Hot Hits Weekend Best Bets 1/30-2/1/26

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - As winter's chill continues, Columbus and Central Ohio are offering a mix of community activities, family-friendly attractions, sports and cultural events to keep residents engaged through the weekend of Friday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026.

Weather and Safety Context
Central Ohio is emerging from a significant winter storm that brought nearly a foot of snow and prompted a rare Level 3 snow emergency, limiting travel and affecting planned activities earlier in the week. Some disruptions linger as cleanup continues.

Highlights for Friday, Jan. 30 - Sunday, Feb. 1

Family & Community Events
• Balloon Scavenger Hunt at the Columbus Main Library invites children and adults to find whimsical winter-themed balloons hidden throughout the building with extended hours through Saturday.
• Wanderlights - a festive nighttime light walk through Columbus Commons and Bicentennial Park - runs each evening through Sunday from 5-10 p.m., offering a free outdoor stroll illuminated for the season.
• Winter Reading Challenge at the Grandview Heights Public Library encourages all ages to log reading goals and earn raffle entries through mid-February.
• Science Behind Pixar at COSI continues with hands-on exhibits that explore animation technology and creativity (additional admission applies).
• Ice Skating at Riverside Crossing Park in Dublin features weekend hours with skate rentals available.

Cultural & Special Activities
• The Grand Opening of the New Linden Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library takes place Saturday morning with activities, refreshments and community celebrations.
• Blendon Woods Winter Hike offers cocoa, donuts and outdoor trail exploration on Saturday.
• Storytimes with Local Authors, crafts for grandparents and grandchildren, and educational STEM activities - including a bird-feeder craft in Westerville - round out weekend offerings across public libraries and parks.

Sports & Active Pursuits
• Ohio State Buckeyes Women's Basketball vs. Nebraska takes place Saturday at Value City Arena, drawing college basketball fans to downtown Columbus.
• Wisconsin Badgers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Wrestling is scheduled Friday at the Covelli Center.
• On Sunday morning, the 5th Line 5K Presented by OhioHealth starts outside Nationwide Arena, giving runners a 3.1-mile downtown course that finishes on the ice at the home of the Blue Jackets.

Concerts & Evening Entertainment
• Wonderball 2026 at the Columbus Museum of Art features creative black-and-white attire and immersive experiences Saturday night.
• Les Mis rables performances continue through Sunday with multiple show times downtown.

Ongoing and Nearby Events
• The National Fishing Expos and The Log & Timber Home Expo at the Ohio Expo Center run through Sunday, appealing to outdoors enthusiasts and home design fans.

Tips for Attendees
With winter conditions still present from the recent storm, residents are encouraged to check event websites or contact organizers before traveling, especially for outdoor or early-morning activities.