This weekend in Richland County, SC

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.

Explore Zen meditation in a guided session led by Associate Zen teacher Rev. Dr. Steven Meredith Hotetsu Garmon. The gathering focuses on learning and practice in a welcoming setting, and no previous meditation experience is required. Attend in person or participate online. Rev. Garmon is a former philosophy professor, a Buddhist practitioner since 2001, and a Unitarian Universalist minister since 2004, now retired. He founded and leads One Earth Zen, which offers authentic Zen practice with an ecospiritual orientation. Before One Earth Zen, he established and led practice groups including Border Zen Center in El Paso, Dancing Crane Zen Center in Gainesville, and Boundless Way Zen of Westchester in White Plains. The session encourages mindful exploration and fosters wisdom and compassion for our shared world.

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.

This is the biggest fundraiser of the year, happening in Columbia and scheduled earlier than usual to offer an even wider selection. A live auction will feature 100 items, including blooming plants, seedlings, orchid artwork, and orchid supplies. There will also be games and giveaways, with no purchase necessary for a chance to take home orchids. For the first time, South Carolina Orchid Society members receive 10 percent off their total purchase, and anyone who renews or signs up for membership that day qualifies for the discount.

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.