This month’s calendar is filled with firsts, like new festivals and a historic sporting event, but there are plenty of familiar favorites returning to the mix, too. Here’s how you can enjoy a bit of both all August long in the Heart of SC.
Brew at the Zoo at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden | August 2
While kids may largely have the run of the place during the day, this after-hours event is for the 21+ crowd who love animals and craft beer in equal measure. Taste your way through beer, cider and seltzer offerings from dozens of regional breweries while paying a visit to each of the wildlife habitats.
803 Day Celebration at varying locations | August 3
The 803 is in the spotlight on 8/03 at this inaugural event that aims to celebrate all things Columbia. Beginning with a 5K run/walk, the rest of the day’s activities include a citywide scavenger hunt, a photo op at the South Carolina State House, a free outdoor festival on the grounds of the Robert Mills House and $8.03 specials at participating restaurants, attractions and small businesses around town.
Rivals in Red: Manchester United vs. Liverpool F.C. at Williams-Brice Stadium | August 3
Before the South Carolina Gamecocks return to their home field later this month, a couple legendary visitors from across the pond will be making their Columbia debut to play a different kind of football here first. Come watch history unfold as Premier League institutions Manchester United and Liverpool face off under the lights.
Columbia Restaurant Summer Games at Boyd Plaza | August 4
With all eyes on Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, let’s turn our attention locally as seven Columbia restaurants – Hampton Street Vineyard, Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi, Bierkeller, Ratio, Bodhi Thai Dining, The War Mouth and Villa Tronco – represent France, Japan, Germany, Peru, Thailand, USA and Italy, respectively, to share small plates highlighting the cuisine of each nation and compete in special games and challenges.
Outdoor Movie Nights at Savage Craft Ale Works | August 5, 12, 19, 26
Add a little movie magic to your Monday nights this month with screenings of classic film favorites The Princess Bride, Labyrinth, The Way Way Back and The Sandlot under the stars in Savage Craft’s beer garden.
Columbia Taco and Margarita Festival at Segra Park | August 17
While the Columbia Fireflies are off playing an away game against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a new festival will be taking over their home turf for the day. Get your fill of tacos and margaritas being served up alongside live pro wrestling, a DJ and local vendors.
Main Street Latin Festival at Main Street District | August 24
Get ready for art, music, dancing and the heavenly aroma of Latin American cuisine to fill the streets. From salsa and samba to merengue and reggaetón, arepas and empanadas to tacos and pupusas, you’ll find all this and so much more to highlight the vibrant culture of the ever-growing Latin community here in Columbia.
Soda City Comic Con at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center | August 24 – 25
Now in its ninth year, the region’s premier celebration of pop culture is back with all the celebrity guests, panel discussions, cosplay, arcade and video game tournaments, vendors and more that attendees know and love about this two-day extravaganza, plus all new activities and attractions to further enhance the visitor experience. KAPOW!
Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert at Koger Center for the Arts | August 25
If the signature strains of some of John Williams’ most notable compositions never fail to give you goosebumps, then you won’t want to miss the chance to snag a seat at the Koger Center and let the SC Philharmonic transport you to a galaxy far, far away.
Hootie & The Blowfish – Summer Camp with Trucks Tour at Colonial Life Arena | August 29 – 30
The two-time Grammy Award-winning band who formed during their USC days right here in Columbia before becoming a household name in the mid-90’s are closing out the month at Colonial Life Arena for a homecoming so big it can’t be contained to just one night.
South Carolina Gamecocks Football vs. Old Dominion at Williams-Brice Stadium | August 31
Bookend summer and usher in the next season with an iconic fall activity like a college football game. Get the tailgating gear ready and come cheer on the Gamecocks during their first home game against the Old Dominion Monarchs. Do I detect a chill in the air?
