Food & Drink
Picnic Season Starts Here
A memorable picnic is about more than what's in the basket. From stylish picnic essentials to local treats, here's how to build the perfect picnic in Columbia.
Summer in Columbia is best enjoyed outdoors. Whether you’re gathering with friends, planning a date, or simply looking for a reason to slow down, a picnic is one of the easiest ways to savor the season. With beautiful green spaces, local shops, and plenty of picnic-worthy provisions, building the perfect afternoon has never been easier.
Pack Your Picnic Basket
A memorable picnic is all about the details. Before heading outdoors, stop by a few local shops to gather everything you need for a stylish afternoon in the sun.
- Mast General Store for blankets, baskets, coolers and outdoor essentials
- The Gourmet Shop for glassware and elevated entertaining pieces
- Partager for embroidered cocktail napkins and thoughtful tabletop details
- A Little Happy for fun paperware, serving pieces and charcuterie boards
- Fern Studio Flowers for fresh seasonal blooms
- Monkee’s of Columbia for a breezy summer outfit for the occasion
Fill the Basket
Great picnics start with great food. From fresh provisions to sweet treats and ready-to-share spreads, these Columbia favorites make it easy to build a basket worth lingering over.
- Crave Artisan Market for specialty snacks, gourmet finds and shareable bites.
- Rosewood Market for fresh ingredients, local favorites and picnic provisions inspired by the season.
- Tasty As Fit for wholesome wraps, salads and prepared meals that travel well.
- Ally & Eloise Bakeshop for cookies, cupcakes and sweet treats.
- Abundant Graze for curated charcuterie boxes and grazing spreads.
Unroll the Blanket
Now it’s time to find the perfect backdrop.
- Riverfront Park for river views
- The USC Horseshoe for historic charm and shaded oaks
- Finlay Park for open green space in the heart of the city
The best picnics aren’t about perfection. They’re about slowing down, enjoying the season and supporting the local businesses that make Columbia special. Grab a blanket, gather your favorite people and make an afternoon of it.
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