Columbia’s Finney Center Hosts Free Community Holiday Celebration This Saturday

Columbia Gears Up for a Festive Celebration at the Finney Center

Hey there, Columbia! Are you ready to kick off the holiday season with some cheer? Well, mark your calendars for this Saturday, December 21st, because the Ernest A. Finney Jr. Cultural Arts Center is throwing open its doors for a delightful event titled “Be the Light: A Celebration of Community for the Holidays”. And guess what? It’s all free!

Get Ready for Fun!

The event is set to run from noon to 4 p.m. at 1510 Laurens St.. The Finney Center is inviting everyone from every corner of Columbia to join in the festivities. Grab your family, friends, and neighbors because there will be plenty to enjoy! Expect to munch on some delicious holiday treats, dive into children’s books, and rub elbows with special guests. Plus, there’s a fabulous giveaway of 20 smoked turkeys courtesy of Railroad BBQ. Yum!

A Special Host for a Special Occasion

Hosting this splendid event is none other than the charismatic MASTER SPLINTA—who some of you may remember as FatRat Da Czar. He’s been an enthusiastic force in the community, and his excitement about this celebration is infectious! “As I get older, I love to attend and participate in events curated for everyone, from grandparents to little ones,” Splinta shared. “I’m thrilled to be the host of such a heartfelt gathering, and I’m even prouder to work with a team that shares values that resonate with mine.”

Celebrating Community and Culture

This event isn’t just about having fun—it’s also about honoring and connecting with our rich community culture. The Ernest A. Finney Jr. Cultural Arts Center plays a vital role in bridging the African American community with the vibrant downtown of Columbia. Their mission covers a broad spectrum of activities, including music, visual art, poetry, dance, theater, culinary arts, and more, all aimed at creating community connections and enriching our cultural heritage.

“Everyone is welcome to join this celebration,” said Janet Parenti, the event coordinator. “Located at the edge of Historic Waverly, the Finney Center honors the rich legacy of one of Columbia’s oldest and proudest neighborhoods. Just like Hip-Hop Family Day, this event aims to connect an intergenerational audience to celebrate the light of elders, parents, children, and community members through a fun, shared experience.”

Weather Ain’t Stoppin’ Us!

Now, let’s talk about the weather because we all know how unpredictable it can be! According to the latest report, we can expect a mix of clouds and sun early in the day, but don’t be surprised if things get a bit cloudy as the day progresses. The high is expected to be around 61°F, with gentle winds blowing in from the northeast at 5 to 10 mph. And don’t forget, there could be some areas of patchy fog as we approach the evening, with a low of 46°F. So, if you’re heading out for the celebration, you might want to bring a light jacket!

Join the Festivities!

So, there you have it, Columbia! An exciting day awaits at the Finney Center, filled with joy, laughter, and a true sense of community spirit. Don’t miss out on the chance to make wonderful memories with your loved ones. Celebrate the holidays, taste some tasty treats, and perhaps even take home a delicious turkey. We can’t wait to see you there!