🥙 CAVA Has Officially Arrived in Columbus

Plus: 🚔 Columbus Zoo Evacuated Over The Weekend

Author

Chelsea Wiley
May 04, 2026

Sponsored by the Greater Columbus Arts Council 🖼️
The Columbus Arts Festival returns to the Scioto Mile June 12–14 for one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions. Explore work from 250 artists, catch live performances across four stages, and snack your way through dozens of local food vendors along the downtown riverfront. Best of all, it’s completely free to attend, making it an easy yes for a full day (or weekend) of art, music, and sunshine in the heart of Columbus. For more info, head over to columbusartsfestival.org.

Hello, Monday! Chelsea, here.

A new fast-casual spot always makes lunchtime a little more interesting, especially when it leans into fresh, customizable options. CAVA has officially opened its first Columbus-area location in Hilliard, adding another quick-stop choice to the west side. The Mediterranean-inspired chain is known for its build-your-own bowls and pitas packed with vegetables, grains, and bold sauces. If you’re looking to switch up your usual lunch rotation, this one is worth keeping on your radar.

Navigator Feature Story: 🥙 CAVA Has Officially Arrived in Columbus

😎 The Scioto Mile’s 2026 Summer Events Lineup Is Here
Free summer fun is back along the Scioto Mile, with festivals, concerts, and events running from May through September. Here’s what to check out.

🚔 Columbus Zoo Evacuated After Threat Amid Wave Of Incidents At Zoos Nationwide
The Columbus Zoo was evacuated Saturday after a reported threat that authorities now believe was a swatting call. It’s part of a string of similar incidents at zoos across the country, including two more in Ohio.

Headlines 📰 

🏘️ A major effort is underway to preserve the history of Poindexter Village, one of Columbus’ most important early public housing communities. The site is set to become a museum that honors former residents and brings its story back to life, with an opening planned for 2028. (NBC4)

🚜 Ohio’s farm economy is feeling the squeeze right now, with rising costs, lower prices, and a lot of uncertainty making things tougher for growers across the state. Farmers say it’s changing how they plan everything from crops to investments, especially for smaller operations trying to keep up. (Axios Columbus)

😍 Brutus Buckeye is one of Ohio State’s most recognizable traditions, but it actually started pretty simply. Back in 1965, a student couple built the first version of the mascot out of papier-mâché for homecoming, never really expecting what it would become. Sixty years later, Brutus is still headlining game days and rallying fans across the country. (WOSU)

🌤️ Weather: 75 and mostly sunny, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms

Sponsored by the Dublin Irish Festival ☘️
Experience one of the largest Irish festivals in the world right here in central Ohio. From live music and traditional dance to authentic food, cultural exhibits, races, and family-friendly activities, the Dublin Irish Festival brings a full weekend of Irish heritage (and fun) to Dublin. Learn more and plan your visit at dublinirishfestival.org.

Coming Up This Week 📆

Coming Up This Month 📆

🎸 The Best Things To Do in Columbus This Month
May in Columbus is absolutely packed, with everything from huge concerts and festivals to food events and neighborhood favorites popping up all over the city. If you’ve been waiting for a reason to get out and do something fun, this is your month.

Today's Photo 🤳

Instagram Post

😍 Ohio has some very charming covered bridges, including this gem in Lancaster. It’s located at Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve, just a short day trip from Downtown Columbus.

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- Chelsea