Pay station in level one of the P.J. Cannon Parking Deck | Photo by COLAtoday team
If you live in a city, you’re going to use parking, lots. Eh? Get it? Ok, we may be bad at parking puns, but we are good at parking in Columbia. Here’s a quick go-to parking guide to help you avoid tickets within city limits.
First things first
Parking rates in Columbia have recently changed, marking the first rate increase in almost two decades. In December 2024, the City Council approved major updates to parking rates and policies that took effect at the beginning of March. The changes aim to generate $11 million over five years.
SC Philharmonic presents Andy and Friends | 7-9 p.m. | Satterlee Hall at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral | $40 | Join celebrated pianist Andy Armstrong during this new chamber series.
Hard Hat Tour with Executive Director Della Watkins | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Columbia Museum of Art | Free, registration required | Join CMA Executive Director Della Watkins on a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s current gallery lighting renovation project.
Forest Acres Farmers Market | 2-6 p.m. | Gills Creek Memorial Park | Free | Browse local farmers and artisans bringing fruit, produce, eggs, meats, honey, dog treats, and more.
Thursday, May 15
Grant Writing | 10:30 a.m. | SC State Library | Free | Learn the basics of writing a proposal that will earn a grant, and what to do after you win a grant.
A Way with Words: An Evening with Martha & Grant | 7 p.m. | Darla Moore School of Business | $35+ | Hosts Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett will share behind-the-scenes stories, answer questions, and engage the audience in a lively discussion about the ways language shapes our lives.
Friday, May 16
Jerry Seinfeld | 7 p.m. | The Township Auditorium | $82+ | Watch the legendary comedian bring his latest stand-up tour to Cola.
Columbia Black Expo: Taste of Black Columbia | 7:30-11 p.m. | SC State Fairgrounds | $125 | Get your ticket, bring your appetite, and your dancing shoes to the Taste of Black Columbia.
How to make a difference in COLA’s small business community
Presented by SCORE Midlands
SCORE Midlands connects small business owners within a nationwide network. | Photo provided by SCORE Midlands
Calling all entrepreneurs: SCORE Midlands is looking for local mentors — and you could be a great fit to join their nationwide network.
Through this free program, volunteer mentors connect with small business owners to help their ideas grow and thrive. They provide empowering guidance and educational opportunities, working directly with budding entrepreneurs to share knowledge and experience. Think: Your advice could help lay the groundwork for someone’s long-term success as they share something new and exciting with our city.
Participating can help you — and your network — grow too. SCORE keeps volunteers up-to-date on the latest business strategies with training and resources. You’ll also meet other accomplished professionals locally and nationally, and have plenty of opportunities to exchange ideas.
Ready to share your expertise, pay it forward, and maybe learn something new?
It’s time again to nominate your favorite local businesses. Columbia Metropolitan Magazine’s 2026 Best of Columbia Nominations are open. Nominate your faves until midnight on Wednesday, May 28. The top five from each category will be placed on the voting ballots later this summer.
Job
Methodical Coffee, coming soon to the BullStreet District, is looking to hire a Columbia Operator. The regional coffee business is searching for someone passionate about coffee, hospitality, and building strong teams. If that’s you, apply.
Coming soon
A RaceTrac gas station is set to open in Cayce and be located off of Charleston Highway + Interstate 26. An opening date has not been announced. This will be the first RaceTrac in Columbia. (The Post and Courier)
Outdoors
From nuisance to naturalistic — Columbia’s City Council approved a change in its nuisance ordinance to allow for gardens that support native wildlife + plants. To register your naturalist garden, download the required form and provide a certification from a recognized program.
Mansion Monday
If you’re looking for river access, a pool + hot tub in the backyard, tons of natural light, a fireplace, a wine cellar, and space enough for everyone — check out this five-bedroom, five bathroom home for sale in West Columbia that sits on a .91 acre lot. We think you’ll like it.
Sports
Is it time for the Carolina Panthers to sign Ickey Ekwonu to a long-term extension? Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the Carolina Pantherswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Health
Stress affects more than your mood — it can also influence your hormones, menstrual cycle, and even your ability to conceive. Learn how chronic stress may impact fertility + explore ways to manage it to support your reproductive health.*
Number
$30,000. That’s how much an Upstate woman won playing a new SC Education Lottery scratch-off. “I almost passed out,” she said when her ticket revealed the top prize. Now, she’s planning a vacation. See which game she won (and try your luck).†*
Community
Did you know? Stormwater isn’t treated. Rain washes pollutants, like oil, trash, and chemicals from streets into storm drains, which flow directly into our rivers and lakes. You can help protect local water — keep storm drains clear and never dump anything down them. Learn more.*
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings in the city. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event coming soon to Columbia.
Drink
Maximize hydration and relaxation when you try Antivdote’s THC-infused electrolytes. They’re third party tested + come in three delicious flavors. Use code 6AMCITY20 for 20% off your order.†*
A cotton wrap dress that boasts an elegant halter neckline and chic wrapping at the waist. We love it for summer grill outs, casual afternoons by the beach, and warm weather weekend hangouts.
I posted this reel a few years ago, but it still holds true for me, and I have the tickets to prove it. Speaking of reels — maybe this one is more relatable to you. While you’re on our Instagram, give us a follow if you haven’t done so already.
}})
