Nicki Minaj, a Columbus Zoo Exhibit, Napoleon Dynamite Live and More Top Picks for April

A curated list of things to see and do in Columbus for the month of April

Unextinct 

Through April 27

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium adds a new experience to its special-events lineup with this all-ages evening production focused on conservation. Unextinct, created by former Disney Imagineers from Mangolin Creative, uses digital theatrical effects to educate visitors about more than 70 endangered and extinct species. columbuszoo.org/unextinct  

Nicki Minaj

April 12

In 2010, Minaj released blockbuster debut Pink Friday, but just before that, the singer and rapper’s jaw-dropping feature on Kanye West’s “Monster” revealed what she could do on the mic, making verses by Jay-Z and West sound like nursery rhymes. Minaj went on to sell 100 million records. She’ll visit the Schottenstein Center with opener Monica. schottensteincenter.com 

Greater Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival

April 13

Who doesn't love the look (and smell) of a cherry blossom tree? This gathering—inspired by the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., and presented by the International Voluntary Organizations—celebrates the spectacular blossoms of more than 100 trees at the Franklin Park grounds from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. ivocolumbusoh.org  

Napoleon Dynamite Live

April 19

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of this beloved (and highly quotable) indie film—an underdog movie about an underdog character that continues to win over audiences with its quirky charm. Following a screening at KEMBA Live, cast members Jon Heder (Napoleon) and Efren Ramirez (Pedro) will participate in a moderated panel discussion. promowestlive.com  

NRBQ

April 26

Ever since pianist Terry Adams and guitarist Steve Ferguson founded the New Rhythm and Blues Quartet in the ’60s, the beloved bar band has proved you can make a career performing songs with one common ingredient: fun. At Natalie’s, Adams will take the stage with musicians Scott Ligon and Casey McDonough, also of the Flat Five. nataliesgrandview.com 

Opportunities to Give Back

April 6 | Hunger Run 

This annual race supports the NSI Food Pantry, which serves the University District neighborhood and surrounding areas. Antiques on High will host an after-party following the 5K at Scioto Audubon Metro Park. nsifoodpantry.org 

April 20 | Furniture Bank Day 

Furniture Bank of Central Ohio is seeking volunteers to help accept donated furniture and household items during the nonprofit’s annual Furniture Bank Day program. furniturebankcoh.org  

April 26 | Opera Columbus Gala 

The opera company will host its annual fundraiser at Vitria on the Square in the University District, with a program that includes cocktails, dinner, entertainment and an after-party. PNC Central Ohio president Mary Auch will be honored at the event. operacolumbus.org  

This story is from the April 2024 issue of Columbus Monthly.