Columbus, OH – Central Ohio is bracing for a series of demonstrations this weekend, collectively known as “No Kings” protests, focused on opposition to policies associated with the Trump Administration. Organizers anticipate a significant turnout, potentially reaching 15,000 people at the main event scheduled for the Ohio Statehouse on March 28th. These protests represent a continuation of activism that began in 2025, responding to shifts in federal policy and a renewed focus on issues of social and economic justice.
The “No Kings” movement, as it has develop into known, initially gained momentum in June 2025 with protests against federal immigration policies. The name itself is a rejection of what organizers describe as authoritarian tendencies and a call for a more equitable and democratic society. While the specific policies targeted have evolved, the core message remains consistent: a demand for accountability and a challenge to what protesters view as an erosion of democratic principles. Understanding where and when these protests are taking place is crucial for both those planning to participate and those navigating the city this weekend.
Central Protest: Ohio Statehouse Rally
The largest and most visible demonstration is planned for 4 p.m. On March 28th at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus. Organizers have secured permits and are coordinating with local law enforcement to ensure a safe and peaceful event. Participants are expected to gather on the Statehouse grounds to voice their concerns and hear from speakers representing a range of activist groups. The focus of this rally will be on a number of Trump Administration policies, including recent changes to environmental regulations and proposed cuts to social safety net programs.
A Network of Demonstrations Across Central Ohio
Beyond the main rally, a coordinated network of smaller protests is planned throughout central Ohio on Saturday. These events are designed to bring the message of the “No Kings” movement to a wider audience and demonstrate broad-based opposition to the targeted policies. The organizers, through their website nokings.org, have published a detailed schedule of locations and times for these satellite protests.
Protest Locations and Times
Here’s a comprehensive list of the planned demonstrations throughout Central Ohio on March 28th:
- New Albany: 10-11 a.m., 99 W. Main St.
- Columbus: 10-11 a.m., at the corner of Neil Avenue and Goodale Boulevard.
- Forest Park: 10-11:30 a.m., Karl Road and Sandalwood Boulevard.
- Lancaster: 10 a.m.-Noon, 104 N. Broad St.
- Reynoldsburg: 10 a.m.-Noon, 7232 E. Main St.
- Sunbury: 11 a.m.-Noon, 51 E. Cherry St.
- Marysville: 11 a.m.-1 p.m., South Main and East 5th streets.
- Clintonville: Noon-1 p.m., North High and East North Broadway streets.
- German Village: Noon-1 p.m., 1069 Jaeger St.
- Delaware: Noon-1:30 p.m., 1 S. Sandusky St.
- London: Noon-1:30 p.m., 1 N. Main St.
- Upper Arlington/Grandview: Noon-1:30 p.m., West Lane Avenue and North Star Road. Do not park in Lane Avenue shopping center.
- Bexley: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., South Drexel Avenue and East Broad Street
- Newark: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., 20 S. 2nd St.
- Westerville: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., 21 S. State St.
- Zanesville: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Main Street.
- Pickerington: 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m., Ohio 256 and Refugee Road
- Worthington: 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m., Ohio 161 and North High Street
- Hilliard: 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m., location available here.
- Mount Vernon: 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m., Mount Vernon Public Square.
- Grove City: 2 p.m.-3 p.m., 4035 Harrisburg Pike
- Guernsey County: 2 p.m.-3 p.m., 801 Wheeling Ave.
- Springfield: 2 p.m.-4 p.m., 70 E. High St.
- Columbus Easton (Tesla dealership): 4 p.m., 3883 Gramercy St.
Previous Demonstrations and Context
These planned protests build on a series of “No Kings” demonstrations that took place in October 2025 and throughout the latter half of the year.
Earlier protests focused heavily on federal immigration policies and concerns about the treatment of asylum seekers. The movement has since broadened its scope to encompass a wider range of issues, including environmental protection, voting rights, and economic inequality.
Planning for Potential Disruptions
Local authorities are preparing for potential traffic disruptions and are advising residents to plan accordingly. The Columbus Division of Police has announced increased patrols in areas where protests are planned and is urging participants to exercise their right to peaceful assembly responsibly. Motorists are encouraged to avoid the area around the Statehouse on Saturday afternoon and to seek alternate routes.
Organizers have emphasized their commitment to non-violent protest and are working with legal observers to monitor the demonstrations and ensure that participants’ rights are protected. They are also providing resources for protesters, including information on legal rights and de-escalation techniques.
Looking ahead, organizers have indicated that they plan to continue the “No Kings” protests as long as they believe the policies they oppose remain in effect. A follow-up rally is tentatively scheduled for April, with a specific date and location to be announced in the coming days. Updates and further information can be found on the nokings.org website.
We encourage readers to share their experiences and perspectives on these events in the comments below.
