If you’re heading to the Ohio Bat Festival for the first time, welcome to one of the state’s most unique and educational nature events. The 2025 edition promises to be bigger and better—with interactive zones, live bat shows, crafts for kids, and expert-led nature walks. But before you go, here’s everything you need to know about the dates, parking, and first-timer essentials.
When Is the Ohio Bat Festival 2025?
- Date: October, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location
- Venue: Columbus Nature Preserve, Ohio
Located just 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, this natural space offers shaded trails, open fields for booths, and sunset views for evening bat watching.
Parking Details & Transportation
- Main Lot: Free parking is available on-site on a first-come basis.
- Overflow Lot: Nearby school parking lots will be opened with shuttle service.
Shuttle Info
- Shuttle Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM (runs every 15 minutes)
- Pickup Point: Designated at Ohio Green Elementary (map provided at entry page)
Accessibility
- Reserved accessible parking is available near the main entrance with golf-cart assistance for elderly visitors.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
What to Bring
- Refillable water bottle (there are eco-stations for refills)
- Hat or cap and sunscreen for daytime
- Blanket for the outdoor movie zone
- Light jacket (it gets chilly after 6 PM)
- Camera or phone with space for photos
What NOT to Bring
- Pets (except registered service animals)
- Plastic bags (the event is zero-waste)
- Drones (no-fly zone for wildlife protection)
Best Times to Arrive
- Morning (10 AM – 12 PM): Easier parking, fewer crowds at activity booths
- Evening (6 PM – 8 PM): Best for the bat walk, food court, and live music
Family Zones & Must-See Attractions
- Bat Live Zone: Real bat encounters and conservation demos
- Kids Craft Area: Eco-art, coloring, and make-your-own bat toys
- Green Market: Vendors selling sustainable goods and handmade bat houses
- Bat Walk Trail: Guided walk at sunset through the preserve’s wooded trail
Food & Facilities
Enjoy vegan wraps, organic snacks, fruit bowls, and drinks made with local ingredients.
Restrooms
- Portable restrooms and handwash stations are available throughout the venue.
- One indoor restroom is located near the Visitor Welcome Tent.
The Ohio Bat Festival 2025 is set to deliver fun, education, and wildlife wonder for the entire family—and it’s completely free. With this guide, you’ll arrive prepared and stress-free to make the most of your day.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more bat-filled excitement, you’re in for a memorable fall experience.
See you under the October sky—with the bats!
