Summer in Columbia SC means live music, crop-focused festivals, getting out in nature and beating the heat any way you can. Take a look at some of what we have going on around town this month to experience summer magic in the Heart of SC.
How The Grinch Stole Summer at Boku Kitchen & Saloon | July 1 – 31
We’re suckers for a seasonal pop-up, so our sincerest gratitude goes out to Boku for continuing to deliver. Their popular Grinch-themed pop-up from the holiday season returns with a tropical twist for the ultimate Christmas in July experience. We’ll raise our Cindy Lou Sangria to that!
Kids Summer Movies Series at The Nick | dates vary
Enjoy family-friendly film favorites and a respite from the heat all while supporting local this summer. The movies, with screenings every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10 a.m., may only cost $7, but having at least a couple hours not having to figure out how to keep your little cinephiles occupied is priceless.
64th Annual Lexington County Peach Festival at Gilbert Community Park | July 4
An Independence Day tradition for more than sixty years, nothing screams summer quite like cobbler, ice cream, lemonade, fireworks and community. And while this seasonal bonanza brings it on all fronts, there’s only one real star of the show here – peaches.
Fireworks with the Phil at Segra Park | July 4
There may not be a home Fireflies game scheduled this year for you to enjoy America’s favorite pastime on the 4th, however the stadium is still going to good use with the return of this home run hit. Prepare to be moved as the SC Philharmonic performs live in tandem with a dazzling fireworks show.
Irmo’s 4th of July Family-Friendly & Inclusive Laser Light Show at Irmo Community Park | July 4
It’s no secret that fireworks can be a bit overstimulating. If you still want to partake in the patriotic celebrations sans the thunderous sounds, then your wish has been granted by the Town of Irmo, who is hosting a laser light show in the sky instead.
Purple Martin Cruise at The Spirit of Lake Murray | July 7, 14, 21, 28
Set sail on an enchanting evening aboard The Spirit of Lake Murray to bear witness to an incredible natural phenomenon that’s only accessible by boat as hundreds of thousands of Purple Martins fill the sky to roost at Bomb Island for the night. Oh, and there’s sure to be a great sunset, too.
The Eras Tour 10th Anniversary Party at Craft and Draft | July 13
A decade spent on Devine Street is certainly worth celebrating. Pop into the lime-hued neighborhood haunt in full T-Swift fashion and raise a pint to this era and all the rest to come.
Five After Five at Five Points Fountain | July 18th
It’s been seven long years since we last gathered ‘round the fountain for a Thursday evening Five After Five concert. But this summer, we welcome the free tunes and good times back with open arms. Kicking it all off this month with a special “Nola to Cola Night” is Mark Rapp and the Soda City Brass Band bringing the jazzy beats.
Sunset on the Shoals at Saluda Shoals Park | July 19
If you’re itching to get out into nature this summer, but the daytime temps have you hesitating in the AC, simply have yourself a sunset adventure instead. Embark on a golden hour guided paddle along the Saluda River, then decompress with a wine tasting afterward. And if you prefer a brew to a Bordeaux, then perhaps the Paddle & Pint on July 12 will be more to your liking.
The South Carolina Book Lovers Expo & Food Truck Festival at The Gala Event Center | July 27
If you’re anything like me and two of your favorite hobbies include reading and eating, then what are you waiting for!? Feed your mind and body during a Saturday well spent with author presentations, book signings, writing tips, local food vendors and more.
Cayce Cool Down at Granby Gardens Park | July 27
Listen. It’s HOT out there. There’s no avoiding it, but you can do your best to ward it off for a little while amidst water slides, water balloons, slip and slides, sprinklers, sno cones and more courtesy of the City of Cayce.
