Frequently Asked Questions

When does the conference begin? 

LABash starts on Wednesday, March 11, with registration opening at 3:30 PM at Knowlton Hall and evening events running through 9:00 PM. 

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Where do I check in? 

​​All registration takes place at Knowlton Hall

• Wednesday: 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM 

• Thursday & Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

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What happens on Day 1? 

Day 1 is about arrival and settling in. You can register, tour Knowlton Hall, join a sketch walk, attend the welcome event, eat at food​​ trucks, and end the night with trivia and games. 

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When does the Expo run? 

• Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 

• Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:30 PM 

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The Expo is the heart of LABash, where you meet firms, vendors, and organizations. 

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Are there breaks built into the schedule? 

• Yes! There are breaks for lunch and snacks throughout the conference as well as mini games and trivia. 

• Wednesday: Food trucks at Knowlton Hall during the evening event. 

• Thursday includes breakfast with coffee, boxed lunch, snacks, hors d’oeuvres, and evening events. 

• Friday includes coffee and light breakfast, donuts, boxed lunch, and a closing dinner. 

How do sessions work? 

Each day has multiple talks, panels, and workshops happening at the same time. ​​You choose what fits your interests, whether that is design theory, professional development, technical training, or cultural practice. You can also curate your personalized schedule using the Whova app. 

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Where can I get LABash merch? 

LABash merchandise will be available in the Expo area at Knowlton Hall during Expo hours on Thursday and Friday. Look for the dedicated merch table near the main floor. Items may include shirts, stickers, and other conference gear, available while supplies last. 

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What should I wear to LABash? 

Dress for a balance of professionalism and practicality. Indoor sessions, networking, and social  events call for business-casual attire, while field sessions require comfortable, durable clothing suitable for walking and standing outdoors. Be sure to look at the weather before attending to pack accordingly and plan for changing conditions with items like a light rain jacket, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 

 

Where should I park? 

The LABash shuttle runs to and from partner hotels to help avoid parking on campus. Parking is available in campus garages near Knowlton Hall and the Blackburn Building on The Ohio State University campus. Specific garage locations, rates, and directions will be shared closer to the event so you can plan where to leave your car. 

 

Can I use public transportation to get to campus? 

Yes. Columbus’s public bus system, COTA, serves the Ohio State campus and the broader city. If you’re an OSU student with a BuckID and the COTA fee on your account, you can ride COTA buses at no extra cost by swiping your BuckID when boarding. If you’re not using a BuckID pass, you can plan your trip and pay with the Transit app or cash. 

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Are there tours and hands-on activities? 

​​Yes. Both Thursday and Friday include guided tours, workshops, and long-form hands-on sessions 

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The sessions available include:

- Mycotecture: Building with Fungi 

- Log Charring Atelier and a Prairie with Nine Rooms 

- Landscape Architecture at the Columbus Zoo  

- Exploring Ohio State's Iconic Landscapes

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For more information on these sessions and how to add it to your registration visit the → Immersive Sessions page

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What are the evenings like? 

Evenings are social and celebratory. 

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• Wednesday ends with trivia and games. 

• Thursday features the Julia Watson keynote followed by Land8 Happy Hour. 

• Friday closes with dinner and celebration. 

 

​​Do I have to attend everything?

No. The schedule is full by design. You can move at your own pace, pick sessions that matter to you, and take breaks when needed. 

What are some fun things to do in Columbus? 
Columbus offers arts, food, outdoor activities, and live entertainment for all ages. 

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• Distinct neighborhoods like the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Downtown each have their own charm, filled with local shops, cafés, and restaurants.  

• The city is also home to popular destinations such as Columbus Museum of Art, Urban Arts Space, Franklin Park Conservatory, COSI, and the Ohio History Center. 

• Enjoy biking or walking the Scioto Mile or visiting nearby metro parks. 

• Be sure to check out North Market, along with the city’s many local breweries and coffee shops.