Are you on the hunt for restaurants where kids eat free in Columbia, SC? Look no further! Whether you’re looking for freebies, general deals, or sweet discounts, we’ve got a comprehensive list of restaurants to cover it all.
We know taking your family out to eat can get quite pricey, not to mention chaotic. So, we made this easy and called each of the listed restaurants below to get their promotions confirmed. However, please keep in mind that these promotions can change rapidly so it’s always a good idea to triple-check before you go.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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?
More Halloween in Columbia, SC
13 Spooky and Haunted Places to Visit Near Columbia, SC
See the Spookiest Halloween Houses and Displays: 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!
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!
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!
Have you been thinking about a trip to Goat Daddy’s Farm? Want to have a family day trip out to the country where you can hand-feed and pet a variety of animals? At Goat Daddy’s Farm, not only will your family have the opportunity to do just that, but you will also gain great knowledge about animal care.
You’ll be able to discuss any questions you have with friendly and knowledgeable staff, and have the opportunity to purchase your own goat milk products made from the goats right at the farm. So, what are you waiting for?
Are you thinking of getting UofSC football tickets this fall? Whether you’re a Columbia native and have cheered on the Gamecocks for years or even if you’ve just recently moved here and are not sure about the college football atmosphere, we will walk you through all you’ll need to know about going to a USC Gamecocks game. From bringing along your kiddos, tailgating, Gamecock Walk, prepping for the game and what to expect while you’re inside the stadium, we hope to leave none of your questions or uncertainties unanswered!
Are you ready for fall festivals in Columbia, SC? State fairs, farm days, Halloween celebrations, and pumpkin spice everything added to a backdrop of color-changing leaves make the season so special. These events are a wonderful way to mingle with the community while making memories with your family. Check out our list of fall festivals near Columbia that celebrate all the wonderful things the season has to offer!
Information about individual events is subject to change. Please check the festival’s website or social media page for updates regarding ticket pricing, rescheduling due to weather, changes to scheduled events, and more.
September 16th – 17th, 2023 from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday and 12 pm to 4 pm on Sunday State Farmers Market, 3483 Charleston Highway, Columbia SC Features art, food trucks, woodworking, lawn & garden, clothing boutiques, crafts, and so much more Free parking and admission
September 29th and 30th, 2023 Irmo Community Park, 7507 Eastview Dr. Irmo, South Carolina 29063. Live music, Saturday morning parade, crafts, art, amusement rides, and lots of food! Free admission
September 30th, 2023 from 10 am to 5 pm The Farm, 1127 Corley Mill Road, Lexington SC Family-friendly fall fun on a local farm with tons of games and activities Tickets available now for $25, limited availability
October 1st, 2023 from 1 pm to 4 pm Crooked Creek Park, 1098 Old Lexington Highway, Chapin SC Grab your furry friends and have some family fun with games, vendors, food trucks, adoptions, raffles, and much more $5, however pets and children under 12 are free
October 6th – October 8th, 2023, from 8 am to 6 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm South Carolina State Farmers Market, 3483 Charleston Highway, West Columbia, SC Festival and sale of plants and flowers for Fall and in preparation for other seasons.
Saturday, October 7th, 2023, beginning at 5 pm Segra Park, 1640 Freed Street, Columbia SC Fun fall concert with country music singers Chris Janson and Brooks Herring Tickets on sale now, prices vary
Saturday, October 7th, 2023 Granby Gardens Park, 1800 12th Street, Cayce SC Featuring live music, food, drinks, a children’s area, and more. Free admission
Saturday, October 7th, 2023, from 11 am to 6 pm 901 S Holly St, Columbia, SC 29205 Celebration of art, music, and southern culture through family-friendly activities. Free admission
October 11th – October 22nd, 2023 1200 Rosewood Drive, Columbia, SC 29201 Major attractions, carnival rides, food, entertainment, animals, crafts, art, stage shows, and much more! Ticket sales begin September 12th online – Early bird ticket pricing is $10; Prices during the fair are $20 for ages 6 – 54 and $15 for 55+.
Here’s everything you need to know about the SC State Fair from a local mom.
October 20th – October 22nd, 2023, from 11 am to 10 pm Incarnation Lutheran Church, 3005 Devine Street, Columbia Celebration of German culture with authentic food, drinks, dancing, and more. There will be a kid’s area with face painting, balloon art, a playground, and activities. Free admission
October 21st, 2023, from 2 pm to 8 pm Columbus Meeting Hall, 1623 Marion Street, Columbia SC 6th annual fall fest including crafts, vendors, food, music, and more
Dates TBA Eudora Wildlife Safari Park, 219 Salem Lane, Salley SC Pumpkin patch, corn maze, fall activities, kids games, Parakeet adventure, pony rides, petting zoo, and paintball shooting. Admission is an additional $26 per car of 6 guests to the original $36 per car fee for Drive Thru Safari Check out our review of Eudora Farms
Dates TBA Doko Meadows Park, 100 Alvina Hagood Circle, Blythewood SC An all-day family-friendly event complete with food and beverages, children’s games, yodeling contest, keg toss, 5K, and so much more Free admission
Do you have a favorite fall festival in Columbia, SC that you just can not miss? Let us know in the comments!
Find More Fall Fun in Columbia, SC
The Ultimate Guide to Halloween Events & Trick-or-Treat in Columbia, SC
Premier Family Guide: The (2023) South Carolina State Fair
10 Parent-Hacks for Amazing & Memorable Trips to the Farm this Fall
Are you considering a visit to Surge Trampoline Park in Columbia, SC? At Surge Trampoline Park, you will find numerous trampolines, ninja courses with 3 different course setups, a high ropes course, two toddler play spaces, foam pits, an arcade and so much more! There truly is something for everyone at Surge.
We have all the details to help you plan your family’s visit, including promotions and discounted sessions.
Having one of “those” days? You know, the ones where the kids seem to have unlimited energy and you just need to get everyone out of the house? Load up your tribe and head over to Surge Trampoline Park where they can jump, climb, and play the crazies away!
Looking for more fun things to do indoors? Check out our full list of indoor fun!
Have you been to your local Richland County Library recently? Are you looking for events and learning opportunities that your whole family can enjoy? Of course, the libraries have books, but what a lot of people don’t know is that the Richland County Libraries host tons of family-friendly, wholesome events all throughout the week. There are groups for teenagers, crafting events for adults, storytimes for toddlers, learning workshops, and much, much more!
Need more ideas on free things to do around Columbia? We’ve got you covered with more than 50 awesome free ideas!
Have you been on the hunt for ways to celebrate the 4th of July in Columbia, SC? It’s time to bring out the red, white and blue because there are family-friendly events happening all weekend long offering things such as parades, concerts, Columbia fireworks, baseball games, and more!
We’ve gathered a list of these Independence Day events all around Columbia, SC, and know you will find the perfect celebration for you and your family below!
Have you ever heard of Carolina Gymnastics? Whether you’re looking for a Parent and Me class for your tots, an awesome place to host your next birthday party, or a sport to introduce your older kids to, you should give Carolina Gymnastics a try! A local mom and Kidding Around Columbia writer has been taking her young daughter to gymnastics classes here for the past several months and has some great insight we think you will love!
Carolina Gymnastics: Parent and Me Classes
When my daughter began walking, and became more of a “toddler” than a baby, I knew I needed to find something for her to do on a regular basis. Not only to get us out of the house, but to challenge her, teach her new skills, and socialize with other tots her age.
After some searching, I came across the Parent and Me classes at Carolina Gymnastics and I knew I had to give them a try. It was comforting to know that Carolina Gymnastics has been in business since 1976 and was the very first privately owned gymnastics center in all of South Carolina.
Group Class Room
The class we are a part of usually starts out in the Group Class Area. Complete with a climbable castle replica, wall murals, slide, and small foam pit, this room is so cute and fun for small kiddos. Tiny gymnasts are also given the opportunity to free play in the “big gym” where they can jump on the trampoline, swing on the bars, walk across the beams, dance to the music, and so much more!
Independence to Explore at Their Own Pace
Each family can do one free trial class to be sure the classes are a good fit. About halfway through our trial run, it was safe to say that my daughter was HOOKED. The Parent and Me class is set up to give toddlers space and independence to explore and try things on their own time, but with tons of guidance from the coaches.
I really love that throughout the class I am able to participate with my daughter and learn how to safely teach her new skills such as forward rolls, cartwheel basics, bridges, and so much more. It is so cool to see her learn and achieve new skills even at such a young age! Now, at almost two years old, her favorite thing to do is swing on the bars and jump into the large foam pit.
More Classes at Carolina Gymnastics
There are so many flip-tastic classes at Carolina Gymnastics:
Parent and Me
Ages walking to 2 years old
Preschool Gymnastics
Ages 3 – 5 years old
Advanced Preschool Gymnastics
Ages 4 -5 years old
Girls & Boys Recreational Gymnastics
Ages 6 and up
Tumbling Classes
Ages 6 and up
Twist and Tumble at Your Next Birthday Party
Looking for a unique place to host your child’s next birthday party? Carolina Gymnastics could be a great fit! Parties include:
1.5 hour celebration
Age appropriate games
Invitations
Goody bags
Special t-shirt and medal for birthday child
Gym play
There are two different packages to choose from. You can either provide your own cake or have the gymnastics center provide one for you. Depending on the number of guests you have at your party and the package you choose, parties can cost anywhere from $220 to $310.
