Outdoors

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Outdoors
Wingard’s Market nominated for National Best Plant Nursery Award
Lexington’s Wingard’s Market leads USA TODAY’s Best Plant Nursery vote, and supporters can cast ballots daily through March 9 to keep them at No. 1.
February 19, 2026 02:10 PM
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David Stringer
Giant wooden sculpture of a seated, gentle-looking troll amidst lush green forest.
Arts
South Carolina’s first Thomas Dambo troll is coming to Cayce
Danish artist Thomas Dambo is bringing one of his famous upcycled trolls to the Cayce Riverwalk, just minutes from downtown Columbia.
February 4, 2026
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Morgan O’Neal
Lexington Med 2
Fitness
Find where to get more steps in around Columbia
If you’re trying to reach new running goals, consider signing up for one of these upcoming races or find ways to get more steps in around Columbia
January 12, 2026
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David Stringer
A close up of the white blossoms of the Bradford pear tree.
City

How to get free trees to replace those stinky Bradford Pears
For every Bradford Pear you remove from your property, Clemson and the Forestry Commission will give you a free replacement, but only while supplies last.
January 8, 2026
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Danielle Johnson
Yellow flowers outside
Outdoors
How to turn your Midlands yard into a mini wildlife haven
A grassroots effort is helping Midlands properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.
December 3, 2025
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David Stringer
Local authors section at Richland Library
Outdoors
Where would you put an outdoor library in Columbia?
The concept is taking over South Korea’s capital city. We’re thinking about where we’d copy it in Soda City.
August 27, 2025
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Patrick Sidwell
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City
Celebrate Bike + Preservation Month in Cola
Celebrate Columbia’s history and bike culture with events, tours, and rides throughout May.
April 30, 2025
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David Stringer
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Events
Birdwatching in the Gardens: A spring migration
A spring morning of birdwatching in Columbia, where migrating warblers, local gardens, and unexpected bird facts stole the show.
April 24, 2025
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David Stringer
Girls Who Walk Columbia group
Wellness
Join one of these local active walking and running clubs around Columbia
Looking for free ways to stay active, improve your cardio, stay motivated, or just some new friends? Explore and join a local walking or running club.
January 6, 2025
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Samantha Robertson
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Outdoors
Historic relics found in Congaree River cleanup
Dominion Energy’s Congaree River cleanup unearthed Civil War relics, including a Confederate saber and various-sized cannonballs.
November 14, 2023
 · 
David Stringer
takeout food by river
Outdoors
Best places to work outside in Columbia
When the sun is shining and the weather is perfect, pack a bag and head out to one of the many spots great for remote work in Columbia. From coffee shops to public parks, we have a plethora of places to refresh your mind and step away from your home desk.
June 26, 2023
 · 
Ben McBee
Latest News
More from COLAtoday
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Small Business
SOCO opens new coworking Space at Gather COLA
SOCO opens a 9,500-sqft coworking space inside Gather COLA in the BullStreet District.
February 25, 2026
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David Stringer
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Food
Restaurant Roundup: New and coming-soon restaurants in Columbia
Dining in Columbia is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
February 24, 2026
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David Stringer
A hand holds a vibrant cross-stitch depicting a witch and a haunted house against a blue, starry sky, bordered with green polka dots. Vinyl records form a colorful background.
Arts
Needlepoint is back: Here’s how to try it in Columbia
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
February 23, 2026
 · 
Morgan O’Neal
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Events
Editor’s Pick: Big Percy on display at SC State Museum
A Mount Pleasant artisan’s massive sweetgrass basket is now on display at the South Carolina State Museum.
February 19, 2026
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David Stringer
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Nonprofits
Anchor Investment Management launches Impact Fund
Anchor Investment Management is celebrating 25 years by awarding $25,000 in grants to Midlands nonprofits focused on health and education.
February 18, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Sports
7 disc golf courses in the Midlands
Learn how and where to play disc golf in the Capital City.
February 18, 2026
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David Stringer
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Sports
Register for these spring sports for youth and adults
Build your social network through team-building sports in Columbia, like kickball, softball, and pickleball.
February 17, 2026
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David Stringer
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Sports
Fireflies launch Battle at BullStreet plaza party
Live DJ, food trucks, yard games and family fun kick off the Battle at BullStreet before gates open.
February 17, 2026
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David Stringer
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Events
Read Freely Fest unveils 2026 lineup
More than 40 authors are headed to Richland Library Main Friday, March 27 through Sunday, March 29.
February 16, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
Thomas Cooper library
History
USC exhibit marks America’s 250th
A new USC exhibit explores 250 years of revolution and rare South Carolina artifacts.
February 16, 2026
 · 
David Stringer