Wednesday November 4 through Tuesday November 24, 2015
The holidays are a great time to get out and see a show, enjoy a play, browse an arts and craft fair.
Tuesdays – Toddler Tuesdays at the EdVenture Children’s Museum. Bring your toddler for seasonal art activities, music, and our sand tray exploration in the Early Learning Classroom. For more information call (803) 779-3100 or visit http://www.edventure.org/calendar/calendar.aspx.
First Thursdays – First Thursdays on Main Street at the 1200-1700 block of Main Street in downtown Columbia. The event lasts from 6 pm to 10 pm and is a collaboration of a number of vendors in the area. For more information call (803) 988-1065 or visit http://firstthursdaysonmain.com/.
Third Thursdays – Vista Nights offered by the Congaree Visit Guild in the Vista area of downtown Columbia. This event is a collaboration of vendors offering extended hours and events such as wine and beer tastings, art classes, and more. For more information call (803) 269-5946 or visit http://www.vistacolumbia.com/vistanights.aspx.
Fridays – Bluegrass and Acoustic Open Stage and Jam at Bill’s Music Shop and Pickin’ Parlor on Meeting Street. Come out and participate or sit back and enjoy the music. For more information call (803) 796-6477 or visit http://www.billsmusicshop.com/.
Saturdays – State House Tours. Come tour the most beautiful historic building in the area. For more information call (803) 734-2430 or visit http://www.scstatehouse.gov/visit.php.
Saturdays – Classic Country Music Jamboree and Dancing at Bills Music Shop and Pickin’ Parlor on Meeting Street. Music will be performed by a band. For more information call (803) 796-6477 or visit http://www.billsmusicshop.com/.
Daily until TBD – “Julius Caesar: Roman Military, Might and Machines” opening at the S.C. State Museum. Learn about one of the most technologically significant times in the history of mankind. For more information call (803) 898-4921 or visit http://scmuseum.org/caesar/.
Through November 21 – “Guantanamo Public Memory Project” at the University of South Carolina McKissick Museum. Learn about the history of this Naval Base, how it has changed over time and the developed dialogue about its future. For more information call (803) 777-7251 or visit www.cas.sc.edu/MCKS
Through November 22 – “A Christmas Story” at the Town Theatre. Enjoy this entertaining story about a boy and what he will go through to get what he wants for Christmas. For more information call (803) 799-4764 or visit http://towntheatre.com/a-christmas-story/.
Through December 15 – Hand Building Techniques at the Columbia Art Center. Learn hands on the basics of working with clay. For more information call (803) 545-3093 or visit http://columbiasc.net/depts/parks-recreation/hand_building_basics.pdf.
Through December 20 – Dollar Sunday at Historical Columbia at the Gift Shop at the Robert Mills House. Residents of Richland and Lexington Counties can tour one of the historic houses (the Robert Mills House, the Hampton-Preston Mansion, or the Simms-Mann House) on the 3rd Sunday of the months for $1. For more information call (803) 252-1770 ext. 23 or visit http://www.historiccolumbia.org/events/dollar-sunday-admission.
Through January 3, 2016 – “Military Cartography on the Western Front” at the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room. This exhibit includes original maps from WWI. For more information call (803) 737-8095 or visit http://www.crr.sc.gov/exhibits/Pages/upcoming.aspx.
Through January 10, 2016 – “Georgia O’Keeffe: Her Carolina Story” at the Columbia Museum of Art. This exhibit celebrates one of the most important female and art careers of American history and celebrates the 100th anniversary of this woman’s time teaching at Columbia College. For more information call (803) 252-7366 or visit www.columbiamuseum.org.
Through January 22, 2016 – “Threads: The Story in Out Clothes” at the South Carolina State Museum. Learn about 200 years of clothing and fashion and what it tells us about the culture of that time. For more information call (803) 898-4921 or visit http://scmuseum.org/explore/exhibits/changing-exhibits/threads-the-story-in-our-clothes/.
Through February 7, 2016 – “Carolina Makers” at the South Carolina State Museum. See what people in South Carolina are making, such as instruments, furniture, metal, even clothing. For more information call (803) 898-4921 or visit http://scmuseum.org/explore/exhibits/carolina-makers/.
Through February 7, 2016 – “The Art of Joseph Norman” at the Columbia Museum of Art. For more information call (803) 799-2810 or visit http://www.columbiamuseum.org/exhibitions/art-joseph-norman.
Through March 6, 2016 – “Path’s of Destruction: Sherman’s Final Campaign” at the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum. For more information call (803) 737-8094 or visit http://www.crr.sc.gov/.
Through July 16, 2016 – “Heard at Every Turn: Traditional Music in South Carolina” at the McKissick Museum. Exhibit looks at the many cultural groups that brought music traditions to South Carolina over the years. For more information call (803) 777-7251 or visit www.artsandsciences.sc.edu/mckissickmuseum.
Through July 16, 2016 – 12-Cent Kids Day at the EdVenture Children’s Museum. For the Museums 12th Anniversary, kids get into the Museum for 12-cents on the 12th day of every month. In addition, if a membership is purchased on that day and get 12 Chick-fil-A Kids Meals for free. For more information call (803) 779-3100 or visit http://www.edventure.org/calendar/calendar.aspx.
Second and fourth Tuesdays through January 26, 2016 – Carolina Makers Music Nights at the S.C. State Museum. For more information call (803) 898-4921 or visit http://scmuseum.org/explore/exhibits/carolina-makers/.
November 18 – 21 – “Blithe Spirit” at the Drayton Hall Theatre. Hear about the story of an author who wishes to learn more about the psychic realm and ends up find himself in contact with his deceased wife. For more information call (803) 777-2551 or visit http://artsandsciences.sc.edu/thea/OnStage.
November 19 – Jingle and Mingle Holiday Market at the Greater Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center. For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/events/921310341267815/.
November 19 – Vista Lights in the Vista area of Columbia. This favorite annual holiday “street party” will include live entertainment, food, and will allow patrons to visit the local stores after hours, while getting into the holiday spirit. For more information 269-5946 or visit http://www.vistalightssc.com/.
November 20 – “Willie Nelson” at the Township Auditorium. Come out and see this famous country legend. For more information call (803) 576-2350 or visit http://www.thetownship.org/events/.
November 20 – Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team at the Carolina Softball Stadium at Beckham Field. This will be a double header with the first game being against the USC Softball Alumni and the second will be against Local First Responders. For more information visit http://woundedwarrioramputeesoftballteam.org/?tribe_events=wwast-vs-columbia-local-first-responders.
November 20 – “Trans Siberian Orchestra” at the Colonial Life Arena. Enjoy a show filled with holiday music, fabulous lighting, and entertaining fun. For more information call (803) 576-9053 or visit http://www.coloniallifearena.com/.
November 20 – “Who’s Bad – The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute Band” at the Music Farm. For more information visit http://www.musicfarm.com/event/906247-whos-bad-ultimate-michael-columbia/.
November 20 – 22 – Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show at the Jamil Shrine Temple. Register to win a 46 ct. Emerald Quartz Pendant valued at over $400. For more information call (803) 722-0732 or visit http://www.cgams.org/.
November 20 – 22 – Festival of Trees at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Come out and see some of the most wonderful Christmas creations, all in support of the Palmetto Health Foundation to offer assistance to patients and their families in need. For more information call (803) 434-7275 or visit http://events.palmettohealthfoundation.org/site/Calendar?id=100161&view=Detail#.VjOmdyv7LWE.
November 20 – December 30 – Lights Before Christmas at the Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens. This must-see holiday event will fill you with the holiday spirit and has something for the entire family to enjoy. For more information call (803) 779-8717 or visit http://www.riverbanks.org/events/lights-before-christmas.shtml.
November 20 – December 19 – “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas” at the Trustus Theater. Come out and enjoy this enjoyable holiday musical. For more information call (803) 254-9732 or visit https://trustus.org/page/home.
November 20 – January 5 – Holiday Tour of Homes Historic Museums at several homes in downtown Columbia. Homes include the Robert Mills House, the Hampton Preston Mansion, and the Mann-Simons Cottage with each home decorated for the holiday season. For more information call (803) 252-1770 ext. 24 or visit http://www.historiccolumbia.org/.
November 21 – “Snowville” at the EdVenture Children’s Museum. Children get the opportunity to play in this Winter Wonderland, as well as learn about how snow is created. For more information call (803) 779-3100 or visit http://edventure.org/calendar/calendar.aspx.
November 21 – “Third Day: Lead Us Back” with “Brandon Heath” and “Warren Barfield” at the Township Auditorium. For more information call (803) 576-2350 or visit http://www.thetownship.org/events/.
November 21 – Salsa and Silent Auction at the Emerald Ballroom. There will be free Salsa lessons, hors d’oeuvres, beverages, raffle for a free hot air balloon ride, door prizes and auction. For more information call (803) 356-2232 or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/545106578981840/.
November 21 – “Scott Bradley’s Postmodern Jukebox” at the Harbison Theatre on the Irmo campus of Midlands Technical College. Enjoy this jazz pianist and his band as they perform a new rendition of 21st Century modern classics. For more information call (803) 407-5011 or visit http://www.harbisontheatre.org/tickets-productions/scott-bradlees-postmodern-jukebox.
November 21 – Taste of 302 Artisans Holiday Open House at 302 Artisans at 302 Senate Street. Enjoy holiday music, food samples, a variety of teas to try, and gifts for everyone. For more information call (803) 238-6019 or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/880915042004092/.
November 21 – Bach and Beer with cellist Steuart Pincombe at the Hunter Gatherer Brewery and Alehouse. While enjoying your favorite brew, enjoy music from this nationally renowned cellist. For more information call (803) 748-0540 or visit http://www.columbiacvb.com/includes/calendar-of-events/Bach-Beer-with-cellist-Steuart-Pincombe/47338/.
November 22 – South Carolina Oyster Festival at the Robert Mills House and Gardens. This event will include two stages of live entertainment throughout the day, so bring your chairs or blankets and plan to spend a day eating oysters and even non-oyster items at this fun event. For more information call (803) 252-2128 or visit http://www.scoysterfest.com/.
November 22 – Bubbie’s Briskit and Bakery at the Beth Shalom Synagogue. Enjoy a variety of Bubbie’s family traditional Jewish foods. For more information visit http://www.bethshalomcolumbia.org/bubbies-brisket-bakery/.
November 22 – Junior Roller Derby at the Skate Station in Lexington. Come see what modern roller derby is all about and support our local young skaters. For more information call (803) 665-2765.
November 22 – “Hits on the Big Screen” by the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra at the Harbison Theatre. Enjoy listening to these fabulous musicians play tunes from all your favorite movies. For more information call (803) 400-3540 or visit http://www.lmso.org/.
November 22 – “Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out” at Bills Music Shop and Pickin’ Parlor. Known as the International Bluegrass Music Associations male vocalist of the year, this is a concert you don’t want to miss. For more information call (803) 796-6477 or visit http://www.billsmusicshop.com/.
November 22 – “Bands Greatest Hits” at the Koger Center for the Arts. This is the Palmetto Concert Bands concert season kick-off. For more information call (803) 777-7500 or visit http://palmettoconcertband.com/performances/bands-greatest-hits/.
November 25 – December 31 – Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park. Ride through and see or the fabulous lights, or get out and walk the Wetland Wonderland Walking Trail, see the laser light show, meet with Santa, and visit the gift shop. For more information call (803) 731-5208 or visit http://www.icrc.net/holiday-lights.
November 26 – Turkey Day 5K and Family Fun Run at the Colonial Life Arena. This 3.1 mile event is in support of the Boys and Girls Club of the Midlands. For more information visit http://bgcmidland.org/index.php?id=403.
November 26 – January 18 – Main Street ICE at Boyd Plaza at the corner of Main and Hampton Street. Come out and get into the holiday spirit with some ice skating! For more information call (803) 545-3100 or visit http://www.columbiasc.net/calendar/1448.
November 28 – 29 – Jamil Shriners Sportsters Craft Show at the Jamil Temple. This event will include over 100 crafters and artisans with a variety of items to help you with your holiday shopping. For more information call (803) 772-0732 or visit http://jamilsportsters.com/craft1.asp.
November 30 – Governor’s Carol Lighting at the South Carolina State House. This annual event is the lighting of the State House Christmas Tree and will include live entertainment. For more information visit http://www.columbiacvb.com/includes/calendar-of-events/49th-Annual-Governor-s-Carolighting/47450/.
November 30 – Sustainable Holiday Celebration at 701 Whaley Street. Support our local artisans, local foods and local businesses this holiday season. For more information call (803) 873-0442 or visit http://www.sustainablemidlands.org/sustainable-holiday-celebration/.
December 2 – 6 – Holiday Market at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds. This annual event put on by the Junior League of Columbia is a favorite event for purchasing your holiday items and gifts. For more information visit https://www.jlcolumbia.org/?nd=holiday_market_public.
December 4 – PJ’s with Santa at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds. As part of the Holiday Market, this evening with santa will allow families to have enjoyable holiday fun, with children in their PJ”s while enjoying a Frozen themed event filled with cookie decorating, crafts, movies, storytelling, a scavenger hunt, and more, all while having the opportunity to shop with the Holiday Market vendors. For more information visit https://www.jlcolumbia.org/?nd=holiday_market_public.
December 3 – A Starry Night in Five Points. There will be complimentary horse carriage rides, holiday music, dance and choral performances, a holiday photo booth, visits with Santa, and more with the local merchants staying open late for your convenience. For more information call (803) 748-7373 or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/882558268506920/.
December 3 – Dancing with the Doctors at Blue in the Vista. This dance competition which includes a variety of medical professions, will perform to see who wins the event. For more information call (803) 251-4447 or visit http://www.free-times.com/events/event/dancing-with-the-doctors.
December 3 – World AIDS Day at 701 Whaley Street. Event will include an open bar and hors d’oeuvres. For more information call (803) 254-6644 or visit http://schivaidscouncil.org/.
December 3 – 31 – Christmas in Cayce: A Festival of Holiday Events at the Cayce City Hall Complex, and other areas around the city. Beginning on the 3rd will be the lighting of the Christmas tree and turning on of the holiday lights. On the 5th at the Historical Museum, come learn about historical Christmases in the area through exploring the museum’s decorated rooms, and after dark, visiting a period encampment. And on the 12th, see the West Metro Parade of Lights, an after dark parade. For more information call (803) 796-1920 or visit http://cityofcayce-sc.gov/client_resources/cic.pdf.
December 4 – “Glorius Music” at the Chapin United Methodist Church. This concert by the Dutch Fork Choral Society will include Vivaldi’s Gloria. For more information visit http://www.dutchforkchoralsociety.com/this-season/.
December 4 – “A Twisted Carol: A Jukebox Musical” at the On Stage Performance Center on Cherokee Lane in West Columbia. This musical twists traditional Dickens characters with some fun new ones. For more information call (803) 351-6751 or visit http://onstagesc.com/.
December 4 – Carols Along the Riverwalk at the Cayce Riverwalk Park. Enjoy a variety of choral groups and local musicians playing some holiday music for you, all within ½ a mile of the Park. For more information call (803) 550-9520 or visit http://cityofcayce-sc.gov/festivals.asp.
December 4 – 20 – “The Nutcracker” at the Koger Center for the Arts. This ballet put on by the Columbia City Ballet is an annual favorite. For more information call (803) 799-7605 or visit http://www.kogercenterforthearts.com/index.php.
December 5 – The Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade in downtown Columbia. Starting at Gervais and Bull Street, you will enjoy festive entries from all over the State, with the Grand Marshal’s being the USC National Championship Equestrian Team. For more information call (803) 545-3100 or visit http://www.carolinacarillon.com/parade.html.
December 5 – St. Nicholas Festival at Holy Apostles Orthodox Church. Hear the choir sing old hymns, there will be crafts for purchase, Russian food for purchase, handmade beeswax candles, and meet the “real” St. Nicholas and hear the true story of this historical legend. For more information visit http://stnicholasfestival.org/.
December 5 – Saturnalia Roman Festival at the South Carolina State Museum. This event is in conjunction with the Julius Caesar exhibit is being partnered with the South Carolinas Roman legion and will include a Roman Festival with reenactors, crafts, a parade, and more. For more information call (803) 898-4921 or visit http://scmuseum.org/calendar/saturnalia-roman-festival/.
December 5 – CWOC Christmas Market at the Crossroads World Outreach Center on Emmanuel Church Road in West Columbia. There will be baked good, handmade gifts, wreaths, raffles, and gift wrapping. For more information call (803) 206-6391.
December 5 – Island of Misfit Toys Mini-Con at 302 Artisans at Senates End on Senate Street. There will be a wide selection of gifts for all ages and if you bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots, you will be entered into a raffle. Mr. and Mrs. Santa will be on hand. For more information call (803) 238-6019 or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1496662963981721/.
December 5 & 12 – Santa’s Gingerbread Jamboree at the EdVenture Children’s Museum. Santa’s coming to the Museum and everyone is invited. For more information call (803) 779-3100 or visit http://edventure.org/calendar/calendar.aspx.
