We know “warm weather” applies to the majority of the year here in the Heart of SC, so for argument’s sake, let’s just focus on some of the signature events coming up this spring and summer. The months ahead may be scorching, but that sure doesn’t stop us from getting together for a good time.
Columbia Food & Wine Festival | April
Come hungry, because this annual culinary showcase of the Columbia region is a marathon, not a sprint.
Rosewood Crawfish Festival | May
10,000 lbs. of fresh Louisiana crawfish don’t stand a chance against us at this festival centered around live music and all things Cajun and Creole.
ColaJazz Fest | May
The temperatures continue to rise, but there’s plenty of cool jazz in store to mellow you out during one of the Main Street District’s free annual music festivals.
Drink Pink Rose Festival | May
We’re pretty sure the origin of the phrase rose-colored glasses can be traced back to this festival, where our cups stay full with more than 100 blush wines available for sampling amidst one of downtown’s most striking gardens.
The Grand Pour on Main | May
Lexington’s Wine Walk may have a new name, but you can expect all the same fun that’s made it a calendar mainstay for more than a decade, plus an “After Pour” concert at Icehouse Amphitheater. Cheers!
Lake Murray Palooza | May/June
It’s officially lake season, folks. Formerly Reggaetronic, the new Lake Murray Palooza music festival can now be reached by land or water, making it accessible to a wider audience, and boasts a lineup spanning multiple genres.
Rhythm on the River | May/June
Enjoy the cool evening breeze rolling off the Congaree River at this seasonal (and free!) outdoor concert series at the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater.
Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Outfest | June
Spread the love, show support and kick off National Pride Month with the annual Outfest street festival in The Vista.
Columbia Shrimp & Grits Festival | June
If summer has you craving seafood, get your fill at this juried competition to crown Columbia’s best version of the signature South Carolina dish.
Juneteenth Freedom Festival | June
This intentional outdoor celebration of culture, freedom and resilience commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans with speakers, live performances, food, crafts, vendors and more.
Lexington County Peach Festival | July
A 4th of July tradition for more than six decades, peaches take the spotlight in all their classic summertime variations you can think of – cobbler, ice cream, lemonade – and even more than you can possibly imagine.
Brew at the Zoo | August
The first Friday in August is reserved for sipping on craft beer pours and seeing what the animals are up to after hours at Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens.
Soda City Comic Con | August
Revel in the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center’s air conditioning during the region’s premier celebration of pop culture featuring two days of celebrity guests, panel discussions, cosplay, arcade and video game tournaments, shopping and more.
Main Street Latin Festival | August
Every August, the Latin Festival turns up the heat with food, art, music, dancing and fun filling the streets.
