Columbus Symphony to Present Two Free Summer Programs with Support from Honda

The Columbus Symphony today announced a $25,000 contribution from Honda to support two free, outdoor Nationwide Popcorn Pops concerts for children and families at the Columbus Commons. The contribution will help advance the Symphony’s work to inspire and build a strong community through music by elevating the quality of life in Central Ohio.

“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, reflecting the Columbus Symphony’s ongoing work to build community through music.”

“Honda is committed to investing in local communities in ways that bring families together, inspire lifelong learning, spark curiosity, and strengthen community connections,” said Jen D’Annunzio, Unit Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility – Associate Engagement. “We’re proud to support the Columbus Symphony in creating opportunities where everyone in Central Ohio can experience the joy of music and feel a true sense of belonging.”

These general admission outdoor concerts feature the Columbus Symphony performing repertoire selected to appeal to children ages 3-12 that can also be enjoyed by the whole family. The casual lawn seating makes it possible for children to dance and move around, providing an ideal atmosphere to introduce young people to an orchestra concert. Concerts are led by the Columbus Symphony’s assistant conductor, Elias Miller, and narrated by multidisciplinary artist and educator Z.F. Taylor. Activities begin at 5:30 p.m. while concerts begin at 6 p.m. 

This summer’s Nationwide Popcorn Pops programs include:

• Peter and the Wolf – Friday, June 26
  
  Join us for a fun-filled concert featuring Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf – a timeless musical tale that brings instruments to life and sparks the imagination. Perfect for families and young audiences, this beloved classic is a wonderful introduction to the orchestra.
  
  Arrive early for exciting pre-concert activities including button making, temporary tattoos, face painting, and lawn games for all ages. Enjoy free popcorn during the event, then stick around for a special community screening of Zootopia 2, sponsored by the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons.
  
  
• Symphonic Surprise! – Friday, July 10
  
  Get ready for a musical adventure full of giggles, gasps, and surprises! Symphonic Surprise! is a fun-filled family concert where the orchestra keeps you on your toes: one moment calm and beautiful; the next loud, silly, or completely unexpected.
  
  From playful musical surprises to buzzing bees, dancing polkas, and familiar favorites, kids and families will discover just how fun and unexpected classical music can be. Bring your ears, your curiosity, and your sense of humor because in this concert, anything can happen.
  
  Arrive early and join the party with pre-concert fun for all ages, including glitter tattoos, face painting, balloon artists, an instrument petting zoo, and lively lawn games. Enjoy free popcorn during the event, then stick around for a screening of Up, sponsored by the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons.

Since 2009, Nationwide has been the title sponsor of Picnic with the Pops and Popcorn Pops programs, with host sponsor the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons.