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Archive for the ‘Events’ Category

Things to Do This Month: Columbia, SC

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Are you looking for this to do this month or weekend in Columbia, SC? There is so much for your family to enjoy, from special events and children’s programming to theatre shows and sporting events. We gathered all of the best family-friendly events happening this month near you!

Things to do in March in Columbia, South Carolina

We are highlighting Cola’s best events throughout the month, so you can have the most fun each week. Be sure to check out our full event calendar for more fun around the Midlands!

Thank you to our sponsors. Sponsored events are marked as “featured.”


Events in Columbia, SC, this month, this weekend

Check out our FULL event calendar for more events near Columbia, SC


Easter Events & Activities Near Columbia, SC


Events This Weekend: Columbia, SC

Is the weekend here and you are not quite sure what to do? Check out these excellent family-friendly events near Columbia, SC!

Saturdays in Columbia: Soda City Farmer’s Market, 9 am to 1 pm


Never Be Bored!

Check out our Guide to Things to Do Near Columbia, SC to have an epic day!

Things to do Columbia, SC

Fill up Your Weekend With These Things to Do Near Columbia, SC


Theatre, Shows, and Sporting Events

Gamecocks Basketball

USC Basketball

Catch a Gamecocks Basketball Game. You have lots of options in January!

Men’s Basketball home games at the Colonial Life Arena (tickets)

  • March 2nd, 2024 VS. Florida Gators
  • March 6th, 2024 VS. Tennessee Volunteers

Women’s basketball home games at the Colonial Life Arena (tickets)

  • March 3rd, 2024 VS. University of Tennessee

Free Things Happening This Month

Free Things to Do in Columbia, SC

Cheap Fun is the BEST Fun!

There are lots of Free Things to Do Near Columbia, SC


Our Top Picks: Don’t Miss These Events This Month Near Columbia, SC

Our list is growing and full of options. But, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, try one of these top picks. These are the events the Kidding Around Team

Catch a FREE event at the Richland Libraries. We love their free movies!


Travel Highlight

Our sister site, Kidding Around Greenville hosts our library of travel content, and we sure do have a wide variety of ideas for every family! Here are this month’s travel highlights:

Travel Guide to Charleston, South Carolina

As the weather warms up, the ocean begins to call us all! Charleston is an excellent place to visit, especially when you have our comprehensive Travel Guide to Charleston, SC!


These Unique, Best Places to Visit in the Southeast are the best way to plan your next vacation! You will find bucket list-worthy adventures that are certain to make the most magical memories for your family.

The coolest southeast travel spots for families

Mardi Gras & King Cakes: Celebrate in Columbia, SC

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Are you ready for Mardi Gras in Columbia, SC? We have all the things you need to know to plan your celebration from where to get King Cakes in Columbia, to family-friendly events and some special events for the adults. Get Ready for Mardi Gras: Columbia, SC!

Mardi Gras Columbia SC, and where to get king cakes in Columbia, SC

History of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is a French term translated literally to Fat Tuesday. It’s a celebration of the last day of feasting before the fasting of Lent begins. The origins date back to the 17th and 18th centuries to the French House of the Bourbons. Over time, it evolved from a celebration of “Boeuf Gras” (fatted calf) to more elegant high society balls, and then from 1781 the Mardi Gras “carnival” was introduced and later came to include parades, eventually floats and then throws, which were first recorded in 1870.

Having had the pleasure of living in Baton Rouge, Louisiana for about 6 years, our family was able to experience Mardi Gras parades throughout late January and early February. It was surprising to me that Mardi Gras is actually an entire season of parades, not just the Fat Tuesday Parade through downtown NOLA.

Believe it or not, most parades generally aren’t the wild experience many imagine them to be. The way kids’ (and adults’) faces light up as they catch the beads, candy, cups, footballs, and other random throws is so much fun. While we have never been to THE Mardi Gras parade, we’ve enjoyed many others as a family.

Mardi Gras In NOLA

Mardi Gras in NOLA

Similar to the way that schools here celebrate Halloween with a parade of students dressed in costume, Louisiana schools celebrate Mardi Gras with students dressed as coordinated “Krewes” each with their own theme. They parade around the school with decorated wagons, tossing candy and other throws to parents and siblings. Those were some of my fondest memories of our time spent in Louisiana.

Mardi Gras fully encompasses the general culture and vibe of New Orleans: laid back, fun, and friendly with a passion for food, music, and art. It is unlike any other celebration on earth!

If you ever get the chance to visit during Mardi Gras, I highly recommend it. Most of the parades are very family-friendly and occur all over the state, all different days and times. The food is unparalleled and it will be a blast, guaranteed.

Where to Celebrate Mardi Gras in Columbia

Fortunately, Columbia has some festive things going on so you can save the gas money and celebrate close to home this year.

Family-Friendly Mardi Gras Events in Columbia

14th Annual Mardi Gras Columbia Festival

This fun, family-friendly event is sponsored by Louisiana’s own Abita Brewing Company. It will take place on Saturday, February 10th at City Roots Urban Farm.

Mardi Gras Parade in Columbia, SC: The parade will kick off the festivities at 11 am down Jim Hamilton Boulevard and is free and open to the public.

The festival will be free for kids 12 and under and only $10 for admission otherwise. There will be live music, food trucks, local vendors, and of course beer from Abita Brewing Company. Bring beads, cash, and your dancing shoes. Prepare to have a great day. Let’s Geaux!
14th Annual Mardi Gras Columbia Festival

Mardi Gras Afterparty at Foxfield Bar and Grille

After the Parade and Festival, head over to Foxfield Bar and Grille for live music and more fun. This is a free and family friendly event and will have outdoor heaters plus shelter in the event of rain!
Mardi Gras Afterparty at Foxfield Bar and Grille

BOHO Pizza and Brew

Come enjoy the Fat Tuesday Celebration on February 13th featuring Abita beer specials and receive beads when you order it. This restaurant is very kid friendly with a large outdoor dining area featuring a playset to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy the celebration.
BOHO Pizza and Brew

Miss Mardi Gras Pageant

Pelion Performing Arts Center is hosting the Miss Mardi Gras Pageant and welcomes girls and boys of all ages to participate. Most beautiful, Beauty and Mardi Gras Wear/Outfit of choice will be the events of the day. See link for application details.
Miss Mardi Gras Pageant

Mardi-Gras for Adults

Mardi Gras Party at Top Dawg Tavern – Village at Sandhill

Join Top Dawg Tavern on February 13th in celebrating Mardi Gras with all-day $5 Hurricanes, $1 wings, half-price boneless wings, and a Happy Hour from 4-7 pm. The party starts at 11 am and ends at 10 pm.
Mardi Gras Party at Top Dawg Tavern

Mardi Gras Party at the Village Cafe

Limited Spots are available for this event and it require reservations. The party will feature Mardi Gras-inspired drinks and Classic “N’awlins” dishes plus more NOLA fun.
Mardi Gras Party at The Village Cafe

Fat Tuesday Sip & Shop

B & L Antiques and Tandem Treasures present an evening of extended hours at Shoppes of Pontiac for those 21+ to enjoy adult beverages while shopping.
Fat Tuesday Sip & Shop

Crawfish & Pancakes

Fat Tuesday Crawfish Boil

CJ’s Fivepoints is hosting a Fat Tuesday Celebration complete with Crawfish Boil, corn and all the fixings and spice! Bring your beads and come enjoy the DJ and Karaoke!
Fat Tuesday Crawfish Boil

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Suppers

Embrace the ancient tradition of Shrove Tuesday and enjoy a rich meal of pancakes before entering into Lent on Wednesday. Here is where you can find Pancake Suppers around Columbia.

Cherokee Presbyterian Church – Gilbert

St. John United Methodist Church – St. Andrews

St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church – Chapin

Pilgrim Lutheran Church – Lexington

Ascension Lutheran Church – Columbia

Shandon United Methodist Church – Columbia (Fundraiser)

What’s a King Cake?

Believed to have originated in France around the 12th Century, the King Cake is a Roman Catholic tradition that celebrates the Epiphany, the coming of the Three Wise Men. Observed on January 6th and ending on Mardi Gras Eve it is also known as Kings Day and marks the end of the Christmas Season and the beginning of Carnival.

Have you ever had King Cake before? If not, now is the time to try and see what all the hype is about. Not only are they pretty, they are even more delicious than they look. Traditionally, the cake is made with a cinnamon-flavored dough, topped with icing or sugar (or both) ,and decorated with royal shades of green, gold and purple.

Think a wreath-shaped cinnamon roll – but better and ranging from pastry-like to less sweet bread-like consistency. The wreath shape symbolizes a king’s crown. Almond, cream cheese, praline, chocolate, and fruit are also popular fillings in Louisiana, but if you look hard enough you can find Nutella, goat cheese and even bacon-topped King Cakes.

Another thing that sets the King Cake apart as special? The fève, or little trinket you may luck out and find inside. The tradition that began as a bean and is now typically a plastic baby, symbolizes the hiding of Baby Jesus from King Herod’s troops. Whoever finds the baby in their slice is King or Queen for the day and responsible for hosting the next celebration or providing the King Cake for it.

Where to Get King Cakes in Columbia, SC?

Traveling to Louisana would be quite a trip to pick up a King Cake. Though some NOLA bakeries will ship them, there are plenty of bakeries serving up King Cake right here in Columbia.

Luzianna Purchase Charcuterie, Art & Po Boys is a Cajun & Creole Restaurant known for its authentic Cajun Creole dishes. They are selling the famous Gambino’s King Cake delivered fresh from NOLA. Cypress Corner is nestled inside and features unique gifts and art, complete with Mardi Gras-themed items. Geaux see them this Carnival Season.
Address: 7011 St. Andrews Road C2, Irmo
Hours: Saturday 10 am – 1 pm, Tuesday – Friday 11 am – 3 pm.

Tiffany’s Eats, Sweets & Meeting Place makes King Cakes using the 40-year-old recipe with original NOLA Cinnamon Schmear filling (standard) or cream cheese filling (upon request). Yes, there is a baby hidden somewhere inside. There is 48 hours’ notice required when ordering so be sure to plan ahead.
Address: 9704 Two Notch Road, Columbia
Hours: Monday 7 am-6 pm kitchen closed, Tuesday & Wednesday 7 am – 6 pm, Thursday & Friday 7 am – 9 pm, Saturday 8 am – 6 pm.

VooDoo Kitchen Catering is offering Traditional King Cake, Mini King Cake (regular or cream cheese icing), King Cake in Jar (option to add fruit filling), King Cake Bread Pudding Boudin King Cake (Boudin is sausage made with pork and rice) with a variety of options. A 50% deposit is required upon ordering. Call or text 843.991.7339 to place your order. All Mardi Gras items include a baby and Mardi Gras bead.
Address: Holly Hill, SC

The Blended Bakery King Cakes are available to order and do come with the baby inside, if you prefer it “on the side” please notify them when ordering. Visit the Blended Bakery Website to place your order.
Address: 5076 Sunset Boulevard, STE A, Lexington
Hours: Closed Monday, Tuesday – Thursday 10 am – 3 pm, Friday & Saturday 9 am – 5 pm, Sunday 9 am – 3 pm.

Sweet Pea’s Ice Cream & Cafe is baking King Cakes using the traditional cinnamon sugar filling but they are happy to make variations upon request. King Cakes are available to order and require 48 hours advance notice. Be sure to check out all the other delicious chocolate-covered treats, Cocoa Bombs, and pies available before you place your order. King Cake will likely be one of the many things you add to your cart.
Address: 412 McNulty Street, Suite B, Blythewood
Hours: Monday – Thursday 1 – 7 pm, Friday & Saturday 1 – 8 pm, Sunday 2 – 6 pm.

Sour and Salt Bakery is offering 4 King Cake Variations; Cream Cheese and Cinnamon , Chocolate, Apple Cream Chees and Rasberry Cream Cheese. Orders typically require 48 hours’ notice and are availble in 3 sizes. Plan on snagging some unique bagels, like spinach and feta or roasted carrot with smoked paprika and habanero, or a slice of Biscoff cheesecake or baklava when picking up your King Cake order.
Address: 2761 Rosewood Drive
Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday – Friday 8 am – 6 pm, Saturday & Sunday 8 am – 2 pm.

Tres Leches Bakery is a dessert shop specializing in pastries and features authentic Mexican, Cuban, and Colombian options in addition to traditional American pastries. They have King Cakes available for order which appear to more closely resemble a Rosca de Reyes, similar to a brioche bread, rather than pastry dough and looks delicious.
Address: 6903 St. Andrews Road, Columbia
Hours: Monday 8 am – 7 pm, Tuesday 11 am – 7 pm, Wednesday – Saturday 8 am – 7 pm, Sunday Noon – 5 pm.

Lowe’s Foods, Publix & Whole Foods carry King Cakes as well. And if you’re looking for a truly authentic King Cake, Kroger carries Gambinos King Cake which is made in NOLA and popular among those originally from Louisiana.

Events in Columbia, SC, this month, this weekend

Find lots more events in Columbia, SC on our KA COLA Events Calendar.

Looking for more Mardi-Gras? Check out the Mardi-Gras Celebrations Near Greenville, SC.

Action-Packed Jurassic World Live Tour Review: 5 Things You Need to Know

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The action-packed Jurassic World Live Tour is back in 2024! Are you wondering if you should get Jurassic World tickets for your family? We have a full review of what to expect when you see this live dinosaur show! We were given media tickets so we could review the show – all opinions are our own. The show is coming to Columbia, SC, and Charlotte, NC in January 2024, and will be in cities across the United States through March 2024, including Charleston, Birmingham, Baltimore, and Fairfax.

Jurassic World Live TRex
Jurassic World Live T-Rex

Get tickets to Jurassic World Live Tour.

This article contains affiliate links.

I’ll tell you all about the live show, what to expect, what ages this may be good for, and some mildly scary parts to think about before you go. So let’s go on with this Jurassic World Live Tour review!

I’m a big fan of the Jurassic Park movies and my kids have seen most of them – and we just really think dinosaurs are cool – so when the Jurassic World Live Tour came to town and we had the opportunity to go, I jumped on that like a T-Rex on the bad guys. After all, this is Jurassic World comes to life. 

Sneak Peek: Here’s What You’ll See at the Show

About the Jurassic World Live Tour: The Pre-Show

The Jurassic World Live Tour starts with a pre-show that anyone who has a ticket can go to. But you have to get there when the doors open an hour before the show. You’ll get to go right on the floor of the arena and see two dinosaurs – a Stegosaurus and a Triceratops – plus the baby dinosaur, baby Bumpy from Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous. The Jurassic World Jeep is on display as well as the glass globe that you’ll recognize from the movie. 

Jurassic World Live dinosaurs
Jurassic World Live Pre-Show

You’ll have the opportunity to take as many photos as you like and get pretty close to the dinosaurs as they move and blink. The show did a really great job with these creatures, making them life-size and super cool to see. 

The floor will close to guests 20 minutes before the show starts so you’ll have time to go to the restroom and get to your seats. 

Jurassic World Live Tour Reviews: The Main Show

The story line of the Jurassic World Live Tour centers on Jeanie, a Troodon dinosaur, and Dr. Kate Walker, her trainer and a scientist herself. Dr. Walker creates a device that goes atop Jeanie’s head and transmits what she is feeling, which the evil guys from Ingen want and try to get throughout the live show.

The show starts at Isla Nubar and gets right into action immediately with dirt bikes and fighting and Jeanie being captured by Ingen. But Dr. Kate Walker and her crew of scientists and hilarious interns track Jeanie down in Chile and then have to fight the bad guys even more, especially when the raptors (my favorite!) show up. 

Jurassic World Live Tour
Jeanie and Dr. Kate Walker

There are a lot of surprises that may make guests jump, like pyrotechnics, but overall, the show is fast-moving and pretty fun to watch. The 20-minute intermission comes about 35 minutes into the show when Dr. Kate and her team have to travel back to Isla Nubar to help Jeanie find her eggs and save the day. 

The second half starts off with a possible Triceratops fight after one of the interns mistakes her eggs for Jeanie’s. The Stegosaurus and her baby make an appearance here, as do more Raptors and the flying dinosaurs. The mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex rounds out the show with a bang and a lot of fire on the stage. 

Appropriate Ages for the Jurassic World Tour

What age is Jurassic Live suitable for?

I took kids ages 8-12 and all of them loved it. They got the gist of the storyline, which I don’t think younger kids will understand. But younger kids also won’t care because the show has big, lifesize, and live dinosaurs so really, what’s better than that?

The arena was filled with families who had babies through tweens. I’d say most of the kids were preschool through elementary-aged. I saw some kids cuddle up next to their parents if they were scared but I didn’t think there were a ton of scary parts. It really depends on each child. 

jurassic world live
Jurassic World Live Dinosaurs

There was a lot of (fake) fight scenes between Dr. Kate and her team and the Ingen guys. Dr. Kate gets into a one-on-one fight with a burly guy during the second half of the show and he really looks like he hits her but she gives it right back to him. One of the scientists on her team has a crush on her and saves her from this dude and they share a short kiss before heading off to rescue the rest of their team, who Ingen had captured. 

There is one part where a flying dinosaur takes off with one of the bad guys, which is typical Jurassic Park style. There is no inappropriate language and overall, the show is very family-friendly. Some older kids may think it’s cheesy but thankfully my 12-year-old thought it was great. 

As for the noise level of the Jurassic World Live Tour show, it wasn’t that loud at all. The biggest noise makers were the surprise pyrotechnics and maybe some of the music and the roars from the T-Rex. If you’ve been to a Monster Jam show, this was less than half that noise level and I don’t think ear plugs are needed. 

And if you haven’t ever seen any of the Jurassic Park movies, don’t worry, you’ll still enjoy the show. You don’t need to have seen the movies to enjoy all that the show has to offer. 

Jurassic World Live Tour Reviews: The Dinosaurs

OK, the dinosaurs are awesome. The Raptors and Jeanie are obviously people and you can see their legs, which are covered in black leggings but honestly, I hardly noticed because the movements and sounds of the dinosaurs is so real. I thought the show did such a great job with this. 

If you sit in the premium floor seats, the dinosaurs will come right up to you. It looked super cool and I was mildly jealous. 

Jurassic World raptor
Jurassic World Live Tour Raptor

The bigger dinosaurs are on rolling floor things that make them move so that may take away the “real” look of the dinosaurs but their heads and tails move independently and their eyes even blink. The T-Rex was impressive. It also moves by a controlled floor machine but man, that thing can turn on a dime. It was awesome. The jaws on all the dinosaurs move like you would think a real dinosaur would move so I felt like I wasn’t even watching the animatronics or the people that moved the dinosaurs because just watching them as a whole was pretty captivating. 

The set was also fantastic. The show did a great job making it seem like the actors and dinosaurs were in the rainforest in Isla Nubar or the desert in Chile. It was a very thought-out show all the way through and truly, a lot of fun. 

Jurassic World Live Tour: Tickets

Get tickets to Jurassic World Live Tour in a city near you.

The schedule for the Charlotte, NC show at the Spectrum Center is:

  • Friday, January 5th, 2024: Pre-show starts at 6 pm and the show starts at 7 pm 
  • Saturday, January 6th, 2024: Pre-show times are 10 am, 2 pm, and 6 pm. Show times are 11 am, 3 pm, and 7 pm.
  • Sunday, January 7th, 2024: Pre-show times are 12 pm and 4 pm. Show times are 1 pm and 5 pm.

The schedule for the Columbia, SC show at the Colonial Life Arena is:

  • Friday, January 19th, 2024: Pre-show starts at 6 pm and the show starts at 7 pm 
  • Saturday, January 20th, 2024: Pre-show times are 10 am, 2 pm, and 6 pm. Show times are 11 am, 3 pm, and 7 pm.
  • Sunday, January 21st, 2024: Pre-show times are 12 pm show time is at 1 pm.

The schedule for the North Charleston, SC show at the North Charleston Collesium is:

  • Friday, March 8th, 2024: 7 pm
  • Saturday, March 9th, 2024: 11 am, 3 pm and 7 pm
  • Sunday, March 10th, 2024: 1 pm and 5 pm

The entire Jurassic World Live Tour show runs about 1 hour and 45 minutes, which includes the 20-minute intermission. Ticket prices start at $20. 

Have you seen the Jurassic World Live Tour?

More Family Fun

Another big arena family entertainment favorite is Monster Jam. Thinking about bringing your kids to Monster Jam when those giant Monster trucks come to town? Don’t miss our Monster Jam review, where we tell you everything you need to know!

See the Spookiest Halloween Houses and Displays: Columbia, SC

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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

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

Halloween house on Tom Blanchette Drive

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

Halloween at 1 Harrier Ct, IRMO

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

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

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

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

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

Giant skeleton at Sterling ponds

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

Halloween house in Elgin, SC

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.

Halloween in Columbia, SC

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

The Best Halloween Events for Babies and Toddlers in Columbia, SC

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Are you looking for what to do on Halloween for babies and toddlers to in Columbia, SC? While Halloween is such a fun time of year, we know for families with young children it might be overwhelming to try and find events that are just right for them! From trunk-or-treating to outdoor movies, and Halloween events at playgrounds, Columbia offers several great options for even the littlest of littles! Below you will find the best events to take your babies and tots to this spooky season! 

Enjoy These Fa-BOO-Lous Halloween Events! 

At Kidding Around Columbia, we want to be sure that even your littlest ghosts and ghouls have the best Halloween yet! We love that several of these events happen during daylight when it’s easier to see and keep eyes on your littles, however even the ones that happen a little later can still be just as spook-tacular! 

Some great tips for making sure everyone enjoys their time at these events with little ones are: 

  • Use glow sticks to help see them better at night 
  • Bring your own special snacks in case the candy given isn’t suitable for them – fruit snacks, lollipops, m&m’s, chocolate kisses, etc. 
  • Choose the easiest candy bag – I have found hardshell or structured bags that stay open up top are much easier for littles because they don’t have to worry about trying to open them after receiving treats 
  • Be sure their costumes are as comfortable as possible – comfortable walking shoes, breathable costume material, etc. 

Top Halloween Events for Babies and Toddlers in Columbia, SC 

Soda City Bounce – Pumpkin Patch 2023

When: September 30, 2023
Time: 4 pm to 8 pm
Where: Krafty Draft Brew Pub
Price: $15
About: A family-friendly pumpkin patch with so much to do for kiddos of all ages! Along with pumpkins to paint and decorate, there will be inflatables, face painting, cotton candy, snow cones, and more. Krafty Draft will also be offering their full menu and drink options.

Soda City Bounce – Pumpkin Patch 2023

Family Farm Day and Fall Festival

When: October 14, 2023
Time: 9 am to 4 pm
Where: Fox Farm – 1822 Saint Matthew Church Road, Eastover
Price: $10 parking fee
About: A huge family fun day that you won’t want to miss! Perfect for littles to enjoy the fall and Halloween season without being too spooky. There will be tons of farm animals to interact with, hayrides, pony rides, games, crafts, and more.

Family Farm Day and Fall Festival

Boo at the Zoo 

When: October 20 through October 30, 2023 
Time: 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where: Riverbanks Zoo 
Price: $12 for members and $15 for non-members 
If purchased the day of, $17 for members and $20 for non-members 
About: At Boo at the Zoo, even your littlest little will have a great time trick-or-treating around Riverbanks! Aside from trick-or-treating, there will be an awesome dance floor, fun and festive lights and decorations, carousel and train rides, and more! Last year, my son was just 2 years old and it was the perfect event for him to join in on! Be sure to check out our Boo at the Zoo parent review for more information. 

Boo at the Zoo

Little Blue Truck’s Halloween

When: October 20, 2023
Time: 9 am to 12:30 pm
Where: Beechcreek Farm – 1260 Martin Smith Road, Gilbert
Price: $45/child
About: Send your preschooler off for a fun, educational, Halloween-themed day at the farm! There will be a storytime, learning center, arts & crafts, STEM activities, animal encounters, and so much more. Space is limited so you must register in advance!

Little Blue Truck’s Halloween at Beechcreek Farm

Movie Night & Trick-or-Treating at Crooked Creek Park 

When: October 20, 2023
Time: Trick-or-treating from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Casper movie begins at 7:30 pm
Where: Crooked Creek Park – 1098 Old Lexington Highway 
Price: $20 max per family OR $5/person in advance, $7/person day of  
About: At this spook-tacular event your family will have an awesome time trick-or-treating and then watching the outdoor movie, Casper. Trick-or-treating will take place from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, with the movie beginning at 7:30 pm. Such a great event for all ages, but especially your babies and tots! 

Movie Night & Trick-or-Treating at Crooked Creek Park

Halloween at Saluda Shoals Park 

When: October 21, 2023
Time: 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm 
Where: Leo’s Landing – 6071 St. Andrews Rd. 
Price: $5 when purchased in advance, $7 day of 
About: Your kiddos will be able to go trick-or-treating throughout Leo’s Landing in Saluda Shoals. This is the perfect event for babies and tots because aside from trick-or-treating, there is a lot of size-appropriate equipment for them to play on, too. It is important to note that there are limited tickets for this event so tickets should be purchased ASAP! 

Halloween at Saluda Shoals Park

Harbison Trick-or-Treat Trail

When: October 28, 2023
Time: 2 pm to 4 pm
Where: Lake Woodcross
Price: Free
About: This event is full of treats, but very little tricks. Wear your favorite costume and be ready to fill your bag with candy.

Harbison Trick-or-Treat Trail

Best Trunk-or-Treating Events for Toddlers Around Columbia

Trunk-or-Treating events are perfect for babies and tots because they usually feel a bit more organized and a whole lot less spooky – making it the perfect combination for a family-friendly Halloween! Most trunk-or-treat events in Columbia are held at local churches and are open to everyone. So, put on those costumes, don’t forget the trick-or-treating bags, and head to one of these great places for a night full of trunk-or-treating fun!

Trunk or Treat at Robert Mills House & Gardens

When: October 25, 2023
Time: 5:30 pm to 7 pm
Where: Robert Mills House & Gardens – 1616 Blanding Street
Price: Free
About: Head to the Robert Mills House in your best costume! Community businesses will be passing out candy, there will be prizes for best costumes, and games and activities in the carriage house!

Trunk or Treat at Pine View Baptist Church

When: October 28, 2023
Time: 4 pm to 6 pm
Where: Pine View Baptist Church – 111 Pine View Church Road, Blythewood
Price: Free
About: An annual trunk or treat celebration!

Trunk or Treat for a Cause

When: October 31, 2023
Time: 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Where: 1405 North Millwood Avenue, Columbia
Price: Not specified
About: A Halloween wonderland full of greatly decorated trunks! All proceeds go towards Automotive Service Assistance, helping customers with affordable car repairs.

What is your favorite Halloween event to enjoy with your babies and toddlers? 

Get Ready for a Fun Halloween Night: Boo at the Zoo in Columbia, SC

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Are you searching for a family-friendly place to trick-or-treat and enjoy the Halloween spirit this year? It’s time to get ready for the wildest trick-or-treating event, Boo at the Zoo in Columbia, SC! Riverbanks Zoo will host its annual “Boo at the Zoo” event from October 20 through October 30, 2023. We have everything you need to know about Boot at the Zoo from a local mom. Your kids will have a blast dressing up in their costumes, trick-or-treating throughout the zoo, and experiencing other spook-tastic Halloween fun! 



5 Riverbanks Boo at the Zoo Top Parent Tips

  • Get Riverbanks Boo at the Zoo Tickets in Advance
  • Don’t forget to bring your own treat bag!
  • Come in costume, but no full face masks or scary costumes for adults.
  • Attend on a weekday if at all possible.
  • Keep it simple and have fun!
Boo at the Zoo, Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia SC.

Don’t miss the Biggest Halloween Guide in Columbia! It’s packed full of Halloween events and activities in Columbia, plus spooky day trips, haunted houses, and much more!

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What You Need to Know for a Day at Carolina Panthers Training Camp

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The Carolina Panthers Training Camp is a unique opportunity to watch a professional football team up close, and it should be on every Spartanburg family’s bucket list! After a two-year absence from the training facility at Wofford, the Carolina Panthers are back in Spartanburg.

We’ve got all the info you’ll need if you plan on going to watch the Carolina Panthers train at Wofford this year!

Play 60 Park in Spartanburg, SC
Play 60 Carolina Panthers Park in Spartanburg, SC

This article includes:
How to Attend Panthers Training Camp in Spartanburg, SC
Things to Do in Spartanburg During Training Camp
How to Get a Panthers Autograph
“Back Together” Free Panthers Fan Event in Spartanburg, SC
See the Panthers in Charlotte, NC at Fan Fest

Carolina Panthers Training Camp In Spartanburg, SC

The 2023 Carolina Panthers’ Training Camp will be held July 22nd – August 10th, 2023

When Carolina Panthers Training Camp roars into Wofford College in Spartanburg, fans of professional football should be sure to head to this beautiful campus to watch!

Whether you have multiple trips under your belt or are visiting for the first time, this information will be handy to help you make the most of a day watching the Carolina Panthers Train.

Carolina Panthers Training Camp
Carolina Panthers Training Camp 2016 Wofford College Spartanburg, SC

What to Expect at a Carolina Panthers Training Session

Not sure what to expect? Here’s a video of a 2021 practice session.

2023 Carolina Panthers Training Camp Schedule

Most training sessions are at 10:15 am but see the schedule below. Attendance is completely free, but NEW this year, you will need to reserve your free Panthers training tickets on Ticket Master.

There is a great parking map available on the Panthers Training Camp site.

The free Carolina Panthers’ training schedule is as follows:

  • July 26th, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • July 27th, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • July 31st, 2023 at 10:25 am
  • August 1st, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • August 4th, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • August 5th, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • August 6th, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • August 8th, 2023 at 10:15 am
  • August 9th, 2023 at 10:15 am (Joint Practice with the New York Jets)
  • August 20th, 2023 at 9 am (Joint Practice with the New York Jets)

There are two events not happening at Wofford Field. These are: July 29th, 2023 at 11 am (Back Together Saturday at Gibbs Field) and August 2nd, 2023 at 7 pm (Fan Fest Charlotte, NC- tickets are $5)

Attending The Carolina Panthers’ Training Session in Spartanburg, SC

Seating is first come – first serve along the grassy hillside of the training practice field at the back of the campus. Strollers, coolers, and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome at the training camps, as well as sunshade umbrellas and folding chairs. Pop-up tents are not permitted.

In the event of inclement weather, practice times may be shifted or canceled. Updates for training camp status will be posted by the Panthers on Twitter.

Can I bring food to the Panthers Training Camp?

Yes! Coolers are allowed, with food and non-alcoholic beverages. No glass is permitted for safety reasons. You can also bring backpacks and bags, strollers, blankets, folding chairs, etc.

Visiting Spartanburg, SC for Training Camp

Fans of the Panthers will be visiting Spartanburg, some for the first time. The training camps are just a few hours in the morning, so that leaves the rest of the day to explore!

Guest Itinerary for Spartanburg Visitors to Carolina Panther Training Camp

Here are a few great things to do from Kidding Around Spartanburg:

  • Visit the Panthers themed Play 60 Park where kids can train like the pros. FREE
  • Summer equals kids wanting to splash around in the water, and who can blame them? Luckily Spartanburg has several splash pads and a waterpark to enjoy while you are visiting Spartanburg!
  • Grab the family, and hit the road, grabbing breakfast from a local coffee shop on the way to your chosen splash spot. Enjoy the sounds of kids laughing and having fun!
  • When lunchtime hits, you can grab another perennial summer favorite! We’ve got a list of local places where readers love to grab a hot dog, and then you can return to the splashing!
  • A long day in the sun will make everyone tired, so why not grab a family meal of BBQ to eat at the place where you are staying. If everyone has the energy and room in their bellies, you can treat the family to a frozen dessert at a local favorite!

Make The Most of Your Time With This Weekend Itinerary For A Trip to Spartanburg, SC

Where to Stay in Spartanburg, SC

Getting An Autograph From A Carolina Panther

Autographs are back this year! Fans will be hopefully able to get an autograph after practices are over. Look for the signs that will direct you to the area along the Field 1 fence. All players don’t necessarily stop there but there is certainly the potential for players to stop and sign autographs for fans.

Attending The Carolina Panthers’ Fan Fest in Charlotte, NC

Fan Fest is August 2nd at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. They have entertainment, inflatables, fun things for kids, and fireworks. Tickets are $5 a person.

Here is the schedule:
5:30 pm Gates Open
6 pm Entertainment Begins
7 pm Practice Begins
~9:15 pm Fireworks and laser show

Carolina Panthers Training Camp News

  • The Carolina Panthers have launched an app to help fans keep up do date and informed of all the things going on with the team.
  • Head Coach Frank Reich will take part in the training camp practices at Wofford this summer.
  • Rookie Quarterback first overall pick Bryce Young will also be at training camp, giving fans an early chance to likely see a new leader in action.

For more fun to be found when visiting the Carolina Panthers hometown, Check out the Kidding Around Ultimate Guide To Fun With Kids in Charlotte

Find Tons of Fun for the Entire Family At This Renaissance Festival in Charlotte, North Carolina

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Ready for a good joust and a turkey leg? The Carolina Renaissance Festival and Artisan Marketplace are back for another year this fall in Charlotte.  Local mom Jackie tells us what to expect at Ren-Fest plus shares tips for a great experience with your family!

The 2022 Carolina Renaissance Festival takes place Saturdays and Sundays, October 2 – November 20, 2022.

Make the most of a trip to the area with The Kidding Around Ultimate Guide To Fun With Kids in Charlotte, NC.

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Ian Brings Closings and eLearning Across South Carolina

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Is your child’s school on eLearning or closed Friday, September 30th due to Hurricane Ian’s trek through South Carolina? Here is our growing list of school changes for Friday as well as other local businesses and farms closed this weekend because of the storm.

Ian closures

Planning for a power outage? Here are Meals to Make With No Electricity including a convenient grocery list to bring to the store.

REPORT A CLOSING OR DELAY: Is your school or business closed? To be added to this list, email Maria@kiddingaroundgreenville.com

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