A Music Lover’s Guide to Columbus Concerts & Live Entertainment

Columbus has quietly built one of the Midwest’s most exciting and diverse music scenes, where historic venues, open-air stages, and major arenas come together to create a dynamic soundtrack for the city. From indie and alternative acts to chart-topping tours, country favorites, and genre-spanning festivals, live music pulses through every corner—from the Short North to the Arena District and beyond. Explore our guide to Columbus concerts and live entertainment and discover why the city continues to draw music lovers in, night after night.

The Bluestone

Set inside a beautifully restored historic church, The Bluestone offers a one-of-a-kind concert experience that blends architectural charm with modern production. The venue hosts an eclectic mix of artists, from country and indie to electronic and touring acts, alongside special events and themed nights. With its intimate atmosphere and striking design, it’s one of Columbus’ most visually memorable places to see live music.

2026 Performances:

Sum 41 — April 9, 2026
Thunderstruck: America’s AC/DC Tribute — April 10, 2026
Steel Panther — April 17, 2026
Avery Anna — May 7, 2026
Jackson Dean — May 22, 2026
Jo Dee Messina — June 11, 2026
Sierra Ferrell — June 12, 2026
Dexter and The Moonrocks — June 18, 2026

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KEMBA Live!

Located in the heart of the Arena District, KEMBA Live! is a dynamic indoor-outdoor venue known for its versatile layout and state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Hosting over 100 events annually, it welcomes major touring acts across genres, from rock and country to hip-hop and alternative. Whether you catch a summer show under the stars or an indoor performance, the venue delivers an immersive, high-energy concert experience.

2026 Performances:

Yungblud — May 4, 2026
Wish You Were Here (Pink Floyd Tribute) — May 16, 2026
Ryan Bingham and The Texas Gentlemen — May 23, 2026
Tash Sultana — June 3, 2026
Claypool Frog Brigade — June 6, 2026
The Last Dinner Party — June 9, 2026
Young the Giant with Cold War Kids — June 26, 2026
Earl Sweatshirt with MIKE — June 27, 2026
Spoon with The Beths — June 28, 2026
Slightly Stoopid — July 25, 2026

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Newport Music Hall

A true Columbus institution, Newport Music Hall is the longest continually operating rock club in the country, with a legacy dating back over a century. With a 1,700-person capacity, it offers an up-close, electric atmosphere that has hosted both emerging artists and legendary acts. Located near Ohio State’s campus, it remains a cornerstone of the city’s live music scene.

2026 Performances:

Phoneboy & Heart Attack Man — May 9, 2026
Courtney Barnett — May 20, 2026
The Mountain Goats — May 21, 2026
Spacey Jane — June 8, 2026
Taking Back Sunday & Bayside — June 9, 2026
American Football — August 10, 2026
Chance Peña — August 19, 2026
Minus The Bear — September 4, 2026
Sex Pistols (Jones, Cook & Matlock) — October 4, 2026

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Nationwide Arena

As one of Columbus’ premier large-scale venues, Nationwide Arena brings world-class concerts and major touring productions to the city. With a capacity of around 18,000, it regularly hosts top global artists, alongside sporting events and entertainment spectacles. Located in the vibrant Arena District, it’s a go-to destination for high-profile performances and unforgettable live experiences.

2026 Performances:

Demi Lovato with Adéla — April 27, 2026
Don Toliver — June 9, 2026
Cody Johnson — July 17–18, 2026
Lil Wayne with 2 Chainz — July 23, 2026
Barry Manilow — August 2, 2026
Zac Brown Band — August 14, 2026
Tame Impala — August 25, 2026
Weezer — October 6, 2026
Johnny Blue Skies (Sturgill Simpson) — October 7, 2026
Five Finger Death Punch with Cody Jinks — October 21, 2026

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Schottenstein Center

Located on The Ohio State University campus, the Schottenstein Center is a major arena known for hosting large-scale concerts and nationally touring artists. With a capacity exceeding 18,000, it attracts globally recognized performers across genres, from pop and country to classical and comedy. Its expansive setting and lineup of blockbuster events make it a cornerstone of Columbus’ live entertainment scene.

2026 Performances:

Phil Wickham with Tauren Wells — April 17, 2026
Josh Groban with Jennifer Hudson — June 24, 2026
Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire — June 27, 2026
Caamp — August 29, 2026

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Ohio Stadium

Better known as “The Shoe,” Ohio Stadium transforms into an iconic concert venue for select large-scale performances and special events. Its massive capacity and historic significance create a truly unforgettable setting when global artists take the stage. Whether for music or major events, it offers a uniquely grand experience rooted in Buckeye tradition.

2026 Performances:

Luke Combs — April 25, 2026
Bruno Mars — May 20, 2026
Buckeye Country Superfest: Tyler Childers — June 13, 2026
AC/DC: Power Up Tour — July 15, 2026

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