As spring gives way to summer this month, the temps may stay relatively the same, but the produce, commemorations, festivals and recurring live music series are all changing with the season. Throw yourself into the transition, because there are plenty of ways to spend your days in the Heart of SC this June.
Rhythm on the River District – Summer Concert Series at varying locations | June 4, 5, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20
The City of West Columbia isn’t going to let a little construction get in the way of their annual free music series. Instead of its usual setting at the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater, the shows will be held at Savage Craft Ale Works on Saturday evenings, plus special pop-up events at Chayz Lounge, WECO Bottle & Biergarten, D’s Wings and Ikie Lu Record Club throughout the month.
OUTfest: A Famously Hot Block Party at 1100 Block of Park Street | June 6
SC Pride’s annual party on Park Street is sporting a “Rock OUT” theme this year, so let’s take the love, support and allyship up to 11.
Blythewood BBQ, Beer & Music Festival at Doko Manor Park | June 6
It’s cookout season and Metro Smokehouse is firing up the smoker for the whole community to come out and get their fill of brisket, oxtail, ribs and more.
Blueberries & Bluegrass on Bluff! at AA Farms LLC | June 6 – 7
As strawberry season winds down, it’s time for another berry to take the driver’s seat. Celebrate the start of u-pick blueberry season with a weekend full of artisans, bluegrass music, horseback riding, canning demonstrations, a special “pick-n-paint” and even a box car derby race.
2026 Richland County Ag + Art Tour at varying locations | June 6 – 7
Take a self-guided tour of the “rich land” that is the county’s namesake with 15 different designated stops across farms, markets, plant shops and more, each with their own slate of demonstrations, on site artisans and homegrown products for sale.
South Carolina Caribbean Carnival at varying locations | June 11 – 14
Recognize Caribbean-American Heritage Month with seven events bringing visibility to the cuisine, art, storytelling, music and traditions that make Caribbean culture so rich and full of spirit.
10th Annual Taste on the River at Stone River | June 11
If you can’t decide what you’re craving for Thursday night dinner, then come have it all instead. Enjoy bites from restaurants all throughout West Columbia and beyond, plus some unbeatable views of the Congaree too.
Nashville Nights at Steel Hands Brewing | June 12, 26
Now in its sixth year, this signature series featuring Tennessee-based talent is doing things a bit different this summer with only six shows across the next three months and all with full bands taking the stage.
Slip, Slide & Splash at Seven Oaks Park | June 13
At this point in June, we’re all looking for new ways to beat the heat, so how about taking a departure from lake and pool days by spending a few hours zipping down inflatable water slides instead.
Stomping Grounds at 2022 Marion Street | June 13 – 14
This inaugural festival celebrates artistry in multiple forms across two days – one focused on a local live music lineup and one featuring independent film – and is a product of collaboration across multiple community arts organizations.
Capital City Cocktail Competition at 1122 Lady Street | June 14
Eight local mixologists are putting their shakers to the test to see whose concoction is crowned the best in Columbia.
10th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Fest at Finlay Park | June 20
In the festival’s ten years, it has grown into one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the Carolinas, featuring live performances, a Youth Empowerment Zone, a Black Farmers Market, community resources and so much more, all while encouraging attendees to take this year’s powerful theme, “The Future We Owe Ourselves,” to heart, intentionally envisioning what comes next. Plus, don’t miss the jazz-filled Juneteenth in the Park programming the night before.
Columbia Shrimp & Grits Fest at Seawell’s | June 20
Shrimp and grits might be a Lowcountry staple, but they get the Columbia treatment at this annual festival where you can taste-test your way through local chefs’ different takes on the dish.
Fireworks with the Phil at Segra Park | June 27
Join the SC Philharmonic to pregame Independence Day in the ultimate Americana setting with a live performance punctuated by a dazzling fireworks display.
Pride in the Park & 20th Anniversary Homecoming Concert at Maxcy Gregg Park | June 27
For two decades, SC Black Pride has championed pride, power and purpose, and this year’s Homecoming experience celebrates all that and more with live entertainment, communion, a spotlight on Black Greek life, celebrity guests and vendors who inspire and uplift.
