Culture

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 02:16 PM
 · 
Morgan O’Neal
Local authors section at Richland Library
Outdoors
Where would you put an outdoor library in Columbia?
The concept is taking over South Korea’s capital city. We’re thinking about where we’d copy it in Soda City.
August 27, 2025
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
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
Columbia-SC
Live
Local Gov. 101: Understanding Columbia’s City Council
Class is in session — become familiar with how Columbia’s City Council works, and explore your role as an active citizen.
August 13, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
A GIF of residents of Main Street.
Sponsored
Meet the locals who make Main Street feel like home
From long-time locals to recent transplants, the regulars of Main Street show how Columbia is growing while staying true to its roots.
Sponsored by
The Garvin Design Group team posing for a group photo.
Sponsored
Garvin Design Group marks 22 years of shaping Columbia
Sponsored by
Saluda Shoals Park
Play
28 parks in the Midlands of South Carolina
We’re highlighting the 28 best parks the Midlands has to offer — complete with scenic trails, splash pads, riverfront views, and plenty of space to play, picnic, and relax.
June 25, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Festivals
Columbia’s guide to commemorate Juneteenth and the SC Juneteenth Freedom Festival
Every year, Columbia hosts the SC Juneteenth Freedom Festival (SCJFF) and we’re breaking down how you can get involved around town.
June 16, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
Fishing-at-Lake-Murray
Play
5 places to fish around Columbia, including rivers, lakes, and shorelines
Rivers, lakes + streams, oh my. The Midlands has some pretty great freshwater fishing spots and is only about an hour from saltwater. Reference this guide before you fish around Columbia.
June 13, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
Columbia Fireflies.gif
Sponsored
Add to cal: A celebration of culture + community
Sponsored by
A collage of some of Columbia's local mascots.
Sponsored
Add to cal: Mascot mania at the museum
Meet all of your favorite local mascots in one place during EdVenture’s energy-filled event.
Sponsored by
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City
What makes ice so dangerous?
Ice storms in SC have caused widespread damage in the past, and as we brace for winter weather, we spoke to a meteorologist to find out why.
January 22, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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City
New boutique hotel opens in historic fire station in the Vista
The 59-room Lantern Columbia opens inside the former fire station as the Vista continues evolving.
January 21, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Take a look at Black Dog Pizza
Black Dog Pizza is expected to open in late January on Main Street underneath The Hendrix.
January 20, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Entertainment
St. Pat’s in Five Points announces 2026 lineup
Get to know the musical lineup that will keep you entertained at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day in Five Points Festival, the largest one-day fest in South Carolina.
January 20, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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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
 · 
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