July 2026 in Columbus, Ohio is shaping up to be one of the most exciting summer months of the year. With legendary rock concerts, chart-topping country music, and thrilling minor league baseball games, Columbus offers a diverse lineup of live events for every taste. Whether you’re a local resident planning your summer nights or a visitor traveling to Central Ohio, July is the perfect time to experience the city’s vibrant entertainment scene.

From massive stadium shows at Ohio Stadium to sold-out performances at Nationwide Arena and family-friendly baseball games at Huntington Park, July 2026 brings together music, sports, and unforgettable live experiences. Below you’ll find a complete guide to the best July 2026 events in Columbus, OH, including concerts, sports games, venues, and tips on securing tickets before they sell out.
Why Attend Events in Columbus in July?
July is one of the peak months for live events in Columbus. Warm weather, long evenings, and a packed calendar make it ideal for outdoor and indoor entertainment alike.

Key reasons July is a top month for events in Columbus:

  • Major stadium concerts by global artists
  • National touring acts stopping in Columbus
  • Baseball season in full swing
  • Summer travel peak, creating a lively city atmosphere
  • Multiple venues hosting events simultaneously
With demand at its highest, many July events sell out quickly — especially headline concerts and weekend shows.

Featured July 2026 Events in Columbus, OH

Below are the must-see events scheduled for July 2026, covering music and sports across Columbus’s top venues.

AC/DC – Live in Columbus | July 15, 2026

📅 Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Venue: Ohio Stadium
🎸 Category: Rock Concert

One of the biggest events of the summer, AC/DC live at Ohio Stadium, is set to be a historic night in Columbus. The legendary rock band returns with a high-energy stadium show featuring iconic hits that have defined generations of rock music.

Ohio Stadium, known for hosting massive crowds and world-class productions, is the perfect setting for an AC/DC concert. Fans can expect powerful guitar riffs, electrifying stage effects, and a setlist packed with classics.

  • Why this concert is high demand:Rare stadium appearance in Ohio
  • One of the most influential rock bands in history
  • Limited tour dates across the U.S.
  • Strong demand from regional and out-of-state fans
If you’re searching for AC/DC Columbus tickets July 2026, this event is expected to sell out quickly.

Cody Johnson – Nationwide Arena | July 17, 2026

📅 Date: Friday, July 17, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Venue: Nationwide Arena
🎤 Category: Country Concert

Country music star Cody Johnson brings his signature Texas sound to Nationwide Arena for a highly anticipated Friday night show. Known for emotional lyrics and energetic performances, Cody Johnson continues to draw massive crowds across the U.S.

Nationwide Arena offers excellent acoustics and seating options, making it one of the top indoor venues for concerts in Columbus.

  • What makes this show special:Friday night prime time slot
  • Large fan base in Ohio and Midwest
  • Arena-scale production and sound
  • Popular summer tour date
This concert is ideal for fans searching for country concerts in Columbus July 2026.

Cody Johnson – Nationwide Arena | July 18, 2026

📅 Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Venue: Nationwide Arena
🎤 Category: Country Concert

Due to overwhelming demand, Cody Johnson performs a second night in Columbus. The Saturday show offers another opportunity for fans who missed Friday tickets or prefer a weekend concert experience.

Saturday night events at Nationwide Arena are among the most sought-after tickets in Columbus, making early booking highly recommended.

  • Ideal for:Weekend travelers
  • Fans attending with friends or family
  • Visitors combining concerts with Columbus nightlife
If you’re planning your July trip, this event pairs perfectly with downtown dining and entertainment.

Louisville Bats at Columbus Clippers | July 2, 2026

📅 Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:05 PM
📍 Venue: Huntington Park
⚾ Category: Baseball Game

Kick off July with minor league baseball as the Columbus Clippers host the Louisville Bats at Huntington Park. Located in the Arena District, Huntington Park is one of the most fan-friendly ballparks in the country.

This game is perfect for families, sports fans, and visitors looking for an affordable and fun evening in downtown Columbus.

Why attend a Clippers game in July:

  • Outdoor summer atmosphere
  • Family-friendly pricing
  • Downtown location near bars and restaurants
  • Fireworks and promotions often scheduled in July
For those searching Columbus Clippers tickets July 2026, early summer games are especially popular.

July 2026 Event Calendar – Columbus, OH

Here’s a quick overview of the highlighted events this month:

  • July 2: Louisville Bats at Columbus Clippers – Huntington Park
  • July 15: AC/DC – Ohio Stadium
  • July 17: Cody Johnson – Nationwide Arena
  • July 18: Cody Johnson – Nationwide Arena
July continues to fill up as more concerts, festivals, and sports events are announced.

Top Venues Hosting July Events in Columbus

Ohio Stadium

One of the largest stadiums in the U.S., Ohio Stadium hosts major concerts and sporting events. July concerts here attract tens of thousands of fans from across the region.

Nationwide Arena

Located downtown, Nationwide Arena is the go-to venue for arena concerts and large-scale indoor events. It offers excellent seating, premium amenities, and easy access to hotels.

Huntington Park

A modern baseball park in the Arena District, Huntington Park provides an intimate and fun experience for summer baseball games and community events.

Tips for Buying Tickets for July 2026 Events

July is a high-competition month for tickets in Columbus. Here’s how to secure the best options:

  • Buy early for stadium and arena concerts
  • Monitor price changes as event dates approach
  • Choose seated vs. floor options based on comfort
  • For baseball games, consider weekday matches for better availability
Many July events experience increased demand due to summer travel and holidays.

Where to Stay for July Events in Columbus

If you’re visiting Columbus for concerts or games, staying near the venues saves time and enhances your experience.

Popular areas:

  • Downtown Columbus
  • Arena District
  • Short North Arts District
  • These neighborhoods offer walkable access to venues, dining, and nightlife

Things to Do Before and After Events

July evenings in Columbus are perfect for making a full night out of your event.

  • Before the event: Dinner in the Short North
  • Drinks in the Arena District
  • Riverfront walks along Scioto Mile
  • After the event: Live bars and lounges downtown
  • Late-night dining options
  • Post-game celebrations after Clippers games

Who Should Attend July 2026 Events in Columbus?

July events appeal to:

  • Music lovers
  • Rock and country fans
  • Sports enthusiasts
  • Families
  • Tourists visiting Ohio
  • Locals planning summer entertainment
With such variety, Columbus in July offers something for everyone.

Final Thoughts: July 2026 in Columbus, OH

July 2026 Events in Columbus, OH promise a dynamic mix of legendary concerts, top country music, and exciting baseball action. From AC/DC lighting up Ohio Stadium to Cody Johnson’s back-to-back shows at Nationwide Arena and summer nights at Huntington Park, this month stands out as one of the best times to experience live entertainment in Columbus.

As demand increases, securing tickets early is the best way to ensure you don’t miss out on the biggest July events. Keep checking for updates as additional concerts and games are announced throughout the season.

Frequently Asked Questions – July 2026 Events in Columbus, OH

What are the biggest events in Columbus, OH in July 2026?

The biggest July 2026 events in Columbus include the AC/DC concert at Ohio Stadium, Cody Johnson live at Nationwide Arena (two nights), and Louisville Bats vs Columbus Clippers at Huntington Park. These events attract large crowds and are among the most searched July events in the city.

Are there major concerts in Columbus in July 2026?

Yes, July 2026 features several major concerts in Columbus, Ohio. Highlights include AC/DC at Ohio Stadium and Cody Johnson at Nationwide Arena. July is one of the peak months for concerts due to summer tours and high demand.

When is AC/DC playing in Columbus?

AC/DC is scheduled to perform in Columbus on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Ohio Stadium. The concert starts at 7:00 PM and is expected to be one of the largest events of the summer in Columbus.

Where is Ohio Stadium located?

Ohio Stadium is located on the campus of The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. It is one of the largest stadiums in the United States and regularly hosts major concerts and sporting events.

How many nights is Cody Johnson performing in Columbus?

Cody Johnson is performing two consecutive nights in Columbus:
  • Friday, July 17, 2026
  • Saturday, July 18, 2026
Both shows take place at Nationwide Arena.

Is Nationwide Arena good for concerts?

Yes, Nationwide Arena is one of the best concert venues in Columbus. It offers excellent acoustics, modern amenities, and a central downtown location, making it ideal for large-scale concerts and sold-out shows.

Are there sports events in Columbus in July 2026?

Yes, July 2026 includes sports events such as Louisville Bats at Columbus Clippers on July 2, 2026, at Huntington Park. Baseball games are popular summer events for families and visitors.

What time do Columbus Clippers games usually start?

Most evening Columbus Clippers games, including the July 2, 2026 matchup, start around 7:05 PM. This timing is perfect for after-work attendance and summer evenings downtown.

Is July a good time to visit Columbus for events?

July is one of the best months to visit Columbus for live events. The city hosts major concerts, sports games, and seasonal activities, with warm weather and a lively downtown atmosphere.

Do July events in Columbus sell out?

Yes, many July events in Columbus sell out or experience limited availability, especially stadium concerts, arena shows, and weekend events. Popular artists like AC/DC and Cody Johnson typically see high ticket demand.

Should I buy tickets early for July 2026 events?

Buying tickets early is strongly recommended for July 2026 events in Columbus. Early purchasing offers better seat selection and helps avoid price increases as the event date approaches.

What are the best areas to stay for July events in Columbus?

The best areas to stay include:

  • Downtown Columbus
  • Arena District
  • Short North Arts District
These neighborhoods provide easy access to major venues, dining, and nightlife.

Are July events in Columbus family-friendly?

Many July events are family-friendly, especially Columbus Clippers baseball games at Huntington Park. Concerts may have age restrictions depending on the event and seating area.

How can I find updated July 2026 events in Columbus?

New July 2026 events in Columbus are announced regularly. Checking event calendars often helps you stay updated on newly added concerts, sports games, and live entertainment.

What types of events happen in Columbus in July?

Events in July typically include:
  • Stadium concerts
  • Arena concerts
  • Baseball games
  • Live entertainment and special events
This variety makes July one of the most active months for events in Columbus, Ohio.

Why are July events popular in Columbus?

July events are popular due to:

  • Summer touring schedules
  • Holiday travel and vacation season
  • Outdoor-friendly weather
  • Increased availability of major artists
As a result, July consistently delivers high attendance and strong demand.