Arts

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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 01:30 PM
 · 
David Stringer
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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.
Sponsored
Discover countless adventures at the SCSM
From Santa to sharks, the fun doesn’t stop with the holidays at the South Carolina State Museum.
Sponsored by
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
Christmas tree lighting Columbia SC
Play
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
Columbia’s skyline at night. | Photo by Timothy M.
Arts
Introducing our 2024 Picture of the Year contest
Following the success of hundreds of submissions in 2024, we are getting a jump on our 2025 contest.
November 15, 2024
 · 
Ted Bauer
Two women opening the doors to the "French Moderns" exhibit.
Sponsored
Explore 100 years of French artistry at the Columbia Museum of Art
Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or just looking to dip your toes into the avant-garde, this exhibition is a must-see.
Sponsored by
Young girl in Hogwarts costume posing with sign that reads "Have you seen this witch?"
Sponsored
Your Hogwarts acceptance letter is here
Sponsored by
Photo of a gold-framed painting by Renoir depicting a still life image of fruit and a cup
Sponsored
Monet, Matisse, and much more
A major exhibition of French modern art is coming to the Columbia Museum of Art this fall.
Sponsored by
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Music
Jam Room Music Festival returns to Columbia this October
Get a quick rundown of the music lineup and plan ahead for the partner events celebrating the Jam Room Music Festival coming back to Cola in October.
August 21, 2024
 · 
Samantha Robertson
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Latest News
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City

Just how bad is the traffic in Columbia?
Spoiler alert: Traffic isn’t great. We dove into the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s congestion data so you don’t have to.
October 28, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
Aerial view of Main Street District buildings at sunset
Business
The local wish list: What Columbia readers say we’re missing
Columbia readers shared their wish list of new businesses they’d like to see in the Midlands.
October 27, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
A pothole in the middle of concrete, filled with water.
City

Who ya gonna call? Jot down contact info for these Midlands resources
Don’t be afraid. Concerns about everything from flood damage to environmental health can be solved by getting in touch not with the Ghostbusters, but with these Midlands resources.
October 27, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
A graphic that says "Their perfect gift is on this list. Our holiday gift guide just dropped." surrounded by images of gift tags.
Small Business
COLAtoday’s 2025 holiday gift guide: 90+ finds for everyone you love
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
October 24, 2025
 · 
Emily Shea-Owen
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Events
Vista Lights celebrates 40 years
Vista Lights returns Nov. 20 with live music, local vendors, and the annual tree lighting to kick off Columbia’s holidays.
October 23, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
5 family-friendly Halloween happenings
Celebrate spooky season with Halloween happenings around Columbia, from trunk-or-treat trails to eerie zoo nights and family carnivals.
October 23, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
The South Carolina Gingerbread House Competition returns for year three
Get out your rolling pins + roll up those sleeves, Soda Citizens because the South Carolina Gingerbread House Competition is back with its annual gingerbread house competition benefit.
October 22, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Education
It’s Homecoming weekend at USC
USC’s Homecoming Weekend returns Oct. 24–26 with events, tailgates, and a Saturday showdown vs. Alabama.
October 21, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Food
Methodical Coffee opens in the BullStreet District
Methodical Coffee is now soft open in Columbia’s BullStreet District, serving drinks while its bakery nears completion.
October 21, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Food
Voodoo Brewing Co. Lexington to celebrate Grand Opening
Voodoo Brewing Co. Lexington will host a grand opening on Friday, Nov. 7, serving Pennsylvania-brewed craft beers, local food, and hosting community events downtown.
October 20, 2025