This post is sponsored by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. But rest assured, all thoughts and opinions are our own.
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your favorite ’90s bands live in the heart of downtown Columbus, here’s the next best thing: the city is launching a brand-new Tribute Tuesdays summer concert series, and it’s all about the throwback vibes.
Organized by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, Tribute Tuesdays is a free, happy hour-style concert series held at Bicentennial Park, a revitalized public space that reopened last summer. The weekly event brings high-energy tribute acts performing iconic sets from bands like Weezer, Green Day, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and more.
“We saw these Tribute Tuesday concerts as a fun way to encourage people to spend time downtown during the week as we enjoy the great weather we have during the summer,” said Dominique Shank, Community Relations Chief for the department. “These concerts are going to be a blast!”
The six-part series kicks off June 10 with The Pinkertones performing a tribute to Weezer, followed by Green Dayton (Green Day tribute) on June 17. In July, the stage welcomes Imposters in Effect (Beastie Boys) and Hot Red Chili Peppers (RHCP) on July 8 and July 29, respectively. August will feature Smells Like Nirvana on Aug. 5 and The Winnie Cooper Project, a ’90s rap tribute band, on Aug. 19.
What to Expect
Concertgoers can expect a lively after-work atmosphere with food and drink vendors opening at 5 p.m., followed by live music starting at 6:30 p.m. It’s BYO-chair or blanket, and organizers suggest arriving early to snag a good spot and beat the food lines.
Parking is available via nearby garages or street spots along the Scioto Mile — more info here.
The Bottom Line
Free live music, downtown sunsets, nostalgic bangers, and food trucks? It’s a no-brainer.
“We are hoping to have lots of people there enjoying the best of the ’90s,” Shank said.
Whether you’re reliving your high school playlist or introducing your kids to your favorite flannel-era anthems, Tribute Tuesdays promises to be one of the most fun, free things to do in Columbus this summer. For more info, head over to columbusrecparks.com.
