About THE EVENT

Join us for a cozy and charming evening at Sidebar as we celebrate the joy of reading and good company! On Thursday, February 13, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, grab your favorite book, enjoy light appetizers and drinks (including a Thurber-themed cocktail), and mingle with fellow book lovers in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a casual reader or a literary aficionado, this event is all about connecting with others over your shared love of books.

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

Thanks to the incredible generosity of anonymous donors, this evening is a fundraiser for Thurber House and 97% of every ticket sale fully goes to our nonprofit.

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 Sidebar | 6:00 pm

Arrive at Sidebar (122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215; second floor) to check in, grab your standard drink voucher, enjoy light appetizers, 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, and settle in for a cozy night of shared literary joy! Every ticket includes light appetizers and one standard drink. A fun Thurber-themed cocktail is also available for purchase. Whether you’re here for the books, the drinks, or the company, it’s the perfect setting to meet other local book lovers!

TICKETS

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

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

Parking

Sidebar (122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215) offers free, limited parking at the rear of their building after 6:30 pm. Additionally, there is metered street parking all along Main St., and there are two parking lots at the corner of 3rd and Main St.

ACCESSIBILITY

This event is handicap accessible. Sidebar has 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.