Retail

Three people are working together in what appears to be a warehouse or workshop with doors and windows. Two individuals wear blue "volunteer" shirts, while one person in a hoodie uses tape and a marker. They seem to be organizing or preparing materials for a project.
Culture
Where to make spring cleaning donations in Columbia
Doing some spring cleaning and have items to donate? Check out these 14 spots in the Columbia area accepting clothing and supply donations.
March 25, 2026 02:02 PM
 · 
David Stringer
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Events
Prepare for the holidays with these local markets and pop-ups
The holidays are just around the corner in Columbia, and these local vendors are offering food, drinks, and decor perfect for each seasonal festivity.
November 18, 2025
 · 
David Stringer
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Small Business
COLAtoday’s 2025 holiday gift guide: 90+ finds for everyone you love
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
October 24, 2025
 · 
Emily Shea-Owen
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Play
Dog-friendly businesses guide for Columbia
Explore these dog-friendly businesses in Columbia that span from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, and stay the night.
September 10, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
A rendering of the retail space at Shoppes at Forest Hills.
Sponsored
Be the broker: What should move into Shoppes at Forest Hills?
Shoppes at Forest Hills sits in one of Columbia’s most desirable neighborhoods, close to the Forest Hills, Melrose Heights, and Heathwood communities.
Sponsored by
Azalea Coffee Bar
Live
Your guide to Columbia’s coffee shops
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some with our coffee guide, featuring 25+ local coffee shops.
August 6, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
The exterior of the Tapp's building in Columbia, SC as seen from the street.
Small Business
The historic Tapp’s building is being transformed
The Tapp’s building, a staple landmark in Columbia since the 1900s, will soon house retail shops and a 24/7 gym, set to open in July 2025.
April 29, 2025
 · 
Samantha Robertson
A few gifts overlaid on a patchwork background, including a Carharrt lunch box and a jewelry dish.
Sponsored
What to buy for parents: Your 2025 gift guide for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day
Including Oprah’s favorite eye mask and a No. 1 best-selling beard trimmer.
Sponsored by
The exterior of the Richland main library with a banner for Read Freely Fest hanging about the rounded, glass front doors.
Culture
Richland Library’s inaugural Read Freely Fest coming to Columbia
The library’s free, family-friendly festival will feature author talks, book sales, and entertainment across across three day.
March 25, 2025
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
A GIF of the exterior facade of the building at 121 State St.
Sponsored
Be the broker: What’s missing in the Brookland development?
Let us know what would make this spot stand out in West Cola.
Sponsored by
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Sponsored
A smarter way to play the lottery
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City
12+ activities for older adults in Columbia
If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of retirement in Columbia.
April 9, 2026
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David Stringer
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Travel and Outdoors
Surviving pollen season in Columbia, SC
Does pollen season have you wiping your eyes and nose? Blame the hidden tree pollen as spring allergies kick into high gear.
April 9, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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BizBrief
Group volunteer opportunities for your company in Columbia
Explore group volunteer opportunities, from hands-on projects to custom experiences, that let your team give back to the Columbia community.
April 8, 2026
 · 
Cat George
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Business
Seaboard Vista project breaks ground
Developers break ground on a mixed-use Vista project, with Mashburn relocating its headquarters during its 50th year.
April 7, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Food
U-pick strawberries in the Midlands
Fresh fruits make the spring season even sweeter.
April 6, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Sports
Tee it up at these Columbia golf courses
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or the next Scottie Scheffler, these 22 golf courses in Cola are sure to make for a good round.
April 2, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Small Business
Local love: COLAtoday’s guide to reader-recommended small businesses
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
April 2, 2026
 · 
Laura Figi
Conagree National Park
Events
Catch Congaree’s fireflies glow
Enter the lottery for a chance to experience Congaree National Park’s synchronous firefly display.
April 1, 2026
 · 
David Stringer
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Food
Editor’s Pick: Godspeed opens in Five Points
April 1, 2026
 · 
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.
March 30, 2026
 · 
David Stringer