The front of the hotel will face the new Lawn area and be across the street from Gather COLA. | Renderings courtesy of Vulcan Real Estate Development / Architect: Stephen Berry
Back in September, we shared that a new boutique hotel was planned for the BullStreet District. Now, Vulcan Real Estate Development has unveiled renderings and new details for The Grand Willow Hotel.
The rundown:
Location: 1571 Freed St. (behind REI), BullStreet District
Size: Seven stories, 136 rooms
Features: Rooftop restaurant, lobby cafe, poolside cabanas, wellness-focused pool and patio area, 5,000 sqft event space
Investment: $38 million by Vulcan Real Estate Development
Opening: Expected late 2027
Plans include a pool, sauna, and private cabanas designed as a wellness retreat. | Renderings courtesy of Vulcan Real Estate Development / Architect: Stephen Berry
If you’re trying to imagine what it will look like inside, the interior design, led by Lorie Giambarberee of Vintage Zinc Interiors, aims to reflect the character of Columbia. Giambarberee said the goal is to “blend refined elegance with a deep sense of place — creating a luxury experience that celebrates Columbia’s charm while offering guests a unique space to work, rest, and play.”
Women’s Outdoor Weekend | Thursday, Nov. 13-Sunday, Nov. 16 | Times vary | Table Rock State Park, Pickens | $150+ | Experience the Palmetto Trail like never before during an unforgettable weekend packed with thrilling activities, inspiring learning opportunities, and vibrant conversations.*
Beyond bustling market stalls, the Holiday Market is a cornerstone in supporting local initiatives. | Photos provided by Junior League of Columbia
The magic of the season returns as the Junior League of Columbia (JLC) hosts its 39th Annual Holiday Market, Dec. 4-7 at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds.
This four-day shopping extravaganza brings together 100+ merchants from across the country, offering everything from home décor and gourmet goodies to holiday gifts and accessories.
More than just a festive tradition, Holiday Market helps raise nearly $300,000 each year to support JLC’s mission of strengthening the health and wellbeing of children and families across the Midlands. Don’t miss the beloved signature events — the elegant Holiday Ball on Friday, Dec. 5 and family-favorite Sundaes with Santa on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Tickets are on sale now — shop, celebrate, and make a difference this holiday season.
14. That’s how many three-pointers the Gamecocks men’s basketball team drained in their season-opening 91-72 win over NC A&T. All 12 players recorded at least one assist, and Meechie Johnson led with 14 points. Catch them in action on Sunday, Nov. 9 against Southern Miss.
Talk
The Soda City takes the spotlight with TEDxCongaree Vista on Saturday, March 14. Sixteen local voices will take the mic to share their ideas, driving change in their communities. Tickets are $100, go on sale Friday, Nov. 10 at 9:30 a.m., and only 100 are available. (Cola Daily)
Arts
The Cayce Art Lot is offering free space on weekends for local artists to sell their work. A City of Cayce business license is required to participate. Send them an email to secure a spot.
Eat
Columbians love to debate who serves the best fried chicken — now The State wants your vote. The 2025 Fried Chicken Poll features 13 locally owned restaurants, no chains or tenders allowed. Voting closes Tuesday, Nov. 11.
Concert
Winter Jam will kick off its nationwide tour at Colonial Life Arena on Thursday, Jan. 9. Admission is a $15 donation at the door, and the concert features Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, and Katy Nichole.
Show
Mike Epps brings the “We Them One’s Comedy Tour” to Colonial Life Arena on Saturday, April 4. The tour includes DC Young Fly, Chico Bean, Karlous Miller, Mojo Brookzz, Navv Greene, Tony Roberts, and Jayski. Tickets go on sale Friday, Nov. 7 at 10 a.m.
Shop
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about?*
Finance
Score a lucrative signup bonus and up to 5% cash back with this credit card that experts can’t stop raving about. With perks you don’t see every day and a $0 annual fee, it will be a serious upgrade to your wallet. Learn more + apply.*
Make your voice heard in the local elections. | Photo by COLAtoday
Get ready to head back to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 18, Columbia — two City Council races are headed for a runoff.
• At-Large: Aditi Bussells vs. Sam Johnson
• District 4: Peter Brown vs. Julie Lumpkin
Mayor Daniel Rickenmann was re-elected to a second term with 62% of the vote. Tina Herbert also won re-election in District 1, defeating Christa Williams.
Early voting runs Wednesday, Nov. 12, through Friday, Nov. 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Richland County Elections Office at 2020 Hampton St.
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.
Do you live in the Batesburg-Leesville area or know someone who does? Keep the Midlands Beautiful is giving away over 400 free trees to help restore the canopy lost due to Hurricane Helene last year. All you need to do is register by Monday, Nov. 17 and attend one of five free one-hour workshops happening December 3–6.
}})
