Columbus OH 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why

We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

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Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

Restaurants

The Thurman Cafe

Bustling, rustic American haunt with oversized, toppings-loaded burgers & a full bar.

183 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206

Phone: (614) 443-1570 | Web: thehurmancafe.com

Marcella’s

Lively, group-friendly kitchen serving pizza, pasta & other Italian standards in relaxed surrounds.

615 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Phone: (614) 223-2100 | Web: marcellasrestaurant.com

Brassica

Locavore pita sandwiches are offered at this bright cafe with a contemporary interior & beer on tap.

680 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Phone: (614) 867-5885 | Web: brassicas.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

The Pearl

A refined tavern serving creative fare, alongside wine, houseinfused drinks & a deep beer list.

641 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Little Palace Restaurant

Buzzing hangout with a ‘60s feel, offering pies, subs & hearty pub fare & drinks until late.

240 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215

Lindey’s

Old-school, special-occasion venue featuring a sophisticated American surf ‘n’ turf menu & a patio.

169 E Beck St, Columbus, OH 43206

The Guild House

Unique rustic-modern dining room for sampling eclectic, globally inspired seasonal menus.

624 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Rice Bowl Restaurant

Old-fashioned, longtime familyrun outfit presenting Chinese & American classics in a sizable space.

2300 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207

Barcelona Restaurant and Bar

Spanish small plates & paella served in a bustling, sleek space with a greenery-filled patio.

263 E Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43206

Union Cafe

Bustling, gay-friendly bar/ restaurant offering hearty American chow, a large patio & entertainment.

782 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Northstar Cafe

Modern, organic New American haunt with counter service, an open kitchen & house-baked sweets.

951 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

EVENTS 2024

APR 13

Greater Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival

Join Central Ohio to celebrate the spectacular blossoms of more than 100 cherry trees in Franklin Park. This year, entertainment will include Taiko, Koto, Okinawan Dance, Soran Bushi, Awa Odori, the sensational Haru-NoTomo Taiko from Japan and more! Plus, enjoy exhibits, games and demos such as Ikebana, Bonsai, Dolls, Japanese pottery, Calligraphy, Origami, Pokemon, Haiku, Gifts, Kite making, Kimonos, Tea Ceremony and more. Food trucks— serving Asian, Japanese and Sushi—will be open until 6pm. Learn more at ivocolumbusoh.org.

APR 24

Cinema Columbus Film Festival

Cinema Columbus works collaboratively with venues throughout central Ohio to establish an outstanding annual film festival bringing independent film from around the globe, and here at home, to our audiences. Learn more at cinemacolumbus.com.

MAY 1

COSI Science Festival

The annual COSI Science Festival kicks off with tons of community events throughout the latter half of the week and builds to the Big Science Celebration right outside of COSI. The community events happen all over the Columbus area, and range from fun STEM-related activities, to a brewery tour and so much more. The Big Science Celebration is a huge, free event. Learn more at cosiscifest.org.

MAY 25

Asian Festival

The Asian Festival is one of the most special events in Central Ohio. The two-day event is from May 25-26, 2024. This annual event with more than 100,000 visitors will continue to grow, thanks to the strong participation of many people regardless of origin and ethnicity. Visit asian-festival.org.

EVENTS 2024

JUN 7

Columbus Arts Festival

Join us in celebrating the return of the Columbus Arts Festival for the 62nd year, at the downtown riverfront. The Columbus Arts Festival has grown into one of the most highly acclaimed arts festivals in the nation. The event will feature over 200 visual artists, three stages of performances and dozens of food vendors. The Columbus Arts Festival attracts the nation’s top artists, as well as art enthusiasts from all over the country. The event remains free to attend. Learn more at columbusartsfestival.org.

JUN 15

Stonewall Columbus Pride

The first Columbus PRIDE march in 1982 was just around 200 people; today the Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival and March welcome over 700,000 visitors to Columbus and the Central Ohio region. With over 200 nonprofit and corporate vendors, 2 performance stages (Pride Stage + Red [Space] Stage), a community wellness area, a DJ/dancing pad, and a plethora of community resources–there will be something at the festival for you! Learn more at stonewallcolumbus.org.

JUN 28

ComFest

ComFest (officially Community Festival) is a large, free, non-corporate, volunteer-driven, music and arts annual festival currently held the last full weekend in June at Goodale Park. Learn more at comfest.com.

JUL 19

Jazz & Rib Fest

Jazz & Rib Fest, presented by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, is a highly anticipated summertime tradition offering both jazz and rib connoisseurs the finest in music and barbecue. Admission is free! Learn more at hotribscooljazz.org.

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost. Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

JUL 24

Ohio State Fair

Discover the Ohio State Fair, a favorite family tradition since 1850! Come for the Midway, featuring exhilarating rides, and unleash all the fair flavors on your tastebuds with your favorite goodies from one of the amazing food vendors! Learn more at ohiostatefair.com.

AUG 14

Columbus Comedy Festival

This summer, Columbus will host dozens of national, regional and local comedians to entertain guests attending the first annual Columbus Comedy Festival, taking place August 14 through August 18. Learn more at columbuscomedyfest.com.

AUG 17

Columbus Food Truck Festival

Enjoy three days of food, music and fun, and celebrate the festival’s return to the historical Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard. Experience the best food trucks from across Ohio and around the country accompanied by live music, and explore tons of vendors of locally-made craft and retail items. Learn more at columbusfoodtruckfest.com.

AUG 26

Fiery Foods Festival

The festival explores the fiery side of life with restaurants, hot sauce and salsa vendors, and exhibitors from around the country. The festival also features an Artisan Market, Food Trucks, contests, and entertainment. Learn more at columbusfieryfoods.com

SEP 6

Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest 2024

Put on your dirndls and lederhosen, pump up the polka and raise your beer stein. Columbus’ German heritage is on display at this fun annual

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~

Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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EVENTS 2024

celebration. Hosted in part by the Schmidt family (who bring +130 years of Columbus tradition to the festival) of Schmidt’s in German Village, enjoy plenty of German tradition and culture at this event. Learn more at columbusoktoberfest.com.

OCT 5

Columbus Coffee Festival

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just enjoy the occasional sip, the Columbus Coffee Festival has something for you. The price of admission grants endless coffee tasting privileges during the festival — which you’ll enjoy from your free, themed mug — from vendors located in Columbus and across the state. Learn more at columbuscoffeefest.com.

OCT TBD

HighBall Halloween Festival

The HighBall Halloween Festival is a mix of couture, drag show and Day of the Dead taking place annually in October in Columbus Ohio. The HighBall is the nation’s fiercest costume party and brings together thousands of visitors for street parties, stage shows, designer competitions and an outrageous “Howloween” pet costume contest. Learn more at highballcolumbus.org.

NOV TBD

Wildlights

One of Ohio’s favorite holiday traditions! With millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows, and other holiday festivities, the yuletide season comes alive at an experience that can only be found at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Learn more at columbuszoo.org.

DEC TBD

High Street Holiday Market

In addition to visiting galleries, you can shop the High Street Holiday Market in the heart of the Short North Arts District. High Street will become a pedestrian-only winter wonderland. Visitors may experience

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~

Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

BRAVO

The Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO) provides comprehensive individual and community programs for survivor advocacy and support to LGBTQI survivors of hate and bias violence, discrimination, intimate partner violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault. BRAVO.EQUITASHEALTH.ORG | (866) 862-7286

STONEWALL COLUMBUS

Stonewall aims to be an organization that serves the full spectrum of our LGBTQ+ rainbow, Stonewall is a vital hub for providing access to information and resources that address the needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

STONEWALLCOLUMBUS.ORG | (614) 229-7764

EQUALITY OHIO

Equality Ohio identifies and transforms systems and institutions so LGBTQ+ Ohioans can fully access legal and lived equality. Our vision is an Ohio where people are welcome, affirmed and flourishing. EQUALITYOHIO.ORG | (614) 224-0400

LOVEBOLDLY

LOVEboldly exists to create and develop spaces where LGBTQIA+ people can flourish in Christianity. Our vision is a world where all LGBTQIA+ people can belong, feel safe, and flourish.

LOVEBOLDLY.NET | (859) 904-8056

DIVERSITY CHAMBER OF CENTRAL OHIO

The Diversity Chamber of Central Ohio is an organization made up of community leaders and activists coming together to empower the LGBTQ+ business community of central Ohio. Founded in 2016 by local movers and shakers, we’re promoting LGBTQ+ business with professional development opportunities, community resources, and networking events. DIVERSITYCOLUMBUS.ORG

EVENTS 2024-25

a cosmopolitan display of sights, sounds, food and drink. Learn more at shortnorth.org.

JAN TBD

Columbus Winter Beerfest

This annual delicious and boozy event will have over 150 local and craft brews, as well as new craft wineries and distilleries! Learn more at columbusbeerfest.com.

FEB TBD

Mark Dempsey Memorial International Irish Triathlon

The Irish Triathlon consists of horseshoes, darts, and cornhole in competition for the least amount of total throws. Winners get cash prizes and you can enter for $5 a round for as many times as your wish to try to reach your goal. Learn more at allevents.in.

MAR TBD

Arnold Sports Festival

The Arnold Sports Festival will return to the Greater Columbus Convention Center and Ohio Expo Center in 2024. The festival will feature the world’s best physique and strength sports, including the 35th Annual Arnold Classic. Learn more at arnoldsports.com.

Mar TBD

The Festival of Colors

Join us at the Genoa Park for the most colorful event of the year. World’s Greatest Chant and Dance Party! Music, Cuisine, Kid’s Area, Yoga, Hourly Color Throws, & Lotsa Love. Visit festivalofcolorsohio.com.