City of Columbia, Columbia SC

Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea Ribbon Cutting
2025-09-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Sweetwater Coffee & Tea, 1002 Park Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Join us for the ribbon cutting for Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea!
Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea isn’t just a coffeehouse—it’s a destination. Here, guests can enjoy the comfort of classic café favorites while exploring a world of globally inspired premium coffees and teas. Every visit is an invitation to savor bold flavors, connect with friends, and relax in an atmosphere that’s as timeless as it is welcoming. Open seven days a week, Sweetwaters also tempts guests with fresh-made sandwiches, irresistible pastries, and decadent desserts—making it the ultimate destination for any time of day. Catering is available for your meetings and special events.
As a proud minority and local owner, Edwin brings a vision deeply rooted in culture, connection, and giving back to the community. A longtime Columbia resident, seasoned restaurant veteran, and devoted husband and father of two young children, Edwin believes in the simple yet powerful ability of a great cup of coffee to unite people.
Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is thrilled to call the heart of Columbia’s Vista district home—just steps from the Koger Arts Center, Colonial Life Arena, and the South Carolina State House. More than just a café, Sweetwaters is a vibrant gathering place where students, professionals, families, and visitors can come together. With exciting plans to host social events, community gatherings, and cultural experiences, Sweetwaters is set to become a hub of connection and creativity for the University of South Carolina, local businesses, and residents across the Midlands and beyond.

North Columbia 411 Community Resource Fair
2025-09-20 10:00 - 14:00 | Northminster Prespyterian Church, 6717 David Street, Columbia, SC, 29203, United States
The Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement team will setup a table to provide resources on neighborhood safety, violence prevention, and other relevant topics. .

BizArts
2025-09-21 16:00 - 19:00 | Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
7Sunday, in partnership with the City of Columbia Office of Business Opportunities, is proud to launch BizArts, a bold new monthly series highlighting community, culture, and creativity.

A fireside chat and screening of the documentary Did You Know? Columbia’s Black Wall Street
A special exhibition from the USC Center for Civil Rights History & Research and Columbia SC 63
Live music, artistic expression, light hors d’oeuvres, and networking opportunities

One attending small business owner will also be awarded 10 free classes in the FastTrac Growth Venture program, a unique opportunity to accelerate business growth and success.

Finlay Park Hiring Event
2025-09-24 10:00 - 13:00 | 1735 Busby St, 1735 Busby St, Columbia, SC, 29203, United States
With the upcoming grand re-opening of Finlay Park, the City’s Human Resources department and Parks and Recreation have partnered together to host a hiring event. The first portion of the event from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. will focus on Park Ranger and Maintenance Tech positions.
Columbia Police Department will also be participating in the second portion of the event from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. with a focus on looking to hire Class 3 officers.
On the spot interviews will be held during Both time frames of the hiring fair and offers may be provided to candidates.
Register for the event here: https://forms.columbiasc.gov/252404515422851
Open Positions:

Park Ranger
Maintenance Assistant
Class 3 Police Officer

Historic Keenan House with Community Open House
2025-09-24 17:30 - 20:00 | Ensor Keenan House, 801 Wildwood Avenue, Columbia, SC, 29203, United States
One Columbia proudly announces the grand opening of its new headquarters at 801 Wildwood Avenue, within the iconic Keenan House, and invites the entire community to a celebratory Open House on September 24, 2025, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM. This milestone event marks the next chapter in One Columbia’s mission to foster creativity, preserve local heritage, and deepen community engagement from a space of both historic significance and future possibilities.
Relocating to the beautifully restored Keenan House is more than a change of address for One Columbia—it’s a strategic leap forward in cultivating arts, culture, and civic engagement across Columbia. Thanks to a dynamic partnership with the City of Columbia, this preservation project has transformed a treasured landmark into a vibrant and accessible home for artists, creatives, and community members alike. The headquarters serves as a central hub for innovative programming, public art projects, artist support, and cultural initiatives that bring people together.
During the open house, guests are invited to explore the elegant Keenan House through guided tours, appreciate a specially curated art exhibit featuring local and regional talent, and enjoy complimentary refreshments and beverages. The event will also highlight opportunities for sponsorship and fundraising, inviting supporters to play a meaningful role in shaping the ongoing impact of One Columbia’s diverse initiatives.
From its new headquarters, One Columbia is poised to amplify its signature programs, including the Artist Assistance Grant, Garage Studio residency, and citywide public art installations. The organization’s commitment to artist support, creative placemaking, and celebration of Columbia’s cultural heritage is now further rooted in a space designed for collaboration, innovation, and inclusion.
The transformation of the Keenan House into One Columbia’s new home underscores the powerful results of public-private partnerships in preserving history and advancing community goals. The historic setting will serve as a launchpad for bold new projects—and as a welcoming space for residents and visitors to connect with the capital city’s creative spirit.
Everyone is welcome to attend this free event, join the celebration, and learn more about the vision and expanded work of One Columbia at its inspiring new headquarters.
About One Columbia
One Columbia’s mission is to strengthen and celebrate the vibrancy of Columbia’s arts, history, culture, and creative community. Operating from its new headquarters at the Keenan House, One Columbia leads city-wide initiatives supporting creative expression, public art, artist advocacy, heritage preservation, and innovative programming. Through dynamic partnerships and a commitment to inclusivity, One Columbia connects residents and visitors to the city’s rich cultural landscape, ensuring the arts are accessible, celebrated, and woven into every part of Columbia life.

Food Truck Friday!
2025-09-26 11:00 - 15:00 | 2300 Bull Street (REI Co-op parking lot at BullStreet, corner of Bull and Colonial), 2300 Bull Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
September 12

Granny’s Caribbean Cuisine & Catering
Relaxin Heifer, LLC (Ice Cream)
Purposely Made Sweets
Manjal’s Filipino
Spicy Voodoo

September 19

Cindy’s Cake & Catering
Relaxin Heifer, LLC (Ice Cream)
Lobster Dogs
Lunch Box
Smoke IT UP

September 26

Brown Bag Deli
Duce’s BBQ & Thingz
King Kone Ice Cream
La Dolce Vita Pizza
The Haute’ Dog Lady

Bicycle/Pedestrian Counts
2025-09-29 - 2025-10-04

Did You Know? All About Patents & Copyrights Workshop
2025-09-30 10:00 - 12:30 | Busby Community Center, 1735 Busby St, Columbia, 29203, United States
Join the Office of Business Opportunities on September 30th for this informative workshop on patents and copyrights!

Led be Doug Lineberry, Intellectual Property Attorney.

During this workshop participants will:
– Explain the difference between patents and copyrights as intellectual property;
– Discuss how to best protect inventions with patent applications, both utility and design; and
– Provide the best ways to protect copyright “works of art” both at common law and the federal level.

Pick Your Pumpkin
2025-10-01 - 2025-10-31 | Columbia Animal Services, 127 Humane Lane, Columbia, SC, 29209, United States
$31 adoption fee. See attached flyer.

Food Truck Friday!
2025-10-03 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-10 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-17 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-24 11:00 - 15:00 | 2300 Bull Street (REI Co-op parking lot at BullStreet, corner of Bull and Colonial), 2300 Bull Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Vendors will be updated here: https://obo.columbiasc.gov/2023/10/food-truck-fridays/

USC Community Health Fair
2025-10-04 10:00 - 14:00 | C.A. Johnson High School, 2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC, 29204, United States
Family-friendly community event celebrating health, wellness and the exciting future of health sciences at USC. See attached flyer.

Community Planning Month Proclamation
2025-10-07 16:00 | City Council Chambers
October is Community Planning Month- we will be doing a proclamation at City Council.

SBA Lender Matchmaker
2025-10-08 10:00 - 14:00 | Earlewood Community Center, 1111 Recreation Drive, Columbia, SC, 29203, United States

Sharing the Road Workshops
2025-10-08 11:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-08 16:00 - 18:00 | Richland Library Main, 1431 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
“Sharing the Road” (SS4A Grant) Public workshops.

Faith and Blue Community Event
2025-10-11 11:00 - 14:00 | Riverland Hills Baptist Church, 201 Lake Murray Boulevard, Irmo, 29063, United States
Free Community Event! Games, Food and Prizes. See attached flyer.

Pups & Pints Adoption Event/Donation Drive
2025-10-11 12:00 - 15:00 | Bierkeller, 600 Canal Side Street Suite 1009
Adoption fees waived! Please bring a leash and collar. See attached flyer.

BPAC Quarterly Meeting
2025-10-13 16:30 | Richland Library Main, 1431 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Meeting Room M.

Make That Dough
2025-10-16 08:30 - 10:00 | Eau Claire Print Building, 3907 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, 29203

City of Columbia Hiring Fair
2025-10-21 10:00 - 15:00 | Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Join us for this exciting event. The Columbia Hiring Fair, will connect employers with job seekers aged 18+, including college students seeking entry-level opportunities, internships, and summer positions. Enhance your organization’s profile and engage with talented candidates in the Columbia community. This event will bring jobseekers from across the Midlands region and all of the area colleges and universities giving your company the opportunity to tell your story and network with your future workforce.
This fair will feature a diverse array of industry partners, organizations, and community leaders eager to engage with the region’s emerging talent. Whether you’re seeking internships, full-time positions, or professional connections, the Columbia Hiring Fair offers a unique platform to explore opportunities and build your future right here in Columbia.
Don’t miss this chance to invest in your career or business while staying rooted in your community. Mark your calendar and prepare to take your next big step!’
Job seekers (18+) are welcome to attend and connect with local businesses.
Job seekers register HERE!
Businesses interested in participating can register HERE.

ProcuraFind Supplier Readiness Roundtable
2025-10-23 10:00 - 12:30 | Busby Community Center, 1735 Busby St, Columbia, 29203, United States

Mayor's Walk Against Domestic Violence
2025-10-25 | Page Ellington Park, 2220 Gregg st, Columbia, SC, United States
The 2025 Mayor’s Walk Against Domestic Violence will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Page Ellington Park, 2220 Gregg St, Columbia, SC 29201.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and for the 19th year, participants are asked to show their support by joining the City walk to bring awareness of the abuse and violence that occurs in our community.
The Mayor’s Walk Against Domestic Violence is not only a way for the community to stand together against domestic abuse, but to learn about different resources available for survivors and their families. Participants will be able to hear from leaders in our community, visit a number of exhibitors to learn about different resources available, as well as participate in different family friendly games and activities before the walk begins.

Biz Arts Scooby Doo Murder Mystery
2025-10-26 16:00 - 19:00 | Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
BizArts is back and bolder than ever! In partnership with the City of Columbia Office of Business Opportunities (OBO), 7Sunday presents the BizArts Scooby-Doo Murder Mystery — an unforgettable evening of entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community connection at the Columbia Museum of Art.
Adding to the excitement, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and Def Jam recording artist Susan Carol. Known for her soulful tone, poetic lyricism, and authentic storytelling rooted in gospel traditions, Susan Carol’s music captures the spirit of love, resilience, and truth. Her presence adds a powerful dimension to this celebration of creativity and culture.
Guests will step into a live-action whodunit inspired by everyone’s favorite mystery-solving crew — Scooby and the gang — for a night that blends art, business, and adventure. Costumes and Scooby-inspired flair are encouraged, so grab your magnifying glass and bring your best detective energy as we close out USC Homecoming Weekend with style.
The evening will feature:

Live music by the 7Sunday Live Band featuring Grammy Award winner Susan Carol
Comedy from Randi Skye
Beats by DJ Prettyboy Mell
Delicious catering by Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Catering
Showcase of small businesses, highlighting local entrepreneurial talent
Intersections on Main Street Exhibit presented by Dr. Bobby Donaldson, the USC Center for Civil Rights History and Research & Columbia SC 63
One business owner will win 10 free FastTrac Growth Venture classes courtesy of the OBO.

Afterward, join us at Moxy, where you’ll receive 20% off with your event wristband — the perfect way to keep the celebration going! Tickets are available now at BizArtsScoobyDoo.Eventbrite.com

Small Business Outreach Forum
2025-10-29 16:00 - 18:00 | Busby Community Center, 1735 Busby St, Columbia, 29203, United States
Join us at the Small Business Contractors & Vendors Outreach Forum for networking, learning, and growth opportunities!
Are you a local business seeking city contracts?
Opportunities are here!
Why attend this forum?

Learn about upcoming City contracting and procurement opportunities.
Meet decision-makers and procurement staff who manage City contracts.
Access to free resources and technical assistance to help you win bids.
Network with other professionals in the Columbia business

REGISTER HERE!

Planning Book Club Meeting
2025-10-29 18:00 - 20:00 | All Good Books, 734 Harden St, Columbia, SC, 29212, United States

Gateway Signage Unveiling
2025-10-30 10:00 - 11:00 | 6925 N. Main St, 6925 North Main St, Columbia, SC, 28203, United States
The City of Columbia will unveil new gateway signage as part of its ongoing beautification and rebranding efforts. This unveiling marks the first of many new signs that will be installed across some of the city’s most traveled entrances, welcoming residents and visitors with a refreshed design that reflects Columbia’s vibrant spirit, hospitality, and sense of pride.

Sumo Japanese Steakhouse Grand Re-opening
2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Sumo Japanese Steakhouse, 151 Clemson Road, Columbia, SC, 29229, United States
The City of Columbia is proud to announce the grand re-opening of Sumo Japanese Steakhouse. Since undergoing new ownership, Sumo Japanese Steakhouse has made significant improvements to the restaurant to create a fresh and exciting experience for the community, including:

New décor and updated layout for a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
A full sushi menu to complement our Bar and Bistro menu, perfect for guests enjoying the live Teppanyaki table experience with dinner and a show.
King & Queen Celebration Chairs for birthdays and special occasions, making guests feel truly honored.
Daily Deals and Early Bird Specials to provide value and variety for our guests.

Sumo Japanese Steakhouse’s mission is simple: to bring people together through great food and unforgettable entertainment.
Beyond daily dining, we are excited to open our doors to the community for larger gatherings. We look forward to working with churches, weddings, corporate events, private parties, clubs, fraternities, and sororities to make Sumo a destination for both celebration and connection.
