Thursday marks the official start of NHL All-Star weekend in Columbus, with many hockey fans expected to visit Central Ohio. With the Blue Jackets still being one of the newer franchises in the league, this is a prime chance for the region to show its commitment to hosting big events.

Columbus is steadily becoming a popular location for major events. In November, the NCAA announced the city will host the 2018 Women’s Final Four; it has already hosted men’s tournament games and will do so again in March. The Arnold Sports Festival has been a popular staple every February and March, bringing in fitness experts  from around the world. The city isn’t just known for sports, however; Ohio’s capital is a finalist to host the 2016 Democratic National Convention. With Cleveland already chosen for the Republican Convention, Ohio’s status as a key political state will only grow even more.

For those headed to the festivities, there are activities planned for all ages. The outdoor ice-skating rink has already been open for several days, and the snow slide located right next to Nationwide Arena will be a big hit. The Fan Fair officially opens Friday at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, and will have interactive attractions, meet-and-greets with both active players and legends, and of course, a photo opportunity with the Stanley Cup.

As for the actual All-Star Game on Sunday, expect it to be a celebration of hockey, and the region’s history in sports. Although Blue Jackets goalie Sergei Bobrovsky will not play after picking up an injury on Wednesday, fans will still be excited to see Nick Foligno and Ryan Johansen among the other stars of the league.

Columbus has had to wait for this weekend for several years; they were originally scheduled to host in 2013, but the game was cancelled following the lockout. There was no All-Star Game in 2014 because of the Winter Olympics.

Now that Central Ohio has its chance to shine by hosting the stars of a “Big 4” league, expect them to pull out all the stops as hockey takes center stage in the Buckeye State.