For the ones who want a night out on the town

If the way to their heart is through their stomach

If you love the great outdoors

• Raw Essence Natural Soaps and Bath Co. Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting | Monday, Feb. 12 | 11 a.m. | 1332 Main St., Columbia | Free | Celebrate a business opening on Main Street
• Sew Divine: A Gathering of Crafters | Monday, Feb. 12 | 9-11 a.m. | Richland Library Blythewood, Meeting Room 218 McNulty St., Blythewood | Bring your current craft project + work on it with fellow crafters.

• Byte-Sized Computer Basics | Tuesday, Feb. 13, Thursday, Feb. 22 | 2-2:45 p.m. | Richland Library North Main, Columbia | Get one-on-one help with your internet, computer, or device questions.
• For The Girls Columbia Galentine’s at the Robinson Room | Tuesday, Feb. 13 | 6-10 p.m. | Robinson Room, 1614a Main St., Columbia | $65 | Head over to the Robinson Room, where you’ll be greeted along the red carpet and handed long-stem roses as your drink tokens for the night.
• Smoked Oyster Series | Tuesday, Feb. 13 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Smoked, 1643 Main St., Columbia | $60 | Learn to appreciate oysters like a fine wine by discovering the nuance of flavor by the climate of origin, taste, texture, and salinity.

• Valentine’s Day Dinner at Hampton Street Vineyard | Wednesday, Feb. 14 | 5-9:30 p.m. | 1207 Hampton St., Columbia | $65 | Hampton Street Vineyard is presenting an exclusive Valentine’s Day three-course dinner experience priced at $65.

• USC Gamecocks Baseball vs. Miami University of Ohio Redhawks Baseball | Friday, Feb. 16-Sunday, Feb. 18 | Times vary | Founders Park, 431 Williams St., Columbia | $12-$15 | Baseball season is officially here, Gamecocks.
• Akropolis Reed Quintet at Newberry Opera House | Friday, Feb. 16 | 8 p.m. | Newberry Opera House, 1201 McKibben St., Newberry | $35 | This unique and talented woodwind ensemble is known for its captivating and innovative performances, with a repertoire ranging from classical to contemporary.*

• Valentines: Wicks & Bubbly - Custom Candle Making Workshop | Saturday, Feb. 17 | 7-8:30 p.m. | AR Workshop, 4711 Forest Dr., STE#14, Columbia | $44.52 | Create your custom candle while vibing to your favorite tunes and sipping on complimentary wine.

• SCDOT is implementing an all-way stop at Old Wire Road and US 21 (Charleston Highway) in Lexington County today, ahead of constructing a roundabout for improved safety. Drivers are advised to plan routes and exercise caution as they adjust to the new traffic pattern.

• At 19 years and 53 days old, GG Jackson set a new NBA record for the youngest player to score 25+ points off the bench. The previous record was held by Kobe Bryant. Memphis Grizzlies’ GG Jackson agreed to a four-year contract with three guaranteed seasons.

• Made with Cola Love will launch a small business incubator program and pop-up shops to empower entrepreneurs and activate vacant spaces in Columbia. The initiative, supported by grants and the City of Columbia, aims to boost economic growth and community vibrancy. (Cola Daily)

• Gamecock football’s tight ends coach Justin Stepp is transitioning to Illinois as the new receivers coach. A Pelion native, Stepp triggered a $200,000 buyout due to his departure. (The Post and Courier)

• The Midlands Spring Native Plant Sale is happening Saturday, April 13, at 114 Riverchase Court in Lexington. Explore a variety of SC plants to enhance your garden with beauty and support wildlife. Expect blooming perennials, grasses, and a selection of smaller blooming shrubs and trees.

• Cayce’s Soiree on State returns on Saturday, March 23, featuring local artists, vendors, and live music in the River Arts District. The event, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. along State Street, includes a kids’ area, food vendors, and performances by Prettier Than Matt, Mitchell Lee, and Cash Money Experience. Pro tip: Park for free at Brookland-Cayce High School.

• While we’re daydreaming about warmer weather (and warm weather beers), we’re appreciating all the seasonal beverages that hit the spot this time of year — like Peak Drift’s Fire Pit Dark Ale and Double International Pale Ale. See current offerings.*

• Did you know that one donation has the potential to save up to three lives? Share the love this February when you donate blood at your community blood center, The Blood Connection. Make an appointment online or find a donation center near you.*

• Discover a brighter financial future with Money Pickle, your gateway to personalized financial advice. Connect with vetted financial advisors, handpicked to provide fiduciary guidance that directly aligns with your goals for investments, retirement, and beyond. Schedule your complimentary video consultation.*

Development features

• A marketplace — Market at Congaree Station — nurturing food service and artisan entrepreneurs, alongside a farmers market
• Event + green spaces
• Affordable assisted living facilities
• A federally qualified health center and government services facilities (like sheriff’s substation + magistrate’s office)

Timeline