Outdoors

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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 12:26 PM
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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
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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
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Ben McBee
Latest News
More from COLAtoday
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Mardi Gras Columbia brings 19 local bands to City Roots
The 16th annual Mardi Gras Columbia Festival features 19 local bands across three stages, plus a parade, food vendors, and craft beer.
January 15, 2026
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David Stringer
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City
Meet Experience Columbia SC’s 2026 ambassadors
Experience Columbia SC introduces its 2026 ambassadors, highlighting locals shaping how visitors experience the Midlands.
January 15, 2026
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David Stringer
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Events
Ways to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.'s presence in Columbia and how to commemorate his life and legacy on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
January 15, 2026
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David Stringer
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Entertainment
Live in the Lobby Jazz shares full 2026 concert lineup
ColaJazz Foundation and the Koger Center announce seven intimate jazz performances running from February through December.
January 13, 2026
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David Stringer
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Food

Wine and dine around Columbia for Restaurant Week South Carolina
Get your calendars out and start booking your reservations at these Midlands eateries offering special dishes, menus, and deals for a limited time during Restaurant Week South Carolina.
January 8, 2026
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David Stringer
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City
What our readers love about COLAtoday
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
January 6, 2026
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David Stringer
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Events
Plan Ahead: Don’t miss these events happening in Columbia
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
January 6, 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.
December 29, 2025
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David Stringer
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Events
12 New Year’s Eve events in Columbia to ring in 2026
Block parties, early ball drops, free games — whatever your vibe, there’s a Columbia-area New Year’s Eve for you.
December 16, 2025
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David Stringer
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Sports
Beamer rebuilds Gamecocks’ offense with trio of hires
South Carolina is reshaping its offense with coordinator Kendal Briles and longtime assistants Stan Drayton and Randy Clements joining Shane Beamer’s staff.
December 11, 2025
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David Stringer