How to participate

• Start with the 803 Day 5K Run/Walk, benefiting the Cola Rose Shower, a nonprofit promoting awareness of feminine care issues. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.
• From 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. there will be a festival at Historic Columbia’s Robert Mills House and Gardens, featuring live music, interactive art, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. VIP access includes an indoor reception and private bar.
• Local businesses are offering $8.03 promotions + a citywide Scavenger Hunt through the Soda City Certified app.

• Sip and Plant Workshop: Red, White and Blue Planter | Tuesday, July 2 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Gardener’s Outpost Cottontown, 1211 Franklin St., Columbia | $45 | Come learn about the high heat annuals and perennials that can be planted now to endure the long summer temperatures.
• Columbia Fireflies vs. Augusta GreenJackets | Tuesday, July 2 | 7:05 p.m. | Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia | $6-$18 | It’s Military Appreciation Night: Join the Fireflies as they honor all veterans and all those currently serving in the military.*

• Rockin’ Red White and Blue Celebration | Wednesday, July 3 | 4-10 p.m. | Doko Meadows Park, 171 Langford Rd., Blythewood | Free | The Town of Blythewood hosts a fireworks extravaganza with live music from the Blue Dogs and a variety of food vendors.
• Columbia Fireflies vs. Augusta GreenJackets | Wednesday, July 3 | 6:05 p.m. | Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia | $6-$18 | Celebrate Independence Day with $5 White Claws at Segra Park and enjoy a post-game fireworks show.

• Peak Drift Patio Party at Smoked | Thursday, July 4 | 5 p.m. | Smoked, 1643 Main St., Columbia | Free | Revel in live tunes, savor beer specials, and engage in thrilling games, all set on Smoked’s back patio.
• Irmo’s Inclusive Independence Day Celebration | Thursday, July 4 | 7-10 p.m. | Irmo Community Park, 7507 Eastview Dr., Irmo | Free | Eat hot dogs, groove to music, and watch a laser light show instead of fireworks when it gets dark.
• Fireworks with the Phil | Thursday, July 4 | 6:30-9:45 p.m. | Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia | $10-$25 | This orchestral Independence Day celebration climaxes with a fireworks spectacular that will coincide with a rousing rendition of the 1812 overture.

• Old Skool Outfitter, founded in Columbia in 2021 by Zach Justice and Cy’ree Clarke, is opening a new store at 929-C Gervais St. in the Vista on Saturday, August 24. Until then, catch them at Soda City Market every Saturday. Apply today for job opportunities.

• Crazy Wings, a chicken wing restaurant located in Northeast Columbia, opened a new campus location at 910 Devine St. near Colonial Life Arena. Located in the 650 Lincoln development, the wing spot offers a variety of traditional and boneless options with more than 20 flavors, plus tenders, sandwiches, and sides. (The State)

• Shaboozey, known for “The Bar Song (Tipsy)” and featured on Beyonce’s “Cowboy Carter” album, will perform at the inaugural Field + Stream Music Fest in Fairfield County the weekend of Friday, Oct. 4. The festival also features country stars like Eric Church and Lainey Wilson. (Free Times)

• Wimbledon, the world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament is underway, and three former Gamecocks are in action. Paul Jubb and Francisco Cerundolo hit the courts at 6 a.m. You may be able to tune in right now. Ingrid Martins is in action on Wednesday.

• The South Carolina State Museum debuts two new summer shows this week. “Solar Superstorms,” narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch, explores the Sun’s inner workings. “Turtle Odyssey 4D” follows the journey of a baby Australian green sea turtle. Showtimes begin today.

• The Blood Connection is hosting a Freedom Week promotion offering $70 in rewards and a free T-shirt through Thursday, July 4 encouraging blood donation. Browse a list of local donation sites — walk-ins are welcome.

• From a rivalry standpoint, Carolina must beat Clemson this year. Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of Gamecock Football with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
  

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