Columbia’s mix of warmth, charm and easy-going energy makes it the perfect place to welcome friends and family over the holidays. Equal parts festive and laid-back, the city makes it easy to create memories while showing off what locals already know: Columbia’s gracious spirit and creative spark make every gathering feel special.
Welcome to Columbia for the Holidays
Prepping for the Big Meal
Want to keep things simple this year? Midwood Smokehouse has you covered with whole smoked turkeys (or a Thanksgiving brisket!) and classic Southern sides. For dessert, make a pit stop at Immaculate Consumption or Sweet Temptations — because no Thanksgiving table is complete without something that feels homemade, even if you didn’t bake it yourself.
And for friends or family who prefer plant-based comfort food, A Peace of Soul Vegan Kitchen works magic with holiday favorites that prove Thanksgiving can be just as delicious without the turkey.
Where to Eat Out if You Don’t Want to Host
If the thought of cooking for a crowd has you ready to hand over the apron, Columbia’s restaurants make it easy. City Grit serves up an elevated holiday dining experience, where multi-course menus blend seasonal flavors with Southern hospitality. Hampton Street Vineyard, smack in the middle of downtown, sets the stage for a memorable meal with pre-fixe menus that highlight seasonal ingredients and offer something for every palate. You'd be remiss not to visit Smoked where family-style dining and multi-course menus are perfect for sharing.
Things to Do with Family Over Thanksgiving Weekend
Outdoor Adventures
Need to walk off that second slice of pie? Head to Congaree National Park for a stroll under golden-canopied trails or wander along the West Columbia Riverwalk. Over at Harbison State Forest, easy paths make it simple for the whole family to stretch their legs and soak up a crisp fall day.
If outdoorsy activities are not your thing, head over to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden where you'll encounter over 3,000 animals and the newly opened Saluda Skyride, an aerial life that transports visitors across the Saluda River between the Zoo and Botanical Garden. You'll be sure to get a bird's-eye view of the zoo, animals and the river.
Take part in our hometown pride and make plans to tailgate for the legendary Carolina vs Clemson football game at Williams Brice Stadium and enjoy a fall Saturday in the heart of SC.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Catch the Heroes and Villains Art of the Disney Costume where you can find over 70 original costumes from live-action Disney movies, at the South Carolina State Museum before it disappears on January 4, 2026.
Looking for a way to spend the day outside during the cooler weather? Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has over 3,000 animals and the newly opened Saluda Skyride, and aerial life that transports visitors across the Saluda River between the Zoo and Botanical Garden. You'll be sure to get a bird's-eye view of the zoo, animals, and the river.
Casual Places for Coffee or Dessert
Skip that plate of leftovers in the fridge and head to one of Columbia’s cozy coffee shops. Drip Coffee, Cool Beans or Indah Coffee are all beloved by locals and savvy travelers alike. If dessert is calling, Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe and Sweet Cream Co. are every bit as good as their names suggest.
Supporting Local While You Host
Small Business Saturday Events & Shops
Make Small Business Saturday part of your Thanksgiving weekend plans. Explore The Vista, Five Points, Devine Street, and other shopping districts, where boutique shops and local finds showcase Columbia’s creative bastion of makers. Head over to Bierkeller’s Christmas Market which begins November 29th and runs each weekend of Advent featuring local vendors, specialty foods, holiday music and, of course, beer.
Local Gift Shops & Markets to Explore Together
By all means, carve out time for Soda City Market. With more than 150 vendors lining Main Street, it’s chockablock with handmade goods, fresh flavors and unique finds. Proof that Columbia’s maker scene is alive and thriving.
In the Holiday Spirit
While we love giving Thanksgiving its moment, we can’t help but get excited for the winter holidays by enjoying lights displays and events happening over the Thanksgiving break. On November 20th head to Vista Lights, where over 60 shops, restaurants and galleries open their doors to showcase holiday treasures along with dance and musical performances, a Kid Zone and more. Riverbanks Zoo & Garden opens its annual Wild Lights on November 21st (with tickets available starting November 1). Fireflies Holiday Lights at Segra Park also opens on November 21 with awe-inspiring lights displays and activities for the family in the BullStreet District. Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park begins November 26th and offers a drive through display over a million lights and 400 animated displays as well as a tube slide and visits with Santa. The South Carolina State Christmas Tree will be lit on Sunday November 23 during the Governor’s Carolighting on the State House Grounds, with musical performances from groups representing different parts of the state.