Arts

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Arts
Rodney McMillian returns for major CMA spring exhibition
Columbia-born artist Rodney McMillian debuts a wide-ranging solo exhibition at the Columbia Museum of Art this spring.
February 26, 2026 12:45 PM
 · 
David Stringer
A hand holds a vibrant cross-stitch depicting a witch and a haunted house against a blue, starry sky, bordered with green polka dots. Vinyl records form a colorful background.
Arts
Needlepoint is back: Here’s how to try it in Columbia
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
February 23, 2026
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Morgan O’Neal
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Events
Editor’s Pick: Big Percy on display at SC State Museum
A Mount Pleasant artisan’s massive sweetgrass basket is now on display at the South Carolina State Museum.
February 19, 2026
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David Stringer
Giant wooden sculpture of a seated, gentle-looking troll amidst lush green forest.
Arts
South Carolina’s first Thomas Dambo troll is coming to Cayce
Danish artist Thomas Dambo is bringing one of his famous upcycled trolls to the Cayce Riverwalk, just minutes from downtown Columbia.
February 4, 2026
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Morgan O’Neal
Morihiko Nakahara conducting
Arts
Stephen G. Morrison Visionary award returns
The Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award is back, spotlighting individuals whose leadership helped shape Columbia’s creative identity.
January 28, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Rear view of a band performing on stage, with vibrant blue and purple lights creating an exciting atmosphere. Drums and other instruments in the foreground.
Sponsored
Step into Appalachian music history at The Asheville Sessions
Sponsored by
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Arts
Where to take music lessons in Columbia
From toddlers to retirees, explore local schools and programs that keep Columbians learning and playing music.
September 25, 2025
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David Stringer
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Arts
25 concerts to see in Columbia this fall
From rock and R&B to country and rap, some big tours are coming through the Midlands this fall.
September 16, 2025
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David Stringer
Actos onstage tap dancing in production of "Anything Goes"
Sponsored
Raising the curtain on Town Theatre’s 2025-26 season
From “A Christmas Carol” to “Little Shop of Horrors,” Town Theatre’s 106th season has something for every audience member.
Sponsored by
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Play
Date night ideas for every type of Columbian
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date night in Soda City.
August 20, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
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Live
40+ murals in Columbia
Check out our guide to the many meaningful murals you can find around our city.
July 9, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Food
Restaurant Roundup: New and coming-soon restaurants in Columbia
Dining in Columbia is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
February 24, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Outdoors
Wingard’s Market nominated for National Best Plant Nursery Award
Lexington’s Wingard’s Market leads USA TODAY’s Best Plant Nursery vote, and supporters can cast ballots daily through March 9 to keep them at No. 1.
February 19, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Nonprofits
Anchor Investment Management launches Impact Fund
Anchor Investment Management is celebrating 25 years by awarding $25,000 in grants to Midlands nonprofits focused on health and education.
February 18, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Sports
7 disc golf courses in the Midlands
Learn how and where to play disc golf in the Capital City.
February 18, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Sports
Register for these spring sports for youth and adults
Build your social network through team-building sports in Columbia, like kickball, softball, and pickleball.
February 17, 2026
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David Stringer
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Sports
Fireflies launch Battle at BullStreet plaza party
Live DJ, food trucks, yard games and family fun kick off the Battle at BullStreet before gates open.
February 17, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
Read Freely Fest unveils 2026 lineup
More than 40 authors are headed to Richland Library Main Friday, March 27 through Sunday, March 29.
February 16, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Thomas Cooper library
History
USC exhibit marks America’s 250th
A new USC exhibit explores 250 years of revolution and rare South Carolina artifacts.
February 16, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Small Business
Local love: COLAtoday’s guide to reader-recommended small businesses
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
February 12, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
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City
The Great Backyard Bird Count in Columbia
The Great Backyard Bird Count invites participants to observe and report birds to help track global populations.
February 12, 2026
 · 
David Stringer