As the mild months of spring lengthen into the slow and scorching days of summer, Columbia is up to the task of filling all the extra time you might find you have on your hands. From block parties and barbecue to lake days and concert series, plus cultural celebrations and culinary delights at every turn, June is setting the bar high for the rest of the summer months here in the Heart of SC.
Sergio Hudson: Focused on the Fit at Columbia Museum of Art | June 1 – 30
If you haven’t made it in to check out the native South Carolinian designer’s exclusive exhibit yet, you have until the end of the month to gaze upon sketches detailing the creative process and the resulting fashions that have been worn by powerhouse women like Beyonce, Michelle Obama, Keke Palmer and more.
OUTfest: A Famously Hot Block Party! at Park Street in The Vista | June 1
While our annual Pride festival isn’t until October, its organizers aren’t going to let National Pride Month slip by without a celebration. Pageants and performances, more than 30 local vendors and plenty of food, drink and merriment provide ample opportunity to recognize and support Columbia’s LGBTQ+ community.
2nd Annual Kickoff to Summer at EdVenture | June 1
The kids are out of school and if you’re already pulling your hair out wondering how you’re going to keep them occupied for the next few months, then let EdVenture take the reins. Dance and play among a sea of beach balls and bubbles on the outdoor terrace, enjoy complimentary popsicles and popcorn, witness the annual lighting of Eddie’s firefly and more.
Drift Jam – Flotilla Music Festival 2024 at Fat Frogs Marina | June 1
The World’s Largest Floating Music Festival is back for its final buoyant bash, so let’s give it a proper sendoff. Load up a boat with friends and refreshments, drop anchor and enjoy a full day of live music, fun in the sun and comradery on the waters of Lake Murray.
Columbia Fashion Week – The Experience at varying locations | June 3 – 9
The most chic week of the year is here and all of Columbia is a catwalk. Beginning with a kick-off party, additional programming includes an ode to 80’s fitness fashion, a custom cowboy hat workshop, a streetwear runway show in the Lincoln Street Tunnel, a party announcing this year’s Fashion Icons, a runway showcase and Top Model Competition and the return of the popular “Brunchway” event, this time at Market on Main.
South Carolina Caribbean Festival at varying locations | June 6 - 9
Channel the spirit of Carnival for Caribbean-American Heritage Month through four days of events to include an international party, a traditional J’ouvert paint party, a block party and the Punch’d brunch affair that keep the complete immersion into Caribbean culture going from sun up to sun down.
Nashville Nights at Steel Hands Brewing | June 7, 14, 21, 28
Now in its fourth year, Nashville Nights has more than established itself as a fixture on the Columbia SC summer calendar. Come on out every Friday night to catch budding Nashville-based singer-songwriters The Wholesome Boys, Bre Kennedy, Kenny Foster and Gabe Lee take the stage throughout the month.
CanalFest 2024 at Bierkeller | June 8
The folks at Bierkeller have big plans for this inaugural festival, hoping it’ll be one of their biggest annual events moving forward, and all in celebration of the Columbia Canal. With new beer releases, a Canal clean-up and walking tours detailing its history, plus live music and kid-friendly activities, it’s safe to say we have high hopes for this event, too.
Southeastern BBQ Showdown at Segra Park | June 14 – 15
The temps outside are steadily climbing and that can only mean one thing – it’s grilling season! Featuring two days of fierce competition among teams from all over the country (and all the expertly prepared samples as a result), this inaugural event is making history as the first food sport competition to take place in a sports stadium in the country. A musical performance by Alabama and a fireworks display close out the festivities.
8th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival at Dutch Square Center | June 15
Beginning with a night parade on Friday through downtown Columbia, the commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans continues on Saturday with an outdoor celebration of culture, freedom and resilience. Speakers and live performances, food, arts and crafts vendors and more round out this intentional day of tribute.
Tiki Fiesta at City Roots | June 15
A celebration of both island and Mexican cuisine, Tiki Fiesta is double the party and then some. Chef stations and cocktail pairings are accompanied by rum, mezcal and tequila tastings (and attendees should be accompanied by a designated driver or rideshare service).
Reggaetronic Lake Murray Music Festival 2024 at Spence Island | June 15
From the waves to the tunes to the vibes, a Saturday on Lake Murray doesn’t get much more laid back and mellow than during Reggaetronic. Well, at least as laid back and mellow as a music festival that’s only accessible by boat can be. But we promise the destination is well worth the extra effort the journey requires upfront.
2nd Annual Black Eats Week 803 at varying locations | June 17 - 23
Scheduled to coincide with Juneteenth, Black Eats Week aims to highlight Black-owned restaurants, eateries and establishments throughout the region, offering exclusive deals, freebies and menu items along the way. And with more than 100 Black-owned restaurants dappling the Midlands, there’s much to be discovered and devoured.
Columbia Shrimp and Grits Fest at Seawell’s Food Caterers, Inc. | June 22
We take our shrimp and grits seriously in the South and everyone fancies theirs to be the best. Now in its eighth year, this annual festival is the judge of that, and so are you! Sample your way through local establishments’ signature takes on the classic dish as they compete for the coveted title.
