Ohio State Launched New Events Venue Program
The university is opening over 150 campus spaces for public and corporate event bookings in Columbus.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Job Fairs
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Ohio State University has launched the Ohio State Events program to turn its campus into a destination for various functions. The initiative allows users to book more than 150 campus venues, including specialized stadium experiences.
Why it matters
The program aims to elevate the university as a premier venue destination while supporting its academic goals by drawing scholastic events to the area. It serves as a formal partnership with Experience Columbus and the Greater Columbus Sports Commission to expand local hosting capabilities.
The program offers access to over 150 on-campus spaces, with Ohio Stadium event costs ranging from $2,000 for a suite to $25,000 for field access. Other options include $700 for a Brutus the Buckeye appearance or $20,000 for a half-hour marching band performance.
The players
Ohio State University
This is a public research university located in Columbus that serves as the central hub for the new venue booking initiative.
Experience Columbus
This organization promotes the city of Columbus to visitors and businesses and is a primary partner in the universitys new events initiative.
Greater Columbus Sports Commission
This entity works to attract sporting events to the region and is collaborating with the university to utilize campus facilities for major gatherings.
The details
Hosts can access an online portal to manage bookings and planning services for various campus locations, including the Blackwell Inn. This initiative positions university facilities, such as the historic stadium, for private usage ranging from corporate events to wedding celebrations.
Timeline
September 2026: The Ohio State Events program launched.
Market Landscape
This program follows the wider industry trend of major universities monetizing campus infrastructure to supplement traditional funding streams. By opening facilities to the public, the university shifts its market position to compete with local hotel and conference center venues.
Local residents and business planners can now access formerly restricted university venues for private functions, including stadium field access. Costs start at $31 for individual stadium tours, providing a new way for the public to engage with university facilities.
The takeaway
The program provides a centralized booking system for those looking to host events at one of the largest campus footprints in the country. Organizers should plan for significant cost variations depending on the level of university brand assets requested, such as the marching band or mascots.
Further reading
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Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC4i.
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