Family events in Columbia, SC

Dream Asia Festival: South Carolina is a three-day celebration of Asian culture, cuisine, and creativity, bringing together a big lineup of food and merchandise from across Asia. Expect 80+ food vendors with authentic street food, 30+ merch and anime vendors, plus interactive games and family-friendly entertainment throughout the weekend. There will also be live performances and featured programming, including headliner acts, cultural performances like sumo wrestling and lion dancing, and activities such as a cosplay contest, karaoke contest, and the Squid Game challenge. Kids 10 and under can enter free, and there are dedicated kids activity options available during the festival.

A free, family-friendly community day at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden brings together individuals and families affected by Huntington’s disease for learning, resources, and meaningful connection. The HDSA South Carolina community will be on hand as attendees meet others in the HD community, share experiences, and explore the zoo together in a supportive setting.

Freddy's Family Fun Foam Day bubbles over with kid-friendly excitement and laid-back fun for adults. Children can dive into a mountain of foam while parents unwind, browse local vendors, enjoy tasty food, and take in the music. The foam zone is pay to play. Pre-sale tickets are $10 per child and include one 30-minute Foam Fun session, and tickets purchased at the event are $12 per child. Buying in advance saves money and pre-sale quantities are limited. Expect a giant foam party, bubble play, memorable photo opportunities, music, local shopping, and food that keeps the good vibes going. The foam solution is clean, safe, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable, and the play area is supervised so kids can laugh, dance, and splash with confidence. Wear clothing you do not mind getting wet and bring a towel. Vendor applications are being accepted and space is limited.

Experience a Bob Ross inspired oil painting class at Artistic Aspirations. Certified instructor Sharon Funderburk guides participants through creating a classic Bob Ross style piece in a friendly, motivating setting. Designed for ages 11 and up. The cost is $75.

Transmission Arcade hosts a monthly IFPA sanctioned pinball tournament that counts for points. Presented in a competitive match play format, it welcomes beginners and seasoned players and is open to all ages. No advance registration is required; sign up on site with the bar staff and plan to arrive early for a smooth check-in. The structure includes a $10 entry fee with free play during competition, 2.5 hours of qualifying, the top eight advancing to semifinals, and the top four competing in the finals. All prize money comes from entry fees, with cash payouts awarded to the top four players.

At Segra Park, this Columbia Fireflies game doubles as a fundraiser for Palmetto Place. Each ticket purchased through the special offer provides a $5 donation to Palmetto Place. The Fireflies face the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and after the game kids can run the bases and players will be available for autographs in right field.

Stop by for a board game hangout with a mix of new and classic games. This program is geared toward students in grades K–5, and it’s a great chance to have fun while you play.

Voodoo Brewing Co. - Lexington hosts a fast paced trivia night built around the classic Jeopardy! format. The game features Jeopardy, Double Jeopardy, and Final Jeopardy with a total of 61 questions that challenge both individuals and teams. All ages are welcome. Each of the three Daily Double winners receives a prize, and there are additional awards for the first and second place teams. Teams may include up to six adults to be eligible for prizes.