Symphony Masterpieces and First Friday Celebrations Today in Columbus

A Vibrant Friday in the Arch City

Welcome to the Friday edition of columbus.news. As the first Friday of February arrives, the city is bursting with artistic energy, from the grand stages of the Theater District to the creative hubs of the Short North. Whether you are looking for a morning coffee rehearsal or a high-energy comedy set, there is a wealth of verified local events happening today, February 6, 2026. Here is your guide to the best of Columbus today.

Classical Excellence at the Ohio Theatre

The Columbus Symphony takes center stage today with a powerful program titled Price & Tchaikovsky. Music director Rossen Milanov leads the orchestra through a journey that spans continents and eras. The program features Aaron Copland’s beloved Rodeo, Florence Price’s Second Violin Concerto—featuring the acclaimed violinist Melissa White—and Tchaikovsky’s First Symphony, famously known as "Winter Daydreams."

• Coffee Dress Rehearsal: For those looking for a unique daytime experience, the Friday Coffee Dress Rehearsal begins at 10:00 AM, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the symphony at work.
• Evening Performance: The full concert experience begins at 7:30 PM at the historic Ohio Theatre.

First Friday and Community Gatherings

February’s First Friday brings local flavor to the forefront. Experience Columbus is celebrating the grand opening of its new Welcome Center with live music, local coffee, and light bites from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Meanwhile, Zora's House is hosting a special "First Fridays: Made In Love!" event starting at 10:00 AM, focusing on local creativity and community connection.

Comedy, Theater, and Live Music

If you prefer a night of laughter or local tunes, the city’s entertainment venues are fully booked. Shadowbox Live presents its hit show BANGERS: The Best Sketch Comedy and Music of 2025, a high-octane performance featuring the best of last season’s sketches and musical numbers. For stand-up fans, Jamie Lissow will be performing two sets at the Funny Bone Comedy Club.

• Shadowbox Live: Doors open for a 7:30 PM show.
• Funny Bone: Sets are scheduled for 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM.
• Newport Music Hall: Catch the electronic sounds of ALLEYCVT starting at 8:00 PM.

Exhibitions and Family Fun

Interactive art and seasonal displays continue throughout the day. At COSI, The Science Behind Pixar interactive exhibit remains open for those wanting to explore the technology of animation. As the sun sets, you can enjoy Wanderlights, a free festive light display that stretches from Columbus Commons to Bicentennial Park, open from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.