How to Attend Storytelling Nights in Columbus

Storytelling nights in Columbus, Ohio, are more than just evening events—they are vibrant cultural gatherings where personal narratives, folklore, humor, and raw emotion come alive under dim lights and attentive audiences. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a recent transplant, or a visitor drawn to the city’s thriving arts scene, attending a storytelling night offers a unique window into the soul of Columbus. These events foster community, celebrate diverse voices, and transform ordinary experiences into unforgettable moments. Unlike traditional theater or poetry slams, storytelling nights prioritize authenticity over performance, making them accessible to everyone—regardless of background or experience.

For many, the idea of attending a storytelling night may feel intimidating. What should you wear? How do you find the right event? Do you need to tell a story yourself? This guide demystifies the entire process, offering a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you not only attend but truly engage with Columbus’s storytelling scene. From discovering hidden venues to understanding the unwritten etiquette, this tutorial equips you with everything you need to feel confident, connected, and inspired.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know where to look, how to prepare, what to expect, and how to become a regular part of this enriching tradition. Columbus has one of the most dynamic and inclusive storytelling communities in the Midwest—and you’re about to become part of it.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What Storytelling Nights Are

Before you can attend a storytelling night, it’s essential to understand what makes it distinct from other live performances. Storytelling nights are typically intimate, unscripted gatherings where individuals share true, personal stories on a given theme—such as “Firsts,” “Lost and Found,” or “Home.” These stories are delivered orally, often without notes, and rely on vocal tone, pacing, and emotional honesty rather than props, costumes, or lighting effects.

In Columbus, these events are often hosted in cozy venues like independent bookstores, cafes, community centers, or even libraries. Unlike open mic nights that welcome poetry, music, or comedy, storytelling nights focus exclusively on narrative structure: a clear beginning, middle, and end, with emotional stakes and a resonant takeaway. The goal isn’t to entertain in a flashy way, but to connect—to make the audience feel seen, heard, or moved.

Knowing this helps set the right expectations. You’re not going to see a stand-up comedian doing impressions or a musician strumming a guitar. You’re going to hear someone talk about their first job, the day they moved away from home, or how they found courage after a loss. The power lies in the simplicity.

Step 2: Research Upcoming Events

The key to attending a storytelling night is knowing when and where they happen. Columbus has several recurring storytelling series, each with its own flavor and audience. Start by exploring the following established platforms:

• The Moth Columbus – A chapter of the nationally renowned Moth organization, which hosts monthly events at venues like the Lincoln Theatre or the Wexner Center for the Arts. Themes are announced in advance, and storytellers are often selected through submissions.
• Storytellers of Columbus – A community-driven group that meets biweekly at The Loft Literary Center. Their events are open to anyone who signs up on the spot, making them ideal for first-timers.
• True Story Columbus – Hosted at the historic Southern Theater, this series focuses on stories of identity, resilience, and transformation. They often partner with local nonprofits and feature underrepresented voices.
• Story Slam at the Columbus Metropolitan Library – Free monthly events held at various branches. These are family-friendly and encourage stories from all ages.

Use search terms like “Columbus storytelling night calendar” or “true stories Columbus events” in your browser. Bookmark the websites of The Loft Literary Center (theloft.org), The Moth (themoth.org), and the Columbus Metropolitan Library (cml.org). Subscribe to their newsletters—they often send event reminders a week in advance.

Also follow local arts and culture Instagram accounts like @columbusarts, @theloftcolumbus, and @truestorycolumbus. Many events are promoted visually with vibrant graphics and short video teasers from past nights, giving you a sense of the atmosphere.

Step 3: Choose the Right Event for You

Not all storytelling nights are the same. Some are formal, with curated storytellers and reserved seating. Others are casual, with open mic slots and standing room only. Consider what kind of experience you’re seeking:

• If you’re nervous about participating, choose a listener-focused event like The Moth or True Story Columbus. These events feature trained storytellers, so you can simply absorb the experience.
• If you want to test the waters as a potential storyteller, opt for a community open mic like Storytellers of Columbus. You can sign up at the door, and hosts are trained to support newcomers.
• If you’re looking for something family-friendly or educational, attend a library-hosted event. These often include interactive elements and are great for introducing children to the power of narrative.

Read event descriptions carefully. Some may specify “stories must be true and under 7 minutes,” while others may invite “fictional tales inspired by real emotions.” Clarifying these details helps you align your expectations and comfort level.

Step 4: Register or Sign Up (If Required)

Some events require advance registration, especially if they’re held in smaller venues with limited capacity. For example, The Moth Columbus often uses Eventbrite to manage attendance. If registration is required, sign up as soon as tickets become available—these events frequently sell out.

For open mic nights, registration is usually done on-site. Arrive 30–45 minutes early to put your name on the list. Hosts typically call names in the order they’re received, so being early increases your chances of being selected. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not chosen that night—many people try multiple times before getting a slot.

If you’re unsure whether to sign up as a storyteller, start as an audience member. Observe how others structure their stories, how the audience reacts, and how the host facilitates transitions. This builds confidence and gives you a blueprint for when you’re ready to share your own.

Step 5: Prepare to Attend (Logistics and Mindset)

Once you’ve selected your event, prepare practically:

• Location: Use Google Maps to check the venue’s exact address, parking options, and public transit routes. Many events are in the Short North, Near East Side, or Downtown—areas with good walkability and bike access.
• Arrival Time: Aim to arrive 20–30 minutes before start time. This gives you time to find seating, grab a drink, and settle in.
• What to Bring: A notebook and pen can be helpful for jotting down ideas or reflections. A phone is fine, but silence it. No flash photography is allowed—this is about presence, not documentation.
• What to Wear: Columbus storytelling nights are casual. Jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes are the norm. You’re not attending a gala—you’re gathering with neighbors to listen to human experiences.

Equally important is your mindset. Go in with curiosity, not judgment. Some stories may be uncomfortable, funny, or unexpectedly profound. Let yourself feel whatever arises. Your role as an attendee is not to analyze or critique, but to witness.

Step 6: Engage During the Event

When the event begins, follow these cues:

• Listen attentively. Maintain eye contact with the storyteller when appropriate. Nodding or smiling subtly shows you’re present.
• Avoid talking, texting, or rustling wrappers. These events thrive on silence between stories—it’s part of the emotional rhythm.
• Applaud after each story. It’s not about the quality of the performance, but about honoring the courage it took to share.
• If the host invites audience questions or reflections afterward, only speak if you feel moved to do so. Keep it brief: “That reminded me of my grandmother,” or “I felt that deeply.”

Most hosts will open a brief Q&A or a moment of reflection after each story. This is not a time for debate or advice-giving. It’s a space to say, “Thank you for sharing,” or “I’ve never thought about it that way.”

Step 7: After the Event – Reflect and Connect

The experience doesn’t end when the lights come up. Take 10 minutes after the event to reflect:

• What story moved you the most? Why?
• Did any story challenge your assumptions?
• Would you feel comfortable sharing your own story next time?

Consider writing a short journal entry or sharing your thoughts with a friend. Many attendees form lasting connections through these reflections.

If you’re interested in becoming a storyteller, start drafting your story. Use the themes from past events as inspiration. Don’t worry about perfection—focus on truth. A simple, honest story about a missed bus or a quiet moment with a parent can be more powerful than a dramatic tale.

Follow the event organizers on social media. Many post photos, quotes, or even audio clips from the night. Engaging with their content helps you stay informed about future events and builds a sense of belonging.

Step 8: Consider Becoming a Storyteller

One of the most rewarding aspects of attending storytelling nights is the possibility of sharing your own story. You don’t need to be a writer, actor, or public speaker. You just need something real to say.

Start small. Write down a 3–5 minute story from your life. Focus on one moment, not your whole life story. Use sensory details: What did you see? Smell? Feel? What did you think in that moment?

Practice aloud. Record yourself on your phone. Listen back. Does it flow? Is there a clear emotional arc? Trim unnecessary details.

When you’re ready, sign up for an open mic night. Tell the host it’s your first time—they’ll likely offer encouragement and help you feel at ease. Many storytellers say their first time was terrifying… and the most freeing thing they’ve ever done.

Best Practices

Be Present, Not a Spectator

The most common mistake attendees make is treating storytelling nights like a show to be consumed. They come with their phones out, checking messages or scrolling through feeds. This breaks the sacred contract of the space: that everyone is here to be fully human together.

Put your phone away. Breathe. Let the silence between stories breathe with you. When someone shares a story about grief, joy, or transformation, allow yourself to feel it—not intellectually, but viscerally.

Respect the Theme

Every storytelling night has a theme. “Second Chances,” “Becoming,” “The Body Keeps the Score”—these aren’t just titles. They’re invitations to explore specific emotional territory.

If you’re a storyteller, align your story with the theme. If you’re an attendee, listen for how each story connects to it. This creates cohesion and depth. A story about a failed job interview might seem mundane, but if the theme is “Failure as a Teacher,” it becomes powerful.

Don’t Compare Stories

It’s easy to think, “My life isn’t as dramatic as theirs.” But storytelling isn’t about scale—it’s about sincerity. A story about learning to cook for the first time can be just as moving as surviving a natural disaster, if it’s told with emotional truth.

Resist the urge to measure your experience against others. The power of storytelling lies in its universality, not its uniqueness.

Support the Hosts and Organizers

Storytelling nights are often run by volunteers or small nonprofit teams. They work tirelessly to secure venues, promote events, and create safe spaces. Show appreciation by:

• Donating if there’s a suggested contribution (even $5 helps).
• Volunteering to help set up or greet guests.
• Sharing the event with friends on social media.

These events survive because of community support. Your participation, even as a listener, sustains them.

Practice Active Listening

Active listening means more than hearing words. It means noticing pauses, tone shifts, and body language. When someone’s voice cracks, don’t look away. When they laugh nervously, smile back. These moments are where connection happens.

After the event, try to recall one detail from a story—not the plot, but a sensory detail: the smell of rain on a porch, the sound of a clock ticking in an empty house. That’s the mark of true listening.

Keep It Confidential

Storytelling is vulnerable. Someone may share a secret, a trauma, or a deeply personal realization. Never repeat their story outside the room. Even if you’re moved to tell a friend, “You won’t believe what someone shared tonight,” don’t. Protect their privacy. What’s said in the circle stays in the circle.

Arrive Early, Leave Gracefully

Arriving late disrupts the flow. Leaving early—especially before the final story—is considered disrespectful. These events often build toward a crescendo. Stay until the end. If you must leave early, do so quietly during applause, not during silence.

Tools and Resources

Online Platforms and Calendars

• Eventbrite – Search “Columbus storytelling” for ticketed events with detailed descriptions and host bios.
• Meetup.com – Look for groups like “Columbus Storytelling Circle” or “True Story Columbus.” Many informal gatherings happen here.
• Facebook Events – Local arts pages often post last-minute openings or pop-up events.
• Theloft.org – The Loft Literary Center’s calendar is the most comprehensive source for recurring storytelling events in Columbus.
• Themoth.org – The national Moth site includes a “Find a StorySLAM” tool with Columbus dates.
• Columbus Metropolitan Library Events Calendar – Free, family-friendly storytelling nights at neighborhood branches.

Books to Inspire Your Story

Reading stories by others can help you find your own voice:

• The Moth: 50 True Stories – A collection of award-winning tales from the national stage.
• Hold On, But Not Too Tight by Kim Rosen – A guide to the art of oral storytelling.
• Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks – Teaches how to find stories in everyday moments.
• Born a Crime by Trevor Noah – A masterclass in blending humor, pain, and insight.

Podcasts to Listen To

Listen to these for rhythm, pacing, and emotional structure:

• The Moth Podcast – The gold standard for true storytelling.
• This American Life – Narrative journalism with deep emotional arcs.
• Humans of New York – Short, powerful monologues from everyday people.
• Small Town Dicks – A podcast with a storytelling format that blends mystery and memoir.

Writing Prompts for Aspiring Storytellers

Use these to spark ideas for your own story:

• What’s a moment you thought would break you… but didn’t?
• Describe a place you left—and what you still carry with you.
• When did someone see you in a way you didn’t see yourself?
• What’s a small act of kindness that changed your day?
• What did you learn from a mistake no one else knew about?

Local Workshops and Classes

Several organizations offer free or low-cost storytelling workshops:

• The Loft Literary Center – Offers “Storytelling 101” monthly workshops.
• Ohio State University’s Continuing Education – Occasionally hosts community storytelling classes.
• StoryCenter – A national nonprofit with local affiliates that runs oral history projects.

These classes help you structure your story, manage nerves, and refine your delivery. Even one session can transform your confidence.

Real Examples

Example 1: “The Last Text Message” – A Storyteller’s Journey

At a True Story Columbus event in March 2023, a 32-year-old graphic designer named Lena took the mic. Her story: “The Last Text Message.” She spoke about receiving a text from her estranged father on the day he died—a simple “Hope you’re okay.” She hadn’t replied. She hadn’t spoken to him in three years.

She didn’t cry. She didn’t raise her voice. She described the sound of her phone buzzing on the kitchen counter, the way the light from the screen reflected on the coffee mug she’d been staring at. She talked about the guilt that followed—not for the argument, but for the silence that followed it.

The room was silent for 12 seconds after she finished. Then, applause. One woman stood up and said, “I sent a text like that too. I didn’t realize how heavy silence could be.”

Lena didn’t win anything. She didn’t get a prize. But she walked out with tears in her eyes and a stranger’s hug. That’s the power of storytelling.

Example 2: “The Library That Saved Me” – A Community Story

In November 2022, a 14-year-old named Jamal told his story at the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Story Slam. He spoke about being bullied in middle school, how he spent lunch breaks hiding in the library, and how a librarian named Ms. Rivera noticed him every day and quietly left a book on his table—always a novel about a boy who felt alone.

He didn’t know she was doing it until one day he found a note: “You’re not the only one. Keep reading.”

He ended his story by saying, “I’m here now. I’m in the gifted program. I’m writing my own book. And I’m going to be a librarian one day.”

Three adults in the audience cried. Two teenagers came up to him afterward and said, “I do that too.”

That night, the library started a “Book for a Quiet Kid” program—donating books to students who seem withdrawn. It began with one story.

Example 3: “The Uninvited Guest” – A First-Time Storyteller

At a Storytellers of Columbus open mic, a retired teacher named Carol signed up on a whim. She’d never spoken in public since her retirement. Her story: “The Uninvited Guest.”

She told how, during a quiet dinner with her husband, a man she hadn’t seen in 40 years walked in—the man she’d loved before her husband. He was dying. He didn’t say much. Just, “I’m sorry.” She didn’t say anything back.

She spoke slowly. She paused often. She didn’t try to make it dramatic. She just said, “I didn’t know how to say goodbye to someone I never said hello to.”

Afterward, a woman in the front row whispered, “My mother did the same thing. I didn’t understand why she never talked about it until now.”

Carol didn’t plan to tell another story. But she started attending every month. She says, “I thought I was there to listen. But I needed to be heard.”

FAQs

Do I need to tell a story to attend a storytelling night?

No. You can attend purely as a listener. Many people do. The experience is just as valuable whether you’re on stage or in the audience.

Are storytelling nights only for people who’ve had dramatic lives?

No. The most powerful stories often come from quiet moments: a first kiss, a lost sock, a shared silence. It’s not about what happened—it’s about how it felt.

How long should my story be if I want to tell one?

Most events require stories to be 5–7 minutes long. That’s roughly 600–800 words. Practice timing yourself. It’s better to be concise than to ramble.

Can I bring my kids?

It depends on the event. Library-hosted Story Slams are family-friendly. The Moth and True Story Columbus are usually for ages 16+. Always check the event description.

What if I get nervous telling my story?

You will. Everyone does. The host will likely offer you water, a moment to breathe, or even a cue card if you need it. You’re not expected to be perfect. You’re expected to be real.

Is there a cost to attend?

Most events suggest a donation of $5–$10, but no one is turned away for lack of funds. Some are completely free. Pay what you can.

Can I record the stories?

No. Recording is prohibited to protect the privacy and vulnerability of storytellers. You’re welcome to take notes, but not audio or video.

How often do these events happen?

At least once a week in Columbus. Some venues host weekly, others monthly. Check calendars regularly—new events pop up all the time.

What if I don’t have a story ready?

That’s okay. Attend anyway. Sometimes, hearing others’ stories sparks your own. Keep a journal. Start collecting moments that move you.

Conclusion

Attending a storytelling night in Columbus isn’t just an evening out—it’s an act of quiet rebellion against the noise of modern life. In a world saturated with curated content, algorithm-driven feeds, and performative personas, these gatherings offer something rare: authenticity. They remind us that we are not alone in our joys, our regrets, our silences, or our small, sacred triumphs.

Whether you come as a listener, a first-time storyteller, or a regular face in the crowd, you become part of something larger than yourself. You join a tradition that has existed since humans first gathered around fires to share their fears and dreams. Columbus, with its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and resilient spirit, is a perfect canvas for this art.

Start small. Go to one event. Sit in the back. Listen. Let a story move you. Then, next time, sit closer. Then, maybe, sign your name on the list. You don’t need to be brave. You just need to show up.

The stories are waiting. And so is your voice.