Family events in Richland County, SC

A free concert on the Koger Center Plaza Stage spotlights the Levitt AMP Columbia Music Series, presented by the Koger Center. Headliner Making Movies guides listeners through a vivid, psychedelic blend that Rolling Stone has praised for mixing rumbero rhythms, airy organ textures, and gritty fuzz-rock energy. Founded by Panamanian artist Enrique Chi, the Latin Grammy-nominated quartet serves as the main outlet for his songwriting and cultural work. Their approach pairs electric guitars with the Mejorana, a traditional Panamanian guitar, and threads together cumbia, blues, salsa, soul, and rock and roll into a sound that is unmistakably their own. Over the years, the band has appeared as a Tiny Desk newcomer with A La Deriva, raised its voice for immigrant rights with the album I Am Another You which reached number 3 on Billboard’s Latin Pop Albums chart, and co-wrote No Te Calles with Rubén Blades, the first single from his Latin Grammy-nominated album. Opus & The Frequencies open the show. Known for electrifying live sets and a reputation as a must-see act in Columbia, they have moved from intimate rooms supporting local and regional tours to larger stages such as the St. Pats Festival in Five Points, Columbia Food and Wine Festival’s Concert on the Runway, Solfest Rollfest, and USC traditions like Tiger Burn and First Night Carolina, sharing bills with artists including Hippo Campus, Illiterate Light, The Blue Dogs, Flipturn, lighthearted, and Brook and The Bluff. Their sound draws on funk, indie rock, Latin grooves, and pop, and it thrives whether performed by a tight four-piece or an expansive ten-piece lineup.

The College of Charleston Cougars take on the South Carolina Gamecocks in a fall scrimmage at Segra Park, offering a first glimpse of both teams before the 2027 college baseball season. The Gamecocks compete under new head coach Kevin Schnall. Tickets are available for $15 plus fees in the seating bowl and $25 plus fees in the club section. A portion of each ticket benefits Camp Cole, supporting children, teens, and adults facing serious illnesses, disabilities, and complex life challenges.

Help future big brothers and sisters get ready for life with a new baby. This interactive, age-appropriate class welcomes children ages 3 to 10 and uses playful activities to build skills and confidence. Children will learn what newborns are like, how to help safely, what changes to expect at home, and how to talk about big feelings. It is designed for families expecting a baby soon and aims to help older siblings feel included, excited, and prepared for their important new role.

Focused on readiness at home, this class helps students build everyday safety routines, recognize potential hazards before they occur, and handle situations such as power outages or severe weather. Participants are introduced to the Safe Sitter® First Aid Chart and practice a clear framework for evaluating and responding to injuries and illnesses.

Explore Elmwood Park on a guided walking tour presented by Historic Columbia. Established in 1904 as a suburb, this neighborhood remains one of Columbia’s most intact historic areas, showcasing a range of architectural styles and stories of residents who once lived there. Over about 75 minutes, discover distinctive building forms and learn about notable figures connected to the community. The tour begins and ends at Palmetto Life Church. Capacity is limited to 20 participants, and there are no walk-up ticket options. Tickets are $5 for HC members, $10 for nonmembers, and free for youth 17 and under.

Capture the fun of the South Carolina State Fair with mini photo sessions. The price is $175 and it includes fair admission for up to two guests. Sessions generally yield five to ten images. This setup suits couples, engagement portraits, families, and other small groups.

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