The middle of Ohio is not exactly the most ideal place to spend a summer. It's easy to understand why so many of my peers describe their three-month summer breaks in Columbus as "so boring" with "nothing to do." However, one of Columbus's strengths is its vast array of concert venues and big names that stop at said venues on their tours, especially in the summer months. While there's a lot to not love about waiting in line in 90 degrees for hours, getting elbowed in the face by angsty teens in the mosh pit, getting knocked over by the 6'4 person in front of you and being rained on with no poncho for four hours, there is a reason people still buy tickets to these things. Concerts are a great way to spend a summer night, and this summer Columbus is host to an extensive list of must-see shows.

1. Chance the Rapper

Anyone who doesn't have tickets for Chance at Nationwide on Tuesday, May 16th yet is obviously not actually a 15-22 year old from Columbus.

2. The 1975

I don't know why you wouldn't want to witness Matty Healy's hair live at EXPRESS LIVE on Saturday, June 3rd.

3. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

A very necessary throwback coming to the Schottenstein Center on Wednesday, June 7th.

4. Twenty One Pilots

Three hometown shows, three locations, three nights in a row. The Basement on June 20th, Newport Music Hall on June 21st and EXPRESS LIVE on June 22nd.

5. Foster the People

This CD102.5 presented show at Newport Music Hall on Thursday, July 27th is a necessity.

6. Young the Giant and Cold War Kids

Another gem presented by CD102.5 to close out your summer with another outdoor show at EXPRESS LIVE on Sunday, September 10th.

Go out to these concerts this summer! I'll see you there.