2023 is just around the corner and we are wrapping up another great year in the capital city. Whether you spent the last year enjoying one of the many concerts that came through town, exploring the great outdoors or wining and dining, New Year's Eve in Columbia is a great time to reflect and plan for the year ahead. We've listed a few classic resolutions paired them with New Year's events in Columbia so that you can get a jump on 2023.

See and be Seen

If 2023 is looking like one big party, kick things off down on Main Street. At Smoked you'll find all the stops pulled out for their Red Carpet NYE. Enjoy music from a DJ, a photo booth to document the memories and of course a champagne toast at midnight. Head a little farther down the road to Market on Main for another great celebration featuring live music, a 3-course meal and watching the ball drop on Soda City's Big Screen.

Listen to More Music

Chayz Lounge has been throwing their Party Thru the Decades for 5 years, and it's always a big ticket item for music lovers. Enjoy the sounds of the TreKing Band playing you into 2023. Hear all your favorite throwback hits at Tin Roof and the Senate, where a massive block party and two stages offer the perfect end to the year. Top it all off with a balloon drop and a confetti cannon at midnight.

Exercise More

Start 2023 on the right foot, so to speak, with the Strictly Running Cold Winter's Day 5K. The course will take you through Forest Acres, and you'll wrap up with a t-shirt and a head start on your healthy new year. 

Spend More Time with Loved Ones

If a cozy night in is more your speed, create the perfect gathering with local treats. We'd have to recommend the Winter Warmer from Steel Hands with BBQ Party Pack from Midwood Smokehouse or bubbly and all the snacks from Gourmet Shop. Careful though, if you host your friends with all of these delicious local eats, they're going to come back again and again. 

Keep it Classic

If you find yourself thinking that 2022 was pretty great and you don't need to change course in the new year, allow us to recommend a traditional Columbia SC New Year celebration: Capital City Fireworks. Bundle up and gather in front of the South Carolina State House to ring in the new year with a spectacular fireworks display.


No matter how you are celebrating, please be safe and responsible. The City of Columbia is offering complementary parking in all City parking facilities from Friday, December 30 at 5:00 pm through Tuesday, January 3 at 2:00 am.