Events in Columbia, SC

Bring your favorite deck or board game for a relaxed tabletop meetup featuring Magic and more. Drop in to play at no cost, enjoy complimentary coffee, and settle in at available tables, which are offered on a first come first served basis. Participants under 18 need to attend with a parent or guardian.

The Night Shift at Re•Find is held on the final Friday of each month as an after-hours outing with shopping, food trucks from the area, and beer and wine served by Craft & Draft. Attendees can hunt for one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, wander through vendor stalls, and enjoy a relaxed community vibe. It is an easygoing night where friends can share a drink and make an evening of it.

Meet the authors of Loving Me to Pieces in person at VIBEZ.Coffee. Talk about the book, ask questions, and pick up a signed copy in a relaxed, casual setting alongside other readers. Admission is $20, sent via Cash App to $Piecesnonprofit. After payment, register on Eventbrite.

Shot Thru the Heart returns to the Icehouse with a powerhouse tribute to Bon Jovi, presented by TJP and O'Hara's Public House. Expect an arena-sized surge of rock energy as the band channels the sound, style, and showmanship that made the group a global phenomenon. The set features crowd favorites including "Livin' on a Prayer," "You Give Love a Bad Name," "Wanted Dead or Alive," "Bad Medicine," and "It's My Life." An experienced lineup delivers performances that feel true to the originals, creating the atmosphere of a classic Bon Jovi concert for longtime followers and newer listeners alike. Event guidelines: no freestanding chairs and no outside food or drinks. The performance will proceed in all weather conditions.

WWE's NXT comes back to Columbia for a live show at The Township Auditorium. The lineup highlights NXT Champion Tony D'Angelo, NXT Women's Champion Lola Vice, NXT North American Champion Myles Borne, North American Women's Champion Zaria, along with Keanu Carver, Kendal Grey, Shiloh Hill, Jaida Parker, Naraku, and others.

Rock out on the patio at LJ’s Par & Grill in an open air setting made for music.

Twilight screens as part of the Late Night Staff Pick Series, a program where Nick staff members choose films they believe the audience will enjoy, spanning genres from classic horror to screwball comedies and more, with each title presented as a single-night screening. The story follows seventeen-year-old Bella Swan after she moves to Forks, Washington to live with her father. She is drawn to the enigmatic Edward Cullen and soon learns he is a vampire, setting the stage for a relationship tested as Edward and his family work to protect her from a dangerous coven targeting her. Directed by Catherine Hardwicke and adapted from Stephenie Meyer’s bestselling novel, the film became a major commercial success, earning over $407 million worldwide on a modest budget and setting a then-record opening weekend for a film directed by a woman, surpassing Deep Impact.

The inaugural Irmo Okra Strut 5K Run/Walk welcomes participants of all abilities to a level, speedy route through the community that concludes at the Okra Strut parade. Presented by Palmetto Citizens with support from Elite Personal Training, 33/18 Chiropractic & Wellness, and The Templeton Group of Cornerstone Financial Management, the event offers chip timed results for every entrant, a premium race shirt for registered runners and walkers, and a custom medal at the finish. After crossing the line, participants can enjoy refreshments and continue the celebration with parade and festival activities.

Now in its 14th year, the Columbia WALK to End Hydrocephalus brings people together to honor warriors and raise awareness about hydrocephalus. This community walk focuses on solidarity and support, offering a meaningful way to recognize strength and spotlight the cause.

Created by the Future Leaders in Medicine Group, this annual 5K fun run at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, SC brings medical students from across the country together to support Curing Kids Cancer and advance critical pediatric research. The event welcomes all ages and running abilities, whether aiming for a fast finish or enjoying a relaxed run for a meaningful cause. Teams of four or more get a $5 per person discount on individual registration, and the top three teams receive a special award on race day.

A gala is on the calendar, and the official start time will be shared on the event website. Please check the site for the latest schedule information and any updates before you make plans.

Now in its fourth year, the Caregiver’s Gala centers on the theme Bridges, emphasizing stronger connections between kinship caregivers and the essential supports that help the children they nurture. Across communities, grandparents, relatives, and close family friends often step into crucial caregiving roles with little preparation and steady dedication, holding families together while carrying significant responsibility. This event both celebrates their resilience and encourages wider support. The awareness it builds, along with funds raised, fuels the growth of programs that link families with support services, advocacy, training opportunities, and wellness resources.

Cola Cafe Fest 2026 debuts as a celebration of coffee, tea, pastries, desserts, and cafe culture at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Local and regional cafes, coffee roasters, tea brands, bakeries, dessert makers, specialty drink vendors, and artisan food businesses come together for a marketplace of unique sips and treats. Explore new favorite cafes, shop from artisan vendors, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy a Latte Art Throwdown Competition. Expect boba and creative beverages, matcha and tea offerings, photogenic drinks, and chances to meet the people behind popular local brands. This first-ever festival spotlights the growing cafe scene in Columbia and across the Southeast.

Historic Columbia leads a guided walking tour of Main Street, highlighting the architecture and history of buildings along the 1300 through 1700 blocks. The route begins and concludes at Boyd Plaza and lasts about 75 minutes. Only 20 advance tickets are available, and no walk-up sales will be offered. Tickets are $5 for HC members and $10 for non-members, with free admission for youth 17 and under.

Free roller skating lessons at Finlay Park are tailored for true beginners and those returning to the activity, and they welcome participants of all ages. Instruction focuses on essential skills that are revisited during monthly sessions to build confidence and consistency. For a more progressive option, a separate 6-week Beginners Group course is available. For information on upcoming classes, pricing, and locations, email info@letsgetrollnsc.com or check the Events section of the organizer’s Facebook page. Expect a friendly, supportive environment that encourages getting active outdoors with guidance provided throughout.

Musicians from the South Carolina Philharmonic partner with Historic Columbia for an open-air program of light classical works in the gardens at Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens. Guests may bring blankets or chairs, and picnics are welcome. Tickets are required and capacity is limited. This event is for ages 21 and over. In good weather, a small number of additional tickets may be available at the door, with purchases made at the Laurel Street gate. If conditions are unfavorable, the performance will relocate indoors to the Boyd Horticultural Center greenhouse on the Hampton-Preston grounds. Sponsored by HPG and Company.

Scout Finch, age six, and her older brother Jem grow up in quiet Maycomb, Alabama, spending time with their friend Dill and wondering about their withdrawn neighbor, Boo Radley. When their widowed father, Atticus, a respected attorney, defends Tom Robinson against false rape accusations, the trial and the events surrounding it reveal to the children the cruelty of racism and harmful stereotypes. The Nick and All Good Books present a page to screen experience that pairs reading the book with a film presentation at The Nick, followed by a post screening discussion on how the story is brought to life in each medium. Copies are available at All Good Books.

Prettier Than Matt brings an evening of storytelling, harmony, and charm to the amphitheater as part of the Icehouse Live Fall Concert Series presented by Lexington Health. The duo of Jessica Skinner Sims and Jeff Pitts blends ukulele, guitar, and inventive percussion with layered vocals to shape a signature Americana pop sound. Expect an intimate, living room style performance that balances humor, skilled musicianship, and heartfelt moments, keeping listeners engaged throughout. With songs featured on national television and a touring reach across the U.S. and beyond, their set moves easily between genres while staying refreshingly original. This concert is free, with support from Lexington Health, Security Federal Bank, and Groundworks.

A benefit concert with an inclusive focus is presented under the Unumb House name. Admission is $20.

Dessert and Divination brings people together for conversation, connection, and hands-on practice with the intuitive arts. It offers a supportive setting to explore questions on your mind, exchange insights, and strengthen skills using the tools you already enjoy or want to try. Participants are welcome, if able, to share a dessert or drink and to bring favorite divination aids, though nothing is required for attendance and shared tools will be available. The gathering takes place in the library building at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia.

Celebrate craft and heritage at the 14th annual Great American Whiskey Fair, a leading Southeast tasting showcase featuring more than 100 distillers and over 300 carefully selected whiskeys from around the world. Guests can explore single malts, bourbons, ryes, blends, and limited craft releases, sampling a wide spectrum of styles and regions. Master distillers and brand ambassadors will be on hand to share the stories, traditions, and techniques behind each pour, highlighting perspectives from Kentucky, Scotland, and emerging craft producers. The event welcomes both longtime enthusiasts and newcomers, offering an immersive experience that deepens knowledge and appreciation for the art of whiskey making.

An evening of live music fills the Amphitheater as the Dave Matthews Tribute Band salutes the sound, spirit, and improvisational energy of Dave Matthews Band. The set blends well known hits with deep cuts while recreating the groove, standout musicianship, and the communal feeling of a DMB concert. Based in Buffalo, this seasoned tribute has spent more than two decades on tour, logging over 2,000 performances across 46 states and 10 countries. The event will be held rain or shine. Freestanding chairs are not permitted, and outside food or beverages are not allowed.

Enjoy a huge yard sale held outdoors in a parking lot, rain or shine. There are no early bird sales. All proceeds benefit Sharing God’s Love, a nonprofit cooperative ministry that assists community families facing emergencies related to basic living needs. Browse vintage finds, books, Christmas decor and trays, craft supplies, kids DVDs, dishes, electronics, frames, puzzles, board games, home decor, Halloween and fall decor, Halloween costumes, household items, glassware, jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, pins, and rings, pictures, purses, sports equipment, new and used toys, and more. Many items are priced at one or two dollars.

Held at VFW 8738, this car show for Toys For Tots includes a 50/50 raffle, additional raffle prizes, and two food vendors. Awards will be presented for Best in Show, Best Car, Best Truck, Best Jeep, and Best Bike, plus Top 15 and the Commandant's Choice.

For one night only, The United European Ballet Company presents Cinderella at the Koger Center for the Arts, with Classical Arts Entertainment as presenter. This production pairs classical ballet with a touch of Broadway flair, drawing audiences into a beloved fairy tale filled with romance, humor, and theatrical wonder. The story traces a compassionate young woman whose courage and hope lead her from hardship to the royal ball and a dream fulfilled. Set to the music of Sergei Prokofiev, the performance features an international ensemble, finely crafted European costumes, and hand-painted sets. The ballet is performed in two acts with one intermission and is suitable for families, including children ages 3 and older.

Civil Remedy Band performs live at Icehouse Amphitheater as part of the Lexington Live Fall Concert Series. The event also celebrates Otto’s 50th birthday for an extra festive atmosphere.

A milestone evening at Icehouse Amphitheater honors ten years of live music while bringing the Icehouse Live Fall Concert Series to a close, presented by Lexington Health. Civil Remedy leads the celebration with an energetic stage show featuring tight musicianship and strong vocals, setting the tone for a festive finale. The program recognizes the artists, audiences, and memories that have shaped the venue over the past decade. Admission is free, with support from Lexington Health, Security Federal Bank, and Groundworks.

Phil Wickham brings the Song of the Saints Tour to Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC with Chandler Moore and special guest Jamie MacDonald. This tour stop features well known songs such as This Is Our God, House of the Lord, and Hymn of Heaven, along with new music from the Song of the Saints album including What An Awesome God, The King Is In The Room, and Homesick for Heaven. Tickets are available. The organizer notes that third party ticket resales are not permitted on its event pages and warns of increased online ticket scams, so use the official ticketing outlet to ensure valid entry and receive updates.

Four Dogs Survey Showdown turns game night at Charter 803 into a contest of popular opinion. Teams rack up points by predicting the most common answers from real surveys, not by memorizing dates or sports stats. Think prompts like what people often forget when heading out the door, the song everyone belts at the bar, or a guilty pleasure some pretend they do not enjoy. Work with friends to climb the leaderboard and compete for prizes. It is free to play, teams are encouraged, and deep trivia knowledge is not required... what counts is guessing what most people said.

At Koger Center for the Arts, The Released Tour spotlights Lou Gramm, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and the founding member and original lead singer of Foreigner. The event includes a pre-show induction ceremony presented by the South Carolina Entertainment & Music Hall of Fame, an opening act to be announced, and a VIP meet and greet with details to come. A Rochester, New York native, Gramm started performing in his teens with local groups such as St. James Infirmary, later known as The Infirmary, PHFFT, and Poor Heart. He went on to sing and play drums for Black Sheep, the first American act signed to Chrysalis Records. Black Sheep released the single Stick Around in 1973, then moved to Capitol Records for two albums, Black Sheep in 1974 and Encouraging Words in 1975. The band toured widely and opened for KISS until a Christmas Eve 1975 equipment-truck crash halted their momentum. Adopting the name Lou Gramm, he auditioned for the group that became Foreigner and quickly emerged as one of the defining rock voices of the late 1970s and 1980s. He sang on hits like Feels Like the First Time, Cold as Ice, Hot Blooded, Double Vision, Urgent, and Juke Box Hero, and co-wrote major singles including Waiting for a Girl Like You and the international number one I Want to Know What Love Is. Foreigner’s first eight singles reached the Billboard Top 20, with four landing in the Top 10, marking a benchmark previously achieved only by The Beatles.

Shadows of the 60's brings the timeless Motown sound to the Icehouse Amphitheater, honoring the supergroups and hitmakers that defined the era. A talented cast channels the smooth harmonies and showmanship of The Temptations and The Four Tops, along with beloved songs made famous by The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight & The Pips, and more. Backed by a skilled band, with dynamic vocalists, retro costumes, and lively choreography, the production captures the spirit of a classic Motown revue and invites sing along moments from the opening number to the last song. The event takes place rain or shine. Freestanding chairs are not permitted. It is a chance to enjoy these songs with friends and to dance along to music that brings generations together.

Enjoy an evening of good music and tasty food with friends. The setting is roomy, offering plenty of space both indoors and outdoors.

The Harbison MTB Challenge is a new race within the TSP lineup, taking place at Harbison State Forest. After plans for an earlier debut were postponed, the event moves forward as part of the Pisgah Triple Crown Series, serving as the fourth race in a five-event sequence.

Finlay Park will welcome a family-friendly celebration of mental health that recognizes World Mental Health Day and marks five years of impact. Organized by Girl Get Up Society, this fifth annual gathering begins with a 3K Mental Health Awareness Walk, then continues with a community day featuring food trucks, local vendors, music, games, prizes, and activities for all ages. The focus is bringing people together to raise awareness, promote wellness, and support access to mental health care, with a mission centered on women, girls, and families across South Carolina. Participants can walk individually, come with family, form teams, or support as sponsors, all contributing to ongoing services that help women and girls thrive.

A live acoustic set will take place at the newly opened Macie & Milo's. This dog-friendly venue welcomes pups, creating a relaxed spot to enjoy the music.

The Cash Money and No Limit Tour brings Master P, Birdman, Juvenile and Mannie Fresh to Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina. This event gathers all four artists in one place as the tour comes to the city.

This event takes place at Moore Park.

Explore the theme of intuition at this Philosopher’s Ball conversation. The gathering takes place in the octagonal library building located outside the main building of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia and includes cleansing and clearing, announcements, and space setting to open the session.

This three-day Reiki Master program at Peaceful Pause Healing is intended for practitioners ready to expand their healing work, nurture a deeper spiritual connection, and embrace the role of master and teacher. Grounded in the Usui/Holy Fire® III tradition, the training blends advanced instruction with personal healing, energy development, guided experiences, and extensive hands-on practice. The learning takes place in an intimate, supportive setting that helps participants integrate skills and deepen their ability to share Reiki with others.

Now in its eighth year, this Walk, Roll, Run Against Domestic Violence brings the community together to raise awareness, honor survivors, support veterans and families, and build hope toward a Safe Haven. This free, family event invites participants to walk, roll, and run while exploring resources from community partners and vendors, enjoying live performances, and taking part in a Survivor Tribute. Participants can create a team, raise funds, donate, or invite others to make a greater impact. Registration is available, and vendors and volunteers are needed.

Settle in for an evening devoted to 90s alternative rock, featuring lively tunes that capture the era's sound and spirit. A nostalgic vibe and upbeat energy are in store for fans of the decade.

Treat yourself to cotton candy, funnel cakes, corndogs, and popcorn as country music fills the air.

Mojo Brookzz brings the Outta Pocket Tour to The Township Auditorium with an upbeat night of stand-up built on the internet persona that made him a breakout name. The show features fast-paced jokes, big laughs, and the charismatic storytelling that has filled theaters across the country. Experience his viral humor onstage in a live set packed with memorable moments and good vibes.

BadWater returns with a live show at Wings N Ale Lexington. Reservations are available by phone at 803-399-8557.

The Three Rivers Bridge Dinner turns the Gervais Street Bridge into the Midlands' longest communal table, uniting food, music, community, and the rivers that tie the area together. This newly reimagined edition is title sponsored by Prisma Health. Tickets typically sell fast each year.

Jack Torrance accepts a winter caretaker role at the remote Overlook Hotel, moving in with his wife Wendy and their son Danny. As isolation settles in, the family faces a chilling presence within the hotel. Presented by The Nick and All Good Books, this screening is paired with reading the novel and a conversation afterward that compares the book and the film. The discussion explores how the narrative shifts between page and screen. Copies of the book are available at All Good Books.

This meeting takes place at Piecewise Coffee in Cayce and centers on The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas. The setting is relaxed, with coffee and conversation among fellow readers. All Good Books offers a 10% discount on the book club selections. Readers can use the Fable book club app to track progress and connect with members ahead of the discussion. The book club is free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

Celebrating its 57th year, the S.C. Championships take place at the SC Fairgrounds in Columbia. This edition adds afternoon sessions that offer more chances to earn year-end points in the pleasure divisions. The VIP Dinner Tent returns for corporate-level sponsors and above. Additional incentives and stall raffles will be announced.

Civil Remedy performs live at Charter 803 Bar & Grill with the entire lineup on stage. This show presents the band together for a complete live performance.

Hijacked brings rock to the patio at LJ’s Par & Grill for an outdoor music experience with a relaxed vibe.

Columbia Korean Festival showcases Korean culture with performances that range from time-honored traditions to contemporary flair, highlighted by a K-pop dance contest. The program includes taekwando demonstrations and interactive games and activities for attendees. Korean cuisine is a major draw, with staples such as kimchi, kimbap, Korean corndogs, bulgogi, and a selection of desserts. Sponsored by the Korean Community Presbyterian Church, the festival also offers opportunities to learn about the Korean community in Columbia. Admission is free, and tickets for food and merchandise are available on site, with payment accepted by cash as well as debit and credit cards.

Celebrate Halloween on two wheels with a costumed ride that begins at the Lexington Target parking lot, then cruises through Lexington and into downtown Columbia. Costumes are optional, and spooky, silly, or cute looks are encouraged. Participants may bring a friend who rides and carry candy to share with pedestrians and motorists along the way. This ride is independently organized and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any businesses, pages, or individuals unless explicitly noted by the organizer.

The South Carolina Gamecocks take on the Texas A&M Aggies at Williams-Brice Stadium in a college football matchup. A clear bag policy will be enforced at the gates. Reentry is not allowed, and tickets are neither refundable nor exchangeable. Children age 2 and under may enter at no charge when seated on a guardian’s lap.

Catch Seafood and Moose N the Crew present the 7th Annual Oyster Roast at Catch Seafood Steakhouse Oyster Bar. A single ticket includes all-you-can-eat roasted oysters along with low country boil, hush puppies, hamburgers, and hot dogs. Unlimited beer and wine are part of the package, served responsibly, and live bands perform throughout the event. This is a standing format, and personal chairs may be brought for added comfort.

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Native American Indian Film & Video Festival, a special Weekend at the Nick presents a slate of screenings and conversations that center Indigenous storytelling on screen. Hosted at the historic Nickelodeon Theatre, the program features Native-made films and curated selections that explore Indigenous histories, contemporary voices, and creative expression through cinema. Film titles, the schedule, and additional details will be announced closer to the weekend.

Jeremiah’s Legacy returns with its second annual 5K at Saluda Shoals Athletic Complex. Last year welcomed more than 350 runners and a strong show of community support. This edition offers more than a race, with food trucks, inflatables, and kid friendly activities creating a morning to move, connect, and spend time together. The day focuses on honoring Jeremiah’s legacy, with hopes for good weather and an uplifting atmosphere. Sponsorship opportunities will be shared soon.

Columbia Princess Day transforms Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center into a fairytale world with a 90 minute, family friendly meet and greet. Children can take photos, share hugs, and enjoy personal moments with every princess in attendance, along with favorite songs, dances, crafts, games, and other magical touches. Each session includes ten engaging group activities. It begins with a grand introduction of the characters, followed by icebreakers and large group games, then continues with storytelling, singing, dancing, and ongoing princess interactions. The closing minutes are reserved for any photos that might have been missed earlier. Multiple sessions are offered, each with limited capacity to keep the experience personal. Please attend only the session listed on your ticket. To prepare, bring a camera, charge your phone, make sure little ones are well rested, and plan to eat beforehand since no food is served. Children are welcome to wear a favorite princess dress, costume, or any comfortable outfit. Adults should avoid character specific costumes so the performers feel as real as possible for the kids. For check in, have a ticket or order number ready. Every guest needs a ticket, and babies under 12 months may attend at no cost with a paid adult or child ticket. Arrive a bit early to allow time for parking and check in. Adults must remain with children for the entire event. Performers are not caretakers, and caregivers may need to gently guide excited little ones. Please allow each child their moment without rushing. Disruptive behavior may result in removal without refund. Characters are inspired by public domain fairytales and are not affiliated with any brand, company, or theme park. Attendance grants permission for event photos and video used for promotion. Tickets are non refundable, with full refunds only if the event is canceled.

Experience Lucky Wednesday at Hazelwood Brewing with an afternoon of music, craft ales and lagers, and tasty food, perfect for spending time with friends.

The spirit of classic soul returns with A Motown Christmas, featuring the Motortown All-Stars and an elite roster of singers and musicians drawn from the Miracles, the Contours, and other Motown greats. These seasoned performers, who have shared stages around the world with Motown icons, bring the signature sound to life with tight harmonies, eye-catching outfits, and energetic choreography, all backed by a powerhouse Detroit band with live brass. Expect favorites from the Temptations, Four Tops, Jackson Five, Stevie Wonder, and the Supremes, including “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Ooh Baby, Baby,” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered.” Holiday favorites such as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “Silent Night” get the unmistakable Motown treatment as well. This engagement is the group’s sole area appearance of the season, offering a festive night filled with timeless hits.

Civil Remedy performs live at Charter 803 Bar & Grill with a full band. The show features the complete lineup on stage.

Lucky Wednesday brings an evening of music and tasty fare to BOHO Pizza and Brew in Lexington, set in a roomy venue with both indoor and open-air areas.

The Piecewise Book Club meets at Piecewise Coffee for a relaxed discussion of The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. Everyone is welcome, and no registration is needed. Book club selections are available at a 10% discount from All Good Books. Readers can track their progress and connect with fellow members through the group on the Fable book club app ahead of the conversation.

Jodeci brings the 35th Anniversary Tour of Forever My Lady to The Township Auditorium, honoring a career that helped shape R&B with signature style, soulful harmonies, and a run of major hits. The group has sold more than 20 million records worldwide, earned five number-one singles, ten Top 10 hits, and three number-one albums on the Billboard charts, and has received wins and nominations from the Soul Train Music Awards, American Music Awards, BET Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards. Their debut album Forever My Lady reached number one on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart in its first week, and the title track also hit number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles and Tracks chart. The album stayed on the charts for 49 weeks, and the songs Come & Talk To Me and Stay likewise reached number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Tickets are available.