef,” Lindemeyer says. “We went on a trip to New York (and) Chicago and we came back to brainstorm the decor and the menu, the service style, all that stuff.”

In comparison to the traditional “white tablecloth” steakhouse experience, The Avenue is more casual and committed to embracing its communities.

“We want it to be a neighborhood steakhouse,” Lindemeyer says. “We put ‘Tavern’ in the name because we want it to be approachable.”

Tyler Kirkendall is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at tkirkendall@cityscenemediagroup.com.

The Avenue Steak Tavern

Cameron Mitchell Restaurants is working on a new venture in central Ohio, Butcher & Rose, set to open this summer. CS

PRESENTED BY

Meet 200+ National & Local Authors

Shop New & Used Books

Find Lit Gifts for Readers

Entertainment

Local Food & Drink Activities for Kids

FREE TWO-DAY BOOK FEST IN THE HE ART OF DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS

MAIN LIBRARY / 96 S. GRANT AVE. & TOPIARY PARK

Saturday, July 13

10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sunday, July 14

10 a.m.–5 p.m.

columbusbookfestival.org

HOSTED BY

Getaways

The best places to travel for stargazing and other educational astronomy activities

By Maisie Fitzmaurice

Cherry Springs State Park, PA

Claim to Fame: Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ first Dark Sky Park

Distance from Columbus: ~360 miles; 5 hours, 45 min. drive

Stay the Night: cabins, cottages and lodges within the park are available

While the Sun’s Up: Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, the Artisan Center, Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, trout fishing, hunting, camping

strotourism, traveling to destinations with stargazing in mind, is one of the newest fads in the travel world. With Columbus thriving as a bright, bustling city, the skies don’t always offer the clearest view of the stars because of light pollution. Getting away from the streetlights and skyscrapers in order to take in the magic of a night sky freckled with bright stars could be just what you need to feel grounded and inspired.

Here is your astrotourism travel guide to help you disappear into the night.

No need to travel far, there are plenty of options that require less than a day of driving!

Fry Family Park, OH

Claim to Fame: One of only two certified Dark Sky Places in Ohio

Distance from Columbus: ~140 miles; 2 hours, 10 min. drive

Stay the Night: hotel options in nearby Canton

While the Sun’s Up: Pro Football Hall of Fame, golfing, hiking, Canton Museum of Art, Massillon Museum

Beverly Shores, IN

Claim to Fame: Astronomy events at Kemil Beach, home to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and part of Indiana Dunes National Park

Distance from Columbus: ~283 miles; 5-hour drive

Stay the Night: Airbnb rental is your best option

While the Sun’s Up: Visit the beach, Indiana Dunes, U-pick farms, Beverly Shores History Museum & Art Gallery, Century of Progress Architectural District

Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

Claim to Fame: The first National Park Service-operated site and Dark Sky Place in Kentucky to receive an International Dark Sky Association designation, as well as having the longest cave system in the world

Distance from Columbus: ~298 miles; 4 hours, 35 min. drive

Stay the Night: historic cottages, lodges and Jellystone Park. Hotels and more are available in nearby Bowling Green.

While the Sun’s Up: National Corvette Museum, caves, tours, canoeing, escape rooms, antique mall, bourbon trail, Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, MI

Claim to Fame: Received the 2017 International Dark Sky Place of the Year Award

Distance from Columbus: ~464 miles; 6 hours, 45 min. drive

Stay the Night: The Guest House and Stargazing House on-site, as well as options in nearby Mackinaw City

While the Sun’s Up: astronomy education, Mackinaw Bridge Museum, McGulpin Point Lighthouse, Mackinaw City Sunset Cruise

A getaway with no passport needed!

Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, ID

Claim to Fame: America’s first Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Reserve, nearby Idaho’s first International Dark Sky Community of Ketchum

Getting there: fly to Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) then travel by car for an hour, or fly to Boise Airport (BOI), then travel by car for three hours

Stay the Night: cabins, resorts and lodges available in and around the area

While the Sun’s Up: hiking, camping, biking

Big Bend National Park, TX

Claim to Fame: Big Bend is the one of the largest and most remote national parks and a protected International Dark Sky Place

Getting there: Fly to Midland/Odessa Airport (MAF) then travel by car for three hours, or fly to El Paso (ELP), then travel by car for four and a half hours

Stay the Night: On-site lodging is available While the Sun’s Up: hiking, river sports, horseback riding, biking, tours, golfing, birding

Baxter State Park, ME

Claim to Fame: lesser-known and off-grid Dark Sky location in Maine

Getting there: fly to Bangor International Airport (BGR), then travel by car for one-to-two hours, or fly to Portland International Jetpoint (PWM), then travel by car for three hours

Stay the Night: Baxter Park Inn, on-site camping

While the Sun’s Up: Serenity Salon and Day Spa, gift shops and emporiums, whitewater rafting

Great Basin National Park, NV

Claim to Fame: One of the premier International Dark Sky Parks within the United States, the park’s basin topography effectively offsets light pollution from distant cities

Getting there: Fly to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), then travel by car for five hours, or fly to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), then travel by car for four hours

Stay the Night: On-site campgrounds, Stargazer Inn

While the Sun’s Up: Delta Topaz Museum, Baker Archeological Site, Wheeler Peak, cave tours, hiking, biking, horseback riding

New country, same sky

Aoraki Mackenzie International

Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand

Claim to Fame: largest reserve in the Southern Hemisphere

Getting there: fly to Queenstown Airport (ZQN) and travel by car for three hours, or fly to Christchurch International Airport (CHC) and travel by car for four hours

Stay the Night: many options between lodges, resorts and hotels

While the Sun’s Up: hiking, mountain climbing, helicopter tours, skiing

Jasper National Park, Canada

Claim to Fame: The Annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October

Getting there: Fly to Edmond International Airport (GOK) and travel by car for three and a half hours

Atacama Desert, Chile

Claim to Fame: the country is often referred to as the Astronomy Capital of the World

Getting there: This trip is best booked through an agency, as it can be hard to get there on your own. Fly to Calama (CJC) and use a transfer service/bus to get to the desert.

Stay the Night: hotels and geodesic domes available; it is best to book with an agency

While the Sun’s Up: El Tatio Geysers, salt flats, tours, lagoons

Stay the Night: cabins, lodges in and around the park, Airbnbs in the nearby town of Jasper, Alberta

While the Sun’s Up: waterfalls, canyons, lake cruises, tours, motorcycling, kayaking, winter sports, restaurant, bars and shops in town, skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing

Zselic National Landscape Protection Area, Hungary

Claim to Fame: Dark-Sky Preserve with night tours throughout the year

Getting there: fly into Franjo Tudˉman Airport Zagreb and travel three hours by car, or fly to Trieste Airport and travel by car for five and a half hours

Stay the Night: small, quaint hotels available

While the Sun’s Up: Katica Tanya theme park, Bo˝szénfa deer farm, Erotic Renaissance Wax Museum, Village Museum, hiking and nature-based activities CS

Maisie Fitzmaurice is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at mfitzmaurice@cityscenemediagroup.com

chay.rankin

SPECIAL SECTION

Get Festive This Summer

Warm-weather festivals around Ohio and beyond

By Cailyn Burr and Rachel Karas

As the warmer months of summer approach, exciting festivals are popping up throughout the state, nation and world. From mouthwatering foods and beautiful art to toe-tapping music and colorful dancers, there is never a shortage of options when it comes to finding the best festivals.

Around the State

Chillicothe

Feast of the Flowering Moon

May 24-26

This annual festival is held during Memorial Day weekend in the historic downtown area of Chillicothe. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024, the event honors Native American culture through family-friendly entertainment such as music, dancing, crafts and exhibits. In collaboration with its unique vendors, the Feast of the Flowering Moon organization educates the community and preserves the rich history of the town. www.feastofthe floweringmoon.org

Kelleys Island

Kelleys Island Film Fest

July 27-28

Sit back and enjoy some of the most iconic box office movies at this outdoor, drive-in style movie festival. Make sure to grab a good spot in front of the impressive inflatable screen before the show starts at dusk, and don’t forget to check out some of

the other offerings on the island, including Kelleys Island State Park. www.kelleys island.com

Marysville

All Ohio Balloon Fest

Aug. 8-10

Appearances from unique balloons, including Darth Vader and Yoda lookalikes, have always been a staple of the event. The festival offers exciting activities and entertainment for patrons, and you can make the most out of your experience by signing up to ride in one of the balloons or a helicopter. www.all ohioballoonfest.com

Around the Nation

Meridian, Mississippi

Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival

May 12-19

Celebrate the Father of Country Music himself at one of the oldest music festivals in the country. Enjoy a variety

All Ohio Balloon Fest

Key West Lobsterfest

of great music and food at the festival, or head into town and visit some of the museums, such as the Jimmie Rodgers Museum or the Soulé Steam Museum. www. jimmierodgers.com

Ket West, Florida

Key West Lobsterfest

Aug. 8-11

What started as a friendly debate over who made the best Lobster Chilau is now a four-day annual event highlighting the best of the shellfish. While along the sunny coast, you can enjoy fun activities such as a helicopter tour of the island and a ghost tour, or you can slow things down with a kayaking tour or a Wind and Wine sail during sunset. www.keywestlobsterfest.com

Around the World

Monaco

Monaco Grand Prix

May 23-26

If you have a need for speed, the Monaco Grand Prix has plenty of options for catching a high-speed Formula 1 race. With a beautiful coastline and countless shops and restaurants, there is plenty to enjoy while you wait for the racers to line up. www.senategrandprix.com

Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races

June 15-16

For the past 48 years, 40-foot narrow boats adorned with dragon heads and painted scales have sliced through the water in the

Victoria Harbor off of Hong Kong. While you eat the rice dumplings known as zongzi, you can explore all of the bustling metropolitan shops or escape to serene religious shines and parks. www.discoverhongkong.com

Haro, Spain

Battle of Wine (Haro Wine Festival)

June 29

Wine: We love to drink it, but don’t usually plan on wearing it, except at this festival. Known as the Battle of Wine from a centuries-old land dispute, the Haro Wine Festival encourages visitors to enjoy throwing, spraying and overall coating themselves and others in gallons of wine. Take a tour of one of the more than 70 castles in the area while you are there and, if you haven’t gotten your wine fix, stop by one of almost 600 wineries. www.spain.info CS

Local Faves

While there are countless festivals to travel for, there are plenty right here in central Ohio. Here are some to check out this summer:

Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival

June 14-16, Gahanna

Buckeye Country Superfest

June 22-23, Columbus

Columbus Food Truck Festival

July 12-13, Columbus

Ohio State Fair

July 24-Aug. 4, Columbus

Dublin Irish Festival

Aug. 4-6, Dublin

Cailyn Burr is an editorial assistant and Rachel Karas is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races

Battle of Wine

Traveling in Style

Re-imagine your leisure vacations with housing options

By Amber Phipps

The travel and tourism market has increased markedly between 2023 to 2024, as 40 percent of Americans expect to travel more this year, according to a study conducted by Forbes. As travel regains popularity, vacation remains one of the leading priorities for all ages in the U.S. and there are a variety of ways people can re

RV road trips

Traveling classic road-trip style with your belongings in the trunk and the open road ahead is a distinctly American pursuit, whether you’re traveling with family or close friends.

Road trips can be extremely versatile, as you can customize the route and destinations to your wants and needs, stopping as little or as much as you desire.

Affordability and accessibility are key parts of the appeal. With options to buy or rent an RV, there are vehicle options to fit all kinds of travel groups. RV rentals are also now available through Airbnb and Vrbo®

Airbnb & Vrbo®

Airbnb and Vrbo® accommodations are typically rental houses, cabins, condos, etc. that allow for more space and a variety of living options. These rentals have

Rack Up Your Skis

The perfect summer getaway in an unusual place

By Mary Nader

You wouldn’t expect to find yourself at a ski resort in the heat of summer, but with the plethora of activities Steamboat Springs, Colorado has to offer, you might not be able to help yourself.

Located only 20 minutes outside of Steamboat, the Stagecoach Reservoir provides a beautiful getaway from the busy lodge life. Alpine lovers itching to get their feet into skis can waterski, or opt for wakeboarding along a beautiful body of water surrounded by mountainous views. Paddleboarding, kayaking and rafting are a few other aquatic favorites during the season.

For those who like to keep their feet on the ground, there are campsites for RV camping, cycling and backpacking within hiking distance of the lodge. Steamboat Springs offers paths for all

grown in popularity as more people become comfortable with the idea of a whole unit rather than a hotel room.

They are great options if you’re planning to stay in one location for an extended period of time and are looking for a homier feel.

Due to the versatility of these rentals, there are countless options for locations around the world, making it easier for travelers to find reasonably priced places to stay. Looking to escape to a castle in Ireland or a bamboo house in Bali? You’ll find it on sites like Airbnb and Vrbo® without breaking the bank.

experience levels, from beginner bikers to experienced naturalists, through a gondola ride. Yep you guessed it – via the ski lift gondolas that run year round. Once at the top you can opt to hang out in the lodge and hike the top paths, or for the adventurous, hike back down the mountain.

A seasonal favorite activity is tubing down the Yampa River past local breweries. Then, swing by one of the local mountain hot springs, or head back to one of the breweries!

Steamboat Springs has options for equestrian lovers, too. You can spend the day trotting around horseback riding trails or watching others mount a Palomino at the Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series.

Steamboat Springs offers more family-friendly activities as well, including minia-

ture golf, bowling and plenty of playgrounds. Stop by Steamboat Creates and drop into one of its many youth art classes to let the young ones express their creativity.

Worked up an appetite? Visit Slopeside Steamboat for an atmospheric dine-in experience with yard games galore, or stop by Big House Burgers and eat like the locals. CS

Mary Nader is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group.

Van life

#Vanlife took the travel world by storm when road trips and minimalist living merged to create an upgraded vagabond lifestyle. The notion of downscaling your belongings to fit into a sprinter van became very popular as people look to live from one destination to the next.

A living space in a van can be completely customized to the owner. Some individuals pack up their lives and hit the road for an undetermined amount of

time, but there is also the option of renting a van and traveling road-trip style for a week or two.

Van travel is perfect for back-country adventurers who want to travel far distances without the hassle of booking campsites or hotels, or are worried about finding parking space for larger RVs.

Hostels

For travelers interested in meeting new people along the way, hostels are perfect for community travel. Often,

hostels are separated into minimalist shared spaces with the purpose of living with strangers.

Hostelworld is one of the leading hostel booking websites, allowing travelers to choose their location and travel dates. For those who are comfortable with sharing a sleeping space, it’s an affordable and adventurous option. CS

Amber Phipps is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Perfect for air-bound lovers, Wild West Balloon Adventures and Pegasus Balloon Tours offer hot air balloon flights. Flyers even have the choice to add packages, such as continental breakfast, champagne toasts and flight certificates.

Glamping from East to West A luxurious take on traditional camping

By Amber Phipps

There’s no shame in the game when it comes to determining which style of camping fits your needs best, and comfort should always be top priority. For travelers to the east and west coasts, glamping goes above and beyond expectations.

The term “glamping” – glamourous camping – refers to an upgraded style of camping that often entails an overnight stay in a cabin or camper, providing all the amenities of a hotel with the experience of sleeping under the stars. With options ranging from glamorized tents to extravagant RV-style overnight arrangements, there are countless glamping options.

East Coast

Collective Retreats is a glamping resort with several locations including one on Governor’s Island, New York. An eight-minute ferry ride from Manhattan allows you to experience New York from a different perspective. Luxury camping at Collective Retreats includes climate-controlled tents fitted with plush beds, bathroom amenities and kitchen services.

Collective Retreats makes it possible to visit the city from the comfort of an outdoor oasis. The retreat includes traditional camping activities such as campfires and live music, while infusing some more modern interests such as morning yoga and cocktail hours for those who are interested.

This re-imagined hotel experience is unlike any other, with views of the water and skyline that surround the island. With a variety of accommodations, Collective Retreats is perfect for families, friend groups and solo travelers.

With New York City only minutes away, there are endless activities to enjoy in the city during the day before you return to your quiet oasis for the night.

West Coast

Located off the southern coast of California, Catalina Island Conservancy hosts a variety of campgrounds and glamping options. There are three campgrounds along the Trans-Catalina trail that require several miles of hiking for those who enjoy a truly remote experience. Though the Black Jack, Little Harbor and Parsons Landing campsites are more rugged sites, they offer scenic views of the island’s picturesque landscape.

If backcountry hiking and camping isn’t on your agenda, the island of Santa Catalina offers two main locations for leisure and lodging: Two Harbors and Avalon.

Located on the western end of the island is the village of Two Harbors, offering everything from luxury cabins to lodging, making it the perfect spot

for a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation.

The village also has luxury dining and outdoor recreational activities, offering everything from day hikes and boating to exploring the nearby shops and enjoying a relaxing evening by the water.

For those entering the island from its southeastern point, the city of Avalon offers similar lodging and camping amenities. Luxury hotels and cabins are available throughout the coast, along with a variety of restaurants. With endless activities, from ocean tours to beach shops and a vibrant nightlife, Avalon is packed with relaxation and excitement. CS

Amber Phipps is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Do You Like American Music?

Violent Femmes, patriotic favorites and more set for 2024 Picnic with the Pops

By Ria Akhilesh

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s Picnic with the Pops summer concert series, presented by Nationwide, is back for another year starting June 15 and running through July 27.

Some of this season’s headliners can also be found on tour in different parts of the country throughout the summer. Make sure to catch the performers you love – whether here at Columbus Commons or elsewhere across the country – to make the most of this summer.

June 15 Generation Radio with Jason Scheff and Jay DeMarcus

Chicago’s Jason Scheff and Rascal Flatts’ Jay DeMarcus are joined by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ Steve Ferrone and acclaimed performers Chris Rodriguez and Tom Yankton to perform country and classic rock hits by their respective bands.

June 22 Violent Femmes

Folk punk outfit Violent Femmes performs such alternative-radio hits as “Blister in the Sun,” “Gone Daddy Gone” and “Add it Up.” If you can’t catch the band at Pic nic with the Pops, catch it at the following shows around the same time:

• Murat Theatre in In dianapolis on May 16

• Riverfront Live in Cincinnati on May 17

• Masonic Cathedral in De troit on May 18

June 29 Patriotic

Pops – A Gershwin Celebration

The symphony commemorates George Gershwin’s greatest hits by playing patriotic tracks leading up to Independence Day. Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” which is widely regarded as a great American masterpiece, turns 100 this year. This day’s performance also includes an appearance by the U.S. Color Guard, a flyover by the Cincinnati Warbirds, a military branch recognition ceremony and a firework display.

July 6 Windborne: The Music of Led Zeppelin

• Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle on July 25

• Project Pabst in Portland, OR on July 27

Learn more about Violent Femmes’ tour and other shows on its website, www. vfemmes.com.

Windborne performs tracks from the iconic hard rock group’s discography to bring the authentic Led Zeppelin experience back to life. Windborne also performs tracks from Queen, the Rolling Stones, the Doors and Pink Floyd on its tour. Catch the group in Colorado Springs on May 10 and 11 for its Music of The Rolling Stones performance, and in Connecticut on May 25 for its Music of Queen performance. Learn more about Windborne’s tour at its website, www.wind bornemusic.com.

July 13 Nas

Grammy-winning

ic version of his acclaimed debut album Illmatic. Catch him on his international tour at the following shows:

• Lovers & Friends in Las Vegas on May 4

• Roots Picnic in Philadelphia on June 1

• Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, CO on June 30

• Harris Park in London, Ontario on July 12

• Palace Theatre in Albany, NY on July 19

• Filene Center at Wolf Trap in Vienna, VA on July 21

• ExpoPark Nidau-Biel in Nidau, Switzerland on Aug. 10

• Masseria Ferragnano in Locorotondo, Italy on Aug. 12

• Victoria Park in London, UK on Aug. 17 Learn more about Nas’ tour and his other shows on his website, www.nasirjones.com.

July 20 Cody Fry

Introduced to the world when he became an American Idol finalist in 2015, Cody Fry is now a Grammy-nominated artist, with his songs taking off on social media sites such as TikTok. Responsible for such hits as “I Hear a Symphony” and a cover of the Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby,” Fry incorporates a classical twist into modern tunes. Catch him at one of his other national shows:

• Costa Mesa, CA on May 10 and 11

rapper Nas is joined by the orchestra to perform a symphon-

Photos courtesy of Columbus Symphony, Mike Benson and Randall Schieber

Violent Femmes

Cody Fry

• Chicago on May 13

• St. Louis, MO on June 7

• Minneapolis on June 15 and 16

• Atlanta on June 20 and 21

• Nashville, TN on June 25

• Pittsburgh on July 10

• Detroit, MI on July 24

Learn more about Cody Fry’s tour and his other shows on his website, www.cody fry.com.

July

26, 27 The Ohio State University Marching Band

To conclude the series, TBDBITL continues to celebrate Buckeye spirit. The marching band’s tradition of closing the Picnic with the Pops series continues strong with the classics Buckeye fans know and love, from fight songs to battle cries, accompanied by a fireworks display. CS

Ria Akhilesh is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Check it out For more information about the series and ticket prices, check out www.picnicwiththepops.com and www.cbusarts.com, or call 614-469-0939.

June 15 – 16, 2024

Saturday, 9 am – 5 pm | Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm

The Worthington Arts Festival is one of Central Ohio’s premier fine art festivals. Located on the Worthington Village Green at the intersection of 161 and High Street, the festival is featured on all four quadrants of the park and is produced by the McConnell Arts Center in coordination with the City of Worthington. Drawing more than 20,000 visitors and 120 artists annually, the Worthington Arts Festival has something for the casual browser to the serious collector.

Sponsors:

the Village Green in Old Worthington

Patriotic Pops

Luxury Living

Take it Outside

Patio addition effectively moves kitchen, family room and more outdoors

By Garth Bishop

When Nick and Tina Daniel moved to central Ohio in the back half of 2019, they saw the ability to have a patio and a yard as a major perk. After all, they had just spent 12 years in Brooklyn, which, for all they liked about it, didn’t offer much in the way of outdoor space.

So about six months later – after the whole world turned upside down and everyone was spending much, much more time at home and outside – it became clear that the outdoor space of their Upper Arlington home had a lot of room for improvement.

The family didn’t initially see a problem with the porch, which led down to a patio. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it suddenly seemed small, and they began to envision a space for the whole family to relax together.

“They’re on a beautiful wooded lot, and they had a smaller porch,” says Margot Sheehan, project developer and design consultant for the Cleary Company. “They wanted additional space where they could watch TV, hang out and enjoy their beautiful setting.”

The Daniels worked with Cleary to make some major additions to the space –including a new covered porch, cabinetry and a stone fireplace – to transform it into both a gathering space for entertaining and, essentially, an outdoor family room.

“We can host people outside, we can have drinks, we can eat dinner with our kids, we can watch TV, we can sit around a fire,” Tina says.

The project took approximately five months to finish, Sheehan says, reaching

completion just as spring weather made it appealing to the couple’s three children.

The new porch is built out of cedar, with composite Trex decking in Woodland Brown color. It’s surrounded by columns sporting stone veneers to match the house.

The centerpiece of the new porch is the Heatilator gas fireplace, made of Creative Mines Greypearl stone. Cleary designed it with space to fit a large TV as well as a mantle on which to mount it.

“We had the fireplace go up through the roof,” Sheehan says. “We didn’t need to do that, but we did it just for visuals.”

The old porch is used primarily as an outdoor kitchen now, accommodating a smoker, outdoor cabinets for barbecue and other kitchen utensils, a quartz countertop, a pizza stone, and even a flat-top griddle that makes outdoor pancakes a possibility.

That possibility, incidentally, is a very popular one among the Daniel children, though Tina is personally a fan of the grilled steaks and chicken.

Photos courtesy of the Cleary Company

“It’s made our (indoor) kitchen a lot more organized because we’ve been able to move a lot of stuff from the kitchen outside to the cabinets,” Tina says.

It was important to both Cleary and the homeowners that the addition match the design aesthetic of the house, so the company incorporated the brick, stone and cedar detail visible on the front of the house into its plans. They also kept the existing patio and added a panel of woven wire railing, both for safety purposes and to further match the house’s visual appearance.

“It looks like it’s always been there,” Sheehan says.

The gabled roof with double rafters over the new porch is equipped with ceiling fans to ward off insects and keep it cool in warm weather. Asphalt shingles and aluminum gutters match those on the house, and two skylights add light to the space.

Cleary also relocated a trellis elsewhere on the property to make way for the new porch and – as an additional safety mea-

sure – put in steps on the front and back sides of the old porch.

The best part of the new and improved outdoor space, Tina says, is its ability to accommodate large gatherings. Multiple sitting areas, a new dining area, a sectional couch and more allow the Daniels to host all manner of groups – including, earlier this spring, their boys’ first Communion.

And despite the scale of the addition, Cleary made sure not to obscure the view, which was one of the things that attracted the family to the house in the first place. The creek, the hill and all the plants are entirely visible, Tina says, and the perfect complement to a cup of coffee outside on weekend mornings.

ing Industry in the category of Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $100,000 to $250,000. CS

The project won local and regional Contractor of the Year awards from the National Association of the Remodel-

Garth Bishop is a contributing editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Luxury Living

Today’s Top Trends

A review of the hottest kitchen trends

By Ria Akhilesh

Rethinking kitchen designs is a tedious task, but being confident in your tastes makes the process less overwhelming and so much more rewarding.

So what’s in right now?

One trend to keep your eye on is the waterfall countertop. Not only do the clean, cohesive edges carve a natural space for your kitchen island, they also make the whole structure more durable.

To add to the overall feel, consider a farmhouse sink such as the DeerValley Solstice sink for its homey, durable feel. If you’re looking for a functional accent piece, a dark, earthy-toned and sturdy sink is sure to catch an eye.

The large, open sink not your style? Check out a smart workstation sink equipped with automated features to make work in the kitchen fly by quicker, such as Kohler’s Riverby workstation sinks. The sleek feel of a workstation sink alone can modernize the entire space.

Don’t compromise on your vision, though. You can even find combination

sinks, such as Kohler’s Farmstead sink, to match all your needs.

Continue building your personalized, functional kitchen by adding a “wow” element. Under-counter fridges and wine coolers make entertaining less work while adding a surprise pop. The Frigidaire BuiltIn Beverage Center is a charming example of a trendy and powerful kitchen add. Induction stoves have a similarly impressive effect with a completely original style.

You can also achieve that attention-grabbing feel by installing an accent range hood to add an original flair to your space. The choices – from classic range hoods such as this Francois & Co.’s Antibes hood to a modern, industrial one such as CopperSmith’s Designer DS4 hood – are limitless.

Woodwork is new, fresh and charming, and it’s topping the trends for good reason. You can create a space that’s completely original to you by introducing herringbone flooring or cabinetry. Alternatively, clean marble whites and industrial, steely and

earthy tones are just as exciting and are equally worth the consideration.

No matter your preferences, there are options that can feel like they were made specifically for you. Don’t settle for anything less than your dream space, and enjoy the process of finding your perfect balance. CS

Photo courtesy of Deer Valley, Francois & Co. KitchenAid, Kohler and Moduleo

Under-counter fridge by KitchenAid

Antibes Hood by Francois & Co.

Herringbone floors by Moduleo

Riverby workstation sink by Kohler

Solstice Sink by DeerValley

Memories of You

The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival celebrates 25 years

By Rachel Karas

Photos courtesy of Visit Gahanna

WHETHER YOU ARE looking for the upbeat rhythms of a jazz saxophone or the somber tones of a blues singer, the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival delights visitors with soulful talent every year.

This year’s festival, which takes place June 14-16, marks 25 years of live entertainment, food and art. Lori Kappes, executive director of Visit Gahanna, says there will be big names coming to town for the three-day signature event to commemorate the occasion.

Beyond the roughly 30 artists and groups performing, the festival features food and other fun and family-friendly activities throughout Creekside Park and Plaza.

Toes tapping, hands clapping

The festival offers a range of music outside of just blues and jazz: funk, rock, soul, bluegrass and more. Performances take place across three stages: the Jazz Stage, Blues Stage and Community Stage.

“The spirit of the festival has always been to spotlight local artists, but also bring artists that you wouldn’t get the chance to see without this festival,” says Visit Gahanna Marketing and Communications Manager Jarod White.

The Jazz and Blues stages feature an array of local, regional and national performers, while the Community Stage features talent found here in central Ohio. Over the years, the festival has featured such big names as award-winning blues artist Zac Harmon and B.B. King collaborator Lil’ Jimmy Reed.

This year’s line-up includes the Brooklyn-based Brass Queens, award-winning Jason Ricci & The Bad Kind and Blues Hall of Fame inductees Lil’ Ed & the Blues

Imperials. Among the local performers on the bill are Honey and Blue, as well as some groups that have expanded their reach, such as Huntertones and MojoFlo.

Food, arts and fun

With more than 20 different food vendors, there is no shortage of dining options.

“We make sure that there are not duplicate kinds of cuisines,” Kappes says. “So there’s just a little bit of everything for everyone.”

These tastes range from festival fan favorites such as corn dogs and funnel cakes to wok-fired soba noodles from Island Noodles. Local favorites Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Donna’s Delicious Dozen also offer sweet treats.

Beverages are supplied by Gahanna businesses including Noble Cut Distillery, Edison Brewing Company and High Bank Distillery, as well as cocktail mixers from Simple Times Mixers.

Looking for a kid-friendly space? Check out the Music Discovery Area, where children can familiarize themselves with different musical instruments and genres.

This year it will be featured on both Saturday and Sunday.

Then there are the murals, featured in the Open Art Studio in partnership with the Gahanna Area Arts Council. Since 2021, the studio has contributed a space for local artists to create 8-foot pieces of art live during the festival.

The Arts Council, Jazz Arts Group of Columbus and Columbus Blues Alliance are just some of the partners and sponsors that help make the festival possible.

“We couldn’t do it without the sponsors and, also, the volunteers,” Kappes says. “We have a lot of volunteers to pull this thing off.”

Look back and to the future

Visit Gahanna’s approach to the festival has evolved significantly over the past 25 years.

One notable change was the inclusion of tents over the stages and viewing areas to help protect visitors and performers from the elements.

Accommodations have also been made to meet growing visitor counts. What started as a half-day event celebrating Gahanna’s Creekside Park opening in 1999 now draws more than 25,000 visitors to the Creekside District and Park each year.

No matter how large the event may seem, Kappes has always heard great things from festivalgoers.

“I’ve heard multiple people say that they really enjoy the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival in Gahanna because it feels doable,” Kappes says. “It is not this huge event where you have to walk for blocks and blocks and blocks. … It’s smaller, but also great because there’s world-class talent and great cuisines.”

As someone who grew up attending the festival himself, White agrees with many of those sentiments and hopes it will never lose its local feel.

“There’s something cool (about the fact) that you’re outside and it’s a footprint within the Creekside District. And it’s accessible to a lot of different people,” White says. “Wherever you are, you hear the music and you can live in that world for however long you’re here for.” CS

Rachel Karas is an editor at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at rkaras@cityscenemediagroup.com.

Tips and Tricks

As you plan your trip, there are a lot of things to think about. Here are a few things you should know before you go.

• Prices for tickets vary depending on age. Children under age 10 and military personnel (active and retired) can enter for free.

• Tickets can be purchased for individual days, while a Weekend Pass offers access to all three days for the price of two.

• Free parking is available at the AEP Ohio location on Morrison Road, and there is limited parking at the Creekside Parking Garage which costs $5 per car. With the AEP parking, free shuttles will take people right to the festival and will continuously throughout the festival, starting an hour before and continuing well after the last performer.

For more information and tips about the event, from hotel recommendations to places to eat and drink, check out the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival website at www.creekside bluesandjazz.com.

Ride the Water

Thanks to the Columbus Academy, there will be free kayaking trips along Big Walnut Creek throughout the festival, offering a fun way to catch your favorite performers.

“If you are on Big Walnut Creek in a kayak, you can hear the music from the Community Stage and probably even from the Jazz Stage,” says Visit Gahanna Executive Director Lori Kappes.

Art: History and Future

Insight into three local artists exhibiting at the Columbus Arts Festival

By Jane Dimel

Photos courtesy of the artists

THE COLUMBUS ARTS Festival’s Emerging Artist program welcomed its largest-ever class to this year’s event. These 23 artists come from local counties to learn about the experience of being an exhibiting artist at a major national arts festival.

Many emerging artists have become regulars at festivals. In fact, 12 of this year’s juried artists are emerging artist alums, including mixed media artist Kate Morgan.

Dre McLeod

Dre McLeod is a Columbus-based textile artist who uses repurposed fabric in applique quilting. She started working with textiles 12 years ago, developing a colorful, narrative style over time.

“I’m always influenced by quilts and quilters – I come from Appalachia and descended from quilters – but I’m also really inspired by previous art historical movements,” McLeod says.

One new body of her work is loosely inspired by Baroque art of the 17th century and surrealism. This type of work can take anywhere from hours to weeks, with her most detailed piece to date taking weeks to finish. Her work will be shown alongside that of fellow textile artist Katelyn Bishop at 934 Gallery in June.

The Columbus Arts Festival will be McLeod’s first time working at a festival, and she is very excited to be a part of the experience. “I’m looking forward to the mentorship opportunities and learning how to market myself for the art festivals through this program. I know there are so many different avenues for artists who want to make a living selling their art, and selling at art festivals is one of those outlets,” she says. “I look forward to seeing how festival-goers relate to my work and if doing more arts festivals in the future is a good idea for me.”

Dane Khy

Gaining skills in video and animation design during his time at the Columbus

College of Art and Design, Dane Khy did graphic design work for more than 10 years. However, during the pandemic, Khy turned toward more traditional mediums and began creating art full-time.

“I don’t know if I’ve ever gotten the sort of fulfillment as I do now, going out into the public and painting and trying to do arts festivals and things like that. It’s more of a ‘fly by the seat of your pants’ type of career because you’re always trying to hope you get accepted into certain events and things like that,” Khy says. “It’s a lot to try to figure out, but I think it’s been an extremely fun career.”

His work features paint, spray paint and graphite. It’s inspired by lived experiences such as his parents’ stories of living through the Cambodian genocide during the late 1970s, as well as the way people connect to

Dre McLeod

Textile art by Dre McLeod

animals. Recently, he has also been making collages inspired by his daughter Rooney’s picture books.

Though his work has a dark undertone, Khy hopes his use of saturated colors

helps balance people’s emotions and remind them to have their own experience with art and celebrate the journey with each other.

Last year, Khy was involved in the Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival, so he is excited to be a part of the Columbus Arts Festival and work with his fellow artists and his mentor, Michael Bush.

“I have a studio (nearby), so it’s nice to just pop over and visit the arts festival when I can,” he says. “What I’m looking forward to most is the list of emerging artists. (There are) a lot of recognizable names, so it’s going to be exciting to be with them all weekend.” CS

Jane Dimel is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com

Want to see more?

To check out more of their work, visit the artists’ websites:

Dre McLeod www.dremcleod.com

Dane Khy www.danekhy.com

Dane Khy

Gallery Exhibits

934 Gallery: Ronald Claxton. Diverse cultural, social and political themes related to African Americans. Open May 18-June 8. Janelle Bonfour-Mikes. Large- and smallscale brooms constructed from wedding attire to explore the gender disparity in domesticity and household labor. Open June 13-July 13. www.934gallery.org

Adamah Ceramics: Donna Hecker. Featuring shoes. Open May 4-25. Studio Show. Wellington School’s advanced studio art class. Open May 4-25. Lisa Bare’s hands-on workshop during Gallery Hop. This class will teach guests how to throw on the wheel and hand build. Open May 4, register online. www.adamahceramics.com

Art Access Gallery: New work by local artists Judy Favret Friday and Karen Rumora. Open May 17-July 20. www.artaccess gallery.com

Beeler Gallery: Chroma: Best of CCAD A selection of works from students in the Columbus College of Art & Design’s Fine Arts and Photography programs. Open May 10-Aug. 17. www.beelergallery.org

Blockfort: Make Me a Mixtape. Artists create a piece that would pair with their ideal mixtape. Open May 3-25. Glass Delusion. Traditional glass works, photographic representations of glass works and Uranium glass works. Open June 1-29. www.block fortcolumbus.com

Columbus Museum of Art: Robin F. Williams: We’ve Been Expecting You. A collection of some of Williams’ work highlighting a variety of themes. Marie Laurencin: Sapphic Paris. An exploration of Laurencin’s career including self-portraits, early cubist paintings and signature work that defined 1920s Paris. Both open April 5-Aug. 18. www.columbusmuseum.org

David Myers Art Studio and Gallery: The Art of Intuition. Featuring the original paint-

ings of Jenna Sulser, Eddie K, Kathy Norris and more than 30 studio artists. Open May 1-June 27. www.davidmyersart.com

Dublin Arts Council: Dwelling: A Snail’s Journey. Three large orange snails sit on the front lawn of the Dublin Arts Council property. The pieces, created by a group of six Italian-based artists known as Cracking Art, traveled to Dublin from Milan, Italy. Open May 11-June 28. www.dublinarts.org

Fresh A.I.R Gallery: Jennifer Nicole Murray. Now sober and in recovery, Murray uses her art practice as a tool for rediscovering her identity. Open June 14-July 19. www. southeasthc.org/services/freshairgallery

Gallery

Hayley Gallery

Hayley Gallery: Vibrations. Art by Natalya Romanovsky and Steven Fisher. Open May 18-June 11. My Home is Here. Paintings by Man-Wai Wu featuring the stories of human living conditions for more than 50 years. Open June 15-July 8. www.local ohioart.com

High Road Gallery and Studios: Window Views. Textile paintings by French artist Anne Bellas and 3D wood art by Ben Sostrom. Open May 31-July 6. www.high roadgallery.com

The Little Blue House by Sharon Weiss Gallery: New work by resident artists Amy Adams, Lisa Parks Godfrey, Karen LaValley and Tamar Rudavsky. Open May 2-26. Larger Than Life. Lisa Parks Godfrey’s solo exhibit featuring everyday items from a close perspective. Open June 1-30. www.sharonweissgallery.com

Mac Worthington Gallery: Popping with Bright Colors. An exhibition of 37 expressionist, floral paintings as well as floral sculptures by artist Mac Worthington. Open May 1-June 30. www.macworthington.com

Marcia Evans Gallery: John Evans Sculpture & Original Monoprints. With

two small David Hostetler sculptures. Open May 4-June 30. www.marciaevans gallery.com

McConnell Arts Center: Leah Wong+/-Perspectives. Open May 16-July 6. Karin Dahl: How Does Color Sound? Open May 16-July 6. www.mcconnellarts.org

Adamah Ceramics

High Road Gallery and Studios

The Little Blue House by Sharon Weiss Gallery

Curator, Christine

Ohio Craft Museum: Best of 2024. Showcasing contemporary, fine craft artists in mediums such as clay, glass, fiber, wood, metal and mixed media selected from nearly 300 entries. Open May 5-July 6. www.ohiocraft.org

Open Door Art Studio & Gallery: More Art Less Plastic. Repurposed plastics find new lives. Open May 11-July 5. www. opendoorcolumbus.org

OSU Faculty Club Gallery: Passages. Art by Barb Vogel and Sandra Aska. Open May 6-June 28. www.ohio-statefaculty club.com

Riffe Gallery: Sequence. An exhibition featuring 14 Ohio artists. Open through July 5. www.oac.ohio.gov/riffe-gallery

Sharon Weiss Gallery: A Salon Exhibit. Alternate pieces will be displayed throughout the month. Open May 2-26. Drawn and Quartered. Solo exhibit of Michael J. Rosen’s collages, all created from his own paintings and drawings, chopped and puzzled into compositions. Open June 1-30. www.sharonweissgallery.com

Studios On High Gallery: Columbus: Two Perspectives. Jessica Wojtasek and Jennifer Jolley-Brown partner to create a body of work showcasing various perspectives from around Columbus. Open May 4-July 3. www.studiosonhigh.com

Upper Arlington Concourse Gallery: Ohio Art League 2024 Spring Juried Exhibition. Artwork from Ohio Art League members across the state, curated by 2024 juror Natalia Arbelaez. Open May 8-July 12. www.oal.org

Women in Art, a Century Apart

Riffe Gallery

Studios On High Gallery

TAKE A SELF-GUIDED PUBLIC ART TOUR

The Slingshot by Andrew Lundberg, in Franklinton

Bobcat Godmask by Adam Hernandez, in the North Discovery District

Untitled by Virginia Overton, in the South Discovery District

Picks&Previews

What to watch, what to watch for and what not to miss!

COSI Science Festival

May 1-4

COSI, 333 W. Broad St.

This four-day festival provides a fun hands-on experience for attendees to learn all about science and technology, fostering a diverse environment for the STEAM workforce. www.cosiscifest.org

Shadowbox Live presents Behind Closed Doors

May 2-June 2

Shadowbox Live, 503 S. Front St.

Shadowbox Live performs its latest combination of music and sexy sketch comedy. www.shadowboxlive.org

Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents The Return of Natasha Paremski

May 3-4

Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St.

Come enjoy Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini,” inspired by Paganini’s “Caprice No. 24” for violin, with

an exciting performance from one of Columbus’ favorite pianists, Natasha Paremski. www.columbussymphony.com

Jazz Arts Group presents Columbus Youth Jazz Final Concert

May 5, 3 p.m.

Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Branch, 96 S. Grant Ave.

The nationally renowned Columbus Youth Jazz program performs its final concert of the season at the Columbus Metropolitan Library, so don’t miss this last chance to see performances from the CYJ Workshop, Ensemble, Studio and Orchestra. www.jazzartsgroup.org

Broadway Columbus presents Tina –The Tina Turner Musical

May 7-12

Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St.

Watch the amazing story of the Queen of Rock n’ Roll, Tina Turner. This Broadway show highlights the journey of the 12-

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical

COSI Science Festival

time Grammy Award winner and how she broke barriers with her music. columbus. broadway.com

Columbus Symphony Orchestra Gala

May 11, 6 p.m.

David P. Blom Administrative Campus Headquarters, 3430 OhioHealth Pkwy.

Join the Columbus Symphony Orchestra for a fun evening of music and food while honoring the tremendous contributions the organization has made to serve the greater Columbus area. www.columbussymphony.com

The North Market Downtown Apron Gala

May 17, 7-10 p.m.

North Market Downtown, 59 Spruce St.

One of the best local food parties of the year, this event features music, drinks and a fun three-course dining experience. Come support all of the amazing merchants housed in the city’s historic market. www.northmarket.org

The Memorial Tournament

June 3-9

Muirfield Village Golf Club, 5750 Memorial Dr.

An official PGA Tour event, the Memorial Tournament is one of the most iconic events to come to Columbus this summer. With previous victories from famous golfers such as Tiger Woods, Kenny Perry, Jack Nicklaus and Hale Irwin, this tournament highlights the best golfers of the season. www.thememorialtournament.com

Columbus Arts Festival

June 7-9

Scioto Mile

A Columbus favorite for 62 years, this arts festival showcases a wide variety of visual and performance artists. Enjoy the large selection of food venders while admiring some of the best art this city has to offer. www.columbusartsfestival.org

Broadway Columbus presents Disney’s The Lion King

June 12-July 7

Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St.

Don’t miss this award-winning Broadway musical and the extraordinary Serengeti come to life on stage to tell the story of this Disney classic. columbus.broadway.com

Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival

June 14-15

Goodale Park, 120 W. Goodale St.

With a wide variety of activities and entertainment, this festival provides an experience appealing to a wide variety of audiences. www.stonewallcolumbus.org

Columbus Air Show

June 14-16

Rickenbacker International Airport, 2241 John Circle Dr.

The United States Airforce Thunderbirds come to Columbus for heart-pounding air performances and family-friendly activities. www.columbusairshow.com

Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival

June 14-16

Creekside Park, 117 Mill St., Gahanna

The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival has been bringing artists from central Ohio

and around the world to celebrate world of blues and jazz for 25 years. With great music and great food, it is a perfect place to bring the family for a music-filled weekend. www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com

Juneteenth Ohio Festival

June 15-16

Genoa Park, 303 W. Broad St.

The 27th annual Juneteenth Ohio Festival celebrates the value in cultural discovery, offering a variety of events promoting cultural unity, enrichment and ethnic diversity. www.juneteenthohio.com

Worthington Arts Festival

June 15-16

Village Green Park

Returning to the heart of Worthington, the Worthington Arts Festival will bring more than 120 artists to celebrate its 30th year. www.worthingtonartsfestival.com

25 CAREFULLY CURATED ANTIQUE & VINTAGE SELLERS IN ONE

BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL BOUTIQUE

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The Lion King

Photos courtesy of Buckeye Country Superfest, COSI Science Festival and Matthew Murphy

Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents Generation Radio with Jason Scheff and Jay DeMarcus June 15, 8 p.m.

Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St.

To kick of this year’s Picnic with the Pops series, the Symphony will host Generation Radio, which features Jay Demarcus, Columbus native and band member of Rascal Flatts, and Jason Scheff, the lead singer of Chicago since 1985. www. columbussymphony.com

Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents Violent Femmes June 22, 8 p.m.

Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St. Violent Femmes, a platinum-selling folkrock band, will join the Columbus Symphony to perform some of the band’s hits such as “Blister in the Sun,” “Kiss Off” and “American Music.” www.columbussymphony.com

Buckeye Country Superfest

June 22-23

Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents Patriotic Pops – A Gershwin Celebration June 29, 8 p.m.

Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,”

Ohio Stadium, 411 Woody Hayes Dr. With iconic singers such as Zach Bryan, this country festival showcases some best artists around. Check out the all-day Official Tailgate to grab a drink and a bite to eat before the main event. www.buckeye countrysuperfest.com

the Columbus Symphony will perform some of Gershwin’s songs along with other patriotic melodies. The night will also feature military branch recognition, U.S. Color Guard appearances, a flyover by members of the Cincinnati Warbirds and fireworks to close out the show. www. columbussymphony.com

Buckeye Country Superfest