Finlay Fridays - Live in the Park - Jon Rooks Band
2026-02-27 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Start your weekend with a live concert at Finlay Park! This Friday will feature the Jon Rooks Band

The OAU Pan African Annual Jollof Rice Competition 2026
2026-02-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Community Room at the Sheriff’s Department, 2500 Decker Blvd, Columbia, SC, 29206, United States
The OAU Pan African Annual Jollof Rice Competition 2026 is bringing the heat, the culture, and the ultimate Jollof bragging rights to the city. Come taste, celebrate, and see who takes home the crown.

Distinguished Guest of Honour:

Honorable Daniel Rickenmann, Mayor of City of Columbia
Representative Leon Howard, South Carolina House of Representatives
Mrs. Doris Omoile Afam, Entrepreneur

Chief Sponsor

Chief Dr. Eleanya Ogburu (Miri Oma), CEO Midlands Neurology and Pain Associates

Chief Judge of the Competition

Barrister Mrs. Ngozi Ezeihuaku (Oso di eme)

Ramadan Sharing 2026
2026-03-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Masjid Noor UI Huda, 800 Amberley Rd., Columbia, SC, 29203, United States
ONSE staff (Dr. Fordham) will attend this event as part of the “4” Block Promise community engagement initiative. This event seeks to provide a mosque tour, educate attendees of faith and tradition, and close in prayer.

Finlay Fridays - Live in the Park - Opus & The Frequencies
2026-03-06 18:00 - 21:00 | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Start your weekend with a live concert at Finlay Park! This Friday will feature Opus & The Frequencies

NEW DATE - Jump Start Your Heart Day Party
2026-03-07 11:00 - 13:00 | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
WHAT: February is National Heart Month and in conjunction with the Go Red movement, which encourages awareness of heart disease and heart health, the City will hold the third annual “Jump Start Your Heart” Day Party on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Finlay Park.
The event was originally scheduled for February 21 but has been rescheduled due to forecasted rain to ensure the best possible experience for attendees, vendors and participants.
The “Jump Start Your Heart” Day Party will feature a variety of FREE activities including health screenings, giveaways, health-related exhibitors, workouts, pickleball demonstrations and more.
Exhibitors will be open for the entire duration of the event for individuals who would like to drop in and receive educational and health-
There is no cost to participate.
WHERE: Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC 29201
WHO: The public and media are invited to attend this free event.
WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Project Unity USA Community Leadership Forum on Crime and the Economy
2026-03-07 13:00 - 15:00 | South Carolina Department of Archives and History, 8301 Parklane Rd., Columbia, SC, 29223, United States
ONSE staff (Dr. Fordham) will attend and serve as a panelist for the discussion regarding crime and the economy. Dr. Fordham will share insights on violence premention and how crime impacts local economies.

Finlay Fridays - Live in the Park - St. Pats Pre-Party with Slim Pickens
2026-03-13 18:00 - 21:00 | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Start your weekend with a live concert at Finlay Park! This Friday will feature Slim Pickens for the St. Pat’s Pre-Party

Belmont Neighborhood Association monthly meeting
2026-03-16 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-03-20 18:30 - 20:00 | Gable Oaks Community Resource Center, 901 Colleton St, Columbia, SC, 29203, United States
ONSE staff attends this monthly community meeting to gain feedback from residents as well as provide an update on violence prevention and neighborhood safety.

Finlay Fridays - Live in the Park - Jazz in the Park with ColaJazz
2026-03-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Start your weekend with a live concert at Finlay Park! This Friday will feature Jazz in the Park with ColaJazz

Columbia Animal Services Adoption Event at Sour & Salt Bakery
2026-03-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Sour & Salt Bakery, 2761 Rosewood Dr, Columbia, SC, 29205, United States
Saturday, March 21st from 10 AM-12 PM: CAS adoption event at Sour & Salt Bakery (2761 Rosewood Dr, Columbia, SC 29205). Adoption fees waived! Please bring a leash and collar if you’re considering adoption.

Family Wellness Expo
2026-03-21 13:00 - 16:00 | Busby Community Center, 1735 Busby St, Columbia, 29203, United States
Join us for this FREE event!
$25 Gift Cards for engaging!

Health screenings
Engaging Workshops
Partnering Vendors
And Nutrition Demonstrations

Brought to you be The Links, Incorporated, Columbia Police Department, PRISMA Health, and City of Columbia

Earth Day Climate Action Fair
2026-03-24 08:00 - 17:00 | Soda City Market, 1700 Main St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Columbia is hosting a Climate Action Fair designed to educate, inspire, and engage the public around environmental awareness and sustainability.
The fair will feature participation from a variety of environmental organizations with interactive activities, and a mascot mix and mingle, all designed to raise awareness about climate issues and encourage community action.
This fair will be at the intersection of Washington and Main Street

Finlay Fridays - Live in the Park - DemBoyzGood
2026-03-27 18:00 - 21:00 | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Start your weekend with a live concert at Finlay Park! This Friday will feature DemBoyzGood

PAL Community Enrichment Night
2026-03-31 17:30 - 20:00 | Eau Claire Print Building, 3907 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, 29203
The Columbia Police Department, CPD Police Activities League, and Columbia Parks & Recreation invite parents, guardians, and youth serving professionals to the next PAL Community Enrichment Night. Join us on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 to experience a FREE one stop shop event full of valuable information, tools, connections, and a meal. We recognize that empowering parents, guardians, and youth serving individuals like you yields empowered young people.
Featured presentations: “Mindful Conversations: Understanding Our Youth’s Mental Health Challenges”

5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.: Resource Fair and Refreshments
• 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: Featured Presentations
• 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.: Resource Fair and Raffle Drawing

Attendees can look forward to an evening of real conversations, useful information, interactive learning, and dinner at no cost. The event also offers the opportunity to meet a variety of local resource and service providers, connect with local officers, learn more about support services available through CPD, and win raffle prizes.
Space is limited, so register today: PAL Parent Enrichment Night Registration

Public Engagement Phase for Congaree Riverfront District Project
2026-04-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Senate’s End (The Hall), 316 Senate St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
The City of Columbia is inviting residents to shape the future of its riverfront as the Congaree Riverfront District Project enters its first phase of community engagement.
Please let us know if you’re able to join! Take the survey here: https://growth.columbiasc.gov/portfolio/congaree-riverfront-district/
Following City Council’s December 2025 approval of a professional services agreement to begin planning and design work for the 100-acre riverfront district, along with a $5 million philanthropic commitment from the Boyd Foundation, the City of Columbia and its design team are now turning their focus to listening.
The City will host the first in a series of public meetings on April 1, offering residents, stakeholders and riverfront users an opportunity to share ideas, priorities and concerns before any design concepts are developed.
“For years, we’ve talked about truly connecting our city to our three rivers. This first phase of engagement is the next step in creating 27 miles of continuous greenway that will redefine the Capital City,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “This isn’t just about a single park; it’s about a vibrant district reflecting the unique character of our community. Your input on everything from recreation to environmental preservation is at the heart of this process. This is your riverfront, and we want the final vision to be a reflection of your dreams for Columbia.”
The first public meeting will focus on gathering input regarding opportunities and challenges along the riverfront, desired recreational amenities and public spaces, environmental priorities and preservation, and links to surrounding neighborhoods and destinations.

"4" Block Promise Meeting
2026-04-01 18:00 - 19:00 | Lutheran Seminary, 4201 N. Main St., Columbia, SC, 29203, United States
ONSE staff is hosting this meeting to provide updates on the “4” Block Promise community engagement initiative to faith-based and worship leaders. This event will also feature a discussion on how faith-based and worship leaders can prevent violence as well as map out next steps.

2026 Columbia Easter Egg Roll
2026-04-03 10:00 - 14:00 | Finlay Park, 930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
The City of Columbia invites families and community members to “Hop into Spring” at the 2026 City of Columbia Easter Egg Roll, taking place on Friday, April 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Finlay Park.
This free, family-friendly event will feature a variety of activities for all age groups, including egg hunts, live entertainment, games, arts, crafts, and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring their baskets and enjoy a festive day in the park.

Annual Compost Giveaway from City of Columbia Public Works
2026-04-04 08:00 - 12:00 | 123 Humane Lane, 123 Humane Lane
City of Columbia Public Works will be hosting our annual giveaway on Saturday, April 4, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The compost site is located at 123 Humane Lane, just before the Animal Shelter.
This event is for residents only. No commercial businesses are allowed.
Public Works employees will assist with loading the material onto trailers, trucks, buckets, plastic tubs, bags, or whatever residents bring to hold compost. The City does not provide any containers or haul material.

National Crime Victims' Rights Week
2026-04-07 10:00 - 14:00 | Trinity Baptist Church, 2521 Richland Street, Columbia, SC, 29204, United States
ONSE staff will attend the event and serve as a vendor. ONSE staff will setup a table with violence prevention materials and specific educational materials for seniors.

One Day Donation Drive
2026-04-08 09:00 - 14:00 | 1505 Taylor Street, 1505 Taylor St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
The City of Columbia Homeless Services department and the City of Columbia Community Development department are partnering for a One-Day Donation Drive to support individuals affected by homelessness. The focus is to gather essential items (hygiene products, socks, undergarments, and other basic necessities) for individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. The donations will directly support our unsheltered neighbors and Rapid Shelter Columbia operations.
Below are a few of the items we are looking to collect.
Most Needed Items:
Cleaning supplies, hygiene products, pots and pans, and bedding items.
Kitchen Essentials

Pots and pans
Cooking utensils (spatulas, spoons, ladles)
Plates and bowls
Cups and drinking glasses
Coffee mugs
Silverware sets
Can openers
Dish drying racks
Food storage containers
Kitchen towels

Household Supplies

Laundry baskets
Trash cans
Brooms and dustpans
Mops and mop buckets
Storage bins
Hangers
Shower curtains
Shower liners
Bath mats

Cleaning Supplies

All-purpose cleaner
Dish soap
Sponges and scrub pads
Paper towels
Laundry detergent
Disinfecting wipes
Bathroom cleaner
Garbage bags

Personal Hygiene Items

Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Soap or body wash
Shampoo and conditioner
Deodorant
Lotion
Razors
Feminine hygiene products
Combs and brushe

Bedding & Comfort Items

Twin or full sheet sets
Blankets
Pillows
Towels and washcloths

Helpful Bonus Items

Alarm clocks
Reusable water bottles
Small kitchen appliances (toasters, coffee makers)
Basic tool kits
Flashlights

Youth Ready Expo
2026-04-10 11:00 - 17:00 | Charles Drew Wellness Center, 2101 Walker Solomon Way, Columbia, SC, 29204, United States
ONSE staff will setup a table and serve as a vendor to provide violence prevention materials and to distribute youth-specific materials. This event is hosted by the Columbia Housing Authority to promote the well-being of youth in our community. Service providers will be onsite to provide information about programs and services that offer hope, stability, growth, and opportunity to young men and women across our city.

Rain Barrel & Compost Bin Distribution Day
2026-04-11 | 1615 Branding Street, 1615 Branding Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
For a limited time and while supplies last, purchase your 50-gallon Ivy Rain Barrel and/ or the 65 gallon compost bin at a discounted price!
Learn more and order here: Columbia Water & Richland County Stormwater Rain Barrel Program – Rain Water Solutions Inc.
Orders can be placed between now and the first of April. Distribution of pre-sales will take place on April 11 at the Historic Columbia’s Spring Plant sale at 1615 Branding Street.

Fourth Annual Student Pop Up at Soda City Market
2026-04-11 09:00 - 13:00 | Soda City Market, 1700 Main St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
The City of Columbia and Soda City Market are collaborating to host our fourth annual Student Market Pop Up on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Students (ages 16 and older) will have the opportunity to showcase their goods, services, and enterprising ideas to the Columbia community at Soda City for free.
Students will experience running a pop-up shop, alongside regular vendors, and receive both media and marketing exposure for their business. To ensure there are no barriers, the City of Columbia is providing tables for the students and Soda City Market is handling the event map and booth assignments.
Previous business merchandise has featured crafts, custom artificial flower bouquets, vintage goods, and various accessories, including bedazzled sunglasses! We are proud to showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of our young innovators. Last year, 20 young business owners participated, and we would love to continue growing this event.
Students can register by filling out this form by March 28, 2026. After the registration date has closed, students will receive all further details. (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjoE8D_SksSqSNazp6N6c77ElovRL-sSk6camtPTgUjryJXQ/viewform)

College Place Neighborhood Association monthly meeting
2026-04-13 18:30 - 20:00 | Columbia College Women’s Business Center, 1301 Columbia College Dr, Columbia, SC, 29203, United States

Earth Day Climate Action Fair
2026-04-18 09:00 - 13:00 | Soda City Market, 1700 Main St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Columbia is hosting a Climate Action Fair designed to educate, inspire, and engage the public around environmental awareness and sustainability.
The fair will feature participation from a variety of environmental organizations with interactive activities, and a mascot mix and mingle, all designed to raise awareness about climate issues and encourage community action.
Location: Soda City Market, Intersection of Washington and Main Street

River Shook Duo - Free Outdoor Concert at the Koger Center
2026-04-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Plaza Stage at Koger Center, 1051 Greene Sr, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
The Koger Center for the Arts has set the headliners for the first Levitt AMP Columbia Music Series, a series of free outdoor concerts sponsored in part by the Levitt Foundation. The concerts will take place on the Plaza Stage on the Koger Center’s front lawn from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., with the rain location being indoors in either the Black Box Theater or second floor lobby.
The Levitt AMP Columbia Music Series is dedicated to uplifting Columbia as a cultural hub and destination for accessible entertainment. The series is supported by a variety of community partners, including the Jasper Project, ONE Columbia, ColaJazz, South Carolina Philharmonic, University of South Carolina Student Life, Black Nerd Mafia, the South Carolina Commission for Community Advancement and Engagement, the Columbia Chamber, the Vista Guild and the City of Columbia.
Geared to towns and cities with populations under 250,000, Levitt AMP grantees reflect the three goals of the LevittAMP Music Series program: Amplify community pride and a city’s unique character; enrich lives through the power of free, live Music; and illustrate the importance of inclusive and vibrant public Places. From rural Alaska to Appalachian Main Streets and Midwestern locales, Levitt AMP is a catalytic opportunity for towns and cities across America to realize a shared mission—building community through music to create a healthy and thriving future for all. Columbia is the only Levitt AMP location in South Carolina.
Columbia residents are encouraged to follow along with the development of the series over the next three years by visiting www.KogerCenterForTheArts.com, and following @LevittAmpColumbia and @KogerCenterForTheArts on Instagram.

Pups & Pints Adoption Event & Donation Drive
2026-04-19 12:00 - 15:00 | Jake’s on Devine, 2112 Devine St, Columbia, SC, 29205, United States
Please bring a collar and leash if you are planning to adopt!

"Devine in Bloom" Fashion Show 2026
2026-04-22 08:00 - 17:00 | Riverside Community Church, 2925 Devine St, Columbia, SC, 29205, United States
Columbia’s HOTTEST fashion show featuring collections from Devine Street’s boutiques

Join your friends at Columbia’s HOTTEST fashion show – “Devine in Bloom”! Watch many of Devine Street’s fantastic boutiques model a wide array of spring and summer’s latest fashions.
Start the evening off with a Garden Party featuring delicious drinks and food, photo ops in front of a beautiful feature photo wall and an assortment of boutique vendors. Afterwards, enter the transformed space of Riverside Community Church and enjoy 90 minutes showcasing the season’s most amazing fashions.
Choose from an assortment of seating at the event. All tickets include access to the Garden Party and Fashion Show:

VIP tickets ($100 each) = The BEST seats in the house! Your VIP ticket will get you a seat on the front row of the fashion show, 1 complimentary raffle ticket, and a beautiful gift bag filled with items from Devine Street merchants.

VIP Benches ($550 for 5 VIP seats TOGETHER on one bench) = Guarantee that you and your 4 friends will have the best seats in the house…together!

Main Floor Seating ($60 each) = Bench seating (behind VIP seating) which still has amazing views of the runway.

******All attendees must be 21 or older******
Don’t forget to purchase raffle tickets so you can be eligible to win a varitey of gift baskets containing amazing items and hundreds of dollars worth of gift cards to Devine Street merchants.
Seating is limited in each section.Tickets must be purchased in advance (no ticket sales at the door).
Sorry – no refunds offered after April 12th.

Shine for Shelter Car Wash Fundraiser for Rapid Shelter Columbia
2026-04-24 09:00 - 13:00 | Riverfront Park South, 312 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
The City of Columbia Homeless Services department is partnering with United Way of the Midlands to host Shine for Shelter Car Wash.
This fundraising event supports Rapid Shelter Columbia’s mission of assisting individuals experiencing homelessness. Homeless Services is inviting the community to come out for a car wash, to volunteer, or to donate.
All proceeds will directly support client services and initiatives that aid individuals experiencing homelessness and the dedicated service providers who support them. Come out, get a shine, and help create lasting change!
Monetary donations collected during the car wash will go directly toward essential services resources and Rapid Shelter Columbia residents.
