The fall calendar may not be as full of festivals as in years past, but we do still have football, a few signature events and even some things that are all new to look forward to this season. 

Deceased Farm | Sept. 18-Oct. 31

Do you feel that shiver down your spine? Deceased Farm is still delivering the frights this spooky season. With six buildings full of scares, three terrifying outdoor zones and creepy corn fields, plus plenty of safety precautions in place, the only thing you have to fear are the horrors hiding in the darkness.

Jubilee: Festival of Black History and Culture | Sept. 19

Though Jubilee has gone virtual this year, you can still tune in with Historic Columbia for a day of musicians, children’s activities, demonstration artists and tours of the Mann-Simons Site, as well as a quick preview of the Modjeska Monteith Simkins House and the chance to hear from generations of activists sharing their stories of inspiration, perspectives and achievements. 

Fall Arts & Crafts Market | Sept. 19

Who doesn’t love fall crafts? Skip the mess of glue and glitter at home and support an artisan by shopping handmade goods at the South Carolina State Farmers Market instead. 

Low Country Boil Night on the Farm | Sept. 24

Head to City Roots for the perfect transition from summer to fall. Feast on piping hot shrimp, corn, sausage and potatoes against the backdrop of a crisp September night. And with two separate seating times (6 and 8:30 p.m.), attendance will be safely spread out. 

Gamecock Football | Sept. 26

Fear not, football fans. The Gamecocks are indeed taking the field this year for a shortened season beginning Sat., Sept. 26 against Tennessee. Whether you catch the games in person at Williams-Brice or choose to cheer them on from home, enjoy the heart-pumping adrenaline of fall sports once more.

Bierkeller Columbia | Sept. 26

It’s Oktoberfest season and while many of the larger area celebrations have made the decision to forego this year, Bierkeller is here to swoop in and save us all from what would have been a tragic lack of German beers this fall. Kicking things off at The Front Coffee and Tap, more pop ups can be expected in the following weeks at various locations that have yet to be announced. The Wurst Wagen will also be on hand to serve up some delicious and authentic German cuisine.

Oktoberfest Brats & Beers Parking Lot Party | Sept. 23 and Sept. 30

The prosts don’t stop there. Stop by Curiosity Coffee Bar for a couple mid-week, spaced out Oktoberfest celebrations on their parking lot patio. Curiosity has the brews on tap and The Wurst Wagen will be on site with all the brats and kraut you desire. 

Hoppy Hour at the Zoo | Oct. 1

Fill the Brew at the Zoo-sized hole in your heart with Hoppy Hour at the Zoo, instead! Pop by for some brews, bites, socially distant strolls and after-hours time with the animals. 

Concert in the Gardens | Oct. 2 and Nov. 5

Enjoy a crisp, cool evening in the gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion as Historic Columbia teams up with the South Carolina Philharmonic for an intimate, yet socially distant, outdoor concert. Pack a picnic, bring some chairs and cozy up under a blanket for an optimal viewing experience. (I mean seriously, can concerts just always be like this moving forward?) 

30th Annual Walk for Life and Famously Hot Pink Half Marathon | Oct. 3

Celebrating 30 years of motivation and hope for those affected by breast cancer, this year’s event is moving forward, albeit a little differently. Touting that “we don’t have to be together to be together,” this year’s efforts will be virtual. The month-long event kicks off on Sat., Oct. 3 and participants are encouraged to hit the pavement in their own neighborhoods or nearby parks. 

OktoberFest | Oct. 3

The Fireflies are getting in the German spirit, as well, with their very own Oktoberfest celebration safely spaced out at Segra Park. The brisk evening air will pair nicely with samples served up by more than 30 local and regional breweries who will be on site. Anybody else suddenly craving a pretzel?

Inaugural Brewery Scavenger Hunt | Oct. 3

Put your skills to the test while enjoying local brews along the way. To get started, purchase a Brew Passport, which will indicate the first stop of the hunt. From there, you will make your way to various local breweries including Steel Hands, Columbia Craft, Hunter Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse, Swamp Cabbage and Hunter Gatherer at the Hangar. Complete activities at each location to earn stamps in your passport, then redeem it for prizes at the finish line. Sounds like a pretty wonderful Saturday to us. Happy hunting! 

World Famous Hip-Hop Family Day | Oct. 4

Details are still to come, but we do know one thing for sure – Rakim is still set to headline the signature Love, Peace & Hip-Hop event that has been rescheduled from April. We’re dancing already!

Harvest Dinners | Oct. 5 and Nov. 2

Safely gather at City Roots farm for the beloved monthly Harvest Dinner series. Four courses offering the best of fall’s bounty paired with the best of fall weather makes for the loveliest of atmospheric dining experiences. 

Visions from India | Oct. 17

Columbia Museum of Art’s next exhibition opens in October and invites us to experience India through the artwork of both established and esteemed international artists and talent on the rise. The collection of paintings, sculptures, multimedia work and more are sure to transport you. 

South Carolina State Fair | Oct. 20 - 21

You can still get your fill of funnel cakes, Fiske Fries, corndogs and more this year, all without even having to leave your vehicle. That’s right, the state fair is changing it up with a two-day, drive through experience. Admission is free and various attractions and exhibits featuring agriculture, history, art and culture will be on display for guests to view from their cars.

Boo at the Zoo | Oct. 23 - 30

Tricks and treats aren’t totally on hold this Halloween. Don your mask (both costume and cautionary) and bring the little ones to Riverbanks Zoo for an updated version of their annual family-friendly festivities. 

Movies in the Garden | Oct. 30

“Come, we fly!” … to the grounds of the Hampton-Preston Mansion as Historic Columbia gets us ready for Halloween with a special outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus. Socially distanced pods allow for you and your group to remain safe and sanitary under the stars. A local food truck will be on site, too, so come hungry!