Columbia Celebrates October with Exciting Festivals, Food, and Fun Events

COLUMBIA: October Festivities Galore!

As the leaves start to turn and a chill fills the air, Columbia is buzzing with excitement this October! The city is teeming with events ranging from delightful food fairs to vibrant celebrations, ensuring there is something for everyone this fall season.

Fall Into Flavor at Melting Pot

Head over to the Melting Pot Columbia to indulge in an Oktoberfest-themed prix-fixe menu throughout the entire month! From Bavarian beer cheese fondue to delicious chocolate fondue accompanied by pretzels and bratwurst, your taste buds will be dancing with joy. It’s available Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. The starting price is $49 per person, a tasty deal for such a feast!

Fair Fun Awaits

The iconic South Carolina State Fair is back in action from October 9 to 20, boasting over 50 rides and all the quirky fair food you can imagine! Get ready to munch on deep-fried goodies and experience delightful arts and crafts as you meander through the festival. Tickets start at just $15 for ages six and up, with prices varying by day. Plus, did you know the fair has donated over $5 million in scholarships for local students since its start?

Community Spirit at Sumter’s Largest Street Party

On Friday, October 12, make your way to Sumter’s North Main St. for the largest street party in town! The event kicks off at 5 p.m. and will be a feast for the senses featuring themed bites and drinks. Tickets are $10 in advance. All proceeds will go to Sumter United Ministries to help those in need. It’s a perfect chance to enjoy good food and good company while giving back to the community!

Dogs and Fun Unite in Chapin

Calling all dog lovers! On October 13 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Modern Companion is putting on a doggy celebration at Melvin Park. Bring your furry friends for a day filled with pet adoptions, food trucks, demo activities, and a raffle. Tickets start at a pocket-friendly $5, and part of the proceeds will benefit local animal rescue organizations. It’s a pup-tastic way to spend your Saturday!

Celebrate Hot Pride

Mark your calendars for the Famously Hot South Carolina Pride festival on October 18-19! This year’s event promises to be grander than ever with an exciting parade and vibrantly colorful street festival. With performances from incredible artists like Parson James and Asher HaVon, it’s sure to be a memorable occasion celebrating diversity and inclusiveness. The festivities will take place on Main Street, with free general admission, although some special events may require advance bookings starting at $75.

Spook-tacular Terrarium Workshop

If you’re looking to get crafty this Halloween, join the Gardener’s Outpost on October 22 for a terrarium-building workshop! From 6:30 p.m to 8 p.m., guests will create spooky terrariums with all supplies included. Grab your favorite beverage, and let’s get into the Halloween spirit! Tickets are $35 in advance.

A Culinary Showcase

Food enthusiasts will want to check out the exclusive four-course wine pairing dinner at Hampton Street Vineyard on October 23, featuring dishes that fuse French and Southern flavors. Reservations are required for this culinary adventure, priced at $125 per person.

Costume Contests and Comic Fests

Get ready to don your favorite costumes at the Halloween Comic Fest on October 26 at Scratch N’ Spin! With free admission, it’s a chance for all ages to enjoy Halloween fun with comic book activities and contests. For the younger crowd, Riverside Performing Arts Studio is hosting a Halloween drop-off event filled with games, music, and crafts for only $10!

Wrap Up October with a Bang

Columbia knows how to celebrate October in style, so don’t miss out on all the exciting events lined up this month! Whether it’s enjoying delicious food, embracing the spooky season, or celebrating diversity, there’s something fun waiting around every corner. Bundle up and enjoy the vibrant spirit of Soda City!