Campfire Across America 2026
On Wednesday, July 22, YMCAs across the country will come together for Campfire Across America, a one-night celebration of connection, community and belonging as part of the YMCA's 175th anniversary and 171 years of serving Central Ohio.
For generations, campfires have brought people together to share stories, build friendships and create lasting memories. This summer, YMCAs in all 50 states will take part in this nationwide tradition, highlighting the YMCA's role as a place where everyone belongs.
Join us at your local YMCA for an evening inspired by the magic of summer camp. Families can enjoy camp-themed activities, games, swimming, s'mores and more. Activities will vary by location.
Who Can Attend? YMCA members, YMCA Summer Camp families and Guests of YMCA members. Members are encouraged to bring a friend or neighboring family with a complimentary guest pass during the event.
Share Your Story: It’s not a campfire without storytelling! Share your YMCA story with us.
Center Locations and Activities
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 6:00 - 8:00 pm
1121 South Houk Road, Delaware, OH 43015
Campfire Fun
- Pool Party – Cool off with an evening swim.
- S'mores on the Grill – Roast marshmallows and enjoy a campfire treat.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 5:00pm - 8:00pm
300 Sloan Blvd., Bellefontaine, OH 43311
Campfire Fun
- Pool Party – Cool off with an evening swim.
- BBQ S'mores Station – Roast marshmallows and enjoy a campfire treat.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
- Music – Will be played around the campfire.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
130 Woodland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43203
Campfire Fun
- Camp Themes – Membership Appreciation Day with camp-themed activities.
- Participants – Day Campers and Teen Campers participating with members.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
- Snacks – Provided for morning and evening members outside of event time.
- Outdoor Access – Outside area is off limits during the event.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 6:30pm - 8:00pm
555 YMCA Place, Gahanna, OH 43230
Campfire Fun
- Marshmallows – Roast and enjoy campfire treats.
- Camp Songs – Sing together around the campfire.
- Yard Games – Family-friendly outdoor activities behind the Y.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
3600 Discovery Drive, Grove City, OH 43123
Campfire Fun
- Cookout – Hot Dogs & Popcorn
- S'mores – Trail mix
- Crafts
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
4515 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, OH 43026
Campfire Fun
- Camp Songs – Sing together around the campfire.
- S'mores on the Grill – Roast marshmallows and enjoy a campfire treat.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
2879 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, OH 43204
Campfire Fun
- Camp Songs – Sing together around the campfire.
- S'mores on the Grill – Roast marshmallows and enjoy a campfire treat.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
7798 Liberty Road N., Powell, OH 43065
Campfire Fun
- Pool Party – Cool off with an evening swim.
- S'mores Station – Roast marshmallows over a BBQ grill.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 6:00pm - 8:00pm
1640 Sandalwood Place, Columbus, OH 43229
Campfire Fun
- S'mores over the Grill – Roast marshmallows and enjoy campfire treats.
- Outdoor Activities – Pavilion games and family activities.
- Inflatable Flame – Featuring S’more granola bars, activities, and storytelling.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
440 Nicholas Drive, Circleville, OH 43113
Campfire Fun
- Backyard Area Activities – Outdoor games, campfire-style and enjoy campfire treats.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.
Time: Wednesday, July 22 - 6:30pm - 8:00pm
1470 Davidson Drive, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Campfire Fun
- Indoor Campfire – Campfire experience held inside the gym.
- Camp Songs & Games – Family-friendly activities and entertainment.
- Members & Families – Open to all YMCA members and families.