One thing you may notice about this roundup is that almost all of the featured events this month take place outdoors. From new events like a PGA golf tournament, a Renaissance Fair and a two-day music festival to signature events that stay marked in our calendars this time each year, come make the most of spring’s long, sun-filled days and comfortable evenings in the Heart of SC.
Rosewood Crawfish Festival at South Carolina State Fairgrounds | May 2
No, this isn’t Bourbon Street and you’re not in The Big Easy. But with 10,000 lbs. of crawfish brought in fresh from Louisiana, other Cajun-Creole eats and jazz entertainment taking the stage, it sure comes close.
Concert in the Gardens at Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens | May 5
Inject a little serenity into your Tuesday night plans. Pack a picnic and enjoy an intimate classical performance by members of the South Carolina Philharmonic as the sun sets amidst the stunning scenery of the historic property and its blossoming grounds.
Cinco de Gather at GatherCOLA | May 5
Columbia’s open-air food hall is getting in the Cinco spirit with food and drink specials from select vendors, plus free(!) salsa lessons throughout the evening.
Lexington’s Wine Walk at E. Main Street/Icehouse Amphitheater | May 9
The Town of Lexington’s shops and restaurants are popping bottles and pouring samples all evening as you stroll along, tasting as much as you like and taking in live entertainment and a pop-up art gallery.
Colonial Life Charity Classic at The Woodcreek Club | May 14 – 17
If a certain golf tournament last month has you itching for more, you’ll be pleased to know a new PGA Korn Ferry Tour event is making its debut in Columbia this month. Secure your tickets across four days of tournament play and peep the sport’s rising stars who just may go on to win their own green jacket someday.
Tour of Tea: Every Sip Tells a Story at Columbia Museum of Art | May 14
Now in its third year, this gathering showcases how tea carries a long history of tradition and significance in AAPI culture. Connect and learn over free Asian tea samples, live performances and demonstrations and onsite AAPI-owned businesses and vendors.
8th Annual Art on State at City of West Columbia | May 15
From the Meeting Street Artisan Market vendors to the artists painting live in the street to the musical entertainment, art can be found in abundance alongside food trucks, shops staying open late and the West Columbia community coming together on State Street.
ColaJazz + Roots Fest 2026 at Finlay Park | May 15 – 16
The festival may have a new location this year, but the rhythm and soul you love about this free annual music event aren’t going anywhere. You can bring a blanket or chairs if you want to claim your space on the lawn, but we know you’re just going to get up and dance anyway.
Columbia Black Expo at varying locations | May 14 – 16
The weekend kicks off once again with the Black-Owned Wine + Spirits Tasting at the South Carolina Museum Thursday night, followed by the popular Taste of Black Columbia at the Columbia Museum of Art on Friday, and ending with the main expo day on Saturday featuring celebrity guests, seminars, a marketplace highlighting Black-owned businesses and more, all dedicated to uplifting the Black community in Columbia.
Drink Pink Rosé Festival at Boone Fox Farm | May 16
Appreciate the wide array of flavors, bouquets and hues at the largest rosé tasting in the South amidst the seasonal floral blooms of Boone Fox Farm.
The Festival at the Friars’ Gate at Moore Park | May 16 – 17
Cue the lutes and harpsichords, there’s a new Renaissance Fair transforming Irmo into a medieval village complete with jesters, contests, tankards full of ale, roasted turkey legs and more. Oh, and free admission? Huzzah!
CanalFest at Bierkeller | May 22 – 23
With Riverfront Park and the Columbia Canal still undergoing recovery and rehabilitation construction, Bierkeller’s annual celebration of the historic canal and the future of Columbia’s rivers, trails and access is more important than ever. Fill a stein with an authentic German-style beer and give a prost to the natural infrastructure and ongoing development that make Columbia so unique.
Songbird 26 at Finlay Park | May 30 – 31
This brand-new, two-day music festival spotlights songwriting, string bands and easy, outdoor listening. The lineup, headlined by Old Crow Medicine Show and Sam Bush, includes a blend of nationally touring artists, regional favorites and local acts across the bluegrass and Americana genres.
