Retail

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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 02:31 AM
 · 
David Stringer
A graphic that says "Their perfect gift is on this list. Our holiday gift guide just dropped." surrounded by images of gift tags.
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
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 19, 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
Sponsored by
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Outdoors
Wingard’s Market nominated for National Best Plant Nursery Award
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Anchor Investment Management launches Impact Fund
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 · 
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.
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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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Sports
Fireflies launch Battle at BullStreet plaza party
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February 17, 2026
 · 
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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