As we say so long to spring and step into summer this month, we get to partake in the best of both with seasonal produce, outdoor events, cultural festivals, escapes into nature, live music under the stars and extended hours at some of our air-conditioned attractions. Make the most of everything June has in store, plus so much more, in the Heart of SC.
Brunch Around the World at Uptown Columbia | June 1
You don’t need to have a summer vacation planned to get a stamp in your passport this month. You just need to come hungry and let your tastebuds do the traveling as nine local establishments represent different countries, serving up food and beverage specials to match.
Carolina’s Caribbean Culture Festival at varying locations | June 5 – 8
Seven events across four days bring the island vibes to Columbia in recognition of Caribbean-American Heritage Month.
Nashville Nights at Steel Hands Brewing | June 6, 13, 20, 27
Get a taste of Tennessee talent as Music City’s up-and-comers take the Steel Hands stage by storm every Friday night.
Jurassic Quest at South Carolina State Fairgrounds | June 6 – 8
Pregame the new Jurassic Park movie this summer with a prehistoric adventure of your own at this immersive experience to include life-size animatronic dinosaurs, rides, fossils and more.
Blueberries & Bluegrass on Bluff! at AA Farms LLC | June 7 – 8
Kick off blueberry season by plucking a basketful of them straight from the bush while artisans, horseback riding, face painting, demonstrations and bluegrass music round out the experience all weekend long.
Capital City Cocktail Competition at 1122 Lady St. | June 8
Come see who’s shaking and stirring up the most inventive sips in Columbia.
9th Annual Taste on the River at Stone River | June 10
Elevate your Tuesday with small plates from local businesses around town, a silent auction and sweeping views of the Congaree River and downtown Columbia skyline.
Paddle & Pint at Saluda Shoals Park | June 13
Wind your way down the lower Saluda River during an evening kayaking excursion, then swap the cool waters for a cold beer. If you’d rather pair your paddle with a pinot, opt for Corks & Kayaks on June 27 instead.
Outfest: A Famously Hot Block Party at The Vista | June 14
Famously Hot South Carolina Pride’s annual affair on Park Street has a Y2K theme this year, so come let loose and show love like there’s no tomorrow.
Juneteenth Celebrations at varying locations | June 19 - 21
Commemorate the emancipation of all enslaved African Americans with gatherings and programming like Juneteenth on the River, Juneteenth at the CMA and the 9th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Fest & Parade happening throughout the region.
Arts & Draughts at Columbia Museum of Art | June 20
The CMA’s signature biannual event coincides with the summer solstice, so soak up the extra daylight amidst live music, food trucks and craft beer out on Boyd Plaza before moving indoors for the rest of the festivities.
Summer Nights at the Museum at South Carolina State Museum | June 20
We love an after-hours romp through a local attraction. Wander through the museum’s four floors of exhibits with fewer crowds, plus you can peep some display items from Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume during a special screening of National Treasure.
10th Annual Columbia Shrimp & Grits Fest at Seawell’s | June 21
Shrimp and grits seems like a pretty straightforward dish, but our chefs take it to the next level. Eat your fill of secret recipes and creative twists to see whose take is crowned the best in town.
Pride in the Park 2025 at Earlewood Park | June 29
Join SC Black Pride for a meaningful day of community, diversity, visibility, love and resilience with a Unity March through the park, live music and drag performances, a resource fair, family-friendly activities, a dance party and more.
