Discover the Thrill of the Olympics Right in Your Backyard: Columbus' Exciting Alternatives to the Paris Games

While the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris may be the main event, Columbus, Ohio, is offering a range of exciting alternatives that allow you to experience the competitive spirit and festive atmosphere of the Games without leaving the city. From local brewing company events to pickleball tournaments and Buckeye-themed downloads, there's no shortage of ways to get in on the Olympic action right here at home.

Unleash Your Inner Olympian in Columbus

The Crooked Can Summer Olympics: A Friendly Competitive Clash

On July 21st, Crooked Can Brewing Co. will be hosting its very own Crooked Can Summer Olympics, a lively event where teams of two will compete in a variety of activities, including cornhole and bucket ball, all while vying for exciting prizes. Participants will be assigned a country to represent upon sign-up and are encouraged to dress accordingly, adding to the festive atmosphere. Registration is per person and includes a complimentary Crooked Can draft beer, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition and camaraderie.

A Parisian Celebration in Worthington

The Worthington Partnership, a local nonprofit, has teamed up with La Chatelaine French Bakery and Bistro to host a Paris Olympics-themed celebration and fundraiser on August 1st. This after-hours event, held at La Chatelaine in Worthington, will feature French hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and a DJ, creating a lively Parisian ambiance. But the highlight of the evening is the Historic District Servers Challenge, a speed race where participants can showcase their agility and balance as they navigate the streets of Old Worthington while carrying a full tray of food. The challenge costs per person or 5 for a team of four, and those who attend in their festive Olympic attire will receive a complimentary drink.

Pickleball Fever at Land Grant Brewing Company

For those seeking a more active Olympic experience, Land Grant Brewing Company's Franklinton Campus at Gravity Park offers pickleball courts available for hourly rentals throughout the summer. Each court comes with its own bungalow, which can accommodate up to eight people and is pet-friendly during the day and kid-friendly until 8 pm. In addition to the pickleball courts, the brewery also hosts pickleball leagues and features a rotating lineup of food trucks, including Mikey's Late Night Slice, Ray Ray's Barbeque, DoDo Donuts, and Hai Poke, ensuring a well-rounded experience for visitors.

Bring the Olympics Home with Buckeye-Themed Downloads

For those who prefer to experience the Olympics from the comfort of their own homes, the Ohio State Alumni Association has created a Buckeye Summer Olympic downloads package. This free, ready-to-print collection includes an Olympic ring craft activity, a 2024 Olympic-themed bingo board, a Buckeye flag image, Ohio State Olympics trivia, a 2024 USA Olympics participation tracker, and a Buckeye Olympics coloring sheet, allowing you to showcase your Buckeye and Team USA spirit.

Catch the Action Live on Peacock

For those who want to follow the official 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, Peacock offers comprehensive coverage, with every event, including Olympic trials, available to stream live. The Peacock, NBC, and NBC Olympics apps also allow you to watch the action on the go, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the excitement.Whether you're looking to engage in friendly competition, immerse yourself in a Parisian-inspired celebration, or simply enjoy the thrill of the Olympics from the comfort of your own home, Columbus has a wealth of options to satisfy your Olympic cravings. So why travel to Paris when the spirit of the Games is alive and well right here in your own backyard?