Three-time Grammy nominee Grace Potter will headline this year’s St. Pat’s in Five Points Festival. | Photo by James Mountford
Last year, we took a look back at the history of St. Pat’s in Five Points, an annual festival that’s brought the Columbia community together for more than 40 years with a parade, road race, and live music.
This year, the festival returns on Saturday, March 14 for its 44th year with a lineup headlined by Grace Potter and Switchfoot, along with quickly rising artists like Grace Bowers, Buffalo Traffic Jam, The Creekers, and Congress The Band.
With nearly 30 acts (16 with local ties) across five stages, the entire Five Points village will come to life for the day and signal to the Midlands that spring is almost here.
Now showing Áróra, a captivating journey through the beauty and science of the Northern Lights that explores how auroras appear on Earth and across our galaxy — all from the comfort of the planetarium’s 55-foot theater.
This family-friendly show is suitable for all ages and worth planning ahead.
The Columbia Boat Showdocks at the SC State Fairgrounds Friday–Sunday, Feb. 20–22 with 60 boat brands, show-only deals, live music, and kids’ fishing clinics. Advance tickets start at $10 online.
Sports
Step up to the plate — Columbia Fireflies single-game tickets for the upcoming season are on sale now, including Opening Night (Tuesday, April 7), Bluey Night, and July 4 festivities.
Transit
The COMET will implement route and schedule changes across 20+ lines starting Sunday, Jan. 25. Adjustments include stop removals, new frequencies, and modified trip times on key routes. Updated schedules will be available at COMET Central and online.
State
Did you feel it? A magnitude 2.2 earthquake rattled the Midlands at 6:45 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20. The USGS says it was centered 2.5 miles east-southeast of Elgin, with over 200 people reporting it felt as far as West Columbia. (WLTX)
Cause
The 5th Annual Cola Rosé Shower returns to Williams-Brice Stadium on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 3 to 7 p.m., celebrating women’s health and sisterhood. Tickets start at $80, and guests are encouraged to bring feminine hygiene donations for local nonprofits.
Opening
The opening of the new AllSouth Federal Credit Union Ballentine branch is being celebrated with free coffee on Friday, Jan. 23, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. In partnership with The Coffee House, complimentary hot beverages will be served onsite at 1000 W. Shady Grove Rd. Members and nonmembers are invited to stop by, sip, and explore the new branch.*
Finance
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Biz
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Health
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Wellness
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Health
Health
The lifesaving power of a simple act
Presented by The Blood Connection
A simple act. A powerful impact. Local lives depend on it. | Photos provided by The Blood Connection
Did you know? January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to recognize the everyday heroes who help save lives with a simple, selfless act: donating blood. At The Blood Connection (TBC), this month is dedicated to thanking donors and highlighting the critical role they play in supporting patients at local hospitals.
Winter can be one of the most challenging times to maintain a stable blood supply. Between holiday travel, seasonal illnesses, and unpredictable weather, donations often decline — yet the need for blood never slows down. Emergency procedures, cancer treatments, and chronic conditions rely on a consistent supply, no matter the season.
Thanks to generous donors, TBC continues to serve communities across the region and ensure hospitals have the blood they need when it matters most. Whether you’re a longtime donor or considering your first appointment, National Blood Donor Month is a powerful reminder: one donation can make a lasting difference.
Out: Quick fixes that don’t last. In: Real change that brings lasting results. Create sustainable habits for good with Noom’s science-backed weightless program that boasts personalized coaching and support to keep you motivated. Say goodbye to restrictive diets and hello to nourishing meals that are tailored for your goals.
Columbia foodies will have their eyes on the James Beard site tomorrow with fingers crossed for some local semifinalists. In the past few years, several Midlands restaurants like City Limits Q, Lula Drake Wine Parlour, and Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles have landed on the list.
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