Columbia’s Art, Charity and Sports Buzz in Full Swing This Summer

Columbia, the city famous for its southern charm and thriving art and culture scene, is gearing up for a bustling summer calendar of events. From art exhibitions, charity events, and sports gatherings, the city will bring an array of activities sure to appeal to residents and visitors of all tastes and interests.

Art

For the lovers of the arts, Columbia offers a rich palette of events. At Alexandra’s Art Studio, downtown Columbia, adults and children alike can kick start their inner Van Gogh with painting classes or experience a day in the life of an artist at the many kids’ camps throughout the summer.

The Columbia SC Visitors Center has joined forces with One Columbia for Arts and Culture to bring the city artist popups on weekends till July 28. The Shandon United Methodist Church, in the city’s heart, will host an exhibition of paintings by Ashley (Stone) Ozmint through August 30, providing an artistically enriching experience.

City Scenes

In recognition of the National Gun Violence Awareness Month, the City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention is planning to raise awareness with a Garden Rededication at Pacific Park on June 20. The ceremony aims to underline the city’s commitment to peace and safety, inviting unity and community spirit.

Church and Charity

Spirituality and philanthropy find significant expression in Columbia’s summer calendar, with a range of events including Vacation Bible Schools, Consecration & Convocation Services, fundraising car shows, and clothing donations for students in need to begin their school year with confidence.

Dance and Exchange of Moves

For those looking to groove and move, every Monday sees the Scottish Country Dance at the Eastminster Presbyterian Community Life Center, inviting youths and adults to participate. Thursdays come alive with beginner-friendly adult ballet classes at the Columbia Music Festival Association.

Sports and Outdoors

The summer heat isn’t slowing down Columbia’s sporting scene. For pickleball enthusiasts, the American Pickleball Tour (APT) is returning to the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in July. The Salute From The Shore, a traditional 15th Annual Patriotic Flyover of F-16s and Vintage Aircraft on Independence Day, offers a thrilling spectacle for all on South Carolina’s coastline.

Museums and Music

Historical explorers can revel in the Olympia Mill Village Museum’s tales of life in the 1920s. Simultaneously, music lovers can mark their calendars for the Classical Piano Concert with Pianist Matthew Ganong and the 11th annual Reggaetronic Lake Murray Music Festival on Lake Murray in June.

Support Groups and Workshops

Columbia’s heart is not just visible in its arts, sports, and charity events but also in the range of support group meetings for issues like ADD/ADHD, foster families, and substance abuse

A comprehensive diary of club meetings, charity events, fundraisers, military commemorations, museum exhibitions, and music festivals in store this summer indeed promises a lively and vibrant Columbia. The city is all set to underpin its reputation as a hotspot of arts, culture, and community spirit in the coming months.