If you’re ready for a cheesy good time, mark your calendar for the Columbus Mac & Cheese Festival! Returning for its seventh year, this festival isn’t just about indulging in creamy, gooey mac and cheese—it’s also about supporting a great cause.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) cancer program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).
This year’s event is happening on Friday, October 4th, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at The Yard at Easton Town Center. The Yard is Easton’s newest district, tucked away near Macy’s and Nordstrom. With easy access to the Worth Ave. Parking Garage, you won’t have to stress about finding a spot before diving into all that cheesy goodness.
Tickets are now available, and there’s something for everyone:
$25 – Early Bird Ticket (age 13+): Perfect for anyone 13 and up, this ticket gets you complimentary mac and cheese samples from all the participating vendors. Just remember to grab your drinks separately.
$10 – Child Ticket (ages 3-12): Got kids between 3 and 12? This ticket covers them. And the littlest ones (under 3) get in free.
$100 – Early Bird VIP Ticket: If you’re looking to elevate your experience, the VIP ticket includes entry to the festival and access to the VIP area on The Beeline patio, where you can enjoy exclusive food options and complimentary beverages, including the adult kind.
$65 – Early Bird Family Four Pack (2 adults, 2 children ages 3-12): Bringing the whole crew? This family pack is a great deal for two adults and two kids, with access to all the mac and cheese your heart desires. Just make sure to stick together at the entrance!
Good food for a good cause
The festival, hosted by the NextGen James Ambassadors Society and Easton Community Foundation, features mac and cheese from some of Central Ohio’s favorite spots. With live entertainment, a kid zone, giveaways, and more, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained while you eat your way through the fest.
In 2023, the festival raised over $63,593, bringing the total donations over the years to more than $411,000. These funds have made a real impact, from hosting a national oncofertility conference to funding social opportunities for young cancer survivors and more.
Participating restaurants include returning favorites like Dubb’s Slappin Mac (last year’s winner!), Forbidden Root, and Rusty Bucket Easton. More restaurants will be added as we get closer to the event, so keep an eye out for your favorites.
If you’re ready to dive into some mac and cheese and support a worthy cause, don’t miss out on this year’s festival. You can get more info, or purchase your tickets right here.
