Have you attended the Sumter Iris Festival? Celebrating the gorgeous Iris flower and the onset of summer, the Sumter Iris Festival brings many opportunities for totally FREE family fun. That’s one reason among many that the Sumter Iris Festival is on our summer bucket list. Is it on yours? It should be! Way more than a flower show, here’s what we love about the Sumter Iris Festival and its home, Swan Lake in Sumter, South Carolina.
The 2026 Sumter Iris Festival is May 15-17, 2026.
Only about an hour from Columbia, the Sumter Iris Festival is one of my favorite South Carolina festivals. I remember going as a kid and the irises becoming my favorite flower. The park includes peaceful dirt walkways around the lake, shaded by massive trees and Spanish Moss. You’ll find, nature, swans, boat rides, irises, bathrooms, and plenty to do during the Sumter Iris Festival.
About the Sumter Iris Festival
The Sumter Iris Festival is several days long in middle to late May, and it’s a great event for kids since admission and most of the kid stuff is FREE.
When is the Sumter Iris Festival?
This year the festival begins on Thursday night May 14th, 2026 with the opening ceremony. The “Taste at the Gardens” features live music, great food, boat rides, and more. Friday though, is when the family time really gears up. In fact, all day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday things are happening.
Lots of FREE Things to Do at the Sumter Iris Festival
Not only does the park feature beautiful nature, gorgeous blooms in the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, vendors and performances, and an excellent playground, but it also offers kids’ rides, a parade, special performances, free goodies, juggling and unicyclist show, children’s carnival, and more.
Even better, the rides, activities, admission, and more are completely free. Kids might spot performing dance teams and theater troops, classic cars, Cocky and other mascots, and more.
Here were some of our favorite parts of last year’s Sumter Iris Festival:
Free kids rides
Free crafts/story time/goodie bags
Petting zoo
The playground with the firetruck
Nature
banana split
While all admission to the festival and most kids’ activities are free, you’ll want to bring cash/cards for parking, food, and drinks. Likewise, face painting was offered among a lot of free crafts and activities for kids but was actually very pricey, so keep an eye out for that.
Expect it to be hot as it’s the middle of May, and expect crowds as this festival is increasingly popular as it’s been featured in Southern Living and others.
Are you looking for fun parks or playgrounds near Columbia, SC? If you’re looking for the best places to play outdoors in or near Columbia, you’ve come to the right place. Our Parks: Columbia, SC list includes parks with playgrounds, walking trails, and hiking trails, nature parks, art parks, splash pads, parks with picnic areas and picnic shelters, and a whole lot more about our favorite places to play!
There are so many options when it comes to parks and playgrounds. These parks have great playgrounds, wide open spaces, basketball courts, picnic tables, walking trails, or just amazing outdoor spaces. We have reviewed some of our absolute favorite places to play, but we also have lots more coming soon!
Great Parks and Playgrounds Around Columbia, SC
Looking for playgrounds in or near Columbia where the kids can play? There are so many cool options in the Midlands! Pick one of these fun playgrounds and get playing outdoors!
Carraway Park: Great for kids of all ages in West Columbia, SC
Owen’s Field Park: Skate park, fun playgrounds with a zipline, pump track
With a beautiful little lake, playground, easy hiking, free splash pad, and cheap boat rentals, Sesquicentennial State Park is the ultimate family day kind of park! Pack a picnic and get going! Enjoy the shaded picnic tables and benches beside the lake.
Experience local art for free at West Columbia Interactive Art Park
What’s at the West Columbia Interactive Art Park? Kids and grown-ups will enjoy walking along the paths of this interactive art park in West Columbia. Play the drums, and enjoy the murals, sculptures, and time together. There are even some very family-friendly places to eat out in the park and nearby.
Drums at the West Columbia Interactive Art Park
Lake Murray
In the summer Lake Murray Public Park is the place to be for outdoor play in the water and sand. There’s also a great picnic area to enjoy the fresh air and lake view.
Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park is a unique park with old-growth forests for hiking, cool boardwalk trails to explore, and out-of-this-world kayak trails.
Want to walk or hike on Columbia’s hiking trails?
These walking trails and hiking trails near Columbia are perfect for a little hiking or getting out those bikes and strollers.
There are so many fantastic parks for even the tiny tots all around Columbia! Let your littles learn to climb, swing in bucket swings, or enjoy small slides made just for them.
Have a preschooler who is a bit too big for the small stuff, but not quite big enough for the full-sized equipment? Here are a few playgrounds we think they’d love:
Emily Douglas: Splash pad, large climbing structures, huge green space
Woodland Park: Walking trail, pickleball, large green spaces, huge playground
Looking for more of the best parks in Columbia?
Our coverage of parks and playgrounds is growing, and we’ll have more on Columbia’s best playgrounds soon. But you’ll also find great information on the area’s outdoor places to play at websites for local town and city recreation departments.
Inside: What festivals are happening this summer in Columbia, SC.
Are you looking for summer festivals near Columbia, SC? Now, the weather has warmed, school is almost over, and already it’s festival season! If you’re planning to get out in Columbia and build memories and experiences this summer, festivals can be a great way to dip your toes in something new. Columbia has festivals year-round, but here are some family-friendly festivals coming up to take in this famously hot season.
Quick Summary: Summer festival season is HERE, Columbia! ☀️🎶
Ready to eat, dance, and celebrate all summer long? 🎉 Here are a few family-friendly faves:
🦞 Rosewood Crawfish Festival (May 2) 🎶 SC Caribbean Carnival (June 11-14) 🖤 Juneteenth Festival (June 20) 🍤 Shrimp & Grits Festival (June 20) 🦀 Southeast Crab Festival (July 11)
First off, get ready to kick things off with some Southern eats!
Irmo International Festival 2026
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Head to Irmo and check out this local festival at Moore Park. There will be artists, dancers, musicians, food trucks, art, kids’ area and more. More information at the Irmo International Festival website.
Moore Park, 7507 Eastview Drive, Irmo, SC 11 am – 7 pm
Rosewood Crawfish Festival
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Of course, in typical Rosewood neighborhood fashion, this event promises to be full of live music and local artisans. It’s family-friendly, with things for kids including rides, face painting, and crawdad races. Also, kids 12 and under get in free! This is the Rosewood Crawfish Festival website.
State Fair Grounds at 1200 Rosewood Drive Columbia, SC 29201. 11 am – 7 pm Tickets are $12 presale and $15 day of
Pickin’ and Piggin’ at the Park (SCBA)
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Or, if you’re feeling a little more down to earth, enjoy more than 20 BBQ cooks best at this cook-off in the park. Beer will also be available for purchase. The event is all-you-can-eat at Columbia’s most accessible park with music by the Run Out. See the Pickin’ and Piggin’ website for more.
Saluda Shoal’s Park, 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 United States 11 am – 1:30 pm Adults (13+) $18 Children (12 and Under) $5
South Carolina Caribbean Carnival
June 11th – June 14th, 2026
Next up, another family-friendly, cultural festival. So, trek right down to the South Carolina State Fairgrounds to experience this big Caribbean Block Party. Find out more about the Caribbean Carnival on their website South Carolina Carnival.
Thursday, June 11th – Carribean Night Friday, June 12th – Lime (Poolside Rhythms) Friday, June 12th – Paint Water Powder Festival Saturday, June 13th – Road Parade Saturday, June 13th – Block Party Saturday, June 13th – White N Anything Sunday, June 14th – Punch’d
Juneteenth Festival
June 20th, 2026
It’s time to celebrate freedom, black heritage, and more at this family-friendly event. It offers many activities including food, games, live music, artistic performances, and local vendors. For more, see the Juneteenth Festival website.
421 Bush River Road, Columbia SC 29210 Ticket Price: FREE
Columbia’s 11th Annual Shrimp and Grits Festival
June 20th, 2026
According to the Shrimp and Grits Festival official website, there will be unlimited Shrimp & Grits, live music, and prizes! Restaurants around the Midlands will be offering their version of Shrimp & Grits, and it’s your turn to find out who has the best! Also, there will be a winner in the “People’s Choice” division, and “tickets include unlimited shrimp and grits samples from participating restaurants and live music.”
Obviously, this festival will include crabs, but that’s not all. It actually has all-you-can-eat blue crabs! There will also be fish and chips as well as drinks for sale. You can bring in your own toppings, but please no coolers. This event boasts being both a long-standing state tradition of outdoor seafood cooking and a family-friendly event. Tickets will be limited to reduce crowds. Get tickets online at the Southeast Crab Feast website and collect them at Will Call with ID.
Still Hungry for More?
Bonus: Sumter Iris Festival
May 15th – 17th, 2026
Don’t forget the Sumter County Iris Festival is about an hour’s drive. It offers lots of FREE fun for the family, so this is one you don’t want to miss!
Are you searching for custom cookies, cakes, or other sweet treats in Columbia, SC? We know how important it can be to have baked goods that aren’t only delicious, but are also unique, detailed, and well-made to match any upcoming event or special occasion.
So whether you have a birthday party, wedding, business meeting, family reunion, or any other event, give one of these locally-owned, small businesses a try! This list has unique sweets plus custom cookies and custom cakes, Columbia, SC!
The Best Custom Sweets in The Midlands
No matter the event, custom sweet treats are sure to add the extra bit of “pizzazz” that your special occasion is missing! Give one of these great places a try for your next party or special gathering!
1. Sammies Sugary Sweets
Sammies Sugar Sweets offers beautiful and detailed cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, and more! Location: Based in Lexington, SC
2. Baked Joyfully
Baked Joyfully is a woman-owned business that offers custom cookie cakes and sugar cookies. In addition to their custom orders, they can also be found selling baked goods at farmers’ markets and festivals all throughout Columbia. Location: Serving Lexington, Richland County, and Blythewood, SC
3. Tiffany’s Eats, Sweets & Meeting Place
Tiffany’s Eats, Sweets & Meeting Place offers delicious sweet treats of all kinds! In addition to their baked goods, they also serve dine-in breakfast and lunch. You can’t go wrong by giving this place a try! Location: 9704 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC
4. TLC Sweets, LLC
TLC Sweets, LLC specializes in gourmet chocolate-dipped strawberries. Gourmet strawberries can be great for any occasion and can even be tailored to fit your specific color scheme, theme, or style. Location: Based in Lexington, SC
5. Soda City Sweets
Looking for decorated sugar cookies? Soda City Sweets has you covered! Not only are these cookies wonderful to look at, but they also have great flavor. Location: Pick-up only in Columbia, SC
6. The Cake Obsession
The Cake Obsession offers an assortment of fantastic baked goods. They are most known for the beautiful, detailed cakes that will be a great addition to any occasion! Location: Based in Blythewood, SC
7. Dazzling Sweets
Dazzling Sweets is a one-stop shop for all your baked good needs – From cupcakes to sugar cookies and everything in between. Location: Based in Blythewood, SC
8. Christine’s Petite Sweets, LLC
You’ll love all the sweets that Christine’s Petite Sweets, LLC offers! Pineapple upside down cake, flavored cheesecake, and chocolates, just to name a few! Location: Available at multiple locations around Columbia, SC.
9. Christi’s Cookies
Christi’s Cookies is where you can find uniquely decorated cookies for weddings, birthday parties, bridal showers, corporate events, family reunions, and more! Location: Irmo, SC
Where do you get your custom cookies, Columbia, SC? If you know of a custom cake or cookie decorator that we missed, be sure to let us know!
Inside: Local parents share their favorite FREE Things to Do in Columbia in one great list.
Looking for free activities in Columbia, SC? You can fill up a day in Columbia without spending a dime! We’ve compiled a list, and it is packed full of free and cheap ideas for you. Grab your family and make some fun-filled memories together for free. Here’s our list of free things to do in Columbia, SC with kids!
Go on a walk: Head to Columbia’s Riverwalk for a walk with your family. With more than 20 miles of river walk and trails, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. You can find shade under the trees and bridges, and parking is free!
Have a picnic at the Horseshoe at the University of South Carolina:The Horseshoe at USC is a perfect place to have a family picnic and spend the afternoon. Bring some outdoor toys and bikes and enjoy the weather together. While there’s plenty of shade, you will need to bring a little money to park.
Historic Columbia
Historic Columbia’s gardens are a great place to walk around and have a picnic lunch. Gardens are open Monday through Saturday 10:00 am-4:00 pm and Sundays 1:00 pm-4:00 pm
Museum of the Reconstruction Era at the Woodrow Wilson Family Home – 1705 Hampton Street
Robert Mills House – 1616 Blanding Street
Hampton-Preston Mansion – 1615 Blanding Street – includes a children’s garden with two tree swings
The Seibels House’s gardens are open Monday through Friday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm – 1601 Richland Street
Cool off at a pool or splash pad: One of the most fun things to do in the summer is to take your kids to a pool or splash pad. While the Maxcy Gregg and Greenview Pools have a small fee ($3 – $4 depending on age), the splash pads and spray pools are free and open to the public.
If you are looking for a great park with shade to avoid those famously hot Columbia days, Hollywood Park is an excellent choice. For the days you’re wanting to be more immersed in nature, check out Doko Meadows Park.
If you are needing an all-inclusive playground, then Leo’s Landing is definitely the park to go to.
In West Columbia, Carraway Park has an amazing playground space!
Sesquicentennial State Park has lots of amenities, including $5 kayak rentals. Park admission is required unless you have SC State Park Annual Pass. If you do, admission is free.
Ride bikes: Grab your bikes and go on a bike ride. Download the Sprocket app, an app created by The Cola Town Bike Collective, to help you find the perfect, safe bike route for you and your family.
Go see a movie: The Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington shows movies every now and then. You can also enjoy a summer movie for free at Doko Meadows park.
Head out for a hike: There are plenty of hiking trails in Columbia. From paved multi-use trails to longer, more rugged trails, you’ll find something for you and your family to enjoy. Check out our list of some of the best hiking trails with free admittance in the Columbia, SC area.
Cayce Riverwalk | Main Entrance: 201 Naples Avenue, Cayce, SC
Columbia Canal and Broad River Trail | 312 Laurel Street., Columbia, SC
Saluda Riverwalk | Candi Lane, Columbia, SC
Guignard Clay Quarry Loop | 634 Old State Road, Cayce, SC
Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve | 883 Peachtree Rock Road, Lexington, SC
Congaree National Park Hiking Trails | 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, SC
Stroll down Main Street for Soda City Market: Every Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm, vendors gather on Main Street for a European-inspired street market for the Soda City Market. Everything sold is unique, hand-crafted, and produced in the Southeast. While strolling and perusing what the vendors have to offer, you’ll hear music and be able to do a lot of people-watching.
Throw a frisbee around at one of the disc golf courses: Grab your disc golf frisbee and play disc golf for free. Udisc has a list of courses in the area.
Go on a public art tour: You can treat this as a scavenger hunt if you’d like, but there are plenty of public art installations around Columbia that you can visit for free. One Columbia has an interactive map for you to find art spots.
Grab the family and head to one of the many Columbia area farmer’s markets! One of the most popular, The Soda City Farmers Market in Downtown Columbia, has tons of vendors and is a lot of fun for the entire family. You can also check out The Market at Icehouse, located at the Icehouse Amphitheatre in Lexington.
First Thursdays on Main: First Thursdays on Main include free live music and even free admission to cultural venues, like the Columbia Museum of Art on select First Thursdays. Food and other items are available for purchase.
Attend a FREE event at Congaree National Park, like the Ranger Guided Owl Prowl hike. You might get a chance to see or hear one of these amazing creatures in the wild! But even if you don’t, you’ll learn a lot and have some fun!
Play pickleball: Pickleball has become quite a popular hobby in the last few years! There are several public pickleball courts all throughout Columbia that operate on a first-come, first serve basis:
Go Geocaching: Have you ever been geocaching? We can assure you that this is an activity that your whole family will get hooked on! Geocaching is an outdoor game, very similar to a treasure hunt, where you use GPS to locate different “treasures” hidden by others.
Richland County has set up an interactive geocaching game where you can learn how to keep our waterways clean, experience local art, and hunt for geocaches! Start by downloading a “Drains Aren’t Dumps Passport” and you will quickly be on your way to discovering awesome treasure.
Decorate, Hide, and Find Painted Rocks: Most of us are familiar with discovering painted rocks hidden throughout the city, but what you might not know is that there is a Facebook group called Columbia-SC Rocks! People will post pictures of their decorated rocks and give hints as to where they can be found. Along with hunting for them, it’s super fun to paint a few with your kiddos, go around to some of their favorite places, and hide them for others to enjoy.
Visit the Sandhill Children’s Garden: The Sandhill Children’s Garden is located near the Farmer’s Market on Clemson Road, across from the Sandhill Shopping Center. Here you will find beautiful gardens, birdhouses, neat flowers, and much more. There are sometimes even small events that take place here. Looking to introduce your children to volunteer work? The Sandhill Children’s Garden is almost always looking for new volunteers to keep the gardens looking spectacular!
Eat Free
Kids Eat FREE in Columbia: While you’re out and about on your free things to do adventure, grab a cheap meal by taking advantage of these kids eat free deals.
Free Things to Do Inside in Columbia, SC
See model trains! Visit the Associated Model Railroad of Columbia on most Thursday evenings for free! Learn about model trains, watch the trains chug through the beautiful displays, and kids may even get a chance to drive a train!
Note: They are not open on the first Thursday of the month. 1800 Lincoln Street, Columbia
Go Bowling: There are several bowling alleys in the Columbia area where kids up to age 15 can bowl for free in summer. You’ll still need to rent shoes or bring your own.
Grab a free DIY Kit from Home Depot: Home Depot has free Kids Workshop kits that you can pick up on the first Saturday of each month from 9 am – 12 pm while supplies last.
Participate in a DIY-U Lowe’s Event: Lowe’s has both in-store and online DIY workshops that are completely free! Workshops for kids usually take place once each month and are led by Red Vest experts. This is a GREAT hands-on activity that your kids will love! Be sure to register in advance for these events!
Visit a Pet Store: Fishy Business – Here you can feed koi fish in their indoor pond. Bring quarters, but they will likely give you some if necessary to feed the fish. They also have a large selection of frames, saltwater fish, and supplies. Their staff is super friendly and knowledgeable, so if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask one of their team members.
Creature room has a nice selection of unusual and exotic reptiles. They have a supply of live food and a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Since they are just steps away from Fishy Business, plan to visit both and maybe even take home a new pet!
Tour the South Carolina State House: Want to get a little education with your activity? Head to the State House for a free guided or self-guided tour. State House Tours are given every half hour from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Monday through Friday when the chambers are not in session. The State House is also open for tours each Saturday. You do not have to make a reservation, but you can call ahead if you’d like to.
Historic Columbia: One Sunday a month, Historic Columbia hosts Free Sundays for Richland and Lexington County residents. Check out their website to find out which house is available for a free self-guided tour! Events | Historic Columbia
Visit Fort Jackson’s military museum at the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum for an educational trip in disguise. Guests can directly interact with soldiers, ask questions, and learn about the history and evolution of combat training.
Tour the South Carolina Military Museum for free. Self-guided tours are available any time the museum is open, and guided tours just need to be reserved at least a week in advance.
Visit the Melton Observatory on the USC Columbia campus. You’ll get a chance to use their huge telescope to check out the sun, moon, galaxies, planets and more!
Bonus! Are you a homeschooling family? The SC State Museum offers FREE admission to homeschooling families. The South Carolina State Museum is a great place to go explore and learn something new!
Free Events in Columbia, SC
What’s free and happening soon in Columbia, SC? This is a list of upcoming events that are free! That means there is no admission cost to attend these events and may mean there are free crafts, entertainment, food, and more! However, there may be charges and fees for activities or food at some of these events so do check event websites for details.
Are your kids excited to search out some colorful Easter Eggs at the Easter Egg Hunts in Columbia, SC this year? Maybe you’re looking for more Easter things to do, like catching up with the Easter Bunny for a special bunny photo. Or, maybe an Easter craft activity is more to your liking. Either way, we have a totally huge list of Columbia’s Easter Egg hunts and Easter events to help you out.
We hope it’ll help you make the most of the Easter season in Columbia, SC with your family!
We’ll be adding to this list throughout the Easter season, so check back soon for all the best Easter events in Columbia, SC!
April 3rd and 4th, 2026– Children’s Easter Egg hunt that includes a cow train, wagon rides, bubbles, playground, obstacle course, and photos with the Easter Bunny.
Photos with the Easter Bunny are a time-honored tradition. Where can you can get a photo with the Easter Bunny in Columbia, SC?
Visit these events to snap a picture with the Easter Bunny.
Easter Bunny Photos at Columbiana Centre
100 Columbiana Circle, Columbia, SC 29212 Bunny Photo Experiences starts March 13th, 2026. Photo package costs range from $40 – $50. You need to either pay $20 at booking and select photo package at your appointment or select the desired package at booking. (Your $20 booking fee will be applied toward the package purchase.)
Who doesn’t want to have breakfast or brunch with the Easter Bunny himself? Or maybe you can catch the bunny and share a special cupcake, cookie, or Easter treat.
Make plans to head to one of these places, and you can spend some time with the Easter Bunny and enjoy some yummy food, too!
Choose a hunt that fits the age of your children and their temperaments. A fast, competitive child might enjoy a free-for-all egg hunt, but some children might find the same hunt frightening and sadly leave without a single egg.
No one wants tears at an Easter Egg hunt, right?
So, find out . . . What are the rules for this egg hunt?
What are the ages of kids hunting together?
Is there a limit of eggs per kid?
How large is the event? (The larger the number of kids hunting at the same time, the greater chance there will be some aggressive behavior from the kids hunting.)
How much waiting is involved?
Dress Appropriately
Easter is the beginning of April this year which means the day could rapidly go from a cool early morning to a hot late morning or afternoon depending on the weather.
Think layers. Keep them on if it’s cooler, or take off a layer if it gets warm or if your kids get hot from running around.
Remember the sunscreen. The UV index can catch you by surprise this time of year.
Footwear should be something kids can run in. Tennis shoes are best. Keep those toes covered so they don’t get stepped on or bitten by ants.
Many of the public hunts offer bounce houses for the kids to play in so be sure your kids wear socks.
Plan ahead
Plan time to park. Give yourself at least 30 minutes before the hunt is scheduled to begin for parking and registration. If your egg hunt has an age requirement for a specific time, your child will likely only be allowed to hunt at that time.
Bring water and snacks if you think the kids will get hungry waiting for the hunt to start.
Stash some backup eggs in the car. If your kiddo isn’t able to collect any for whatever reason, you’ll be glad you did!
Are you thinking about a visit to Frankie’s Fun Park in Columbia, SC? We got a chance to visit and had so much fun with family. Come along on our visit and find out all the things Frankie’s Columbia, SC offers, plus some local parent tips to help you make the most of your family’s visit.
Watch: Come Along On Our Visit
Things to Do at Frankie’s Fun Park: Columbia, SC
Inside at Frankie’s in Columbia
Laser Tag
Arcade
XD Dark Ride
VR system
Snack bar
Large dining area, with space for birthday parties
Outside at Frankie’s in Columbia
The outside space at Frankie’s feels very open, pleasant, and not crowded. When you’re on one of the mini-golf courses, you really wouldn’t know you are so close to 2 other courses. They’ve done a beautiful job with the space, and it feels very private and tropical.
There are 3 mini-golf courses outdoors at Frankie’s all with an island, tropical theme. We played course number 2 because we were told it was the most lush of the three courses. It was beautiful and tropical with bright blue fountains throughout, and all the courses are sprinkled with South Carolina charm from the “Sullivan’s Island Watchtower” to the Shem Creek Seafood Co. and Isle of Palms Boat Shop. How many South Carolina gems you can find on your trip?
Go Karts
There are 3 Go-Kart tracks outside at Frankie’s: Road Course, Drifter, & Rookie Track. Each track has different specifications that are based on age and size, providing karts of different sizes and speeds.
Tips for Parents: Bringing Kids to Frankies
The Arcade: Inside can get crowded, and there are lots of flashing lights and noises. Some parents might find trying to keep track of the kids and supervise them a little stressful. 1 on 1 supervision for little ones might be best.
Plan ahead for your activities to maximize your time and make sure you get to do the things most important to your family, in case you find lines at the activities.
Budget before you go. There is no admission fee to enter Frankie’s but rather you pay per activity. Having a plan will help you stick to a budget and avoid overspending.
Need to have your child’s car seat checked in Columbia, SC? It’s true what they say, “You can never be too safe,” especially when it comes to your children! And car seat safety is absolutely no exception!
Car Seats in South Carolina: Things to Know
Need help finding the right car seat? Or just need some guidance on getting started? The US Department of Transportation has a great resource to help you choose the right car seat and learn how to install it. (We still recommend having your car seat installation checked.)
And, of course, when your child has outgrown their car seat, or when the car seat has expired, you can trade it in at Target. Target will recycle old, expired, or damaged car seats and give you 20% off another car seat, a stroller, or select baby gear. Read more about Target’s Car Seat Trade-In Program.
Statistics shockingly estimate around 80% of car seats are NOT correctly installed. Now is the perfect time to make sure yours isn’t one of them.
Where to Get a Car Seat Installation Check in Columbia, SC
Items needed when getting your car seat installation checked:
the owner’s manual for your car (if available)
the owner’s manual for the car seat (if available)
your vehicle
your child
We’ve listed the inspection stations near Columbia by county below.
Where to Get Your Car Seat Installation Checked in Richland County
City of Columbia Police Department 1 Justice Square, Columbia 803.545.3975 By appointment only
Irmo Police Department 1230 Columbia Avenue, Irmo 803.781.8088 By appointment only
Lexington Medical Center (Department of Public Safety) 115 West Hospital Drive, West Columbia 803.791.2373 By appointment only
South Carolina State Fire Office 141 Monticello Trail, Columbia 803.896.9800 By appointment only
SC DHEC 2100 Bull Street, Columbia 803.898.2767 By appointment only
The Therapy Place 3620 Covenant Road, Columbia 803.787.3033 By appointment only
Forest Acres Police Department 5205 North Trenholm Road, Forest Acres 803.782.9444 By appointment only
Richland County Sheriff’s Department 5623 Two Notch Road, Columbia 803.576.3000 *Multilingual
Irmo Fire District 6017 St. Andrews Road, Columbia 803.798.4979 By appointment only
Prisma Health Children’s Hospital-Midlands 7 Medical Park Drive, Columbia 803.434.2633 By appointment only
Where to Get Your Car Seat Installation Checked in Lexington County
Lexington Police Department 111 Maiden Lain, Lexington 803.359.6260 By appointment only
Lexington County Health Services District (Department of Public Safety) 115 West Hospital Drive, West Columbia 803.791.2732 By appointment only
Irmo Fire District Northlake 117 Lincreek Road, Columbia 803.781.7178 By appointment only
Cayce Public Safety 2 Lavern Jumper Road, Cayce 803.794.0456 By appointment only
West Columbia Police Department 200 North 12th Street, West Columbia 803.794.0721 ext. 825 By appointment only
Lexington County Sheriff Department 521 Gibson Road, Lexington 803.785.5646 By appointment only
Swansea Police Department 320 West 3rd Street, Swansea 803.568.3366 By appointment only
Batesburg/Leesville Police Department 660 West Columbia Avenue, Batesburg/Leesville 803.532.4408
Go for a Christmas light drive around Columbia, SC! What’s more festive than a night of Christmas lights? Columbia has some seriously decked-out homes that you can enjoy for free and we arranged them all into a driving tour. Want more? We also included a couple of popular drive-thru professional displays in our tours. Fill up a thermos with some hot cocoa, pack some Christmas cookies, cue up the holiday music, and load up the kids. The holiday pajamas are optional, but, are highly recommended.
Use our maps or set up your preferred map direction app with the addresses and you’re ready to go!
Disclaimer:Kidding Around is not responsible for property damage, neighborhood safety, or any possible injuries of any kind that may happen while driving, stopping, and viewing holiday lights and decorations. Drivers and property owners maintain all responsibility for general safety, operating a vehicle safely, light-viewing enjoyment, and holiday cheer. Drive slowly, be respectful, share holiday magic, and don’t be a Scrooge.
Hooray! Our Holiday Lights Driving Tour is finally here!! We are beginning the season with one driving route but be sure to check back regularly as displays are being added daily!
Help us grow these routes! Did you take this year’s Christmas decorating extra seriously? Want to share it with all of Columbia? Use this holiday home form to let us know.
2025 Midland’s Christmas Holiday Lights Driving Tour
Here’s our 2025 Christmas Lights for our Columbia driving tour!
394 Poets Walk has a fantastic light show!
419 Mt Valley Road, Blythewood has a mega tree, pixel tree, dancing trees, and candy canes.
11 Heron Pond Road, Columbia has a synchronized light show and photos with Santa on Saturday 12/13/25 and 12/20/25.
1925 Madison Road, Columbia has lots of inflatables, a giant lighted tree, lasers, and projections!
118 Judiths Path, West Columbia has hand made, wooden Disney characters in holiday gear and lights. This is just a glimpse of what’s in store for you to see!
133 Autumn Oaks Lane, Lexington is one of the largest light shows to music in the Midlands. Tune to 98.9 and jam out.
640 Wise Ferry Road, Lexington is a full house light display with spotlights, fountains, matrixes, thousands of pixels of music, and light fun!
497 Sandy Point Road, Lexington has lots of lights, blowups, and a manger scene!
64 Oak Hill Road, Prosperity has a holiday light show synchronized to music!
Worth the Ride: More Lights
This home is worth the drive, especially if you’re traveling through the area but was not included in the map as it is further out than the others!
2482 Wire Road, Aiken will have over a 100,000 lights this year, we have over about 200 blow ups. It’s a drive thru and there will be hot chocolate and cookies on the weekends.
Restaurants that have Decked the Halls:
Round out your driving tour by stopping at one of these decked out restaurants before you make your way home!
Publico at Five Points is a Santa Pub Pop Up and Publico on Bullstreet is a Grinch Pop Up!!! Be sure to check them out!
Nicky’s Pizzeria- They are complete with lights and delicious food! You won’t want to miss this stop!
Help us grow these routes! Add your home to these routes! Use this holiday home form to let us know you’d like to be considered!
Would a Christmas day trip help your family enjoy some holiday spirit? There’s a bunch of places you can head for the weekend or just the day to enjoy some holiday fun away, just a short drive from Columbia, SC.
Check out our list of popular destinations for day trips during the holiday season. From train rides to giant light displays and towns all decked out for Christmas there are some fantastic ideas on this list!
If you’re looking for a longer holiday trip, check out our list of Holiday Getawaysperfect for a festive family weekend or vacation.
Holiday Day Trips Near Upstate, SC
Greenville, SC
Festival of Trees in Greenville, SC (November 21st, 2025 through December 25th, 2025) See beautifully decorated trees lining the entranceways of two Downtown Greenville hotels, Courtyard Marriott Downtown and Hyatt Regency Greenville. This event is FREE and very popular among locals.
Speaking of Greenville, there’s a ton of festive things to do in the Upstate! Just check our List of Greenville Holiday Events and Things to Do, where you can find over 75+ Holiday Events in addition to links to all of our holiday content! Another event you won’t want to miss is Ice on Main, skating on real ice outdoors in Downtown Greenville!
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Charlotte, NC
(Open nightly November 21st, 2025 through January 4th, 2026. 6 pm to 10 pm Friday)
More than 5,000,000 lights will be displayed on a four-mile course of Charlotte Speedway and synchronized to music (101.3 FM) and will be open rain or shine. Be sure to check out one of the drive-in movies being played on the giant Speedway TV while you are there (Thursday through Sunday only)!
There is also a tubing hill open Thursday through Sunday and tickets can be purchased for a discounted rate in combination with the Christmas program (Tubing tickets only available at booth beside tubing hill). Tickets are $46-63. 6 pm – 10 pm
(December 1, 2025 – December 26, 2025) This nearby town decks out completely for Christmas! As you travel through town you can expect to see Christmas trees floating on the lake, a large nativity scene, over 250 lit evergreen trees, and over 100 decorated homes. The display is from 5:30-10 pm nightly and it is recommended that you explore on foot to ensure you see all the decorated homes!
(November 28 – 30, December 5 – 7,12 – 14, 19 – 23, 26 – 30, 2025. Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.) Enjoy a magical mountain train ride through lights and a winter wonderland. Tickets are $65/adults, $45/ages 3-12, free/kids under 2. Santa will be there and guests can ride some of the attractions at the park.
Cashiers Christmas Parade The 51st Cashiers Christmas Peppermint Stick Parade will kick off at 3 pm on Saturday, December 6th, 2025 but plan to arrive early to park and find a viewing spot.
Santa on the Chimney in Chimney Rock, NC The 28th Annual Santa on the Chimney will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 11 AM to 2 PM. Watch Santa Claus climb Chimney Rock. Santa will also be available after each climb to greet guests and take photos. This event has placed as one of the top Santa sightings in the USA. There will also be animal encounters, an elf-guided hike, vintage typewriter-written letters to Santa, create a holiday ornament and complimentary holiday treats! If you plan on coming to town for one of these dates be sure to come early and have Breakfast with the Elves at the Old Rock Cafe, 8 am – 11am.
Georgia Day Trips to Celebrate the Holidays
Holiday Haven in Dunwoody, Georgia Dunwoody’s destination partners also offer various events ranging from virtual activities that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your hotel room – to safe, in-person events honoring time-tested holiday traditions. Check out Kidding Around’s Review of Dunwoody, GA, and Holiday Haven
Stone Mountain Christmas in Atlanta Area of Georgia (select dates November 8, 2025 – January 4, 2026) Enjoy a scenic train ride, Christmas parade, shows, Christmas lights, and lots more. Check out Kidding Around’s Review of Stone Mountain Christmas
Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden (November 15, 2025 – January 11, 2026) This massive light display includes colored orbs, model trains, and a glittery rainforest.
Helen, GA The town of Helen, GA is an alpine town in Georgia’s mountains. They deck out the town for the holidays, making it the perfect stop to enjoy a hot beverage and a delicious soft pretzel in a festive atmosphere. Pair it with a hike at Anna Ruby Falls or Unicoi State Park and you have a great day trip!
Helen, GA at Christmas
Plan a Holiday Day Trip to Pigeon Forge, TN
Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, TN (November 6, 2025 – February 15, 2026) This could be a great weekend trip or a really long day trip out to Pigeon Forge, TN. There are lots of Christmas lights and shows plus Dollywood is decked out in gorgeous lights for the season. Check out Kidding Around’s Review of Pigeon Forges’ Winterfest
If you’re looking for a longer holiday trip, check out our list of Holiday Getawaysperfect for a festive family weekend or vacation.
