Annual Westerville Events You Don’t Want to Miss

One of the things that makes Westerville such a wonderful place to live is its strong sense of community — and nothing showcases that better than our local events. Throughout the year, the city comes alive with celebrations, markets, and family-friendly traditions that bring neighbors together and welcome visitors with small-town charm and big-city energy.

Whether you’re new to the area or have called Westerville home for decades, these events are worth marking on your calendar.

Fourth Fridays in Uptown

From spring through fall, Uptown Westerville transforms into a lively street festival on the fourth Friday of each month. You’ll find live music, food trucks, local vendors, kids’ activities, and extended shop hours — all filling State Street with energy and smiles. Each month has its own theme, so every Fourth Friday feels fresh and fun.

Snowflake Castle at the Everal Barn

A beloved Westerville holiday tradition, Snowflake Castle is pure magic for families. Children can meet Santa, make their own wooden toy with help from “Santa’s elves,” and take in the sights and sounds of the season. Hosted inside the historic Everal Barn and Homestead, this event sells out quickly each year — and for good reason. It’s one of those traditions that becomes part of your family’s story.

Westerville Music & Arts Series

The Westerville Parks & Recreation Department keeps the music going all summer with the Sounds of Summer Concert Series and the Music & Arts Festival at the Alum Creek Park Amphitheater. Bring a blanket, grab dinner from a local food truck, and enjoy evenings filled with live music, theater performances, and local art displays.

Westerville Saturday Farmers Market

A community favorite! Every Saturday morning from spring through fall, Grove Street fills with local farmers, bakers, florists, and artisans. You’ll find seasonal produce, handcrafted goods, and often a friendly neighbor or two. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend — coffee in hand, exploring what’s fresh and local.

Cops & Kids Day

One of the most heartwarming community events in the area, Cops & Kids Day gives children a chance to meet local police officers, firefighters, and first responders in a positive, fun environment. Kids can explore emergency vehicles, try on gear, and learn about safety in a friendly, hands-on way. It’s a perfect reflection of Westerville’s family-first spirit.

Independence Day Celebration

Every Fourth of July, Westerville lights up with a parade, fireworks show, and family festival at the Westerville Sports Complex. It’s a day full of patriotism, food trucks, and local entertainment — a can’t-miss summer highlight that draws residents from all over Central Ohio.

Autumn on the Avenue

When the leaves start to change, Uptown Westerville celebrates fall with Autumn on the Avenue, featuring local vendors, live entertainment, and seasonal treats like cider and pumpkin donuts. It’s a cozy afternoon that captures everything you love about fall in Ohio.

Light Up Uptown

Kick off the holiday season with Light Up Uptown, Westerville’s annual tree-lighting celebration in early December. State Street sparkles with lights, music, and community cheer as thousands gather to watch the tree come to life. Shops stay open late, carolers fill the air, and Santa often makes a return visit.

Rotary Honors Veterans 5K & Field of Heroes

In May, the Rotary Club of Westerville honors our heroes with two powerful events. The Field of Heroes transforms the Sports Complex into a breathtaking display of American flags — each representing a hero in someone’s life — while the Rotary Honors Veterans 5K raises funds for local veterans’ causes. It’s a beautiful, moving reminder of Westerville’s gratitude and unity.

Westerville Community Christmas Parade

The Westerville Community Christmas Parade brings festive energy to Uptown as floats, music, and holiday characters make their way down State Street. Families line the sidewalks for a cheerful morning of small-town tradition, followed by shopping, treats, and holiday fun throughout Uptown’s local businesses. It’s a warm, community-focused kickoff to the season and another reason Westerville shines during the holidays.

Westerville’s Annual Events Provide Year-Round Spirit

No matter the season, Westerville finds a reason to celebrate — and that’s what makes this city so special. From live music and farmers markets to family traditions and fireworks, there’s always something happening that brings people together.

If you’re looking for a place where community isn’t just a word — it’s a way of life — you’ll find it here in Westerville.