‘Burb Breakdown: 5 Things to do in Westerville this fall
SPONSORED
Covering many vibrant communities across central Ohio, the 614 is so much more than just Columbus. Welcome to the ‘Burb Breakdown, an ongoing series highlighting the unique character of neighborhoods from across this sprawling metro area we call home. Today, we take a look at everything there is to enjoy in Westerville this fall.
As host to the latest Democratic Presidential debate, Westerville has been getting plenty of attention lately. Once the candidates leave town, stick around and experience everything this town has to offer this fall!
1. Uptown is your holiday hot-spot
Get ready for the holidays by visiting Uptown Westerville, a historic district that has successfully transitioned to new-generation dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Experience the charm of more than 40 shops and boutiques, nine dining establishments and more, and shop small for the holidays! Uptown’s family-owned boutiques and shops are the perfect place to celebrate Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday on November 30.
Seasonal beers at Temperance Row Brewing, pumpkin spice popcorn at Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn, fresh, warm donuts at Schneider’s Bakery, and ice cream treats from no less than four shops are just a few of the treats you can grab to enjoy your trip.
2. The Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow is coming!
The Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow is coming to Westerville for the first time this year in late October. Come meet your new family fall tradition at Heritage Park, October 23- 27 and have an experience like never before.
More than 3,000 pumpkins will illuminate a quarter-mile trail through the park with artistic scenes, the likes of which you’ve never seen.
This event is all about the magic of fall! Food, games, music, and entertainment will be at the end of pumpkin trail for a full-night of family-fun. Visit westerville.org/pumpkinglow for tickets and more.
3. Get Spellbound when Wizards and Wands transform Uptown
Midnight Madness in Uptown on Friday, October 25 will be inspired by “the boy who lived” with a one-of-a-kind Wizards and Wands Festival.
Come meet Hilda, the new smoke-breathing dragon installed atop the Westerville Public Library made by students at Otterbein’s The Point.
Families can enjoy free butterbeer and Hogwarts-inspired games in the City Hall Courtyard. Uptown merchants will be open late, with trick-or-treating at every stop and special deals in uptown restaurants. The costumes alone will be a sight to see!
4. Fall into Westerville’s Parks
With more than 40 destinations to enjoy, there’s something for everyone in Westerville parks.
Westerville’s parks system is a FIVE-time national gold medal winner, and they’re a big reason the City regularly earns “best of” nods. Most recently, Westerville was voted best family-friendly suburb by Columbus Parent 2019.
Enjoy the colorful sights and crisp smell of fall with a walk, jog or ride along Westerville’s 50 miles of recreational trails in 650 acres of parkland.
5. “Give thanks” for first responders
In mid-November, the expanded and renovated First Responders Park reopens in Westerville. The park—dedicated to ALL first responders—is a site to honor those who protect us with their lives.
The names of Westerville Division of Police officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering, along with fallen firefighter, David Theisen, are inscribed on a memorial wall where you can reflect and remember. Officers Morelli and Joering were killed in the line of duty in February 2018 after responding to a 9-1-1 hang-up call.
Piece “C-40,” originally from the north tower of the World Trade Center, stands in its original place as centerpiece to the park.
Stroll through Uptown around Veterans Day (Nov. 11) and notice more than 70 banners celebrating the men and women who have served in U.S. Armed Forces from WWII to current-day conflicts to protect our freedoms.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
