Check Out the Lineup for Columbus’ 2025 Nationwide Picnic with the Pops

Soak in the sounds of one of Columbus’ favorite summer traditions with the Nationwide Picnic with the Pops from the Columbus Symphony. This year’s run of summer shows ranges from orchestral takes on boy-band favorites to a tribute to a country legend to the annual Columbus Commons appearance from ”The Best Damn Band in the Land.”

A Boy Band Symphony | June 14: Whether it was *NSYNC, Backstreet Boys or One Direction, we’ve all held devotion to a boy band at one time or another. Enjoy the pop melodies of boy bands through the ages during this show that kicks off the season and includes featured performers Jeff Timmons (98 degrees), Erik-Michael Estrada (O-Town) and Chris Kirkpatrick (*NSYNC).

Rick Ross | June 21: The Columbus Symphony is joined by the “Biggest Boss” Rick Ross for a night that melds the sounds of the symphony with hip-hop. Hear Ross’ hits such as “Hustlin,’” “B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)” and others. 

Yach Rock Symphony with Ambrosia | June 28: Be transported to the ’70s and ’80s during a show that exemplifies this genre of soft-rock music. The symphony is joined by the rock band Ambrosia as well as Peter Beckett (vocalist for Player) and Ford Coley. The musicians are set to perform crowd-pleasing favorites from their discographies, including “You’re the Only Woman” (Ambrosia), “Baby Come Back” (Player) and “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” (Coley.)

Tower of Power | July 5: Funk and soul hit the stage on Independence Day weekend with the music of Tower of Power, which has been delighting audiences since 1968. The group’s songs, including “You’re Still a Young Man” and “Down to the Night Club,” not only take on a fresh sound with the symphony, but will have you out of your seat and dancing on the lawn.

Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony | July 12: Celebrate the music of Dolly Parton with the symphony as well as guest vocalists and musicians whom the country icon hand-selected to tell her stories through song. Attendees will not only hear favorites like “Coat of Many Colors” and “Jolene” but also enjoy a multimedia presentation that features Parton on-screen and traces the progression of her life, music and stories.

The Music and Journey | July 19: At one point or another, we’ve all jammed out to “Don’t Stop Believin’” and there is a chance to do that again with the symphony as it’s joined by a full rock band led by Juan De Castillo. With soaring vocals and a full slate of high-energy Journey tunes, this show beautifully blends symphonic sound with classic rock.

The Ohio State University Marching Band | July 25-26: “The Best Damn Band in the Land” makes its annual return to the Picnic with the Pops stage for two nights of entertainment. Under the direction of conductors Stuart Chafetz and Christopher Hoch, the band will perform fight songs and traditional OSU favorites.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit picnicwiththepops.com

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