This weekend in Columbia, SC

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.