Get ready for live performances by Herman Olivera, Rika Swing, and more. | Photo courtesy of Experience Columbia SC
Thousands of locals will fill Main Street today for the Main Street Latin Festival, a free celebration of Columbia’s Latin community from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Since 2003, the fest has brought family-friendly fun and cultural pride to the heart of Soda City. Expect vibrant performances, salsa dancing in the street, live DJs, and plenty of Latin American bites + bevs to keep you fueled.
Soda City Comic Convention | Saturday, Aug. 23-Sunday, Aug. 24 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center | $22+ | Experience the 10th anniversary of South Carolina’s premiere pop culture event.
Freedom Festival International | Saturday, Aug. 23-Sunday, Aug. 24 | 11 a.m.-8 p.m. | Ambrosia Taverna | $10+ | Sit in on screenings and network at this fest highlighting women and veteran filmmakers.
Loft Session: Carrie Marshall | 7-9 p.m. | The Pastor’s Study | $30 | Blending pop, blues, country, and jazz, this award-winning musician will serenade you while you enjoy light bites + boozy bevs.
Tuesday, Aug. 26
The Fixx | 7 p.m. | The Senate | $50 | Catch the iconic British new wave band perform live as part of their 2025 US tour.
Wednesday, Aug. 27
Ikebana: A Symphony of Serenity | 12-1 p.m. | Richland Library Main | Free | Learn the Japanese art of flower arranging from a certified Sogetsu instructor.
54%. That’s the percentage of Americans who say they consume alcohol — the lowest number recorded since tracking began in 1939. If you’re part of the 46% taking a break from booze (but still want a delicious drink), peruse our list of Soda City’s alcohol-free sips.
Watch
Been singing “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters” all summer? A sing-along version of the hit Netflix movie is in theaters today, Aug. 23 + Sunday, Aug. 24. Check out locations and showtimes near you — and get it all out, once and for all.
Read
Now in Books recently made a guide of what novels to read based on your state. To be read in South Carolina? Joy Callaway’s “Sing Me Home to Carolina” — a slow-burning romance novel geared toward young adults. Check for the title at a local book shop.
Pets
Forget Whiskers and Mittens — Charlie is the most popular cat name in South Carolina, according to a new study. Have a better moniker in mind for a feline friend? Meet adoptable cats who still need a name — and a home. (Newsweek)
The Word
Can you pronounce “Chechessee River?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. That’s the hardest place to pronounce in all of South Carolina, according to a new study by Preply. Around Columbia, our street names are typically easier to say, and have plenty of history behind them.
Sports
It’s official — the SEC is moving to a nine-game conference schedule. What does that mean for the Gamecocks? Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the South Carolina Gamecockswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
The Buy
A dog puzzle toy rated 4.5 stars. Treat your dog to a toy that actually stimulates them, challenging them to problem solve and explore while they sniff out treats. Bonus: Adjust this one toy from beginner to advanced, so dogs can ease in and improve without buying multiple puzzles.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Fall items are hitting the shelves, and these five vintage finds are trending: Hudson Bay blankets, brown + white transferware, Mary Maxim sweaters, copper molds, and tramp art boxes.
If you’re a thrift shopper like me, here’s your sign to dive into the local bins and see what you can snag.
}})
