COLUMBUS, Ohio (March 3, 2026) – Ohio is turning the spotlight on its artistic heritage this March as America 250-Ohio announces the theme for the month: “Ohio Entertains: Music & Entertainment.” The initiative features programs and events across the state celebrating Ohio’s rich legacy of creativity, performance, and cultural expression.
From Broadway-inspired concerts to local film screenings, residents will have opportunities to experience firsthand the artists, venues, and creative communities that continue to define Ohio’s cultural influence.
“Ohio’s story is shaped by imagination and artistry,” said Todd Kleismit, executive director of America 250-Ohio. “This month highlights the performers, musicians, writers, and creative voices who have entertained, inspired, and connected people for generations.”
Signature Events
Two centerpiece programs define March’s entertainment-focused offerings: the Ohio Creativity Trail and Ohio Goes to the Movies.
- Ohio Creativity Trail – A self-guided driving tour spotlighting the places and people who have shaped Ohio’s artistic legacy, including music, literature, theater, glass and pottery, folk and traditional arts, and visual arts.
- Ohio Goes to the Movies – Free community film screenings will take place in all 88 counties through October 2026, showcasing Ohio’s influence on American cinema.
These initiatives highlight the state’s ongoing impact on the arts, from historic theaters and creative hubs to the actors, filmmakers, and storytellers who have shaped the nation’s cultural landscape.
America 250-Ohio will also host State of Eight: Presidential Leadership Forged in Ohio, a weekly webinar series featuring experts from Ohio’s presidential sites. The program explores the personal lives, leadership, and national influence of the state’s eight presidents. Webinars will be held every Wednesday in March and are free to the public.
Local Events
Communities across Ohio will bring the “Ohio Entertains” theme to life with locally produced performances, exhibitions, screenings, and interactive experiences. A few highlights include:
- From Ohio to Broadway – The Hickories Museum in Lorain will showcase Ohio writers and composers whose works have reached the Broadway stage.
- An American Portrait: Gershwin, Barber & Beyond – The Schuster Center in Dayton will celebrate the sounds of Gershwin, Bolcom, Barber, and Still in a performance honoring American music.
- 10 Minutes on the Dot – The Columbus Museum of Art will feature short, focused discussions on individual works from the American art collection every first Friday of the month.
- Great American Songbook with Toledo Jazz Orchestra – Aubrey Logan performs jazz and swing renditions of classic American songs with vocals and trombone.
Additional community-driven events throughout March include lectures, scavenger hunts, community dinners, and arts programming designed to engage audiences of all ages.
For a full list of programs and activities throughout the state, visit America250-Ohio.org.
