Chocolate Tours, Statehouse Rally, and Regional Leaders Gather in Columbus

Columbus had a full and varied weekend, with activity stretching from Capitol Square to the city’s east side. Demonstrators gathered downtown, families lined up for chocolate tours, and regional leaders met to talk about growth and infrastructure. Together, the events highlighted a city balancing civic engagement, community traditions, and long-term planning.

Statehouse Rally Draws Crowd

A rally and march at the Ohio Statehouse on Saturday brought demonstrators from across central Ohio. Organizers called for civic engagement and public action, drawing participants to Capitol Square in the afternoon.

After assembling near the Statehouse, attendees marched through downtown streets. The gathering added to an already busy atmosphere in the area, with increased foot traffic throughout the afternoon.

Law enforcement maintained a visible presence to manage street closures and help ensure safety as the march moved through the city core.

Anthony-Thomas Opens Its Doors

Across town on the east side, thousands of visitors made their way to the Anthony-Thomas Candy Company for its annual Easter open house. The free community event invited guests to tour the factory floor, sample chocolates, and meet the Easter Bunny.

Families moved through the production areas to see how seasonal favorites are made, while children posed for photos and collected treats. The open house remains one of the company’s largest annual gatherings.

For many Columbus families, the event signals the unofficial start of the spring season — a tradition that blends local business pride with a festive, neighborhood feel.

State of the Region Highlights Growth

Downtown, business and civic leaders convened Friday for the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission’s annual State of the Region event. The gathering focused on the challenges and opportunities tied to central Ohio’s continued growth.

Speakers addressed population increases, housing demand, transportation planning, and the economic ripple effects of major development projects. The conversation centered on how the region can coordinate efforts as growth accelerates.

The annual event often sets the tone for collaboration in the months ahead, especially as Columbus works to align infrastructure planning with rapid expansion.

From policy discussions to community celebrations, the weekend reflected the many layers of life in Columbus — a city where neighborhood traditions and big-picture planning often unfold side by side.

Sources

• https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/03/20/weekend-events-anthony-thomas-easter-open-house
• https://www.reddit.com/r/Columbus/comments/1rzf3la/no_kings_3_march_28th_at_the_ohio_statehouse_and/
• https://theoec.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Preview-0226-Central-Ohio-Newsletter.pdf