Holiday Events in Columbia, SC
Columbia celebrates every season with a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural events, and a warm Southern welcome. From the mild spring weather to the festive atmosphere of winter, here’s your guide to the best holiday events and seasonal activities in Columbia year-round.
Spring: A Time of Renewal and Outdoor Fun
As temperatures rise and the flowers begin to bloom, Columbia comes alive with concerts, festivals, and the Luck of the Irish. The Artista Vista weekend brings local artists together in a lively downtown celebration of creativity. South Carolina Philharmonic hosts a spring concert series. Bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the Hampton-Preston Mansion gardens. St. Patrick’s Day in Columbia is kind of a big deal. Dress in your finest green garb and celebrate St. Pat’s in Five Points, which has become nothing short of one of the largest festivals in the Southeast. Not into all the people? Don’t worry, you’ll find events for all ages and personalities around the city for this holiday.
Summer: Sunshine and Southern Hospitality
In June, Pride month is celebrated throughout the city. SC Pride hosts Outfest, where you can celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. Also in June, don’t miss Juneteenth festivities with events that honor and rejoice in the achievements of African Americans. Columbia’s annual 4th of July festivities include live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display. You can even rent a boat and hop onto Lake Murray to enjoy the signature boat parade and fireworks show.
Fall: Crisp Air, Cozy Vibes, and Festive Fun
When the weather cools and the leaves begin to change, Columbia offers a cozy atmosphere filled with harvest festivals, Halloween fun, and artsy events. One of the biggest highlights of the fall season is the South Carolina State Fair, held in October, which features classic fair rides, games, food, and live entertainment. Clinton Sease Farm and Corn Maze is a popular destination for family-friendly fall season activities. Halloween in Columbia brings spooky celebrations to the city, with everything from trick-or-treating to haunted houses and eerie tours. Columbia has no shortage of haunted historical sites, all with their own story to tell. Among other things to do during the fall (hello football), the week of Thanksgiving offers gourmet dinners at some of Columbia’s staple restaurants, just in case you want some extra southern comfort food.
Winter: Holiday Cheer and Cozy Gatherings
Even though the winter temperatures are mild, Columbia embraces the season with plenty of Christmas activities and events. One of the city’s most popular events is Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo, where 60 larger-than-life, nature-inspired lanterns illuminate the zoo’s grounds, creating a magical winter wonderland. Columbia also hosts many annual holiday markets throughout the city, where visitors can shop for unique gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Catch an iconic performance of The Nutcracker, or lace up your skates and hit the ice at Flight Adventure Park for a bit of wintry nostalgia. Then, ring in the New Year on Main Street with fireworks, live music, and a celebratory ball drop.
Columbia, SC, offers a vibrant array of holiday events and activities that showcase the best of the city’s culture, hospitality, and charm. With something special to enjoy every season, Columbia is the perfect destination for a year-round getaway.
