No need to dust off the tux, just your old Levi’s.
The South Carolina Philharmonic’s “Beethoven & Blue Jeans” is back at the Koger Center for the Arts on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 7:30 p.m. The program includes Robert Schumann’s “Overture, Scherzo, and Finale,” Johannes Brahms’s “Double Concerto” featuring violinist Amy Schwartz Moretti and cellist Edward Aaron, and concludes with Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Triple Concerto.” Tickets are on sale now.
A museum that looks like the Death Star, Africa’s tallest building, and the end of a 144-year project. Those are three architectural marvels on the radar heading into 2026. Here in Cola, this recently listed historic University Hill home is a marvel of its own. (CNN)
Read
Reading is on the rise, with online searches for “good books” recently hitting an all time high. If you’re trying to turn more pages in 2026, read some classic literature, or find out what this fictional hockey romance thing is all about, Columbia’s bookstores are the perfect places to start.
Ranked
No. 46. That’s where Columbia ranked on WalletHub’s new list of best cities for job-seekers in the US. Openings per applicant, starting salaries, and employment growth were all considered in the rankings. If you’re looking for a fresh start in your career, our jobs board has 240,000+ listings.
Eat
When Columbians hit the drive-thru, one chain reigns supreme. New data from Visual Capitalist shows Bojangles is the most popular fast food restaurant in the state. We can’t say we’re surprised, though these local restaurant openings may make you rethink your typical order.
On This Day
On January 12, 1966, the first-ever TV episode of “Batman” aired. Since then, Bruce Wayne’s adventures have become commonplace in popular media. While we recommend getting a full night’s sleep, if you do find yourself awake in the wee hours, a late-night eat could be in the cards.
Fun Fact
How long can a Twinkie last? Back in 1976, a Maine high school science teacher set out to answer that question, and the sweet treat remains unblemished in its glass case 50 years later. We’ve got that beat in Columbia — some of our city’s oldest businesses have been around for much longer. (Bangor Daily News)
Trending
Pizzerias aren’t ruling the restaurant world like they used to. After hitting a record high in 2019, the number of pizza restaurants in the US has steadily declined, with coffee shops and Mexican restaurants now outnumbering them. Slice lovers, consider this your cue to support local pizza purveyors. (Wall Street Journal)
Jobs
Kick off 2026 by growing your team the smart way. Whether you’re a small business ready to expand or a large company filling a critical role, our Job Board connects you with engaged, qualified local talent ready to work. Post your open roles for free and start the new year with strong applications rolling in.
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City
🌳 Tree swap
This tree is beautiful, but the smell doesn’t match. | Photo by David Ohmer from wikimedia.
In no time, spring will be in the air, and with it, the stench of the notorious Bradford Pear Trees. It’s been illegal to sell or trade the trees since 2024, but it’s not illegal to have them on your property if they were previously planted. However, wildlife experts still encourage their removal.
The“Bradford Pear Bounty” is here to help. Clemson University and the SC Forestry Commission teamed up to give you up to five free trees in exchange for the removal of your Bradford Pears.
Take a photo of yourself with the cut down tree(s). “A selfie, if you will,” Clemson requests.
Bring your photo(s) to 2404 Main St. (Formerly Pelican Snoballs) on Saturday, March 14 from 8 to 11 a.m. to exchange for a replacement tree.
Pro tip: The experts at Clemson say Bradford Pear wood is great for firewood.
The Buy
Our favorite car accessory: a portable air pump and power bank. Never worry about low tire pressure again with this lightweight device that inflates tires while providing a real-time pressure display. Plus, it features a flashlight + flashing SOS mode for added peace of mind during a breakdown or emergency.
The new Rosewood Mini Market at the corner of Main and Blossom streets has been “soft” open for a little while, but now it’s ready to make it official. The local market will celebrate with a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. today, followed by a week of coupons, giveaways, free samples, and more. Stop in, grab some lunch, and say hello.
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