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
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City
12+ activities for older adults in Columbia
If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of retirement in Columbia.
February 3, 2025
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
Musicians Abigail Washburn and Béla Fleck holding a banjo
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Q+A with 19-time Grammy winner Béla Fleck
Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn are performing at the Koger Center on Saturday, February 22 with the South Carolina Philharmonic.
Sponsored by
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Arts
Event highlight: Second Annual Trustus Gala: Harlem Nights
Looking to don your vintage, Roaring Twenties outfits and support Columbia arts? Consider attending Trustus Theatre’s Second Annual Trustus Gala: Harlem Nights
January 10, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Kids participating in summer camp inside the South Carolina State Museum.
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Don’t wait to register your kids for their first-choice summer camp
Summer camps at the South Carolina State Museum typically sell out fast.
Sponsored by
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Add to cal: “Wolfgang & Wine”
Sponsored by
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Play
Kid-friendly activities in Columbia
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Columbia, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
December 18, 2024
 · 
Dylan Aycock
Santa standing in front of a shark at the SCSM.
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Discover countless adventures at the SCSM
From Santa to sharks, the fun doesn’t stop with the holidays at the South Carolina State Museum.
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Curiosity Coffee
Events
How you can participate in the Uptown Holiday Hop event happening this weekend
Neighbors and businesses throughout Elmwood, Earlewood, and Cottontown are gathering to host the first Uptown Holiday Hop featuring local art, holiday shopping, an oyster roast, live music, makers markets, and more to foster community on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m.
December 5, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
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Arts
Try This: A visit to Newberry Opera House
The Newberry Opera House, a historic venue located halfway between Columbia and Greenville, is a beautiful historic 400 seat venue surrounded by a charming downtown.
November 22, 2024
 · 
David Stringer
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Winter events happening in and around Columbia
Check out winter and holiday-themed events happening in and around Columbia in this seasonal guide.
November 15, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
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Broaden your bookshelf in 2026
Find your next great read when you join Richland Library’s Broader Bookshelf Reading Challenge.
January 16, 2026
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David Stringer
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Mardi Gras Columbia brings 19 local bands to City Roots
The 16th annual Mardi Gras Columbia Festival features 19 local bands across three stages, plus a parade, food vendors, and craft beer.
January 15, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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City
Meet Experience Columbia SC’s 2026 ambassadors
Experience Columbia SC introduces its 2026 ambassadors, highlighting locals shaping how visitors experience the Midlands.
January 15, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
Ways to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.'s presence in Columbia and how to commemorate his life and legacy on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
January 15, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Entertainment
Live in the Lobby Jazz shares full 2026 concert lineup
ColaJazz Foundation and the Koger Center announce seven intimate jazz performances running from February through December.
January 13, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Fitness
Find where to get more steps in around Columbia
If you’re trying to reach new running goals, consider signing up for one of these upcoming races or find ways to get more steps in around Columbia
January 12, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
A close up of the white blossoms of the Bradford pear tree.
City

How to get free trees to replace those stinky Bradford Pears
For every Bradford Pear you remove from your property, Clemson and the Forestry Commission will give you a free replacement, but only while supplies last.
January 8, 2026
 · 
Danielle Johnson
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Food

Wine and dine around Columbia for Restaurant Week South Carolina
Get your calendars out and start booking your reservations at these Midlands eateries offering special dishes, menus, and deals for a limited time during Restaurant Week South Carolina.
January 8, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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City
What our readers love about COLAtoday
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
January 6, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
12 New Year’s Eve events in Columbia to ring in 2026
Block parties, early ball drops, free games — whatever your vibe, there’s a Columbia-area New Year’s Eve for you.
December 16, 2025
 · 
David Stringer