Archive for the ‘Events’ Category

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.

While we’re waiting for a few more spooky homes to share in order to make our driving routes, here’s a sneak preview of some Halloween houses that are already delivering some spooky, festive fun to Columbia!

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.

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.

We have added our first driving route with spooky houses from Chapin to Lexington, SC. 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

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

112 Tom Blanchtte Drive, Irmo, Halloween house

When you drive by this Halloween house you’ll find a scary pumpkin patch theme, including an inferno skeleton and other animatronics. But that’s not all. If you’re lucky enough to pass the backyard by boat, you’ll also see a spooky graveyard scene.

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

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

514 Sterling Ponds Drive, Blythewood

The spooky display at Sterling Ponds Drive features 12-foot skeletons, a flying witch, a graveyard, and various animatronics.

Scary rating: 4 out of 5

Sterling Ponds Drive Blythewood Halloween house

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.

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!

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

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?

Here’s the biggest Halloween guide in Columbia, SC

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

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!

How to Get Riverbanks Boo at the Zoo Tickets

Boo at the Zoo Arrival Tips

How it works: Trick-or-Treating at Riverbanks Zoo

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

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.

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

Bluey is Coming to you Live at the Koger Center in Columbia, SC

Bluey is coming to Columbia, SC! Bluey, the wildly popular, Emmy award-winning cartoon featuring the loveable Aussie family of Heelers, will be coming to the Koger Center on May 9th and 10th, 2023. And get ready, because tickets go on sale on now!

If you have Bluey-obsessed kids like we do, then attending the theatrical adaptation of “Bluey’s Big Play” will probably become a core memory of their childhood. The production is to feature crafted puppets of the Heeler family and is sure to explore many of the silly and wisdom-loaded themes the Bluey series regularly delves into.

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

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

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.

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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Archive for the ‘Events’ Category

See the Spookiest Halloween Houses and Displays: Columbia, SC