Author Archive

Don’t Miss Christmas in Columbia, SC: Find Your (2023) Fa La La!

What are you doing for the holidays in Columbia? Are you looking for holiday events and things to do, places to shop, or maybe a place to visit with Santa? How about a parade, cookie decorating class, or Christmas light show? You’ve found the Kidding Around Holiday Guide to Columbia and it is packed with holiday fun and Christmas things to do around Columbia.

Holiday Events and Things to Do Around Columbia

We have a huge event guide for the holidays around Columbia and it’s full of family-friendly things to do over the Christmas and Holiday Season including parades, tree-lightings, craft events, and more. There’s no reason to be bored this time of year!

Holiday events and Christmas events, things to do, Columbia, SC

Here’s our huge guide to Holiday Events in Columbia, SC

And, there’s more:

A festive day in Downtown Columbia

Or, head to Downtown Columbia for festive Christmas things to do, decorations, and shopping.

Holiday Treats

Visit one of the locally owned coffee shops in Columbia for delicious coffee and holiday treats. There’s nothing cozier as the weather cools down than the perfect cup of coffee and peppermint treat, or maybe a gingerbread muffin. Yum.

Visit Santa! Places to See Santa Around Columbia, SC

Whether you’re looking for a place to get a photo with Santa or just a place to wave at the jolly man in red, this is the list for you! We have a bit of an elf connection and know Santa’s appearance schedule in Columbia.

Where to Find Santa Around Columbia, SC!

Where to See Christmas Lights Displays in Columbia

Driving through elaborate displays of holiday lights is a time-honored family tradition for celebrating the season. Columbia has some amazing drive-thru light displays, plus some cool walk-through displays and even some free options. Holiday lights don’t get much better than this.

Holiday Lights Displays Around Columbia, SC

Drive-thru displays
Decked out homes to check out
Walk-through lights
FREE places to see amazing lights

Check out our review of Holiday Lights on the River.

Columbia’s Ultimate Gift Guide

Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list with Columbia’s Ultimate Gift Guide.

Find the Perfect Christmas Tree

Where do you get your family’s Christmas Tree? Not sure? Wondering where you can go to cut-your-own tree or visit with Santa? Maybe you’re looking for a place to just quickly pick out a wreath and skip the crowds?

Either way, you’ll want to check out our Columbia, SC Christmas Tree Farms and Lots list.

Free Things to Do at Christmas Time in Columbia

Free Things to Do at Christmas, Columbia, SC

It’s here!

Columbia’s list of totally free things to do at Christmas time in Columbia, SC.

We have 20+ ideas for completely free, family holiday fun in Columbia. Then, we threw in a few cheap options under $5 per person. To top it all off we added a couple of totally free holiday things to do in nearby cities so you can head out on a whole day trip full of free fun!

Restaurants Open for Christmas in Columbia, SC

These restaurants are open on Christmas in Columbia, SC

What restaurants are open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve in Columbia, SC?

This list has 17 Restaurants open on Christmas in Columbia, SC.

They are serving meals this holiday season with both dine-in and take-out options. We have everything from steakhouse restaurants open on Christmas to great places to grab a festive dessert. Eat well this holiday season!

❄️Winter Break is Coming❄️

Stay busy with activities and camps.

Columbia’s Winter Break Bucket List!

Find Great Gifts for Everyone On Your List: Columbia, SC

Looking for the perfect gift? Your gift list is long and time is short. We have some great ideas for everyone on your list. From places to shop local, to the gifts teens want this year, and what to get your child’s teacher, this gift guide has it all. Happy shopping!

Shopping Local in Columbia, SC

Don’t you just love finding the perfect gift? Shopping local is a great opportunity to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts they will love.

Looking for places to shop local around Columbia?

Gifts for Families in Columbia, SC

Giving a gift to a whole family is a great idea and experience gifts make exceptionally good family gifts. You can give the gift of zoo admission, a family dinner night out, or a fun art class. And of course, we have lots more ideas!

Grab a gift card from one of these family-friendly restaurants in Columbia and treat them to a family night out.
Gift the family an annual membership to Riverbanks Zoo, EdVenture Children’s Museum, or the SC State Museum. You could also give a gift that will cover a day’s admission to these family-friendly spots.
You can give the gift of the outdoors with an annual pass to the SC State Parks and then the family can enjoy all Sesquicentennial State Park has to offer all year long. Plus, they can travel to any South Carolina State Park and visit for free.

Go see the Circus!

The new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is coming to nearby Greenville, SC at The Bonsecours Wellness Arena in February. Kidding Around was invited to view the show in Milwaukee so we have a great Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus review for you. Check it out and then put some circus tickets under the tree this year.

Get Tickets to the Ringing Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

Gifts for Teens

Are you shopping for a teen this year? If you’re struggling to find quality gifts for the teen in your life, you’re not alone. Teens are not easy to buy for. Too old for toys. Those electronics on the wish list are way too expensive, and that funky pair of socks just doesn’t seem like quite enough.

So, we consulted some local teens to gather some ideas.

Check out our teen gift list for quality gifts teens will love.

Gifts for teens, Christmas gifts for teens

Or, maybe purchase a gift card to a Columbia movie theater, bowling alley, or arcade.

Practical Gifts for Kids

When you just can’t load your house up with any more legos, stuffed animals, or toy cars, but still want to get the kids something they’ll love, try these fun but practical gifts for kids.

Board Games for Every Age

Board games make an awesome family night, are great for quality time with the kids, and are an amazing no-screen alternative. They deliver brain-building strategy, opportunities for teamwork, and light-hearted fun with the kids. Check out our list of great board games for the whole family.

Teacher Gifts: Dos and Don’ts

What will you give your child’s teacher this year? Those “Number 1 Teacher” mugs and notebooks don’t seem like they’ll cut it this year, but what do you get that they’ll love and is also in your budget? We asked some teachers and came up with some great ideas, plus a few Dos and Don’ts for giving teachers gifts.

Teacher Gift Ideas and Tips

Holiday Markets and Christmas Shopping Events Around Columbia, SC

Ready to shop from small businesses and vendors this holiday season in Columbia? If you’re looking for opportunities to shop local, nothing beats a vendor fair or holiday market full of handmade gifts, crafts, and tasty treats. They are the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list, plus, you know you’ll be supporting local people and your local economy with your holiday purchases.

With that in mind, we made this list of local holiday shopping events in Columbia, SC. We will be updating throughout the 2023 holiday season as more fabulous local shopping events are announced.

holiday markets and holiday shopping in Columbia, SC

Holiday Shopping Events Near Columbia, SC

The Premier Guide to Thanksgiving: Columbia, SC

Ready to celebrate Thanksgiving in Columbia, SC? This guide brings you all the information you need, whether you’re looking for a place to dine out, some suggestions on sides and pies you can order and serve at home, or things to do to keep your family and guests busy and having fun over Thanksgiving break.

Happy Thanksgiving, Columbia!

Your Guide to Thanksgiving in Columbia, SC

Thanksgiving Restaurants

Thanksgiving Restaurants in Columbia, SC

Columbia’s Thanksgiving Restaurant Guide offers places open on Thanksgiving Day for dining out, catering options, and even places where you can just pick up a side to add to your table.

Thanksgiving dinner is in the bag, literally. So load up on the sweet potatoes, corn casserole, green beans, and all your favorite sides and desserts.

Holiday Pies

Pie Time! Where to Buy Thanksgiving Pies

These local bakeries and restaurants are where you can pick up delicious pies and Thanksgiving desserts. No need to skip that pumpkin pie this year.

Things to Do: Thanksgiving in Columbia, SC

Thanksgiving Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Family Time! Things to Do Over Thanksgiving Break

Stay busy and spend some quality time with family and friends. This list is full of ideas about things to do over the Thanksgiving break and holiday in Columbia,

FREE: Register in advance and take the kids to the Lowes Kids Workshop on November 18th, 2023. They’ll build a Turkey Photo Holder, perfect for decorating and celebrating the holiday!

There’s more holiday fun!

Here’s the Kidding Around Guide to Celebrating the Holidays in Columbia, SC

Places to Eat Free or Cheap on Halloween in Columbia, SC

Looking for kids eat free deals on meals and treats for Halloween? There are some really great promotions happening for Halloween in Columbia, SC, plus all the usual Kids Eat Free deals in Columbia. Yay! We love free things. Here’s where kids can get free meals and treats for Halloween in Columbia, SC.

Kids eat free Halloween deals in Columbia, SC

Kids Eat Free (or Cheap) in Columbia for Halloween

Krispy Kreme

Columbia
Wear your costume to a Krispy Kreme shop on Halloween for a FREE doughnut of your choice!
More info and other Halloween promotions can be found on the Krispy Kreme website.

Chuck E Cheese

Columbia
October 2 through October 31 – Receive 30 minutes of All You Can Play FREE every day when you buy 60 minutes or more. Get 100 bonus E-Tickets for wearing a costume! Be sure to check out the Haunted House Dance Party which includes free candy at all 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 pm shows.
More information about Chuck E Cheese’s Halloween Boo-tacular can be found online.

Fazoli’s

Offer: Free kids meal for kids who come dressed in a costume on Halloween, dine in only.
Location: 139 Columbiana Drive, Columbia, SC 29212
Fazolis – Columbiana Drive

IHOP

Offer: October 24 through October 31 kids age 12 and under get a free Scary Face Pancake from 4 pm – 10 pm with purchase of an adult entree.
Location: All locations
IHOP

Sonic Drive-In

Offer: $0.50 Corn Dogs all day on Halloween only and half-off cheeseburgers after 5 pm (every Tuesday).
Locations: All Locations

Sonic Drive In

Wendy’s

Offer: Boo! Books available for $1 until October 31. Every Boo! Book purchase gives you 5 FREE Jr. Frosty Coupons plus a sixth coupon for a $1.99 DC Superhero Kids Meal.
Locations: All Locations

Wendy’s

From Our Kids Eat Free Guide: Tuesday

Halloween 2023 is on Tuesday, so here are all the places kids eat free or cheap on Tuesdays.

Beef O’ Bradys

Offer: $3.49 kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal
Location: 4561 Hardscrabble Road, Columbia, SC 29229
Beef O’ Bradys – Hardscrabble Road

Carolina Ale House

Offer: Kids eat for $0.99 with the purchase of an adult meal
Location: 277 Columbiana Drive, Columbia, SC 29212
Carolina Ale House – Columbiana Drive

East Bay Deli

Offer: Kids eat free every Tuesday after 4 pm with the purchase of an adult meal with a special kids party from 5-7 pm once a month. Check website for details.
Location: 2708 Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229
East Bay Deli Clemson Road

Highway 55 Burgers

Offer: 50% off kids’ meals every Tuesday
Location:1792 S Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29071
Highway 55 Burgers – South Lake Drive

Ruby Tuesday

Offer: Kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult meal after 5 pm
Locations: 7490 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia, SC 29209
2504 Augusta Road, West Columbia, SC 29169
Ruby Tuesday Meal Deals

Halloween Trick-or-Treat & Things to Do

If you’re still looking for places to trick or treat or Halloween activities, don’t miss our HUGE Halloween Guide to Columbia.

Did we miss any Halloween deals in Columbia?

See the Spookiest Halloween Houses and Displays: Columbia, SC

Ready to hop in the car for some totally free Halloween fun, checking out the spookiest Halloween displays in Columbia? We asked our readers to send us photos of their over-the-top, totally decked-out Halloween houses.

So, cue up Monster Mash and get ready to hit the road for a Spooky Halloween House Driving Tour.

Jump in the car and check them out, and don’t forget to let us know if you’re house is one of the spookiest, creepiest, and most Halloween spirit-filled on your block. We want to know! Just fill out our Halloween Display form.

For more Halloween fun, don’t miss our HUGE Halloween in Columbia, SC Guide!

Spooky House Display, driving tour in Columbia, SC

Note: Parents, the display owners sent us a “scare rating” for their displays. The ratings are out of 5, with 5 being the scariest. These ratings are self-reported by homeowners. We’ve included pictures so you can gauge what’s best for your family!

These listings are provided for information purposes only and they are not an endorsement.

The Spooky Decorations Driving Routes: Columbia, SC

We have added three driving routes with spooky houses. We have one for Chapin, Lexington, and Blythwood. We’ve also included driving directions for an extended route from Chapin to Lexington if you’re looking for something longer! We also have a couple houses that aren’t quite on a route, but close-ish. So check them out on their own, or make them into a longer route if you’re having fun!

Our routes keep growing as homeowners submit their decorations, so check back soon for additions!

Use the map below to see the location of all the houses on our list and to access driving directions for our routes.

Columbia’s Halloween Houses

Chapin, SC Halloween Driving Route

408 Maria Posada Court, Chapin

This Halloween house in Chapin is full of spooky decor including a skeleton, a witch, and an appearance by the Grim Reaper. You’ll also see a graveyard and ghosts.

Scary Rating: 3 out of 5

Halloween house at 408 Maria Posada Ct Chapin

500 Everton Drive, Chapin

Visit a creepy clown circus at this house in Chapin.

Scary Rating: Not reported

352 Eagle Pointe Drive, Chapin

Towering skeletons light up this yard along with pumpkins, spiders, and more.

Scary Rating: Not Reported

Halloween House on Eagle Point in Chapin, SC

2443 Old Lexington Highway, Chapin

This spooky Halloween house in Chaping, SC features animatronics, lights, and homemade decorations. This one has a bit of gore, so parents be warned.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

112 Tom Blanchette Drive, Irmo

When you drive by this Halloween house you’ll find a scary pumpkin patch theme, including an inferno skeleton and other animatronics and a spooky graveyard scene.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

1 Harrier Court, Irmo

This house in Irmo has a Nightmare Before Christmas theme, featuring a 13′ Jack Skellington.

Scary rating: 2 out of 5

2 N Woodburn Lane, Columbia

Check out the 12-foot witch and ghoul, plus a whole graveyard with ghosts. This home has lots of lights and sound effects in its Halloween decor.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

Halloween at 2 N Woodburn Lane, Columbia

Lexington Spooky House Driving Route

165 Liberty Farm Boulevard, Lexington

This elaborate display in Lexington includes a graveyard, a 12ft talking witch, cornfield area with a 12ft inferno pumpkin, scarecrows, and pumpkins.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

165 Liberty Farm Blvd Halloween house Columbia

300 Bane Berry Loop Lexington

This spooky house in Lexington has a large display with a cemetery, scarecrow display, reapers, clowns, and more!

Scary rating: 3

300 Bane Berry Loop, Lexington Halloween house

260 Cornerstone Lane, Lexington

Check out Halloween with some of your favorite characters from Peanuts and the Great Pumpkin, to Scooby Doo and the Ghostbusters.

312 Three Oaks Drive, Lexington

This yard is totally loaded up with spooky things including a 12-foot skeleton and lots of inflatables.

Scary rating: 0 out of 5

“The Boo Crew” Southberry Way and Southberry Lane, Lexington

301 Southberry Way/257 Southberry Lane

Three homes decorate in a “friendly” Halloween Porch Wars.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

Friendly Halloween porch wars in Lexington, SC

326 Clearbrook Circle, Lexington

This Lexington Halloween house has a lot going on in its corner lot display, including a graveyard, skeletons, flying demon, witches, towering skull, and lots more!

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

Halloween display house in Lexington, SC

407 River Club Road, Lexington

Check out the creepy circus and evil carnival theme at this Lexington Halloween house. With an eerie orange glow, it features creepy clown dolls and animatronics.

Scary rating: 2 out of 5

530 Oakland Avenue, Cayce

This house in Cayce isn’t on a route, but it’s closest to the Lexington route. It’s a little different than others because it offers a small walk-through and even a photo op. You’ll see witches, a cemetery, clowns, a pumpkin patch and cornfield, a swamp, and a spider web tunnel.

**Remember that this walk-through is on private property. Be respectful of the homeowner’s property, and determine safety for your family.

Scary rating: 2 out of 5

Blythewood Spooky House Driving Route

514 Sterling Ponds Drive, Blythewood

The spooky display at Sterling Ponds Drive features 12-foot skeletons, a flying witch, a graveyard, and various animatronics. The clowns will be out a week before Halloween

Scary rating: 4 out of 5

121 Denby Circle, Columbia

Here’s a fun, family-friendly Halloween display full of inflatables and lights. But, don’t miss who is staring down on this festive, inflatable party from that upstairs, center window!

Scary rating: 0 out of 5

7 Millhouse Circle, Columbia

This Halloween house in Columbia has decorations that include animatronics, lights & homemade decorations.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

7 Millhouse Circle Columbia, Halloween house decorations

988 Yarrow Lane, Columbia

Lots of Halloween lights, a cemetery, and a giant spider web complete with spiders is what you’ll find at this Halloween house. They also have some giant lit-up inflatables.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

10 Cumberland Court, Elgin

This yard in Elgin has been transformed into a creepy cemetery. The display includes lights and various animatronics.

Scary rating: 3 out of 5

Get on this list!

We know there are more spooky, creepy, festive, lit-up, houses out there in Columbia that are totally full of Halloween fun. Proud of your display, don’t let our readers miss out! Let us know about your great Halloween decorations and displays. Just fill out our Halloween Display Columbia, SC form and include a picture!

More Spooky Routes

If you’re heading to the Upstate, you’ll want to check out these Halloween Display Driving Routes on Kidding Around Greenville.

Lunatic Asylum in Columbia, SC. Is it haunted?

Or, for a different kind of scare, swing by one of these haunted places in Columbia, SC.

Kidding Around Spotify Halloween Playlist

Enjoy some family-friendly Halloween music while you follow the tour, through the Kidding Around Spotify playlist we created. You can stream it through your car speakers with the Spotify App.

For more Halloween fun, don’t miss our HUGE Halloween in Columbia, SC Guide!

Fall Snow Tubing is a Real Thing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC

Did you know you can “snow” tube in the fall at Black Bear Snow Tubing? You can! No snow is required thanks to Black Bear’s super-fast tubing mat, the only one like it in the United States! We got to visit Black Bear and try this “snow” tubing and let us tell you, fall snow tubing is where it’s at. Move over pumpkins, there’s a new fall favorite in town. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit to Black Bear Snow Tubing this fall.

Thanks to Black Bear Snow Tubing for providing tickets so we could bring this review to our readers.

Fall snow tubing opens September 2, 2023, at Black Bear Tubing!

Tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC

How can you snow tube without snow?

The special green and white mat in use at Black Bear comes all the way from Germany. Purchased for use at Black Bear because this mat outperforms all its competitors when it comes to speed. In the winter the mat is covered in snow, but in the fall, you can tube right on the mat.

This means even in warm winters with little snow, tubing is still an option for family fun. So, what we have learned is, snow is not required for super speedy “snow” tubing runs.

Fall is awesome at Black Bear Snow Tubing

No crowds, fewer lines, fun music, and a pretty view of changing leaves across the valley make fall an awesome time to visit Black Bear Snow Tubing. You’ll get more rides down the hill in your tubing time than in the winter. It’s not cold. It’s not wet.

You can even get yourself some apple cider donuts, coffee, or cocoa and enjoy them on the covered rocking chair back porch, overlooking the tubing hill. We tried it and we are convinced, fall is perfect for snow tubing!

Tickets for Black Bear Snow Tubing

Purchase Black Bear tickets for one hour or two hours of tubing online. Walk-ups are also available in the less busy fall season.

Summer tubing, without snow, runs weekends through October 29th, 2023.
Winter tubing, with snow, runs weekends beginning mid-December. (If the weather is too warm for snow, tubing will still be open using the mat.)

Visiting Black Bear

First off, we love nearby Hendersonville, NC, and the drive up from downtown to Black Bear Tubing through the changing leaves was gorgeous. When you arrive at Black Bear, just follow the signs to park and then head towards the fun!

Visit the video shed first where you’ll watch a very short safety video. It’s just a couple of minutes long and it plays on a loop. While you’re there, sign the waiver for yourself and the kids.

Bring your waiver across to the lodge where you’ll pay, get your stickers, and also where you can purchase treats and beverages like apple cider donuts, coffee drinks, cocoa, and more.

When you’re ready to tube, you’ll head down the stairs, grab your tube and jump in the line for the tube tugging line that will bring you to the top of Black Bear’s 600-foot-long tubing run. Staff will hook you onto the line.

At the top, you’ll be unhooked from the line and then walk your tube to the run. Staff will help you get your tube into position and push you off down the 80ft vertical drop.

Black Bear Tubing at the top of the hill

Up to 4 people can go down the run at a time, and you can hang onto other tubes if you want to all go together. Want extra fun? Just ask the staff at the top to spin you going down.

Once you’re at the bottom, pull your tube back over to the tube tugging line and you’ll be off on another run before you know it.

At the bottom of the hill at Black Bear Snow Tubing

Clean portapotties are available beside the video shed, as well as an outdoor handwashing station.

Who can tube at Black Bear?

First, kids under 4, and under 35 lbs, cannot be on the slope. They can use the slope-side playground for some fun while bigger kids tube.
Second, kids ages 4 to 6 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Third, there is a maximum weight of 300 lbs.

My kids, ages 11 and 14, had a blast. Initially, my 14-year-old was a little not sure he wanted to come, thinking it was not going to be very exciting and that he was too old for such things. He was so glad he came. And, in fact, we saw lots of adults taking runs down the slope, too. I had planned to go down once or twice, just to be thorough in my review, and ended up going down a lot more because it was really fun!

It’s one of those life things that are just plain fun for anyone. Escape from whatever is bugging you to the fresh air and whip down that hill on a tube. Laugh with the kids. Enjoy them, even as teens and preteens, asking you to go down the run with them. There are not enough moments like that in the world, if you ask me.

Tube tugging line at Black Bear Snow Tubing

Our Review

We really loved the family atmosphere at Black Bear. They do not allow alcohol or any open profanity. All the staff were super friendly and helpful. When I wasn’t tubing myself, I could clearly see where my kids were at all times from the covered porch. It was really brilliantly arranged for a couple of hours of low-stress family fun.

Tubing on the mat was really fun. No heavy coats, no wet gloves. It was all the fun of snow tubing without the cold, with the added benefit of short lines and no crowds. We had a great time and think you’ll enjoy it, too!

Plan Your Trip to Black Bear Tubing

1-hour tickets are $30 each, and 2-hour tickets are $40 each. (2023 prices)
Open until October 29th for summer tubing, and then opening mid-December for winter snow tubing.
Saturday: Open at 10 am, last ticket is for 7 pm. Sunday: Open at 12 pm, last ticket is for 5 pm.

Black Bear Snow Tubing
373 Kerr Road, Hendersonville, NC
Black Bear Snow Tubing Facebook

Discover Hendersonville!

Check out all the things you don’t want to miss in our Hendersonville, NC Guide.

Your Paddleboard Adventure is Waiting at California Republic SUP: Lake Murray

Did you know that you can rent stand up paddleboards at California Republic SUP on Lake Murray? Using a stand up paddleboard (SUP) is not as hard as it looks! It’s an awesome family adventure. You can rent boards for just $25 for 2 hours on beautiful Lake Murray. Plus with restrooms and a picnic area on site, you have everything you need for an awesome day out on the lake.

Our family started paddling last year and we’ve taken our boards all over South Carolina and even on road trips up to the coast of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s a lot of fun! So when we saw local mom, Heather N. on Facebook sharing her paddleboard adventure on Lake Murray with California Republic SUP, we knew we had to share this very affordable opportunity with our readers. Thanks, Heather for talking to us and sharing your photo!

Rent paddleboards Lake Murray in Columbia, SC — Photo Credit Heather N.

What is a Paddle Board or SUP?

A paddle board and SUP are the same thing. SUP stands for “Stand Up Paddleboard.” The boards are hard, made of foam, fiberglass, or even wood. There are also inflatable stand up paddlebaords. Paddlers can sit, kneel or stand on their boards as they paddle.

At first standing up feels a little wobbly, but it really isn’t difficult. Want to stand up? My tip is do it quickly. You’d think you should try to stand up slowly. But in reality, that’s more time to lose your balance. Just move to your knees and then stand up. Find your balance once you’re standing, not as your standing.

Renting SUPs on Lake Murray

Where can you rent paddleboards on Lake Murray? California Republic SUP! Renting a paddleboard is a great way to try the sport and its also extremely convenient. You don’t have to transport the board or figure out where you’re putting the board in the water. You just show up and the boards are ready and waiting for you.

California Republic SUP rents boards for just $25 for 2 hours on the lake. You’ll find them at SouthShore Marina in Leesville, just a little over a half hour from downtown Columbia.

California Republic SUP: Mom Review

Local mom, Heather N. took her 8-year-old son paddleboarding with California Republic SUP and they had a fabulous time! She says owner “Steve is easy going and passionate about paddleboarding. He runs summer camps and is great with kids!”

And, if you have no idea what to do with this board thing, no worries! Heather says, “He will give a demo before you paddle out. The lake is so peaceful and it’s not as hard as you think it’s going to be. You can sit, kneel or stand.”

I second this. Using an SUP is definitely not as hard as it looks.

Heather told us her 8 year-old was confident and able to paddle on his own without help. But, parents should know that the adult boards are big enough for a child to ride along instead of paddling their own board if that’s better for your family.

If you want to bring along your phone to capture some family memories, Steve sells a waterproof phone case so you can safely bring your phone along. I highly recommend these. We own one for our paddle board adventures. They are great because, in addition to being waterproof, they float. And, the front and back are clear and soft, so you can use the phone without removing it from the pack. Steve also has leashes for sunglasses available for sale.

Safety on the Lake

Life jackets are included in your rental AND they are required. The marina location means you do need to keep an eye out for boat traffic while you’re paddling. No matter where you paddle it’s always important to be alert and aware of your surroundings!

Things to Bring When You Paddleboard: California Republic SUP

Sunscreen/hat
A bottle of water
Towel
Snack or lunch to enjoy on the lawn by the marina
Some people prefer water shoes when they paddle. Personally, I only use them when it’s cold or when paddling in a saltwater or marshy area where crabs and the like may be present. You won’t need to worry about that in Lake Murray!

The details: How to rent paddleboards on Lake Murray

California Republic SUP sometimes offers open paddle hours on weekends, but due to changing demand, they may be moving towards a reservation-only style of operating. So, we definitely recommend reserving your paddleboards before you go! Reserve your boards by calling or texting Steve at 803.608.5033.

When you arrive, you’ll find plenty of parking on site. You’ll see a small sandy beach, where your boards will be waiting!

2023 Vacation Bible Schools: Free VBS Columbia, SC

Are you looking for 2023 VBS programs near Columbia, SC for your children? VBS programs bring together summer fun, crafts, games, and friends often without any cost. If you’re looking for VBS programs in the Columbia area, wondering “Where is a free vbs near me?” you’ve come to the right place. We’ve pulled together the important details for VBS programs happening this year. We’ll keep updating this list as we get closer to summer, so bookmark and check back frequently.

Add your VBS! If you are a coordinator for a VBS program and would like your program listed, please email Maria@Kiddingaroundgreenville.com.

VBS Columbia, SC, the answer to "Where is a free VBS near me?"

This article includes:
June 2023 VBS Programs in Columbia, SC
July 2023 VBS Programs in Columbia, SC

We’ll be updating this list throughout the VBS season. Check back soon for more options!

(more…)

25+ Summer Activities in Columbia, SC

School break is here and you need some super fun summer activities in Columbia? We have some great ideas! From where to swim, to the perfect splash pad, amazing summer day trips, and even the best indoor places to play, summer is full of fun in Columbia, SC! Use our list as a springboard to all the amazing adventures you will have this summer!

Top Summer in Columbia Quick Links:
Summer Camp Guide to Columbia
VBS in Columbia, SC
Places to Cool Off, Swim, and Splash
Free Things in Columbia

Looking for more? See our HUGE guide of Things to Do in Columbia with kids’ activities, family adventures, and more for every season.

(more…)

Author Archive

Holiday Events and Things to Do Around Columbia

A festive day in Downtown Columbia

Holiday Treats

Visit Santa! Places to See Santa Around Columbia, SC

Where to See Christmas Lights Displays in Columbia

Columbia’s Ultimate Gift Guide

Find the Perfect Christmas Tree

Free Things to Do at Christmas Time in Columbia

Restaurants Open for Christmas in Columbia, SC

❄️Winter Break is Coming❄️

Shopping Local in Columbia, SC

Gifts for Families in Columbia, SC

Go see the Circus!

Gifts for Teens

Practical Gifts for Kids

Board Games for Every Age

Teacher Gifts: Dos and Don’ts

Holiday Shopping Events Near Columbia, SC

More Holiday Fun Around Columbia, SC

71+ Christmas Events & Activities in Columbia, SC: Fire Up Your HO HO HO!

19+ Places to See Santa: Columbia, SC (2023)

These Restaurants Will Be Open For Christmas: Columbia, SC

Enjoy Holiday Lights on the River (2023): Columbia, SC

20+ Totally FREE Holiday Things to Do & Christmas Activities in Columbia, SC

The Christmas Season: How early is too early?

20+ Jolly Places for Christmas Lights In Columbia, SC (2023)

Don’t Miss Christmas in Columbia, SC: Find Your (2023) Fa La La!

Find Great Gifts for Everyone On Your List: Columbia, SC

Holiday Markets and Christmas Shopping Events Around Columbia, SC

Your Guide to Thanksgiving in Columbia, SC

Thanksgiving Restaurants

Holiday Pies

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Find more things to do in Columbia, SC

Sesquicentennial State Park: Gorgeous Splash Pad and $5 Kayak Rentals in Columbia, SC

Enjoy the Rivers of Columbia on Three Rivers Greenway Trail: West Columbia Riverwalk, Cayce Riverwalk, Saluda Riverwalk

Carraway Park Provides Fantastic Play for All: West Columbia, SC

The South Carolina State Museum in Columbia, SC is A Must-See

The 2024 SC7 Expedition: Hike Through South Carolina

19+ Best Playgrounds and Parks: Columbia, SC

9 Places to Go for Swim Lessons: Columbia, SC

2024 Homeschool Days Near Columbia, SC: Fun & Learning!

Enjoy Some All-American, Bat-Cracking Fun at Founders Park: USC Gamecock Baseball

Kids Eat Free (or Cheap) in Columbia for Halloween

Krispy Kreme

Chuck E Cheese

Fazoli’s

IHOP

Sonic Drive-In

Wendy’s

From Our Kids Eat Free Guide: Tuesday

Beef O’ Bradys

Carolina Ale House

East Bay Deli

Highway 55 Burgers

Ruby Tuesday

Halloween Trick-or-Treat & Things to Do

The Spooky Decorations Driving Routes: Columbia, SC

Columbia’s Halloween Houses

Chapin, SC Halloween Driving Route

Lexington Spooky House Driving Route

“The Boo Crew” Southberry Way and Southberry Lane, Lexington

Blythewood Spooky House Driving Route

Get on this list!

More Spooky Routes

Kidding Around Spotify Halloween Playlist

How can you snow tube without snow?

Fall is awesome at Black Bear Snow Tubing

Tickets for Black Bear Snow Tubing

Visiting Black Bear

Who can tube at Black Bear?

Our Review

Plan Your Trip to Black Bear Tubing

Find more fun in Hendersonville, NC

Lots of Winter Family Fun at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC

Pick apples, explore a corn maze, and eat pumpkin donuts at Stepp’s Orchard in Hendersonville, NC

Fall Snow Tubing is a Real Thing at Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville, NC

Jeter Mountain Farm: U-Pick Fruit & Flowers, Wagon Rides, and a Huge Indoor Play Area

Pick Your Pumpkin Off the Vine at Nix Pumpkin Patch in Hendersonville, NC