Columbus Events 2026 – Palace Theatre Concerts, Shows

Palace Theatre is one of the most prestigious entertainment venues in Columbus, Ohio, hosting theatre productions, live concerts, comedy shows, and special events year-round. Famous for its historic architecture and exceptional acoustics, the venue regularly features top national and international performers across multiple entertainment genres.

This page offers a complete month-by-month event schedule for 2026, including show listings, ticket purchasing options, seating guidance, and helpful FAQ information to help you easily plan your visit and enjoy the best live entertainment experiences in Columbus.

Mar 1, Sun — The Sound of Music | 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM
Final performances of the Broadway classic for Columbus audiences.

Mar 7, Sat — Attack On Titan Beyond The Walls | 8:00 PM
Immersive experience for anime fans with live orchestral accompaniment.

Mar 8, Sun — Dirty Dancing in Concert | 7:00 PM
Relive the magic of the classic film with live orchestra and vocals.

Mar 14, Sat — Chelsea Handler | 8:00 PM
Stand-up comedy from the internationally acclaimed comedian.

Mar 21, Sat — The Outsiders | 2:00 PM
Classic theatrical adaptation for a family-friendly matinee.

Apr 8, Wed — Shucked | 7:30 PM
Hilarious and heartwarming Broadway musical for all ages.

Apr 9, Thu — Bob Dylan | 8:00 PM
Legendary music icon live in Columbus.

Apr 16, Thu — The Temptations and The Four Tops | 7:30 PM
Soul music legends bring Motown hits to life.

Apr 29, Wed — Il Volo | 8:00 PM
Internationally renowned operatic pop trio.

May 1, Fri — The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight | 8:00 PM
Classical meets rock in a spectacular musical experience.

May 2, Sat — Morgan Jay | 7:00 PM
Indie-pop and soul live performance in an intimate venue.

May 15, Fri — Stephen Lynch | 8:00 PM
Comedy music show combining humor and musical talent.

May 16, Sat — Hadestown | 7:30 PM
Tony Award-winning Broadway hit, blending modern storytelling and myth.

May 17, Sun — Hadestown | 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM
Matinee and evening performances available. Experience this iconic show.

Aug 28, Fri — Nikki Glaser | 7:00 PM
Stand-up comedy with bold and hilarious commentary.

Nov 20, Fri — Los Tigres del Norte | 8:00 PM
Iconic norteño band performing their classic hits live.

If you’re planning your 2026 events calendar in Columbus, don’t miss these top venues in addition to Palace Theatre. Each venue hosts concerts, sports, comedy, and live performances, making Columbus a hotspot for entertainment.

1. Nationwide Arena

Home of the Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) and major concerts.
Features high-profile events such as Disney On Ice, Monster Jam, and artists like Demi Lovato and Journey.
Conveniently located downtown with multiple dining and parking options.

2. Newport Music Hall

One of the longest-running music venues in the US.
Hosts alternative, indie, punk, and electronic concerts with both local and international artists.
Popular 2026 shows include Maggie Lindemann, Gwar, and Circle Jerks.

3. KEMBA Live! (formerly Lifestyle Communities Pavilion)

Outdoor/indoor venue perfect for concerts, comedy, and theatrical events.
2026 highlights include Bob Dylan, Lake Street Dive, and Jim Breuer.
Ideal for summer concerts with great views and acoustics.

4. Ohio Stadium

Iconic stadium, home to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team.
Hosts major concerts like Bruno Mars, Luke Combs, and AC/DC in 2026.
Great for large-scale events and sports fans.

5. Value City Arena (Schottenstein Center)

Multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, NCAA sports, and family shows.
2026 concerts include Josh Groban and CeCe Winans, plus Monster Jam and Disney On Ice.

6. Mershon Auditorium at Wexner Center for the Arts

Hosts theatre, music, and cultural events in an intimate setting.
2026 highlights include Godfrey and Bob Dylan live shows.
Perfect for art enthusiasts seeking premium live experiences.

7. Funny Bone Comedy Club

Premier comedy venue in Columbus for stand-up performances.
2026 shows include Lavell Crawford, Aries Spears, and Lake Street Dive.
Cozy, energetic environment for comedy lovers.

Parking Near Palace Theatre

• Main Street Garage: located 3–5 minutes walk from the theatre; ideal for early arrivals.
• Vine Street Garage: convenient for groups and larger vehicles.
• Street Parking: available but limited; always check posted signs and rates.
• Pro tip: arrive 30 minutes early for sold-out shows to avoid traffic congestion.
• Rideshare & Drop-off ZonesPrimary Drop-off: West Long Street, near the theatre entrance, perfect for Uber/Lyft.
• Alternate Pickup: Vine Street for quick exits after the show.

Tip: for big events, schedule rideshare pickups 20–30 minutes before showtime to avoid delays.

Public Transport & Accessibility

• COTA Bus Routes: 1, 2, 7, and 10 stop near the theatre.
• Campus Shuttle: check the schedule on event days; some routes serve the theatre area.
• Bikeshare: stations within a 5–7 minute walk from the theatre.
• Walking: safe, well-lit pedestrian paths from parking garages and transit stops.
• ADA Access: fully accessible main entrance, ramps, and designated wheelchair seating available.

Event Day Tips

• Expect heavier traffic between 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM on popular show days.
• Nearby restaurants and cafes are ideal for pre-show meals.
• Venue policies include bag checks, age restrictions, and alcohol regulations—plan accordingly.

Q1: How do I buy tickets for Palace Theatre Columbus events?
A1: Tickets can be purchased through official Palace Theatre Columbus website, Ticketmaster, or authorized ticket platforms.

Q2: Are there age restrictions for shows?
A2: Some shows, especially comedy or late-night performances, may be 18+ or 21+. Family-friendly events like Broadway musicals have no restrictions.

Q3: Is parking available at Palace Theatre?
A3: Yes, on-site parking is available, as well as nearby lots. Ride-sharing is recommended during high-attendance events.

Q4: Can I see multiple shows in one day?
A4: Yes, some shows have matinee and evening performances, such as The Sound of Music and Hadestown.

Q5: Which shows are most popular in 2026?
A5: High-demand shows include Hadestown, Bob Dylan, The Sound of Music, Il Volo, and Chelsea Handler. Early ticket booking is advised.

Columbus is buzzing with live music all year long, and we’ve made it easy to stay on top of every concert and show.

Kick things off by checking out February 2026 events in Columbus, where you’ll find a complete lineup of performances happening early in the year, from headline concerts to local music nights.

Looking ahead? Don’t forget to browse March 2026 concerts in Columbus to see what’s coming next month. Plan your outings so you never miss the city’s hottest shows and music festivals.

To make the most of your nights out, explore our Columbus concerts and venues page. From iconic arenas to cozy live music spots, you’ll find the perfect venue for every type of show.