August Events in Columbia, SC | Festivals, Concerts & Comic Con

Before we get sucked into back-to-school and fall feels, let’s make the most of the last full month of summer with community events, markets, cultural affairs and sun-filled days in the Heart of SC.

803 Day at varying locations | July 31 – Aug. 3

803 is more than just an area code; it’s a community worth celebrating. From a 5K Run/Walk and $8.03 specials at participating businesses throughout the region to an adult spelling bee, outdoor movie night and a festival to mark the big day, there are ample opportunities to gather with friends and neighbors in the place we call home.

BratFest at Bierkeller Columbia | Aug. 1

Bierkeller is firing up the grill, offering a wide array of bratwursts (including vegan!) alongside their signature German beers for a bash that has summer written all over it.

Brew at the Zoo at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden | Aug. 7

The craft beer craving continues with this annual tasting event highlighting breweries from all over the region with one of Columbia’s most iconic attractions serving as the backdrop.

Learn Freely Fest at Richland Library | Aug. 8

Ease your mind off summer mode with a day of free exploration and education for the whole family, featuring an afternoon of sessions and lessons to include scavenger hunts, crafts, creative writing, music, virtual reality, trivia, wellness, life skills, how-tos and so much more.

Bierkeller Jubiläumsfeier at Bierkeller Columbia | Aug. 14 – 16

Hoist a stein brimming with authentic German brews into the air and offer a heartfelt prost to Bierkeller’s third anniversary celebration, fittingly happening across three days.

South Carolina Native American Art Market at Columbia Museum of Art | Aug. 15

Pay a visit to Boyd Plaza, where Indigenous artists will share their talents via exquisite handmade items for sale and musical, storytelling and dance performances.

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy at Corley Mill House & Gardens | Aug. 14 – 15

Okay, we’ll make an exception and allow some early autumn vibes to sneak in, but only for a couple evenings inspired by the master of moody, macabre writing. Enjoy four of Poe’s classic tales paired with cocktails to match for an immersive experience sure to send a shiver down your spine.

Main Street Latin Festival at Main Street District | Aug. 22

Whether you’re a proud member of Columbia’s Latin community or simply someone wanting to learn more about another culture, this street party is perfect for anyone who appreciates music, dancing and delicious food.

Soda City Comic Con at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center | Aug. 22 – 23

Columbia’s premier pop culture extravaganza is back with all the cosplay, featured film and television celebrity guests, panel discussions, competitions and more that have made the event a smashing success in its 11 years.

Capital City Kickoff at varying locations | Aug. 27 – 29

As students return to our colleges and universities this month, the community is welcoming them back with citywide programming to include activations in the BullStreet, Devine Street, Five Points, Main Street and Vista districts, plus a finale event at Finlay Park.