Columbia, S.C. Embraces Autumn with a Weekend Full of Fair Fun, Halloween Celebrations, and SC Pride Events

Columbia, S.C. Welcomes Autumn with Open Arms!

It’s that wonderful time of year again in Columbia, South Carolina! As the weather begins to dip in temperature and the sun shines down beautifully, the city is bursting with excitement as many fun-filled events and activities are set to take place. This week in particular is buzzing with festivities, from the last opportunity to enjoy the South Carolina State Fair to celebrations of pride and Halloween. So grab your friends and family, formulate your costume plans, and get ready to have some fun!

South Carolina State Fair

The highlight of this week lies in the South Carolina State Fair which is being held at 1200 Rosewood Drive. The fair kicked off today and will run all the way through next week! It’s sure to be an exciting adventure for everyone. With the theme celebrating all 46 counties in South Carolina, there’s a little something for everyone. Make sure to catch a daily CIRCUS performance and enjoy some great live music, including free concerts each evening at 7 p.m. And don’t forget: You can purchase tickets online, at the gate, or even at participating Circle K stores — just remember the clear bag policy in place!

Boo At The Zoo

If you’ve got little ones who enjoy some spooky fun, head over to the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden for Boo At The Zoo this Friday from 6-9 p.m. This family-friendly event lets you and your kiddos trick-or-treat with the animals – how cool is that? Make sure to grab your tickets online, as they tend to be a hot commodity!

HalloScream Laser Lights

On the hunt for some Halloween-themed entertainment? The South Carolina State Museum has got you covered with their HalloScream Laser Lights show! The planetarium experience features laser lights dancing to classic Halloween tunes such as “Thriller” and “Monster Mash”. The show runs at 1:30 p.m. on weekday afternoons, and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are reasonably priced at $13 for adults and $10 for children.

SC Pride Celebration

Queens and Cowboys documentary premiering at the Nickelodeon Theatre at 6 p.m. This documentary captures the lives of LGBTQ+ cowboys and cowgirls competing in the International Gay Rodeo Association. Following that, there is a lineup packed with fabulous drag shows, including The Rocky Horror Drag Show at New Brookland Tavern at 8 p.m. to honor the classic cult favorite.

Pride Art Exhibit & Kickoff Party

Art enthusiasts, prepare to explore the Pride Art Exhibit at Koger Center for the Arts from 5:30-7 p.m. featuring amazing works by local queer artists. Afterwards, head over to PT’s for the Kickoff Party at 9:30 p.m. hosted by some fabulous local drag legends.

Halloween Festivities

As we gear up for Halloween, there are many festivities ahead. Check out the Not-So-Spooky Halloween Stroll on October 24th where families can enjoy some downtown trick-or-treating. The event is free for all and offers a safe environment for the kids to gather goodies! You won’t want to miss the various crafts, treats, and storytime opportunities that will be hosted by local libraries.

With all the exciting activities happening in Columbia this week, there’s truly something for everyone! Whether it’s the thrill of the state fair, the fun of Halloween events, or celebrating pride with the community, the city is alive with festivities. So gather your loved ones, put on your costumes, and make the most out of this incredible season!