2019 has been pretty good to Columbia SC, but in this city we are always looking forward to what's next. Welcoming the year 2020 is no exception, and here to help ring in the New Year is the Famously Hot New Year's Eve Celebration.
Salt-n-Pepa
Since 2011, Famously Hot New Year's Eve has been celebrating with a free (yes, we said free) concert in the heart of downtown Columbia. This year's celebration is headlined by none other than Grammy award winning hip-hop group Salt-n-Pepa. Join in on the fun as they rock the stage with a backdrop of South Carolina's largest New Year's Eve fireworks display.
Know Before You Go
Don't let a lack of planing ruin the final hours of 2019. The 8 City of Columbia parking garages will be free from Dec. 31 at 5:00 p.m. until Jan. 2 at 3:00 a.m. Drop off your car and enjoy the show without worrying about how you'll get home. The COMET will be offering free rides after 9:00 p.m. on Dec. 31 or you can take an Alert Cab directly to your front door with a $10 discount.
New this year, Famously Hot NYE will have a Clear Bag Policy to increase safety. Keep in mind that if your bag is larger than 6.5x4.5 inches it needs to be clear. Check out their website for more specifics on parking and the bag policy.
Eat
The Main Street and Vista districts are bursting with good eats year round, and NYE is no exception. A few local favorites on Main Street like Lula Drake, Cantina 76, Hendrix and Bourbon are selling tickets for their own New Year's celebration. If you'd like to stop in for dinner rather than buying a ticket, you'll have better luck down in the Vista. Send the year out with tacos and margaritas at COA, a bit of Southern fine dining at Cola's or Motor Supply, or with an Asian flair at Saki Tumi.
Stay
Whether you're not from around here or you call Columbia SC home, there are plenty of cozy spots to lay your head after a night of partying. Book a stay at Hotel Trundle, a member of Southern Living's Hotel Collection, or the newly renovated Graduate Hotel. Both are within walking distance of the NYE celebration and offer a boutique hotel experience. The Columbia Marriott Hotel and Sheraton Hotel are also ready to welcome you and 2020. Peruse our full list of hotels to find your home for the evening.
For more information about New Year's Eve events and 2020 happenings, visit our Calendar of Events.
