Things to Do
Where to Be in Cola this Winter
Mark your calendars for these exciting events this winter in Columbia!
Mark your calendars for these exciting events this winter in Columbia! From festive holiday markets and live music performances to food festivals and family-friendly celebrations, Columbia is bustling with things to do this season. Stay warm and inspired as you explore the city’s vibrant winter scene with our curated guide to events, experiences, and local happenings.
Into the Woods | November 14–December 20
Watch this classic fairytale and Tony award-winning production come to life on the stage at Trustus Theatre. From witches and princesses to iconic melodies, you never know what you’ll find when you venture in the woods.
40th Annual Vista Lights | November 20
Shop, explore, and soak in this classic Vista tradition at the 40th Annual Vista Lights! With live music, delicious bites, and festive lights, this is the perfect family night out!
Arts & Draughts | November 21
Explore the Keith Haring: Radiant Vision exhibition at the Columbia Museum of Art with live music performances, food trucks, interactive art activities, and, of course, a pop-up beer garden from WECO Bottle & Biergarten.
Wild Lights | November 21–December 23
Take a walk on the wild side and discover a unique display of 60 hand-crafted animal lanterns at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden! With nightly snow showers, photo ops with Santa, and interactive showcases, you won’t want to miss Wild Lights.
Fireflies Holiday Lights | November 21–January 3
The Columbia Fireflies’ festive lights display returns to Segra Park for another season of holiday lights! Everyone of all ages can enjoy this magical presentation that captures the joy of the season.
21st Annual Turkey Trot + 5K | November 27
Before sitting down to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal with your loved ones, throw on your best Turkey costume and sign up for the 21st Annual Turkey Trot, benefitting the Boys and Girls Club of the Midlands. There’s even a virtual race option and an award for the person with the best Turkey costume!
Junior League Holiday Market | December 4–7
Knock a few things off your holiday shopping list with Junior League of Columbia’s iconic Holiday Market—a four-day shopping extravaganza. With over 160 unique vendors, an elegant holiday ball, and a Santa meet and greet for the kids, Junior League’s Holiday Market is fun for all.
South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker | December 13, 14, 20 & 21
Grab your tickets to see a holiday classic: The South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker. Enjoy enchanting Nutcracker tea before the matinee showings, perfect for children and those wanting to get into the holiday spirit!
Columbia Museum of Art 75th Anniversary Gala | January 16
With the theme “Lighting the Way: A Passport to the Arts,” the CMA welcomes guests to experience their collection during a glittering nighttime gala. Enjoy live music from The Root Doctors and celebrate the CMA’s 75 years with this amazing fundraising event.
Beethoven & Blue Jeans | January 17
At the Koger Center, the South Carolina Philharmonic presents an evening of classical music, featuring pianist Andy Armstrong, violinist Amy Schwartz Moretti, and violoncellist Edward Aaron. Remember to dress in blue jeans for this casual, uplifting affair!
Over My Dead Body | January 23–February 1
Town Theatre continues its 106th season with the play Over My Dead Body, written by Michael Sutton and Anthony Fingleton. Don’t miss this comedy of British crime novelists turned would-be murderers at Columbia’s oldest theater.
5th Annual Cola Rosé Shower | February 7
Mark your calendars for the 5th Annual Cola Rosé Shower, celebrating women and bringing empowerment and awareness for women’s healthcare issues. Go ahead and purchase your tickets, because Williams-Brice Stadium is going pink for a day!
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