About THE EVENT

Our wildly popular Book Bar is back! This is an upbeat social event for book lovers who want to mingle, read, or both.

Let’s be honest, our last Book Bar was a page-turning hit. With signature cocktails and an engaged crowd, we set the bar (pun intended) pretty high!

We’re bringing Book Bar to a brand-new spot—Grandview Cafe—and we can’t wait to welcome you for another round of good books, good drinks, and good conversation. Whether you're deep into a novel or just dipping into your latest poetry collection, this is your chance to sip, snack, and settle in with a book among fellow readers. Grab a cocktail (yes, there’ll be a themed one), order a bite to eat, and enjoy a space where you can read quietly, chat casually, or both. Stay for a few chapters or the whole night—it’s up to you.

Choose from the Event Only ticket (includes admission, one standard drink, and snacks) or upgrade to an Event + Blind Date Book Bundle ticket (includes one randomly selected “Blind Date” book, admission, one standard drink, and snacks).

Seating is limited, so grab your spot early, and let’s make this night one to remember!

Note: This is an adult-only event. All guests must be 21 or older.

Event schedule

‣ Doors Open at Grandview Cafe | 6:00 pm

Arrive at Grandview Cafe (1455 W 3rd Ave, Columbus, OH 43212; second floor) to check in, grab your standard drink vouchers, enjoy some snacks, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a special Thurber-themed cocktail! If you’ve purchased the book bundle ticket, you can pick up your “Blind Date” book during this time. Once you’re all set, find a cozy spot to settle in.

‣ Book Bar Main Event | 6:30-8 pm

Enjoy a relaxed evening of reading, eating, and mingling with fellow book lovers! Bring your own book to read or pick randomly from our carefully curated “Blind Date” books. Let’s keep the good vibes going with a night of shared literary joy!

TICKETS

‣ Event Only | $35
This ticket includes admission to the event, snacks, and one standard drink voucher.

‣ Event + Blind Date Book Bundle | $40
This ticket includes admission to the event, one randomly selected “Blind Date” book, snacks, and one standard drink voucher.

Parking

Metered street parking is available along Grandview Avenue and the surrounding side streets. There are also a few public parking lots in the area. Additionally, some local businesses have parking lots that may be available after business hours, though it's important to check signage to avoid the risk of being towed. You might also find open spaces on nearby residential streets, especially in the evening, where non-metered parking is sometimes available.

ACCESSIBILITY

Unfortunately, this event is not handicap accessible. Grandview Cafe does not have an elevator to reach the second floor meeting space.

FAQ

For any questions that are not answered here, please email jcox@thurberhouse.org.

‣ How will I receive my tickets? You will receive an email order confirmation containing your ticket(s). For expedited check in, you can print or show your ticket(s) on your phone. If you are unable to do so, we will manually check you in.

‣ Can I order tickets by phone? Yes, although online orders are encouraged. To order by phone, call 614-464-1032.

‣ Do I need to wear a mask? Masking is optional, but this policy is subject to change. Please check this page for any updates about masking.

‣ Will there be a bathroom? Yes, bathrooms will be available.

‣ What’s your refund policy? All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.

‣ What is the Columbus ticket fee? The total ticket price includes the Columbus Arts and Culture Fee as required by the City of Columbus. The Arts and Culture Fee provides public funds to support artists and arts/cultural organizations like Thurber House that educate and engage audiences of all ages. Click here for more information.

‣ Why are there processing fees? Purchases are subject to credit/debit card processing fees that help cover Thurber House's use of the registration platform. To pay by cash or check, please email thurberhouse@thurberhouse.org or call 614-464-1032.

DISCLAIMER

Views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by event and program speakers in all mediums are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Thurber House, its affiliates, or its staff/board.