Families can enjoy two free evenings of music, activities, movies, and popcorn at Columbus Commons this summer thanks to a new partnership between the Columbus Symphony and Honda.
The Columbus Symphony announced this week that Honda has contributed $25,000 to support the 2026 Nationwide Popcorn Pops series, making both family-focused concerts at Columbus Commons free for all attendees.
Designed for children ages 3-12 but enjoyable for audiences of all ages, the outdoor concerts feature the full Columbus Symphony performing kid-friendly classical music in a relaxed setting where families can spread out on the lawn, dance, and explore hands-on activities before the show.
“By offering these concerts for free, we remove a critical barrier to participation and provide meaningful access,” said Meghan McDevitt, Vice President of Education at the Columbus Symphony. “We are excited to see audiences learning, connecting, and enjoying time on the Columbus Commons this summer.”
The concerts will be led by Assistant Conductor Elias Miller and narrated by artist and educator Z.F. Taylor. Pre-concert activities begin at 5:30 p.m., with performances starting at 6 p.m.
The first event, Peter and the Wolf, takes place on June 26.
The beloved musical story by Sergei Prokofiev introduces young audiences to the different instruments of the orchestra through a fun and imaginative tale. Families can arrive early for activities including button making, temporary tattoos, face painting, and lawn games.
Free popcorn will be available during the event, followed by a community screening of Zootopia 2.
The second concert, Symphonic Surprise!, is scheduled for July 10.
The program promises an energetic mix of playful music, unexpected twists, and family-friendly favorites designed to showcase the fun side of classical music. Before the concert, guests can enjoy glitter tattoos, balloon artists, an instrument petting zoo, face painting, and lawn games.
The evening will conclude with a screening of Up.
The Nationwide Popcorn Pops series has become a summertime tradition in Columbus, offering one of the city’s most accessible introductions to live orchestral music.
Since 2009, Nationwide has served as the title sponsor of both Picnic with the Pops and Popcorn Pops, with Columbus Commons serving as host partner.
Both events are free and open to the public.
Nationwide Popcorn Pops
- When: June 26 and July 10
- Activities Begin: 5:30 p.m.
- Concert Begins: 6 p.m.
- Where: Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St.
- Cost: Free
Featured image via Columbus Commons (Facebook).
