The Heart of it All 2024 Pride Bands Alliance Conference
Columbus, Ohio
Version 2.0
Copyright Notice:
All images presented in this conference material are not curated by the conference committee and do not imply ownership of the rights to these images. Any images utilized within this material are for illustrative purposes only.
Below you will find information to help you navigate through downtown Columbus to the various conference events.
Serving as our conference hub, the hotel is centrally located to most of our off-site activities.
The main entrance to the hotel, located under the covered valet/drop-off area (enter from 3rd Street), is accessible. There is a door with a push plate adjacent to the revolving door. Once inside the main entrance there are accessible routes to other accessible sites within the hotel such as restaurants, meeting spaces, fitness center, and pool.
(approximately 0.15 mi from hotel)
The Ohio Statehouse is host to our gala and chamber performances. Due to its historic nature, it only has one street-level entrance that is accessible. From 3rd Street (east side of the building), there are three entrance doors. The door on the right is accessible, with a push plate.
(approximately 0.32 mi from hotel)
Saturday's finale concert, as well as some of the rehearsals leading up to the concert, will take place at the Riffe Center. This is one of the many great venues operated by the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA). All of the entrances to the Riffe Center are accessible.
(approximately 0.36 mi from hotel)
The pep band will be performing outdoors at the Columbus Commons during Thursday's Food Truck Food Court - a weekly lunchtime highlight for those working and living in downtown Columbus. All paved surfaces and the stage are accessible.
(approximately 0.24 mi from hotel)
Duckpin bowling, pin ball machines, and a long list of cocktails and beer await you at Pins Mechanical, the location of the Welcome Kickoff social event. The main entrance to Pins is accessible.
(approximately 0.29 mi from hotel)
After Saturday's concert come enjoy great pizza and great cocktails while hanging out with friends and bandmates at one of the only 33 lesbian bars in the country. Enter through the rainbow-painted patio along 5th St. Unfortunately, the main door facing Long St is not accessible.
The Convention Center https://columbusconventions.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Scooter-Rental-Amendment.pdf
Advanced Medical Supply https://www.amscolumbus.com/rentals
101 Mobility https://www.101mobility.com/products/power-chairs-scooters/
Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft do not operate wheelchair-accessible vehicles in the Columbus OH market. However, you can rent wheelchair accessible vans from Mobilityworks https://www.mobilityworks.com/wheelchair-vans-for-rent/
Columbus Mobility Specialists https://www.columbusmobility.com/rentals/
“Experience Columbus' vision is to be the leading force in creating and revealing the best of the Columbus experience to the world. Our mission is to sell, market and promote the destination Columbus experience to visitors. We are governed by a Board of Directors and supported by more than 900 partners who invest in the efforts of Experience Columbus and help make Greater Columbus an appealing destination by offering their services, attractions, and facilities to visitors, meeting planners, convention delegates, and residents.”
Iconic places in Columbus to feature:
Topiary Park
Open 7:00 AM – 8:30 PM, every day.
Scioto Mile Riverfront all parks open from 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
Ohio History Center
800 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
Concert attendees get free admission when showing conference ID badge.
Bicentennial Park
233 Civic Center Drive, Columbus, OH 43215.
Dorrian Green
50 South Belle Street, Columbus, OH 43215.
Genoa Park
303 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215.
McFerson Commons – “Arch Park” 218 West Street, Columbus, OH 43215.
North Bank Park
311 West Long Street, Columbus, OH 43215.
Scioto Audubon Metro Park
400 West Whittier Street, Columbus, OH 43215.
Rock climbing walls, obstacle course, biking/running paths, dog park.
The Promenade
233 Civic Center Drive, Columbus, OH 43215.
Adjacent to Bicentennial Park. Outdoor seating, near the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts.
Scioto Mile Riverfront (West Bank Park and Bicentennial Park)
Friday, July 19: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday, July 20: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sunday, July 21: 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
2024 DATES & HOURS:
Friday, July 19: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday, July 20: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sunday, July 21: 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Jazz & Rib Fest takes place at Bicentennial Park and West Bank Park, 233 Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215, located along the beautiful Scioto Mile downtown riverfront in Columbus, Ohio.
Casual Food
Lexi's on 3rd/Danny's deli
Tip Top Kitchen and Cocktails
Poke Bunny
Ohio Pizza and Brew
Genjigo
Board Street bagels and Deli
Ringside Cafe
Tiger & Lily
Rio Fresh Cafe
Elia Athenia Grill
Alley Burger Cinco
District North
Haveli Bistro
Mikey's Late Night Slice
The Walrus
Perogi Mountain
Pecan Penny's
Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern cravings cafe
Burger Theory
Condados
Pat and Gracie's
Aracri Pizzeria
Dirty Frank's
Hadley's Bar and Kitchen
Little Palace
Mr. Hibachi
Deli-Licious
Cafe Illyria
Danny's Delicious Deli
Freedom a la Carte Cafe & Bakery
The Keep
Speck Italian Eatery
Esco Restaurant & Tapas
Barroluco - Argentine Comfort Food
Schokko Cafe
4th and State
Rishi Sushi-Kitchen-Bar
Tasty Dog
Spaghetti Warehouse
Address
Columbus Center, 100 E Broad St #150, Columbus, OH 43215
73 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
100 E Gay St #1, Columbus, OH 43215
88 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
77 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
66 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
19 N Pearl St, Columbus, OH 43215
19 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
50 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
20 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
26 N High St Rear, Columbus, OH 43215
1 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
10 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215
185 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
268 South 4Th St. Columbus, Oh 43215
143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
105 N Grant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
113 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
340 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
114 N Front St, Columbus, OH 43206
175 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
132 S High St Columbus, OH 43215
121 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
51 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
248 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
260 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
240 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
250 N 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
141 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
214 E State St, Columbus, OH 43215
37 W Broad St #50, Columbus, OH 43215
123 E Spring St, Columbus, OH 43215
50 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
89 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
31 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
47 N Pearl St, Columbus, OH 43215
480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
152 E State St, Columubus, OH 43215
114 N 3rd Street Columubus, OH 43215
107 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
150 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Coffee & Bakeries
Pistacia Vera
Bake Me Happy
Gluten Free Biscuits by Daddy'O
A Blessed Cookie Bakery
Parable Cafe
Local Breweries
Jackie O's Brewery
Elevator Brewery
Wolf's Ridge
Fine Dining
Due Amici
Mitchell's Steakhouse
Butcher and Rose Steakhouse
Veritas
Bars/Nightlife
M Lounge
Buckeye Bourbon House
Pins Mechanical Bowling
The Citizen's Trust
Palmas Tropical Escape
16 Bit
Side Bar
No Soliciting Bar
Slammers
District West
Address
541 South Third Street, Columbus, OH 43206
500 E Whittier, Columbus, OH 43206
821 E Long Street, Columbus, OH 43203
Nationwide Plaza 3 Atrium, Columbus, OH 43215
149 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Address
171 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
161 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
215 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
Address
67 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
45 N 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
155 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
11 W Gay St,Columbus, OH 43215
Call Ahead for Reservation: (614) 745-3864
Address
39 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
36 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
141 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43215
11 W Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
46 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
254 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
119 E Chestnut St, Columbus, OH 43215
202 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215
145 N 5th St, Columbus, OH 43215
Whether you’re in Ohio for a few hours, a few days, or you’re lucky enough to live here, you’ll find endless opportunities to share memorable experiences with those who mean the most to you.
From its big city amenities, which include a thriving arts and culture scene and award-winning culinary experiences, to the charm and comfort that can be found in its distinctive neighborhoods and historic small towns, Ohio has many unique destinations to explore.
Cedar Point
1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870
Kings Island
6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, OH 45040
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
1100 Rock & Roll Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44114
Hocking Hills State Park
19852 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138
The Wilds
14000 International Road, Cumberland, OH 43732
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
The weather forecast for next week during the conference is low to mid 80s with partly cloudy skies during the day and high to mid 60s at night, so plan your wardrobe accordingly.
Don’t forget some sunscreen and your swim suits for the outdoor rooftop pool at the hotel!
TUESDAY
1:30PM - 6:00PM Conference Registration @ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
6:30PM Pride Bands Alliance Board Dinner @ Secret Location!
8:30PM Early Arrival’s Social @ Club Diversity
WEDNESDAY
8:00AM - 5:00PM Conference Registration @ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
8:30AM Pride Bands Alliance Board Meeting @ Renaissance Hotel Third Floor Conference Room
12:00PM Big Band Rehearsal @ Hotel Ballroom D-E
2:30PM Color Guard Rehearsal
2:30PM Pep Band Rehearsal @ Renaissance Hotel Fourth Floor Pool Deck
5:00PM Olentangy River Band Rehearsal @ Ballroom D-E
5:00PM Scioto River Band Rehearsal @ Ballroom A-B
7:30PM Welcome Kickoff @ PINS Mechanical Co.
THURSDAY
8:00AM - 5:00PM Conference Registration @ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
8:30AM Pride Bands Alliance Town Hall @ Hotel Conference Room C-D-E
10:30AM Pep Band Rehearsal @ Renaissance Hotel Fourth Floor Pool Deck
12:00PM Pep Band Performance @ Columbus Commons
1:30PM Big Band Rehearsal @ Hotel Ballroom C-D-E
1:30PM Color Guard Rehearsal @ Ohio Statehouse Lawn
3:00PM Olentangy Band Rehearsal @ Hotel Ballroom A-B
3:00PM Scioto Band Rehearsal @Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
6:00PM Color Guard Performance @ Ohio Statehouse North Lawn
6:30PM Chamber Recital @ Ohio Statehouse Rotunda and Atrium
7:30PM Gala Reception @ Ohio Statehouse Atrium (menu available)
Conference attendees get 15% off of their tab when presenting your conference ID badge Offer Valid through 7/16/24 - 7/20/24
FRIDAY
8:30AM Big Band Rehearsal @Hotel Ballroom A-B
9:00AM - 12:00PM Conference Registration @ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
1:00PM Keynote Address - Jim Obergerfell Fireside Chat @ Hotel Ballroom C-D-E
2:30PM Olentangy Band Rehearsal @ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
2:30PM Scioto Band Rehearsal @ Hotel Ballroom A-B
5:30PM President’s CIrcle Dinner @ “The Study” 1st Floor Events Space @ Renaissance Hotel Downtown Columbus
6:00PM Big Band Sound Check @ Hotel Ballroom C-D-E
7:00PM Swing Dance Lesson with SwingColumbus @ Hotel Ballroom C-D-E
7:30PM Big Band Concert and Swing Dance @ Hotel Ballroom C-D-E
9:30PM Pride Bands Game Night @ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
SATURDAY
9:00AM Olentangy Band Tech Rehearsal @ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
9:00AM Workshop - The Musician and Mental Health - Jessica Fletcher, Presenter (Session 1) @ Renaissance Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
10:00AM Workshop - Outside the Rehearsal: Practicing a Balanced & Joyful Musical Life Presented by Mark Grisez, Principal Trumpet of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (Session 1) @ Renaissance Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
11:00AM Massed Band Rehearsal for Conference Commission @ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
12:00PM Scioto Band Tech Rehearsal @ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
12:00PM Workshop - Outside the Rehearsal: Practicing a Balanced & Joyful Musical Life
Presented by Mark Grisez, Principal Trumpet of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (Session 2) @ Renaissance Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
1:00PM Workshop - The Musician and Mental Health (Session 2) @ Renaissance Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
3:00PM Jon Sims Endowment Fund Presentation @ Renaissance Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
6:00PM Concert Call Time @ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
7:00PM “The Heart of it All” 2024 Pride Bands Alliance Concert Band Performance @ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
10:00PM After Concert Social @ Slammers
SUNDAY
8:30PM Farewell Brunch Menu @ Renaissance Hotel
Conference attendees get 10% off of their tab when presenting your conference ID badge
Offer Valid through 7/16/24 - 7/20/24
To ensure you don’t bring anything prohibited on your flight, start packing with empty bags. To find out what items are allowed in your carry-on and checked luggage, visit TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” list.
• Download your airline’s mobile app. This will allow you to check-in, and stay up-to-date on the latest flight information.
• If you require assistance in the terminal, plan ahead to book a wheelchair or look into our assistance programs.
Check with your airline, for overhead bin allowance if carrying an instrument onboard.
If flying with a larger instrument as checked baggage, a durable travel case is highly recommended. Or call your airline’s Reservations department about purchasing an extra seat for your instrument. There are certain fees and taxes that will not apply to the final cost.
Columbus is undergoing a large project with Ohio Department of Transportation on updating our highway systems to provide Ohioans with quality roads and highways. This is a route created we recommend taking to avoid construction along the way to the host hotel.
For more information please go to https://flycolumbus.com/passengers/prepare-for-your-flight/
In case of a medical emergency, immediately dial 911 for assistance. If you're unable to call, ask someone nearby to do so. Stay calm and provide clear information about the situation to the dispatcher. If necessary, proceed to the nearest hospital or healthcare facility for urgent medical attention.
OhioHealth Grant Medical Center and Emergency Department
111 S Grant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
Ohio State Harding Hospital (Behavioral Health)
1670 Upham Dr, Columbus, OH 43210
Map to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center from Conference Hotel.
We all hide how we feel sometimes, but it can help to talk. Call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support — anytime, any reason.
Columbus, Ohio offers a variety of taxi and transportation services to meet your needs. Whether you prefer traditional taxis, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, or public transportation options such as buses, you'll find convenient and reliable ways to get around the city.
Be sure to check schedules and availability ahead of time, especially during peak hours or special events.
COTA Bus Route Viewer available at: https://ride.cota.com/#/route
List of LGBTQ+ bars:
AWOL (49 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215)
Tremont Lounge (708 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206)
Steel Mill Tavern (1816 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43207)
Toolbox Saloon (744 Frebis Ave, Columbus, OH 43206)
Boscoe’s (1224 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43206)
Palmas Tropical Escape (46 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215)
Latin X Bar Fridays and Saturdays Only
Cavan Irish Pub (1409 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43207)
Club Columbus (795 West 5th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212)
Male indentifying bath house, open 24/7 - requires day pass and locker/room fee. Weekdays 8 hour pass, Weekends 6 hour pass.
Gresso’s (961 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206)
Big Gay Brunch on Sundays at 11AM - 6PM
Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint (2598 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202)
Club Diversity (893 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43206)
District West 145 North 5th Street, Columbus, OH 43215)
Rumours (Lesbian Nightclub) (1071 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, OH 43206)
Slammers (Lesbian Nightclub) (202 East Long Street, Columbus, OH 43215)
Southbend Tavern (126 East Moler Street, Columbus, OH 43207)
Ask a Columbus Pride bands member for their favorite bar recommendations and join them!
The city's long-awaited Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) plan went live at noon Friday after the state officially approved the plan on May 23.
Now, adults 21 years and older will be able to walk around Downtown and parts of Franklinton while openly carrying one container of alcohol in special cups sold by a participating vendor in designated areas.
DORAs will be operational seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The following businesses will be participating in the DORA plan, and more are expected to join
BrewDog Brewing Company
Dueling Axes
The Junto
Land-Grant Brewing Company
Milestone 229
One Line Coffee
Pat & Gracie’s
Wolf’s Ridge Brewing
Yellowbrick Pizza
Drink Responsibly.
Ohio officials will begin accepting Recreational Marijuana sales applications beginning of June, but the market won’t launch immediately. Until then, medicinal and recreational marijuana is legal to posess and consume in the State of Ohio. Please use responsibily and do not operate machinery while under the influcence. Medicinal Marijuana near the conference
Check-in: 4:00 pm
Check-out: 11:00 am
Minimum Age to Check In: 21
Smoke Free Property
Pet fee of $50 per night. Maximum of $150 per stay for two (2) pets.
Maximum Pet Weight: 50lbs
Maximum Number of Pets in Room: 2
*For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +1 614-228-5050
Conference Meeting Spaces within the Renaissance Hotel
Hotel Conference Room A
Hotel Ballroom A
Hotel Ballroom E
Hotel Rooftop and Outdoor Pool
“Hot Tub Committee” Meeting Space
1:30 - 6:30 PM
6:30 - 8:00 PM
8:30 - 11:30 PM
Conference Registration @ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
@ TBD (Address upon invitation)
@ Club Diversity (863 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206) (1.4 miles from the host hotel)
Join us for an unforgettable early arrival social as we kick off the evening on one of the biggest and best patio's in Columbus at Club Diversity. Whether you're a seasoned regular or a first-time visitor, we are ready to welcome you into a community of warmth, acceptance, and pure joy. They are well known for their martinis, but you may also be interested to learn that they make great mocktails, too!
For more information about Club Diversity, visit their website at https://clubdiversity.com/
Come, raise a glass with us and revel in the magic of Club Diversity.
Cheers to unforgettable nights and cherished memories!
Wednesday, July 17
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
@ PINS Mechanical Co. (141 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215) (0.2 miles from the host hotel)
Welcome to the kickoff of "The Heart of It All" Pride Bands Alliance Conference! We are thrilled to host you at PINS Mechanical Co., where the spirit of inclusivity thrives alongside unparalleled entertainment.
As you mingle and connect, explore the excitement of duck-pin bowling, where strikes and laughter collide, and a beloved pastime guaranteed to keep the fun flowing.
Unwind and build new friendships and reunite with long-time friends on the lovely fireside patio.
And let's not forget the bar - hand-crafted cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages with nostalgic video game and pop-culture themes, ensuring there's something for everyone to savor.
Here's to an unforgettable evening of camaraderie, celebration, and the boundless spirit of pride!
Thursday,
Join us for an evening of music, elegance and celebration of the Pride Bands Alliance at the historic Ohio Statehouse. Cocktails, mocktails and complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served in the resplendent Statehouse Atrium with guided tours through the historic halls of the Statehouse going on through the evening. The 2024 Pillars of Pride will be awarded during this reception.
The Ohio Statehouse takes personal safety very seriously, and has implemented security measures to better assure the comfort and protection of all persons who work, volunteer, and visits. Please visit the Statehouse Security FAQ for more information about entering the Statehouse:
Cash Bar & Beverage Services from 7:45 PM - 10:00 PM
to be served at 8:00PM
Domestic Cheese Display (v) served with assorted crackers & flatbread
Roasted Vegetable Display (v, gf) seasonal assortment of roasted vegetables served with garlic rosemary aioli
Caprese Skewer (v, gf) cherry tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil & balsamic
Fried Chicken Deviled Egg classic deviled eggs topped with crispy chicken, hot honey drizzle & chives
Vegetarian Spring Roll (v) served with sweet chili sauce
Spanakopita (v) traditional greek phyllo pockets with spinach & feta cheese filling
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers skewered with a pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds & scallion
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp (gf) grilled shrimp wrapped in thick bacon and basted with house bbq sauce
Vegan General Tso's Cauliflower Bite (v+)
Vegan Caponata Mushroom (v+, gf) mushroom cap filled with sicilian caponata
Guided tours through the Ohio Statehouse will be provided in groups of 50 members at a time. There are three tours, starting at 8:20PM, 8:40PM, 9:00PM, and 9:20PM.
Friday, July 19
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Rehearsal
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fireside Chat with Jim Obergerfell
Hosted by: Densil R. Porteous
Executive Director/CEO of Stonewall Columbus
2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Olentangy River Band Rehearsal
We extend a heartfelt invitation to join us for a captivating "fireside chat" with none other than Jim Obergefell, a pioneer in the fight for LGBTQ+ civil rights and a driving force behind the monumental Marriage Equality Act. Hosted by Densil R. Porteous, Executive Director/CEO of Stonewall Columbus, this intimate conversation promises to be both enlightening and inspiring.
“James Obergefell (born July 7, 1966) is an American civil rights activist who was the lead plaintiff in the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage throughout the United States. Obergefell had sued the state of Ohio in 2013, due to the state's lack of legal recognition of Obergefell's marriage to his husband, John Arthur (1967–2013). Obergefell was the Democratic nominee for the 89th legislative district of the Ohio House of Representatives in the 2022 elections.” - The Washington Post
2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
President’s Circle Dinner
@ Renaissance Hotel First Floor - “The Study” Event’s Space
6:00 PM - 6:45 PM
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Big Band Sound Check
@ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor - Ballroom C-D-E
Swing Dance Lessons with SwingColumbus
@ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor - Ballroom C-D-E
Calling all conference attendees! Swing into action and join us for an exhilarating evening of swing dance lessons with SwingColumbus and the Conference Big Band. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or taking your first steps onto the dance floor, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Led by experienced instructors, you'll learn the ins and outs of swing dancing in a welcoming and supportive environment. Feel the rhythm, embrace the joy of movement, and let the music carry you away as you groove to the soulful tunes of the Conference Big Band.
It's more than just dance—it's a celebration of community, connection, and the timeless art of swing. Come join us and let's make unforgettable memories together on the dance floor!
“SwingColumbus is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit educational and social dance organization. We enjoy, evolve, preserve, study, and teach swing-era dance forms.
These American Rhythm dances come from vernacular African-American dances that co-developed with swing jazz music of the 1920s – 1940s. Social swing dance has 6-count and 8-count patterns, danced to 4/4 music with a “swung” beat.
Are you a social swing dancer?
We clap on 2 and 4. We wait to dance “in the pocket,” not on the beat. We switch dance partners and can’t wait to meet you!”
7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
9:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Big Band Concert and Swing Dance
@ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor - Ballroom C-D-E
Pride Bands Game Night
@ Renaissance Hotel Second Floor Registration Tables
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Olentangy River Band Tech Rehearsal
@ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre (77 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215)
Workshop - The Musician and Mental Health
@ Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
Workshop - Outside the Rehearsal: Practicing a Balanced & Joyful Musical Life
@ Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
Massed Band Rehearsal for Commission
11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
@ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre
Scioto River Band Tech Rehearsal
@ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre (77 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215)
Workshop - The Musician and Mental Health
@ Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
Workshop - Outside the Rehearsal: Practicing a Balanced & Joyful Musical Life
@ Hotel 2nd Floor Meeting Room 22
Jon Sims Endowment Fund Presentation
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
@ Hotel Second Floor - Meeting Room 22
Carrying on the legacy of Jon Sims, the founder of the LGBTQ+ band and chorus movement, the Jon Sims Endowment Fund for the Performing Arts is celebrating its 35th Anniversary. In honor of that date, the “Drive For 35” campaign was introduced a few months ago. Your band can earn up to $1,500 in free money on newly endowed funds!
Attend this presentation to learn more about the Jon Sims Endowment Fund and the “Drive For 35” campaign. You’ll join Pride Bands Alliance and 13 member Bands which have already invested in the $1,200,000+ Jon Sims Endowment Fund. This is a perfect opportunity to help secure your group’s future now! If your group already has endowed some funds, please attend to learn even more about your opportunities.
6:00PM
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Finale Concert Call Time
@ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre (77 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215)
Conference Finale Concert
@ Jo Ann Davidson Theatre (77 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215)
Concert Attire: Black with “a touch of rainbow”
This is a building operated by the Ohio Department of Adminstrative Services. Therefore, there are a few security considersations to understand when in the Ohio Statehouse and the Riffe Center during your conference visit.
For Thursday and Friday, participants will enter through the “employee entrance” on State street with instruments to enter more easily with large cases etc. You must wear your conference badge and check in at the security desk to be directed to the correct escalator/elevator to get to the theatre on the third floor. Cases are subject for search if warranted, therefore pack your instrument case as if you were flying with it!
Saturday, everyone should plan to come in through High Street. No metal detectors! A map is provided to show you the entries into the Riffe Center building.
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY ENTRY
10:30 PM - 12:00 AM
@ Slammers (202 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215) (0.3 miles from the host hotel)
Keep the party going after the show and join us for an epic after-concert social at Slammers Bar. Dive into a night of good vibes, great company, and delicious eats as we gather to unwind and celebrate the magic of live music.
Owned by lesbians and a beloved fixture in the community since 1993, Slammers has thrived as a beacon of inclusivity and camaraderie. People of all ages and backgrounds flock to our doors for our fantastic happy hour specials and the chance to connect with friends, old and new.
So whether you're looking to kick back after a long day or dance the night away, Slammers Bar welcomes you with open arms. Come join us and let the good times roll!
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
@ Renaissance Hotel Restaruant
Join us for a memorable conclusion to our conference journey as we gather for the Farewell Brunch at Latitude 41, nestled within the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel. We'll raise a glass to the friendships formed, the knowledge shared, and the memories created. This brunch isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of our collective achievements and the bonds that unite us. So come, join us for a morning of laughter, heartfelt farewells, and the promise of new beginnings.
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri: 6:30 AM – 10:45 PM Sat-Sun 7:00 AM – 10:45 PM
Hours of Operation: Mon-Thu, Sun: 3:00 PM-11:00 PM Fri-Sat 3:00 PM-11:30 PM
