Events in Sumter today

A charity motorcycle ride presented by the Kershaw Center Disability Foundation pairs a scenic route with good barbecue while raising funds for people with disabilities in Kershaw County. Miles on the road help support community inclusion, urgent assistance, recreation and social activities, health and wellness efforts, and other unmet needs for those served by the foundation. The ride starts and finishes at the Kershaw County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs, bringing riders together for camaraderie and a shared purpose. Riders can enjoy fellowship on the route and barbecue as part of the event, all in support of programs that strengthen the local community.

Rev up for Bikers & BBQ, a charity motorcycle ride presented by the Kershaw Center Disability Foundation. This event channels a shared love of the road into real support for people with disabilities in Kershaw County, helping fund community inclusion, emergency assistance, recreation and social activities, health and wellness efforts, and other unmet needs. Riders can look forward to a scenic route, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of barbecue. Open to solo riders, motorcycle clubs, and anyone who enjoys riding, with each mile helping expand resources and opportunities across the community.

Set at Saluda Riverwalk, this community walk begins with a short 10 to 15 minute health talk by the river, then continues along a paved trail. Parking and bathrooms are available. Walkers can move at a comfortable pace, bring a friend, and enjoy the natural surroundings. It is a simple way to start the weekend on the right foot. The Columbia chapter is co-sponsored by Dr. Melissa Boylan of Noreta Family Medicine and Dr. Andrea Pezzella of Southern Urogynecology.

Join Chris Mathis, Historic Columbia’s Horticulture Manager, for a guided Tree Trek through the gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion and the Robert Mills House. You’ll explore a variety of trees, including South Carolina natives and some more unusual species rarely seen in cultivation, with each walking tour focusing on a different seasonal selection. The tour includes standing outdoors and walking across grass, gravel paths, and paved surfaces.

At the Columbia Museum of Art, this two-part class explores digital imaging with a focus on color photography. Participants receive practical guidance on adjusting images and preparing prints, along with context that connects digital photography to contemporary art. Art educator Jess Peri leads the session. Ages 15 and up. Please bring a digital camera, and note that other equipment will be provided. A camera that offers manual control of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO is recommended, and questions about camera choice can be sent to dwitkoski@columbiamuseum.org. The fee is $160, with a $128 price for members. Peri earned a BFA from the University of North Texas and an MFA from the University of New Mexico. His work has been shown at institutions such as the Harwood Museum of Art in Taos, the Albuquerque Museum, and the University of New Mexico Art Museum, and has been featured in Fraction Magazine, Glasstire, D Magazine, and LoosenArt. He lives and works in Columbia and is a professor of art at the University of South Carolina. For assistance with accessibility accommodations, contact 803-799-2810 or info@columbiamuseum.org.

Look for the large room downstairs on the left just after you enter the building. Thanks to Jennifer, the admin, for reserving the space and organizing the event.

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.

Explore clothing of the 1700s through a three-week sewing course that blends fashion, historical context, museum studies, and practical garment construction. Under guided instruction, make a colonial-era petticoat and short gown, with an option for men to sew a cravat, undershirt, and long vest. Guest contributors include Mackenzie Sholtz, owner of Fig Leaf Patterns, along with staff from the Sumter Museum who share insights that bring the past to life. Registration includes complimentary admission to the Sumter Museum’s Revolutionary High Tea. Open to ages 15 and up. Fees are $50 for members and $60 for the general public, and all proceeds support local history and the arts.

A read along for children featuring Curious George's beach themed adventures takes place at the Temple Sinai Jewish History Center. The storytime follows the curious monkey through a day at the beach and the many things he encounters. Admission is free.

Players gather at Heroes Hideout in Florence for a weekly Yu-Gi-Oh! event that welcomes both competitors and those looking to practice. Entry is $5. Each participant receives two OTS packs, and a booster box is added to the prize pool for every eight players. If the field has 16 or fewer players, prizes are awarded to the top four finishers, with 1st place receiving 40 percent, 2nd 30 percent, and 3rd and 4th 15 percent each. With 17 or more players, prizes are paid out to the top eight, with 1st at 30 percent, 2nd 20 percent, 3rd and 4th 15 percent each, and 5th to 8th 5 percent each. Expect a friendly atmosphere to test decks and sharpen plays alongside the local Yu-Gi-Oh! community.

An annual celebration of house music brings people together at South Carolina’s State House, with rhythms rolling from day into night. The gathering features a back to school supply donation drive, and contributions of school supplies are welcome. Admission is free for the community. Small tents and lawn chairs are permitted. All attendees are required to follow State House grounds rules. The spirit of the day centers on music, community, and sharing the love.

Enjoy a luxury tea party focused on sisterhood, self-care, and embracing softness. Expect an elegant tea service along with wine, champagne, specialty teas, charcuterie, light hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and sweet treats. There will also be networking with inspiring women and entrepreneurs, raffles, interactive games and activities, themed photo opportunities, and surprises throughout the event. Dress in your finest tea party attire for an afternoon of meaningful conversations and connection for women ages 21+.

Join us for the 7th Annual Caribbean Style Gospel Concert, an uplifting afternoon of Caribbean gospel music and praise featuring performers including Bridget Blucher, Minister Clavor, Rudy Vasciana, Anthony Cruz Diaz, Barrington, and Bishop Arison Fluitt & Praise Team. There will be a reception with vendors and food trucks, plus free parking for attendees. Proceeds support local poverty disruption.

Hosted by The Stand Fast Project at SiMT Business Incubators, this community gathering blends sip painting, karaoke, and music with a mission of giving back. Expect plenty of laughs and good vibes while spotlighting nonprofits in honor of National Nonprofit Day. Tickets are $25 and can be paid in cash or via CashApp at $thestandfastproject. Seating is limited. For ticket purchases or more information, call, text, or message the contacts tagged in the event post.

The Mill Branch A.M.E. Church banquet, themed A Legacy of Faith, features keynote speaker Brother Antjuan Seawright and centers on fellowship, inspiration, and celebration. The program reflects a commitment to faith, love, and purposeful service. It takes place at The SHEREC in Florence, South Carolina, with admission set as a $50 donation.

Get ready for an unfiltered reggae night at FLO NIGHTS Live. Presented by 843 Symphony, the event features live music with raw vocals and real instruments, plus open mic performances. You can also enjoy games, themed contests, and prizes throughout the evening, along with food and drinks. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and the night runs from 7 PM to 10 PM.

Beat the summer heat with live music from No Fun Allowed at Celebrations Of Sumter. Cool down with something cold from the bartenders and staff while No Fun Allowed plays tunes.

At Michael J and Mary Meech Mungo Park, this high tea event creates a refined space centered on women’s empowerment, personal wellness, and the bonds of sisterhood, presented with an elegant and polished touch.

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.

Four comics take the stage for Season 2 of Everybody Stand-Up live at Luxe Life Events. It is an in-person stand-up show where the lineup brings big energy and no holds barred comedy.

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.

Darci Lynne will appear in Florence, South Carolina at Florence Little Theatre.

Explore oil painting in a three-week series led by Dennis Snell, centered on creating a personalized interpretation of Winslow Homer’s “Summertime.” Participants can tailor colors and tonal choices, and the lessons are open to all skill levels from beginners to advanced artists. A minimum of four participants is required. Canvases are provided, and there is a $10 supply fee unless you bring your own supplies. Registration is available online or in person at the studio, with a $5 discount for in-person signups. For questions or phone registration, contact Michael at 803-236-1193.

Join us for the third and final week of oil painting lessons. This is part of a 3-week series, and you’ll build on what you learned in the earlier sessions as you work on your own painting during class.

This weekly RUI Pub Run at the British Bulldog offers a casual outing open to all paces. After the run, participants can stay to socialize.

Catch an evening of live jazz featuring the Lovett + Castillo + Hoffman Trio, with Gino Castillo on percussion and vocals, Jonathan Lovett on organ keyboard, and Amos Hoffman on guitar and oud. This is part of the ColaJazz Loft Sessions at their intimate listening room in downtown Columbia. The ticket package includes drink tickets and light bites, and the performance runs from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM with a 15-minute intermission at 8:00 PM.

Frozen Soul, Bodybox, Maul, and Eternal share the stage at New Brookland Tavern for a live show. This event is open to all ages.

The Florence Area Big Band brings an evening of big band sounds to Seminar Brewing and Elliott’s BBQ Lounge, creating a lively setting for dancing. Barbecue and local brews round out the experience.

Join WTS South Carolina for Transportation Trivia 2026, a fun in-person evening with a friendly competition and plenty of networking. Teams of 4 to 6 will go head-to-head across transportation-themed categories, from infrastructure to pop culture. There will be drinks and appetizers, plus prizes for the winners. You can form your own team or join one on arrival.

Bang Back’s summer pinball league celebrates The Grateful Summer with weekly group match play focused on community, learning, and fun. Each session features six rounds with balanced pairings, using either 5-3-2-1 or 5-3-1 scoring. During the first four weeks, players compete in two rounds of three games. In weeks five through eight, A and B divisions choose by vote between one six-game round or two rounds of three. Final standings count a player’s best six weeks out of eight, dropping the two lowest. The season fee is $30 plus coin drop for games, and dues include a league shirt, the end-of-season tournament, a banquet with a fun team tournament, food, trophies and awards, and prize payouts, with every participant receiving money back at season’s end. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Registration is handled in person with a bartender or manager at Bang Back, with payment by cash or Square.

Explore ways to express and process grief through creative activities using simple art materials. Whether the loss involves a loved one, a pet, a divorce, or another major life transition, this softly guided, expressive session offers space to work through feelings at your own pace. No prior experience is required, and all supplies are included. This is not a therapy program, but a creative workshop focused on expression.

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.

Join Strive Networking for a 21+ tech and business networking event in Columbia. It’s designed for both tenured professionals and newcomers, with a multi-vertical mix of attendees including consultants, analysts, bankers, software engineers, entrepreneurs, and more across areas like arts, finance, real estate, and healthcare. Bring your business cards, use the check-in space on arrival, and expect name tags plus a business-casual dress code (job fair attire welcome). The event runs as an open networking window between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, so you can arrive anytime during that timeframe to meet new connections.

Explore the Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens on a free guided bird walk with Historic Columbia and local birder John Tjaarda. Learn to identify both local and migratory birds in Columbia by sight, sound, and behavior. Space is limited to 20 participants and registration is required. Binoculars are encouraged but not necessary. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and consider bug spray during warmer months. Meet at the front gate of the gardens. The walk will be canceled if it is raining or if winds exceed 25 mph, so please check the forecast before arriving.

Cousins Maine Lobster visits Columbiana Station in Columbia with a menu of lobster rolls, tacos, bisque, and more, prepared fresh from the truck. It is a convenient option for lunch or dinner with Maine favorites ready to go. Order ahead in the mobile app to skip the line. The app opens a couple of hours before each truck event, and you will need to wait until the current service ends before placing an order for the next one. If mobile ordering is limited or unavailable, you can always order directly at the truck. Earn points with every purchase. If you order at the truck, ask them to scan the QR code to redeem points on your account.

OCL LEGO Club welcomes children ages 5 to 12 for hands-on building sessions that feature a new theme each time. Expect activities that spark imagination, encourage problem solving, and add a sense of friendly challenge. Participation is limited to 40 children. Tickets for entry are available at the Circulation Desk beginning one hour before the program starts. The program takes place in the Multipurpose Room.

The Conway Tigers varsity volleyball team takes on Sumter Gamecocks in an away non-conference match. The match is scheduled for Thursday, Aug 13, 2026, with a start time of 5:30 PM.

A relaxed, judgment free karaoke zone where the songbook is basically all of YouTube. Choose your favorites and step up without waiting through a massive rotation. If a track does not have a karaoke version yet, it can be requested in advance through @beveradb. Bring friends, enjoy a beer, and sing to your heart’s content. Admission is free.