#FamouslyHot

Do you think Columbia, SC deserves a foursquare badge? #visitUS

2012-01-27T15:29:00.002-05:00

The day has finally arrived that we could have a shot at the ultimate geek honor -- our very own foursquare badge for Columbia, SC! How cool would that be? It was exciting enough when we got the foursquare cling (pictured above) in the mail a couple years ago! So, here's the scoop:

This week foursquare announced that they want to know "why your hometown deserves a foursquare badge!" How do we get a Famously Hot foursquare badge of our very own for Columbia, SC, you ask?

Foursquare says, "All you have to do is create an amazing list of the best spots to go to, and a badge could be yours! ...As part of President Obama’s announcement to boost tourism in the U.S., the White House called on folks around the country to share what makes their city or town a great place to visit. Well, we want to know too! Inspired by the #visitUS initiative, we’re putting out a call for foursquare lists with all the best spots in your city. We’ll pick the three most amazing ones and creating foursquare city badges for them!"

We all know Columbia is Famously Hot, but now it's time for us to show the rest of the foursquare world. That's where you come in. We want you to help us put together an insider's guide to Columbia, SC -- from the most popular, touristy attractions to those spots off the beaten path.

What's in it for you? We'll pick the best list and give the winner tickets or certificates to ten spots from their list, plus they get bragging rights for their Famously Hot geek cred.

The rules:

1. Follow the instructions on foursquare's blog, come up with a creative name for your list using "Famously Hot" in the title in some way, and share your list on twitter with the hashtags #4sq, #visitUS and #famouslyhot or submit your list by next Friday, February 3, 2012! Indicate which ten spots on your list you'd like to visit with "Top 10" in your tip.

2. Post a link to your list in the comments section of our blog with your name to be eligible for our contest. Be sure to check back on Monday, February 6, 2012 to see if you won!

If you need some inspiration, here are some existing foursquare lists in Columbia, SC. In the meantime, we'll be working on a list of our own. Foursquare says they'll "pick the three best lists based on the variety of places, quality of tips and photos, and number of followers (and a tweet from your mayor – or governor! or senator! – won’t hurt, either…)." Be sure to follow our list in progress! https://foursquare.com/columbiasc/list/columbia-scs-famously-hot-spots--visitus

Thanks to a most helpful Twitter ambassador, Alita Hawksworth, for giving us a heads up about the contest!

Nominate Columbia, SC for a social media award
in the #travel category of the Shorty Awards.
We were a finalist (#4) last year in NYC!
Think we get bonus points for sitting by
Dennis Crowley (@dens), co-founder and
CEO of foursquare last year?
http://instagr.am/p/CoYoI

Riverbanks Zoo Offers Couples Two Sweet Valentine’s Treats

2012-01-24T17:15:00.000-05:00

Experience Love on the Wild Side at Riverbanks

Zoo Offers Couples an Extra-Sweet Valentine’s Treat

Roses are pretty and chocolate is sweet, but a Valentine’s date at Riverbanks just can’t be beat! Riverbanks Zoo and Garden invites you and your sweetheart to experience an unforgettable evening of Love on the Wild Side on Saturday, February 11 at 6:00 pm.

Reserve your spot today for this adults-only dinner and walking tour. Get an inside look at the world of animal amour. Learn how a koala’s strong scent and loud voice play a role in mating and dating, explore the unique social structure of hyenas and discover other interesting facts about animal courtship.

To top off this wildly-romantic evening, couples will sit-down to a 3-course dinner specially created by Riverbanks’ executive chef. The meal includes a signature cocktail; a cash bar also will be available.
Limited space is available. Tickets are $100 per couple and should be purchased online at riverbanks.org, no later than Monday, February 6. No one under 21 will be admitted. For vegetarian requests, email catering@riverbanks.org.

Note: Love on the Wild Side will take place rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.

Get an Early Taste of Spring with Orchids on the Riverbanks

Annual Festival Planned for Valentine's Weekend at Riverbanks Botanical Garden

Riverbanks is once again partnering with the South Carolina Orchid Society and Ikebana International Chapter 182 for the 7th annual Orchids on the Riverbanks Festival, taking place February 10-12, 2012 at Riverbanks Botanical Garden.

The vibrant display of blooming orchids features hundreds of varieties and arrangements from around the world.

“Whether you love to plant or just long for spring, Orchids on the Riverbanks offers every guest a colorful escape from winter when our gardens can grow dormant,” said Andy Cabe, botanical garden director at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “The exhibition is a splendid sight for everyone to see and enjoy.”

The orchid show also features free programs and expert planting tips for the most seasoned of growers to the greenest of thumbs—scheduled for Saturday, February 12. At 11:00 am, Linda Thorne from Seagrove Orchids will present “Growing Phalaenopsis.” The program will highlight the most popular group of orchids for growing in the home. At 12:00 pm, Carter & Holmes will present “Growing Orchids for Beginners.” This program is a must-see for those just getting started. At 1pm, Tom Nasser of Carolina Orchids will lead a tour of the exhibit hall located inside the Magnolia Room of the Botanical Garden Visitors Center. The interactive tour is designed to expose participants to the wide variety of orchids that exist, as well as allowing time for questions regarding this spectacular species of flower.

Orchids on the Riverbanks is also perfectly timed for the Valentines weekend. Orchid vendors from across the Carolinas will be on hand with live plants for your favorite Valentine.

Festival hours are Friday, February 10 from 1:00 - 5:00 pm and Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12 from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. Admission to Orchids on the Riverbanks is free with paid admission to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. To learn more about orchids, visit the American Orchid Society at aos.org.

For nearly 40 years, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden has connected individuals, families and groups with the world's wildlife and wild places. It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $11.75 for adults, $9.25 for children ages 3 – 12 and free for children 2 and under. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit riverbanks.org or facebook.com/riverbankszoo.

Tweet #RestaurantWeekSC to win a $50 restaurant certificate

2012-01-21T17:14:00.001-05:00

Restaurant Week Columbia comes to an end tomorrow, but not before you have the chance to win a Famously Hot t-shirt and one of five $50 gift certificates to Blue Marlin, Pearlz Oyster Bar, or Wild Wing Cafe in the Vista, the Village at Sandhill or Harbison.

All you have to do to enter is tweet your favorite Restaurant Week dining experience from this week or the restaurants you plan to try using hashtag #RestaurantWeekSC. We'll select five winners at random today and Sunday.

Make reservations at Blue Marlin, Pearlz Oyster Bar, Wild Wing Cafe -- or one of the many other restaurants offering specials while you still can!

UPDATE:
Congratulations to our winners - @LyndsayMJ, @adgirlSC, @MrsCaffeinated, @katecrev and @Cooktestant!

Craft Bar Happy Hour Returns to Columbia Museum of Art

2012-01-21T16:28:00.000-05:00

The Columbia Museum of Art sparks creativity among crafters with another season of Craft Bar Happy Hour beginning on Tuesday, January 24 at 6:00 pm.

All crafters, ages 12 and up are invited to bring a craft project to work on while enjoying conversations, snacks, beverages and the best of crafter camaraderie in the Museum's unconventional craft haven. Craft kits are available for new crafters or for crafters looking for a new project for $12 and can be started at the Museum during the event. This month, featured local crafter, Jenny Mae, participates in the fun by displaying her puppets and talking about what inspires her craft.

This event is perfect for people who like to turn old sweaters into cuddly stuffed animals, knit, quilt, print tea towels and make ex-boyfriend voodoo dolls!

Reserve your spot early - this intimate night of fun, food and crafts is popular. Happy hour ends at 9:00 pm. Tickets are $12 / $8 members and include refreshments. Tickets are available at columbiamuseum.org.

Upcoming Craft Bar Happy Hour events:
Tuesday, March 20 and Tuesday, April 24

SC Philharmonic Presents "Soundscapes," Featuring Radiohead String Orchestra Composition

2012-01-14T12:50:00.000-05:00

With help from familiar Wadsworth Chamber Series soloists, the South Carolina Philharmonic presents “Soundscapes,” a rich sonic journey without leaving the Koger Center, on Saturday, January 14 at 7:30 pm.

Midlands audiences know the work of guest cellist Edward Arron (right) as soloist with, and artistic director of, the Columbia Museum of Art’s Wadsworth Chamber Music Series. Guest violinist Yosuke Kawasaki, another Wadsworth Series veteran, joins Arron to collaborate for the first time with the SCP and Music Director Morihiko Nakahara.

“Since moving to Columbia three years ago, I have been constantly inspired by the rich cultural scene and both the local and visiting musicians whose artistry and dedication enrich us all,” says Nakahara. He works with two such visiting musicians as Arron and Kawasaki (left) team up for the Brahms Double Concerto for Violin and Cello.

But a string orchestra composition from a source more known for his work with guitar strings starts the evening. Radiohead lead guitarist Jonny Greenwood also composes, and Radiohead fan Nakahara is eager to introduce Greenwood’s Popcorn Superhet Receiver to Columbia. The work was reincarnated on the soundtrack to Academy- and Golden Globe-Award nominated film There Will Be Blood. Greenwood’s work earned him a Grammy nomination for "Best Score Soundtrack."

Two works by Finnish composer Jean Sibelius round out the sonic journey: his Valse triste and his Third Symphony. Sibelius’ works evoke the rich landscape, weather, birds and cultural traditions of his native country, and make for a perfect end to the concert.

Ticket Information:
Tickets are available for your convenience online at capitoltickets.com and by phone at 803.251.2222.
Tickets are $47, $39, $29, $21 and $17, depending on seat location and discount.
Student and military discounts are available.
Self-parking is $10 and Southern Valet provides limited valet parking for $10.

Restaurant Week Columbia Begins Today

2012-01-12T11:21:00.004-05:00

Restaurant Week Columbia is one of five destinations participating in Restaurant Week South Carolina. Running today, January 12, through January 22, 2012 Restaurant Week is an eleven day celebration of the cuisine scene at hundreds of participating restaurants throughout the state. From fine dining to casual, participating Columbia restaurants will feature special menu items, promotions, packages, and discounts. Diners can sample Columbia's newest restaurants, dine at old favorites and taste a variety of exceptional dishes being prepared by chefs at a great value for customers.

Participating eateries in the Columbia area include Alodia's Cucina Italiana, Dianne's on Devine, Cellar on Greene, El Chico, Harper's, Lizard's Thicket, Solstice Kitchen and Wine Bar, Center City Grill at the Marriott Hotel, Mezza Lebanese Bistro, Mr. Friendly's New Southern Café, Sporting News Grill, Stonefire American, Grill, Terra, MoMo's Bistro, Villa Tronco, Ristorante Divino, Blue Marlin Restaurant, Yesterday's Restaurant and Tavern, Great American Grill at the Hilton Garden Inn, Gervais & Vine, Rosso Trattoria Italia, Cantina 76, Saluda's Restaurant, Pearlz Oyster Bar, Liberty Tap Room and Grill, Tombo Grille, Virtu Restaurant and Bar, Saki Tumi Grill & Sushi Bar, Motor Supply Co. Bistro and Wild Wing Cafe in the Vista, on Columbiana Grand and at the Village at Sandhill.

Restaurants suggest making reservations in advance as seating fills up very quickly. Learn more about Restaurant Week South Carolina and see individual restaurant menus at restaurantweekcolumbia.com. Read what the Free Times has to say about Restaurant Week this year.

Want to make a culinary adventure of Restaurant Week? Book your hotel and plan your visit at columbiacvb.com/restaurantweek.

Keep up with Restaurant Week Columbia on Facebook and Twitter.

Richland County Public Library's Guide to New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-11T16:32:00.001-05:00

I’m not big on making New Year’s resolutions. It’s not that I don’t have the resolve to make the changes they require. It’s not even the “resolution” that intimidates me; it’s the word “year.”

Blame my very short attention span, but I’m more likely to make weekly resolutions, like “This week, I’ll stop drinking coffee before noon.” Or, “This week, I’ll be more patient with my 12-year-old daughter.” (Okay, that’s a daily resolution.) Or, “This week, I’ll get more sleep.” Of course, that’s only if I didn’t break the resolution about the coffee. . . But you get the picture. I admit it’s tough for me to stick with something for an entire year. But, maybe that’s because I’ve never looked to the library to help me keep my resolutions! Regardless of what you resolve to do in 2012, Richland County Public Library has the information and resources you need to accomplish your goals.

Want to read more?
Start with our Best of 2011 selections, where you can rate and comment on this year’s top picks!

Want to use myRCPL.com for eBooks, music and more?
You can have access to more than 7,000 FREE eBooks, 500,000 downloadable songs, online research, and learning tools. Don’t live in Richland County? Don’t worry! You can purchase an out-of-county card for only $65 here and have access to all of this from anywhere!

Want to travel more in 2012?

The library can help you discover what to see here in Columbia and even to plan your next trip!

Want to learn more about the history of Columbia?
Start with our Local History Digital Library where you can find images, oral history interviews and more!

       The contemporary glass-walled building on the corner of Assembly and Hampton in the heart of downtown Columbia appears to be an upscale hotel or office building. But it’s not – it is the public library!

       The Main Library in downtown Columbia is home to more than 20 pieces of art, including the Where the Wild Things Are mural in the Children’s Room -- the first and only place renowned children’s author and illustrator Maurice Sendak allowed his work to be used as public art. [You might also spot a salamander just outside, as a stop along the Sally Salamander walking tour. View photos of the installation.]

       The Garden Level gallery features special exhibits of national, regional and local significance; including the current exhibit, An Egg a Day: Drawings by Phil Burns.

       Or, just stop by the library and use the free Wi-Fi available at all locations.

Here’s hoping the Richland County Public library in Famously Hot Columbia, SC helps make 2012 your best year ever!

Contributed by guest blogger, Melanie Huggins, executive director of the Richland County Public Library. Melanie loves to share stories, reading recommendations, and her love of libraries. She hopes the library will always inspire, inform and entertain you! Keep up with Richland County Public Library on Facebook and Twitter.

History Channel's "American Pickers" Head to SC

2012-01-05T18:22:00.000-05:00

Got a barn full of stuff you want to get rid of? Know someone who does? History Channel's American Pickers are visiting South Carolina this winter -- and Mike and Frank want to hear from you! They're hitting the road and searching for barns, deserted buildings and basements.

Do you have music memorabilia, motorcycles, old signs, old rodeo items, sports collectibles, military items, casino tables, gas pumps, election memorabilia, Hawaiiana, antique guns, pedal cars, airline collectibles, distillery memorabilia, motor scooters, old toys, western gear, saloon items, classic cars, folk art, juke boxes, racing memorabilia, taxidermy, airstream trailers, bicycles, coin-operated machines, Route 66 memorabilia, vintage TV merchandise, vintage mechanical bull, collegiate collectibles or other rare collectible items?

Email your name and contact information to American Pickers at ccricco@cineflix.com or call 646-873-6528.

About American Pickers
Cineflix Inc. produces a documentary series called “American Pickers” which explores the fascinating world of antique ‘picking’. The fourth season premiered in December 2011 on the History Channel.

The high profile show follows two of the most skilled pickers in the business ‘Mike Wolfe’ and ‘Frank Fritz’ as they embark on an epic road trip across the US. The show offers a fascinating insight into what it’s like to be the men on the ground who are on the frontlines of the antique industry. The show follows the pickers in their truck as they go on a mission in search of America’s most fascinating and valuable antiques - treasures that have been long forgotten in junkyards and barns across the country. The team tracks down unique and interesting items from motorcycles, classic cars and bicycles to one-of-a-kind vintage memorabilia.

The series follows the highs and lows of the trade as our team gets their hands dirty in the search of weird and wonderful hidden treasures. The show examines how determination and amazing instincts drive the pickers to salvage the good junk from the bad junk. On the adventure our team meets fascinating characters along the way each with a story to tell about the history of their collection and their own lives. Mike and Frank bring the past to life and recycle America as they go. On the way, we explore how our pickers strike the ultimate deal and discover just what it takes to renovate and re-sell a newly found antique in a competitive market.

Certified SC Winter Farmers Market

2012-01-04T16:48:00.014-05:00

While the South Carolina State Farmers Market is at its peak during the summer months, the winter months also offer a wide variety of locally grown produce to enjoy. There is something always in season at the SC State Farmers Market!

So to celebrate the wonderful winter bounty here in South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture and the SC Specialty Food Association are holding an indoor Winter Certified SC Farmers Market at the SC State Farmers Market, 3483 Charleston Highway in West Columbia. Starting this Saturday, January 7, and running each Saturday until the end of March, visitors can enjoy shopping for locally grown in the warm and cozy comfort of the Corbett Building at the market. The doors are open from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Vendors will be on hand selling collards, cabbage, sweet potatoes, and other seasonal produce.

The market vendors will offer cured bacon, 100% grass fed beef, and eggs. Other items unique to South Carolina that will be offered include: goat milk soap, shea butter, and body scrubs; soy candles, SC – made painted crafts and jewelry; gourmet salt, rubs, baking and dessert mixes; honey, syrup, sauces, dips, jams, and jellies; cookies, cakes, breads and other baked goods; peanut brittle; frozen blueberries and pears; wine and juice; and other specialty products. Invite your friends and family and come shop at the market to take advantage of some wonderful Certified SC Grown produce.

Contributed by guest blogger, Stephen Hudson, public information coordinator at South Carolina Department of Agriculture. Keep up with South Carolina Department of Agriculture on Facebook and Twitter.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey ® Circus Sweepstakes

2012-01-03T16:28:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again for family fun in Columbia, as the circus returns to Colonial Life Arena this month, January 19-23, 2012! One lucky family could win 4 tickets to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey ® Circus, 4 tickets to EdVenture Children’s Museum, 4 Sally Salamander or Famously Hot t-shirts, plus dinner at Mellow Mushroom Columbia.

You don't want to miss Fully Charged at Colonial Life Arena, the all-new surge of circus entertainment from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, where megawatts of thrills explode off of the arena floor with breathtaking dare-devilry, amazing stunts and never-before-seen performances that energize children of all ages! Get Fully Charged Up by the power of performers! Experience unbridled horse power, unparalleled superhuman power, and pachyderm power that generates mega-tons of fun! Feel the electro-magnetism of Tabayara, the world’s most thrilling animal trainer. Audiences will feel the earth shake when the strongman lifts large, cumbersome telephone poles, which weigh up to half a ton, and twirl them above their heads while acrobats balance atop. The Human Fuse, Brian Miser, sets the arena sky ablaze as he rockets through the air from his self-made human crossbow. You can only experience this current of excitement at Ringling Bros. Fully Charged! Get your tickets for high-voltage fun today -- and don’t miss the All Access Pre-Show, which starts one-hour prior to showtime and is available to all ticket-holders. See animals up close, visit with performers, get autographs, try on costumes, and enjoy the circus fun.

Purchase tickets or view sweepstakes details and enter to win on Facebook, Twitter or online.

Historic Columbia Offers Free Candlelight Tours and $5 Carriage Rides

2011-12-15T15:29:00.000-05:00

Free Candlelight Tours and $5 Carriage Rides
Offered by Historic Columbia Foundation
Thursday, December 15 and Friday, December 16, 2011
Plus Free Musical Entertainment!

In December 1967, Historic Columbia Foundation offered candlelight tours of the Robert Mills House for the very first time. Forty-four years later, candlelight tours remain an annual tradition for many families in the Midlands. In honor of the Foundation’s 50th Anniversary, Candlelight Tours will be offered free of charge this year on December 15 and 16, 2011 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. Carriage rides from Columbia Carriage Works add to the fun - offered for just $5. Those interested in taking a Candlelight Tour of the Robert Mills House, Hampton-Preston Mansion or Mann-Simons Site are encouraged to meet at the Robert Mills House, 1616 Blanding Street.

Free musical entertainment will also be included in Candlelight Tour festivities. On Thursday night’s tour (12/15), Bill Sloan will be playing guitar and singing holiday and traditional music outside of the Robert Mills House. On Friday (12/16), the Columbia Baroque Soloists will be headquartered on the porch of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.

Candlelight Tours are just one of the many holiday events hosted by Historic Columbia Foundation. Other holiday events at Historic Columbia Foundation include the Foundation’s Annual Holiday Tours (through December 31), FREE Toy Roadshow (December 17), Breakfast with Victorian Santa Claus (December 17), Dollar Sundays (December 18), and Early Adventures, a program designed especially for private groups of children (month-long, ages 3-8 years old). More information at historiccolumbia.org.

About Historic Columbia Foundation:
In November 1961, a small group of individuals intent on saving the Ainsley Hall House from demolition, officially incorporated as the Historic Columbia Foundation. Over the next five decades the organization, which was founded on the premise of preservation and education, would take on the stewardship of seven historic properties in Richland County. Today, the organization serves as a model for local preservation efforts and interpretation of local history. The 50th Anniversary year of Historic Columbia Foundation (which officially began on November 13, 2011) will include a variety of community celebratory events.

Visit their website for details or keep up with them on Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube.

Nickelodeon Theatre "Green on Screen" Series Kick-Off

2011-12-05T17:32:00.003-05:00

To announce its Green on Screen Community Film Forum series, The Nickelodeon Theatre, South Carolina’s only non-profit art house theater, will present a screening of the new 30-minute documentary River Time Tuesday, December 6 at 5:30 pm at 937 Main Street.

Green on Screen is designed to facilitate a community-wide conversation through film about the impact we have on the environment. Officially beginning in January 2012 and running through June, Green on Screen is a six-month series of films and conversations about sustainability in a modern world. Several special events are also lined up and the Nickelodeon Theatre will offer passes for the entire series.

River Time inspired South Carolina writer and naturalist John Lane’s new book My Paddle to the Sea. The story is about Lane’s epic canoe journey from his tiny backyard creek in Spartanburg, S.C. all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. During the 300-mile, 11-day trip with friends through South Carolina, Lane set sets out to fulfill his lifelong dream and complete a book depicting his journey.

Along his travels, Lane encounters the history and nature of undiscovered areas of South Carolina; embarking upon ancient Indian artifacts and native flora and fauna as well as the reality of man’s impact on the environment while navigating through unexpected garbage piles and other pollutants.

Stay tuned to nickelodeon.org for a full schedule of Green on Screen films and events.

For more information about the Nickelodeon Theatre or the Move the Nick capital campaign, visit nickelodeon.org or movethenick.org. Follow the Nickelodeon Theatre on Facebook or Twitter.

Contributed by guest blogger, Katie Alice Walker, on behalf of Nickelodeon Theatre.

Lake Carolina's 8th Annual Harborside Lights

2011-11-30T14:44:00.035-05:00

Twinkling lights and grand luminaries shine bright on Lake Carolina!

Lake Carolina’s 8th annual Harborside Lights celebration brings holiday tradition and family fun together. On Saturday, December 10, 2011 hundreds of visitors will come to Town Center and the Village Green to experience the holiday magic. Photos with Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, thousands of lights and decorated trees, warm food, live music and holiday shopping take center stage.

Gather around the dozens of decorated trees, sit cozy by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and listen to the songs of carolers as they echo through the village. Treat yourself to sugar cookies and egg nog and curl up under the stars (and a blanket) while enjoying a holiday outdoor movie.

Harborside Lights is a FREE event and open to the public. Bring your friends, your family, even your dog and come experience a holiday tradition like no other at Lake Carolina.

Lake Carolina is located at 100 Lake Carolina Boulevard, in Columbia, South Carolina. Complete details can be found at lakecarolina.com.

*Pick up your Christmas tree on the way out with a tree from Toe River Lodge.

Keep up with Lake Carolina's Harborside Lights on Facebook and Twitter for event promotions, giveaways and holiday festival highlights.

Contributed by guest blogger, Sandra Parkhurst, on behalf of Lake Carolina.

Red Hot Chili Peppers coming to Columbia, SC

2011-11-28T22:16:00.001-05:00

Red Hot Chili Peppers will launch the North American leg of their I’m With You World Tour this January with four concerts in the Carolinas. They will play for the first time at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC on Saturday, January 28, 2012, with special guest Santigold.

Tickets go on sale and will be available for purchase beginning Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 10:00 am online at LiveNation.com and coloniallifearena.com, by phone at 1-877-489-2849, or in person at the Colonial Life Arena Box Office and Play It Again Sports in Columbia.

Make a weekend of your concert experience and book a hotel room at the Columbia Marriott Hotel. It's going to be a busy weekend in Columbia with the World Beer Festival next door at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, so you'll want to book early!

UPDATE: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2012

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS RESCHEDULE COLONIAL LIFE ARENA DATE
FOR UPCOMING U.S. TOUR DUE TO SINGER ANTHONY KIEDIS FOOT INJURIES

Red Hot Chili Peppers regret to announce that they must postpone the start of their upcoming U.S. tour due to multiple foot injuries sustained by lead singer Anthony Kiedis. Kiedis recently underwent surgery to remove a crushed sesamoid bone and correct a detached flexor tendon in his foot and is expected to make a full recovery.

Tickets to the sold out Colonial Life Arena original date (1/28/12) will be honored for the rescheduled date (4/7/12).

The band is touring in support of the current Grammy-nominated album I'm With You.

The new date is as follows:
Colonial Life Arena - Columbia SC - Saturday, April 7, 2012 (4/7/12)

If you already made plans to stay in Columbia and made a hotel reservation for the weekend, consider purchasing tickets to the World Beer Festival.

Keep up with the latest on upcoming concerts and shows coming to Colonial Life Arena on Facebook and Twitter.

10 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with Historic Columbia Foundation

2011-11-15T14:29:00.001-05:00

1. Holiday House Tours:

Robert Mills House

Hampton-Preston Mansion

Mann-Simons Cottage

Homeschool Fridays: Historic Holidays

Robert Mills House & Garden

Reservations are suggested

Historic Columbia Foundation

Scout Day: Historic Holidays

Reservations required

Family Day: Historic Holidays

Reservations requested

FREE Choir Showcase and $1 Tours

Second Sunday Stroll: Guided Walking Tour of Main Street

Second Sunday Strolls

Reservations requested

reservations@historiccolumbia.org

Breakfast with Victorian Santa

Hampton-Preston Mansion

Reservations required

reservations@historiccolumbia.org

FREE Candlelight Tours and $5 Carriage Rides

Robert Mills House

Hampton-Preston Mansion

Mann-Simons Site

FREE Toy Roadshow

Seibels House & Garden

Dollar Sunday Admission

Robert Mills House

Hampton-Preston Mansion

Mann-Simons Site

BONUS

About

Historic Columbia Foundation

historiccolumbia.org

Keep up with Historic Columbia Foundation on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

Half-Price Burger Night at Pawleys Front Porch

2011-11-08T13:59:00.000-05:00

It’s Tuesday night. Where are you eating?!

If I were you, I'd be headed to Pawleys Front Porch in Five Points. Tuesday night is half price burger night from 5:00 to 7:00 pm (dine-in only). If you're a college student like me, or just a frugal person, any restaurant that offers a deal this good is a hit. Pawleys Front Porch offers great food at a reasonable price.

You may have seen Pawleys Front Porch featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives on the Food Network. Pawleys is known for its delicious cooked-to-order burgers named after cities on the South Carolina coast -- my favorite being the Kiawah, a burger with portabella mushroom, red peppers, and melted brie.

I like to start off a dinner at Pawleys with a fried pickle appetizer. Seven bucks may seem a little steep for this appetizer -- but you haven't tasted it yet. Being born and raised a Southern girl, I love fried pickles and can tell you the good from the bad. I don't know how they do it, but Pawleys makes the perfect combination of batter to pickle ratio -- not too heavy, not too light. It's also a large enough portion to share with at least four friends, so pass them around! Little known secret: You can bring in five cans of food to donate to Harvest Hope Food Bank and receive this appetizer for free. Free food, and helping a good cause. A win-win.

After you finish your appetizer, it's time for a burger. Last Tuesday, I opted for the Hugo, filled with chili, relish and American cheese. All burgers are served with a giant steak knife stuck in the top -- and believe me, you'll need it to cut your burger in half. Another great aspect of Pawleys is that they're not short on portions!

In addition to the delicious food, the atmosphere makes it a great place to hang out. Personally, I love the playlist. Kings Of Leon, The Kooks, A Day to Remember and Blink-182 are all commonly played throughout the restaurant.

Some Tips:
• Come early! Half-price burger night is no secret to Columbia locals. Be prepared for a wait, and make sure you arrive before 7:00 pm to get the half price deal.
• If you're a vegetarian, don't worry. Though your meal won't be discounted, there are options for you. Don't let the popularity of the burgers at Pawleys keep you from trying other delicious foods, such as their Fried Green Tomato and Pimento Cheese BLT Sandwich (sans bacon, of course!)

Let us know what you think of this Famously Hot restaurant. Happy eating!

Keep up with Pawleys Front Porch on Facebook and Twitter.

Contributed by guest blogger, Meredith Almond, a sophomore at the University of South Carolina from Denver, NC. Meredith is studying public relations and entertainment management and one day hopes to pursue a career in the music industry. She is the operations manager for Student Gamecock Television (SGTV), as well as a member of its public affairs team. In her free time, Meredith loves reading, spending time outdoors, and playing soccer.

Famously Hot New Year's Eve Celebration

2011-11-02T18:24:00.000-04:00

Columbia’s Main Street will be the setting for a New Year's Eve celebration like the city has never seen before.

According to Mayor Steve Benjamin, this will be South Carolina's New Year's Eve event and a truly memorable night for everyone. “We’re excited about hosting what in years to come will make South Carolina host to the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the Southeast,” said Mayor Benjamin.

Join us the morning of Thursday, November 3, 2011 at 11:00 am for a press conference with Mayor Benjamin at Boyd Plaza, located outside the Columbia Museum of Art to kick off excitement for this incredible event.

The event, coined The Famously Hot New Year, is co-sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, Cohn Construction Services, Wells Fargo, Budweiser of Columbia, Ben Arnold Beverage Company, Center City Partnership, WIS-TV, WXRY, Inner City Broadcasting and Post No Bills, to name a few.

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, George Clinton, and his group P-Funk will headline with regional and local acts including Josh Roberts and The Hinges opening. There will also be fireworks, an ESPN Zone so you don’t miss a minute of the New Year’s Eve college bowl games, and a one-of-a-kind Palmetto Tree and Crescent moon display during the midnight countdown. Also, don’t forget to visit "Resolution Row" featuring businesses and organizations that can help patrons achieve their New Year's Resolutions in the coming year.

Get excited about ringing in the New Year as this Famously Hot celebration promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience on South Carolina's Main Street. Here are more details about the event:

• The setting of the celebration will be Main Street between Hampton and Taylor Streets
• FREE general admission
• A limited number of tickets available for entry to the "The Crescent Lounge" inside 1441 Main Street for $100 per person
• Gates open at 7:30 pm on December 31, 2011
• Live music and vendors starting at 8:00 pm
• Free parking
• Alert Cab sponsored by Budweiser of Columbia

The event will be covered live on co-sponsor WIS television, beginning with the 11:00 pm newscast on New Year's Eve. Gates will close at 1:30 am on January 1, 2012.

Residents throughout the state and the Southeast are encouraged to attend with friends and neighbors to enjoy some Famously Hot hospitality on South Carolina's Main Street.

Hotel packages will be available beginning November 7, 2011 at columbiacvb.com/newyears.

Last Minute Halloween Costume and Event Guide

2011-10-29T13:45:00.001-04:00

Are you a serial procrastinator (or cereal killer - haha) or have you searched high and low trying to find the perfect costume? Well, Halloween weekend is upon us and it's time to get it together before the party. Here's a list of shops -- from costumes to consignment to accessories -- to help you in your search. Tracie Broom has some excellent tips for Halloween thrifting and a Style Spooktacular Contest where you could win an iPad from Goodwill for the craftiest costume. If you don't want to spend any money, go to the Thriller / Zombie flash mob and get zombified for free. Happy hunting!

Hipwazee

Revente

Halloween Express- West Columbia

Halloween Express- Northeast Columbia

Halloween Express - Harbison

Goodwill

Party City

Cosmo’s Hats and Wigs

Pack Rats

Looking for something to do? After you've found your costume, the most difficult decision you'll have to make is which party or event to attend. Here's a complete list of Halloween themed events, performances, haunted houses, and parties on our calendar of events. Be sure to take advantage of this weekend's Groupon for Monday night's Halloween Night Bash at 701 CCA. I'm super excited I get to judge the cool costumes at this one. See you there!

What's All the Bark About at EdVenture?

2011-10-27T23:13:00.000-04:00

Find out what all the bark is about on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at the grand opening of Wags & Whiskers Exhibit at EdVenture Children’s Museum!

As they cut the ribbon at 9:30 am on November 5, 2011 for their grand opening, unleash your imagination and take on the role of pet owner, veterinarian or groomer in this new permanent exhibit emphasizing responsible pet care, from the choice of your family pet to the best way to care for animals. Diagnose ailments, choose the appropriate treatment for your furry friend and learn the importance of spaying and neutering.

Join EdVenture for a fun-filled day featuring paws and claws arts and crafts as well as presentations from experts on topics including spaying and neutering, finding the right pet for your family and the importance of nutrition for their lifestyle.

Do you have a photo of your child and their furry friend being irresistibly cute? Wags & Whiskers Exhibit has a pet photo contest. Email the picture of your furry friend and child to photos@edventure.org, and then return later to their Facebook page to vote in their EdVenture fan page photo gallery set up for this contest. The cat and dog voted the cutest will receive a doggy or kitty gift basket ($150 value) from Mast General Store at the Wags & Whiskers grand opening on November 5! Finalists will be selected based on the number of "likes" their photo receives. Participants do not have to be present to win, so click often! Voting will be closed at 5:00 pm on October 30, 2011.

Wags & Whiskers is proudly sponsored by The Animal Mission, South Carolina Veterinary Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, and Toni and Sam Elkins.

Be sure to "like" EdVenture Children's Museum on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Jump Start the Holidays with Historic Columbia Foundation's Holiday Greenery Sale

2011-10-27T23:06:00.000-04:00

Have you heard about the Garden Revitalization project at the Hampton-Preston Mansion? The 4-acre garden that once graced the Hampton-Preston Mansion grounds was a destination for travelers to Columbia beginning in the 1840s. Regrettably, the gardens were destroyed by 1947 to clear the block for commercial development.

Historic Columbia Foundation is planning a fundraiser, the Garden Revitalization project, to benefit new gardens for the historic grounds of the Hampton-Preston Mansion. The gardens will include a fountain garden, welcome garden and children’s garden.

The Holiday Greenery Sale is to kick-start the project. For as little as $10, folks can share in a piece of history by making a Greenery Sale purchase at scholidaygreenery.com by October 31, 2011. Orders may be picked up at the Robert Mills Carriage House on December 1, 2011 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

What's 'The Buzz' in Columbia this week?

2011-10-21T15:31:00.001-04:00

The Buzz, presented by Columbia Opportunity Resource and WXRY Radio 99.3 FM, will tell you what's 'famously hot' in Columbia, SC. Here are some highlights for the week:

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21:

Enjoy your lunch break outdoors with Scarecrows in the Garden. Take a stroll through the historic grounds of the Robert Mills House at 1616 Blanding Street to view uniquely-crafted scarecrows from businesses, schools, families, and organizations. Free and open to the public through October 31. Hours are Sunday 1 to 5, and Tuesday through Saturday 10 to 4.

The South Carolina State Fair continues with games, food, and fun for everyone until Sunday! Information and tickets at scstatefair.org

Take your lunch break at the Columbia Museum of Art to enjoy the Artist Salon Series with local artist Jeff Donovan at noon. The gallery talk is free with membership or admission.While you’re downtown, take a moment to peruse the goodies sold by local vendors at Fall Main Street Marketplaceon Boyd Plaza at the corner of Hampton and Main Street. Pick up some fresh veggies, grab a bite to eat, and pick up handmade gifts for a friend, or yourself. Hours are 10 to 2.

Join Stage 5 Theatre at Dutch Square Mall for the South Carolina premiere of Spring Awakening, playing October 21st-30th. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20, and discounts are available for Military members with ID; students; and groups of 10 or more. For more information, visit http://mbfproductions.net/

In theatre, debuting at Trustus Theatre is August: Osage County, winner of the 2008 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award. Curtains are at 8 pm.

Nickelodeon Theatre presents The Future, the story of a thirty-something couple who, on deciding to adopt a stray cat, change their perspective on life, literally altering the course of time and testing their faith in each other and themselves.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22:
Buongiorno (bwohn-johr-noh)! The 4th annual Italian Festival and Bocce Tournament on Main Street from 10 to 10. Get a one-day passport to Italy with the fourth-annual Italian Festival and Bocce tournament, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 1400 Main Street. The event is free, and features live music, an Italian fresh market, children’s games, and more. Additional information at osiacolumbiasc.org/

Get whole family into the Halloween spirit with the "Tricks and Treats at the State Museum” from 11 to 4 today. Enjoy a Haunted Halloween Party, a haunted gallery scavenger hunt, balloon art, creepy crafts, and more! Activities are free with museum admission or membership. Come in costume and receive $1 OFF regular museum admission!

Interested in going green but need a little guidance? Check out the first-annual Columbia Carolina Green Fair noon to 6 at Finlay Park. You’ll learn practices, products, services and technologies available to help you love your mother (Earth). Admission is free. More information at carolinagreenfair.com/

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23:
Last call for funnel cakes! It’s the last day of the South Carolina State Fair, so load up your loved ones and head to the fairgrounds to enjoy a year’s worth of food, rides, exhibits and more!

From 1 to 5, take a stroll through the historic Robert Mills House grounds to view dozens of uniquely-crafted scarecrows. The exhibit showcases ghoulish, historical, and colorful scarecrows for all to enjoy free of charge.

Real life not scary enough for you these days? Then head over to the Hall of Horrors sponsored by The Cayce-West Columbia Jaycees. The madness is on from 5 to 9, and Fridays and Saturdays from 7 to 11. Tickets are 13 dollars, and proceeds benefit local charities. hallofhorrors.com

MONDAY, OCTOBER 24:
The Blythewood Farmers Market is open for business from 2 to 6pm. Partake in Certified SC local produce, crafts made from Blythewood cedar, baked goods and more! The market is at Blythewood Town Hall, one seven one Langford Road.

Do a Halloween dry run and take the kids to Boo at the Zoo at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Enjoy Frankenstein's Foam Zone, an eeky freaky DJ dance party and a trick-or-treat trail with candy. Tickets and information at riverbanks.org

Enjoy an evening out for the University of South Carolina Percussion Ensemble’s fall concert at the USC School of Music, 813 Assembly Street. Concert is at 7:30 and admission is free.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25:
The battle of the Carolinas continues as the South Carolina Gamecock men’s soccer team takes on the North Carolina Tarheels. Game time is 7:00 PM. Tickets and info at gamecocksonline.com.

Movies at McKissick continues its Southern culture film series tonight at 7 with A Face in the Crowd. Directed and produced by Elia Kazan and starring Andy Griffith, Patricia Neal, and Walter Matthau. In the plot, Griffith's character—a drunken drifter—is plucked out of a rural Arkansas jail to sing on a radio show. The film is at the McKissick Museum on the USC campus and admission is FREE, but seats are limited.

Find your rhythm at the Columbia Museum of Art with Experimental Percussion with Greg Stuart and Michael Pisaro. Doors at 6 and show at 7. Tickets are $10 or $8 for museum members.

The British are coming! The British are coming! It’s the 6th annual Black and White Ball hosted by the Contemporaries at Columbia Museum of Art 8 to midnight this Friday. Dress up in your 60’s best and go back in time to the days of The Beatles with the tribute band, The Return, enjoy a royal English cuisine, delight in Pimms cocktails or have a pint at the traditional pub. columbiacontemporaries.com

Contributed by guest blogger, Katherine Swartz, executive director of COR | Columbia Opportunity Resource and vice president of leadership development and community development of Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Columbia Opportunity Resource is an innovative volunteer-based 501 (c)(3) community development organization focused on engaging and connecting a new generation of Columbians to make our region a better place to live, learn, work and play.

Keep up with COR | Columbia Opportunity Resource on Facebook, Twitter (#TheBuzz) and their blog.

Who's the hottest chef in town?

2011-10-18T10:21:00.000-04:00

Find out tonight! The night has finally arrived for the 'Famously Hot Chef Showdown' at South Carolina State Fair. Don't miss this Iron-Chef style culinary competition showcasing the top three chefs in Columbia (Ricky Mollohan of Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe, Tim Peters of Motor Supply Company Bistro, and Mike Davis of Terra) in a 1 ½ hour competition that promises to have all the drama and thrills you would expect from a cooking competition. The chefs will battle it out live in front of fair goers and will be judged by a panel of guest judges to determine the ultimate winner of the Showdown.Finalists were selected by a public voting process through social media and in-person.

Celebrity and former White House Executive Chef Walter Scheib will be the master of ceremonies for the first annual Famously Hot Chef Showdown and will act as one of four judges who will crown Columbia’s first 'Famously Hot' chef.

The competition will take place Tuesday, October 18, 2011 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the WIS stage and is presented by South Carolina State Fair, in partnership with General Sales, WIS TV, South Carolina Hospitality Association, the Greater Columbia Restaurant Association, the American Culinary Federation Midlands Chapter and the All-Local Farmers' Market.

Keep up with the Famously Hot Chef Showdown on Facebook and Twitter.

Celebrate Congaree National Park's 35th Anniversary October 18

2011-10-17T20:45:00.003-04:00

The public is invited to join the staff at Congaree National Park in celebration of its 35th anniversary as a national park unit. South Carolina's only national park will celebrate with cake and a showing of ETV's documentary about the creation of the park, "Roots in the River." Young visitors are also invited to complete the Congaree National Park Junior Ranger program during the celebration. The event will take place at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center from 12:00-12:30 pm on Tuesday, October 18, 2011.

After two decades of advocacy by private citizens to protect the largest intact tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States, President Gerald Ford signed Public Law 94-545, authorizing the establishment of Congaree Swamp National Monument on October 18, 1976. The park's designation changed to Congaree National Park in 2003. An international biosphere reserve and federally-designated Wilderness area, Congaree National Park serves as a classroom and laboratory for visitors, students, and scientists from around the world. Visitors can explore 26 miles of hiking trails, 2.5 miles of boardwalk, a wilderness canoe trail, campground, and visitor center, each providing unique experiences.

The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is open 9:00 am-5:00 pm, 7 days per week from October 1-March 31 each year and 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Sunday-Thursday and 9:00 am-7:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from April 1-September 30. The facility is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Visitors are encouraged to explore Congaree at any time, as the park's grounds and trails remain open 24 hours, 7 days per week.

For information visit their website or call 803-776-4396.

Find the perfect pumpkin in Columbia, SC

2011-10-15T13:59:00.000-04:00

Hunting for the perfect pumpkin or photo opp with your little ones this fall? We've put together a list of farmers markets and pumpkin patches around the region, with a little help from our Columbia, SC Facebook fans and Twitter followers. We even spotted some fabulous glass pumpkins on Facebook and had the pleasure of seeing them in person, following a glass-blowing demonstration at One Eared Cow Glass.

One Eared Cow Glass - Columbia

Clinton Sease Farm and Corn Maze - Lexington

Harmon’s Tree Farm - Gilbert

2011 Sandhill Fall Festival – Northeast Columbia

South Carolina State Farmers Market – West Columbia

All Local Farmers Market – Downtown Columbia

Cayce Farmers Market – Cayce/West Columbia

Kershaw County Farmers Market – Camden

Northeast Farmers Market – Northeast Columbia

Sandhill Farmers Market – Northeast Columbia

Town of Lexington Farmers Market - Lexington

Mount Hebron United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch – Cayce/West Columbia

Northeast United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch – Northeast Columbia

Wesley Memorial United Methodist Pumpkin Patch - Columbia

Trenholm Road United Methodist Pumpkin Patch - Columbia

Did we miss any? Help us complete our list! Let us know in the comments, add it to the Facebook thread, or shoot us an email at webmaster@columbiaauthority.com.

What's 'The Buzz' in Columbia this week?

2011-10-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

The Buzz, presented by Columbia Opportunity Resource and WXRY Radio 99.3 FM, will tell you what's happening in Famously Hot Columbia, SC! Here are some highlights for the week:

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13 :

The South Carolina State Fair is in town! Buy tickets or plan your visit by booking one of the SC State Fair hotel packages.
scstatefair.org

Boo at the Zoo is happening this weekend! Bring your family to enjoy a night of wearing costumes and enjoying Halloween fun at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden!

If you have some free time during your lunch break, then head over to the Columbia Museum of Art between 10am to 2pm for the Fall Main Street Marketplace. Each Friday for this month, local vendors will be selling various works of photography, books, and other great crafts as well as local produce.

If you are a fan of German heritage and food, then be sure to keep the next few days of your calendar clear! From October 14 thru the 15, the Incarnation Lutheran Church is hosting Oktoberfest with great dishes and entertainment! oktoberfestcolumbia.com

Columbia Classical Ballet will host the performance of Swan Lake.
Tickets and showtimes:
columbiaclassicalballet.org

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15:

Ready to be terrified?! The Cayce West Columbia Jaycees are now hosting their Hall of Horrors Haunted House!
Ticket prices and event times: hallofhorrors.com/

Do you have children that ever wondered how the rides of an amusement park work? Then they would love a trip to EdVenture Children's Museum featuring the exhibit "Amusement Park Science”!

If you ever wanted to see "Grease" live on stage, now is your chance! The Richland School District Two Auditorium will host this musical Broadway hit tonight and tomorrow.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16:

If you enjoy visiting museums, then take some time today to get this special deal! Dollar Sundays at Historic House Museums, Historic Columbia Foundation offers their patrons a guided tour of one of their historic houses for just a dollar.

The South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum is featuring their exhibit "Through Fiery Trials: Religion in the Civil War.” This exhibit features the role religion played for the soldiers who fought in this epic war.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17:
Ever wondered how technology works to help us see what goes on around us, especially when viewed under a microscope? The McKissick Museum of USC is featuring their exhibit Imagining the Invisible: Challenging Visitors to Think About Scientific Imaging.

Stop by Sandhill for this year’s Sandhill Fall Festival! You and your children could enjoy the pumpkin patch, hay rides, and a haunted trail!

Don't forget the South Carolina State Fair is still in town!

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18:

Visit Historic Columbia this month as they feature a great Halloween exhibit: Scarecrows in the Garden Contest! Get a chance to cast your vote for the best looking scarecrow!

Cheer on the South Carolina Gamecocks at the South Carolina Gamecocks vs. North Carolina State mens soccer team at 7:00 pm.

And still the terror goes on!! The Cayce West Columbia Jaycees are now hosting their Hall of Horrors Haunted House!

Contributed by guest blogger Jill Areheart on behalf of COR | Columbia Opportunity Resource. Columbia Opportunity Resource is an innovative volunteer-based 501 (c)(3) community development organization focused on engaging and connecting a new generation of Columbians to make our region a better place to live, learn, work and play.

Keep up with COR | Columbia Opportunity Resource on Facebook, Twitter and their blog.

SC State Fair Hotel Packages + Hot Deals

2011-10-11T21:30:00.000-04:00

The aroma of Fiske fries, elephant ears and cotton candy is in the air... That can only mean one thing: South Carolina State Fair kicks off this week! The Palmetto State's largest event runs from October 12-23, 2011 this year. Make a weekend (or week day) of your fair experience with FREE general admission tickets and hot deals on hotel packages from $89 to $129 at Clarion Hotel Downtown Columbia, Courtyard by Marriott Downtown at USC, Columbia Marriott Hotel, and DoubleTree by Hilton. A limited number of hotel packages are available, so be sure to reserve yours before they fill up.

There are plenty of reasons to extend your stay, from the 'famously hot' cuisine at our local restaurants to our top attractions, museums, world-class zoo, and South Carolina's only national park. See what else is happening while you're in town on Columbia's top calendar of events. EdVenture Children's Museum even has a special admission offer.

Packages and special offers are available at columbiacvb.com/scstatefair.

'Find Your Happy' at the fair and share! Post your photos and videos on our Facebook wall, tweet them on Twitter or add them to our pool on Flickr.

Join us and Social Media Club Columbia for a 'Famously Hot' SC State Fair Tweet Up!

2011-10-11T12:09:00.000-04:00

Want to be first in line to preview what's hot at South Carolina State Fair this year? We've partnered with Social Media Club Columbia and South Carolina State Fair for a 'Famously Hot' fair tweet up! Meet us at the rocket when gates open at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, October 12, 2011.

The first 20 people to meet us at the rocket will receive 8 free ride tickets and the first 10 of those will also receive a voucher for a 'famously hot' t-shirt of your choice. All we ask in return is that when you 'Find Your Happy' at the fair, you share the fun everyone else. Post your photos and videos on our Facebook wall, tweet them on Twitter or add them to our pool on Flickr.

We'll wait at the rocket until 3:20 pm or until we run out of free tickets and t-shirts, whichever happens first. If you arrive later and want to meet up with us, just tweet @columbiasc and we'll let you know where we are.

Admission is just $1 on opening day and parking is free in all fair lots.

If you hang around, the opening act at the PEPSI Grandstand is G Love & Special Sauce with The Movement at 7:00 pm for $10.

Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/columbiasc

Twitter (@columbiasc):
http://www.twitter.com/columbiasc

Flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/1225199@N24/pool

Here's video from our last tweet up at SC State Fair. Think you can hang?

Lake Carolina's 9th Annual Wine & Food Festival

2011-10-04T11:29:00.001-04:00

Taste the food, drink the wine and feel the music at this year’s Wine & Food Festival!

Savor the flavors of fine wine and gourmet cuisine at Lake Carolina’s 9th Annual Wine & Food Festival on Saturday, October 22, from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Join award winning chefs, local restaurants, and wine vendors in a beautiful outdoor setting while sampling tasty bites and sipping fine wines. Over 15 wineries, distributors, food vendors and restaurants will participate and several hundred are expected to attend and delight in the offerings. Food demonstrations will take place during the day featuring culinary experts from Columbia. Come see what’s cooking. Not only will they feature exceptional wines and delicious food, but craft beer vendors will also be pouring their seasonal brews.

Experience the culinary culture of the South. Fresh ingredients, local flavor, and harmonizing finishes in a picturesque park-like setting.

Lake Carolina is proud to contribute all proceeds from the 2011 Wine & Food Festival to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Columbia, SC. The Ronald McDonald House aids sick children by providing a comfortable "home away from home" where families can rest, enjoy home-cooked meals, meet other families in similar situations and be near their child, regardless of their ability to pay.

Attendees of Lake Carolina’s Wine & Food Festival will also have the opportunity to bid on special items at the Silent Auction including entertainment tickets, travel destinations, fine art and an assortment of other items.

Tickets are on sale now at LakeCarolinaWineandFood.com. An advance ticket purchase of $25 will get you through the gate and includes a commemorative wine glass, wine tastings and live entertainment by the Great Society Band. Bring cash for food sampling, beer tasting and other quality goods. Held outside on the Village Green at Lake Carolina, this event brings in some of the area’s best wineries and Columbia’s favorite cuisine and award-winning chefs.

Lovers of wine, food and beer welcome!

THE DETAILS:
$25 per ticket, must be 21yrs. of age or older. Includes parking, event entrance, a commemorative wine glass and wine tastings.

THE WHERE:
Lake Carolina Village Green, 100 Lake Carolina Boulevard, Columbia, SC 29229

THE WHEN:
Saturday, October 22, 2011 1pm – 5pm

THE HOW:
Buy Tickets at LakeCarolinaWineandFood.com or at the Lake Carolina Sales Center.

Keep up with Lake Carolina's Wine & Food Festival on Facebook and Twitter for event promotions, giveaways and festival highlights.

Contributed by guest blogger, Sandra Parkhurst, on behalf of Lake Carolina.

Get 'Famously Hot & Cocky' this weekend!

2011-09-30T11:19:00.000-04:00

Are you ready for the #10 South Carolina Gamecocks to battle the Auburn Tigers this weekend? We are!! Kick off is scheduled for 3:30 pm at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, SC and we'll be out there with some "Famously Hot & Cocky" freebies on game day.

Here's what we have lined up for Saturday's game:

STUDENT SECTION:
- Famously Hot & Cocky scroll signs to cheer on the Gamecocks
- Famously Hot & Cocky tattoos

AROUND THE STADIUM:
- Famously Hot fans to help you cool off with some special offers
- Famously Hot & Cocky stickers

ON THE FIELD:
- Cocky in his Famously Hot sweatband
- Cheerleaders with Famously Hot & Cocky t-shirts

COLUMBIA REGIONAL VISITORS CENTER:
- Famously Hot & Cocky t-shirts for $12 (check in on Foursquare for a $5 discount). Also available to be customized on Zazzle at varying price points.
- Famously Hot & Cocky tattoos for FREE
- Famously Hot & Cocky car magnets for $5

Be sure to stop by the Visitors Center this week before Satuday's big game to pick up some gear! Columbia Regional Visitors Center is located on the upper level of Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in the Vista. Visitors Center hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm.

Looking for things to do or a place to stay while you're here for the game? Drop us a line on Facebook (Columbia, SC) or Twitter (@columbiasc).

View photos from last year's game day festivities on Facebook.

Viva La Vista!

2011-09-25T11:49:00.001-04:00

Viva La Vista, Columbia's Congaree Vista's annual epicurean event, promises a full afternoon of tasting from the best restaurants in the Vista following the Doctor's Care 5K Dash to the Vista on Sunday, September 25, 2011.

The Vista has long been known as Columbia's arts and entertainment district, and Viva La Vista is a showcase of the neighborhood's restaurants. Who doesn't love to sample different foods by great chefs and restaurants? And with the addition of the Doctor's Care 5K Dash to the Vista, and family friendly activities, it's sure to be a great afternoon and evening block party in the Vista, hosted by Congaree Vista Guild.

The Lincoln Street canopy on both sides of Gervais Street will be lined with chefs from more than 25 Vista restaurants preparing food and offering lots of tasy, affordable bites. From sushi to steaks, tapas to cupcakes, Viva La Vista has something to suit everyone's palate. Each restaurant will offer menu items ranging from one to five tokens. Tokens cost $1 each and will be available for purchase at several locations along Lincoln Street the day of the festival, or avoid lines and purchase tokens in advance at several Vista restaurants. Visit vivalavistasc.com for a complete list.

Viva La Vista has quickly become a signature event for the Vista and Columbia, and in it's fourth year, the inaugural Doctors Care 5K Dash to the Vista will take runners through the Vista at 10:00 am before the festival kicks off at noon.

In addition to a full lineup of bands playing all afternoon, families will enjoy Lunch Money, a popular children's band, as well as several other family-friendly activities.

Viva La Vista also always gives visitors the chance to sample dishes from Vista restaurants they've been meaning to try, as well as an opportunity ity to try tasting portions of old favorite dishes from Vista chefs and restaurants. It's a casual afternoon with friends, family and lots of great food.

For more information about the Doctor's Care 5K Dash to the Vista, Viva La Vista and the festival's participating restaurants and chefs, visit vivalavistasc.com.

Contributed by guest blogger, Katie Alice Walker, on behalf of Congaree Vista Guild.

Voting is Open for Columbia's 'Famously Hot Chef Showdown'

2011-09-16T15:02:00.001-04:00

South Carolina State Fair, in partnership with General Sales, WIS TV, South Carolina Hospitality Association, the Greater Columbia Restaurant Association, the American Culinary Federation Midlands Chapter and the All Local Farmers Market invite the public to vote on their favorite Columbia area chefs for a chance to compete in the 'Famously Hot Chef Showdown' on October 18, 2011 on the WIS TV stage at the fair.

South Carolina State Fair has invited celebrity chef Walter Scheib, The American Chef and White House executive chef (1994-2005), to be the master of ceremonies and act as one of four judges who will crown Columbia’s first 'Famously Hot' chef in this Iron Chef style competition.

“The South Carolina State Fair is pleased to bring this chef showdown to Columbia and highlight the culinary talent in our community,” said Gary Goodman, SC State Fair general manager.

Restaurants and chefs will be chosen in a public voting process that runs from September 13-30, 2011. The voting will be primarily conducted through social media, where restaurants are encouraged to have patrons vote daily. The public will be able to cast votes in person at booths during Viva La Vista and SC State Fair.

Area restaurants and chefs competing in the voting process are:

1. Blue Marlin executive chef/general manager, Brian Dukes

2. Juniper chef/owner, Brandon Velie

3. Liberty Tap Room & Grill chef, Nathan Brick

4. Mint Julep Bistro & Lounge executive chef, Will Descy

5. Moe’s Grapevine Italian Restaurant chef/owner, Moe Baddourah

6. MoMo's Bistro executive chef, Andrew White

7. Motor Supply Company Bistro executive chef, Tim Peters

8. Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe executive chef/wwner, Ricky Mollohan

9. Rosso Trattoria Italia chef/wwner, Kristian Niemi

10. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse executive chef, Paul Cernansky

11. Saki Tumi Grill & Sushi Bar executive chef, Larry Thompson

12. Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel executive chef, Neil Goodwin

13. Terra chef/owner, Mike Davis

14. Tombo Grille executive chef, Steven Blitch

15. Villa Tronco executive chef, Nate Skipper

16. Virtu Restaurant and Bar chef, Jeff T. Niemeyer

On October 3, the top three chosen by the public will be announced by WIS TV and asked to participate in the 'Famously Hot Chef Showdown' on October 18. The public can vote online through the 'Favorite Picks' tab on the South Carolina State Fair Facebook page.

The 'Famously Hot Chef Showdown' is brought to you by South Carolina State Fair and is sponsored by General Sales. The event will be the first “Iron Chef" style culinary contest to be held at the South Carolina State Fair and will feature Columbia's own “Top Chefs” battling it out live in front of fair goers using commercial grade equipment. Contestants will be judged by former White House executive chef, Walter Scheib, and three other regional culinary celebrity chefs. After the conclusion of the competition, one of the three commercial grade kitchen set ups will be donated to a local charity for their use.

South Carolina State Fair is a self-supporting charitable organization dedicated to educating South Carolina’s young adults. For more information about South Carolina State Fair, visit scstatefair.org or get updates on Facebook and Twitter.

Hooray for Columbia's Greek Festival... Opa!

2011-09-16T12:04:00.001-04:00

Yesterday marked the opening of one of the most highly anticipated…in my opinion anyway…festivals in the capital city. Arriving shortly after the gates opened at 10:00 am, I was granted a golden ticket and entered the wonderful world of Columbia's Greek Festival. And by “golden ticket” I mean a map that indicated where the yummy eats were located.

Wanting to have the full experience of the entire festival on my hour lunch break, I decided to do a quick “lap before committing to a location” (Clueless fans, you're welcome).

I found some pretty necklaces, rings and fun jewels.

Unique purses…

And a children's ferris wheel. FUN!

After my lap around the vendors’ booths, it was time to get down to the real business of why I was there - the food! As I started heading toward the smells wafting in the air, I quickly noticed that everyone had the same idea I did about coming early. It was packed!!

What was a girl on a time crunch to do? Settling my emotions I walked up to the closest apron-clad volunteer and said, “Excuse me, ma'am, all I would like is baklava and spanakopeta. Do I have to wait in this line?” (Insert puppy dog face with a wink here). “Come this way honey,” was all I heard before being lead into the wonderful world of ….the inside dining area of the Greek Festival. (Side note: I must have overlooked this on my golden ticket. Whoops!) Glancing at the “Coffee Shop Pastries” sign and knowing I would be back to partake in those delights, I refocused on my new found friend and followed her all the way to the front of the "sides only" line. My spanakopeta and I were finally united!

Because one spanakopeta wasn't enough, I, in true double take fashion, made the quick decision to grab two, all the while knowing that two equaled four pieces of spanakopeta, as I jumped in line with my hands full of spinach/feta/fillo pastries and the biggest feta-filled Greek salad ever.

After a quick glance at my watch and realizing time was a-tickin', I ran past the baklava stand, grabbed a piece of the sweet treat and headed out the door, tickled pink to know that today was going to be the best lunch ever.

The festival runs through the weekend. Hours are Thursday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm and Sunday from noon to 8:00 pm. The festival is located at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on the corner of Sumter and Calhoun Streets.

Here's what to expect:

Greek Folk Dancing
Enjoy Greek Folk Dancing throughout the Greek Festival beginning Friday evening and all day Saturday and Sunday. The dancers wear authentic hand made costumes and perform various dances from different regions of Greece.

Greek Culture
Located in the Cultural Exhibit in the Main Building, video presentations and discussions of Greek Culture, History & Heritage, and Modern Greece will occur hourly from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Then again from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday.

Self Guided Church Tours
Visitors are invited to tour our new sanctuary during the following times: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. & 4:00 until 7:00 p.m.; Sunday 1:00 until 6:00 p.m. Modest dress required.

Special Features
Fun and Fables with AESOP by Patchwork Players Theatre Company. Performing Saturday at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and on Sunday at 2:00 p.m.

Live Greek Music Enjoy the Nick Demos Band and the Nick Trivelas Band, both inside and outside throughout the day and evening.

For more information about the festival visit columbiasgreekfestival.com or keep up with them on Facebook.

33rd Annual Baker & Baker Art of Music Series at Columbia Museum of Art

2011-09-16T11:37:00.000-04:00

The Columbia Museum of Art announces the 33rd Baker & Baker Art of Music Series 2011-2012 featuring innovative programs that showcase a cross-exploration of art, music and cultural history hosted by adjunct curator of music, Peter Hoyt. The fall season begins Sunday, September 25 at 7:00 p.m. with an unusual duo celebrating classic swing music. Tickets are $10 / $8 members and available in advance at columbiamuseum.org.

"The Art of Music series explores connections between the visual world and the sounds encountered in that world," Hoyt said. "Painters and musicians have always inspired each other, but the links between them have often been obscured by the passing of time. I'm looking forward to exploring these connections."

Hoyt creates dynamic musical programming relating to the art on view in the Museum galleries. Hoyt, who teaches music history at the University of South Carolina, specializes in the relationships between music and the arts. A specialist in the music of the late 18th century, Hoyt is a frequent speaker at the Mostly Mozart Festival at Lincoln Center in New York City.

The Art of Music Series aligns to the Museum's mission by connecting performances to the Museum's collection and exhibitions through these unique programs. The Baker & Baker Foundation, established by longtime museum supporters the late Lee J. Baker and David Baker, has sponsored the Baker & Baker Concert Series since 1986. The Museum is grateful for the Baker family's continuing sponsorship of this program.

An Evening of Classic, Swinging American Music
Sunday, September 25 | 7:00 pmEnjoy classic swing music in an unusual duo (two guitars and vocals) as Phil Flanigan and Hanna Richardson bring new sparkle to vintage material. Phil, a veteran of Benny Goodman's band, provides bass lines on the 6-string guitar and evokes the great Charlie Christian in his guitar solos. Hanna plays flawless time on the tenor guitar and sings with warmth, verve and wit. Hanna's approach to a song is warm and cool - warm of timbre, cool, casual and relaxed in delivery. They'll be performing classic, swinging American music from the great popular and jazz songwriters of the 1930s and 1940s. Together, they have the intimacy, delicacy, yet fullness of chamber music. And that indefinable thing called "swing."
Doors open at 6:00 pm.
Tickets $10/ $8 members.

The Art of Music: Allos Musica Trio
Tuesday, October 18 | 7:00 pm"Though the Arabic influence is unmistakable, the music's emotional clarity and lyrical grace is universal." -Chicago Reader Critic's Choice
The Allos Musica Trio plays original compositions, expert improvisations and a hybrid of traditional and contemporary Arabic music. The trio has performed residencies and concerts throughout Chicago and the Midwest and was the Ensemble in Residence for the MOMENTA Dance Company in November 2010. Doors open at 6:00 pm.
Tickets $10/ $8 for members.

Experimental Percussion with Greg Stuart and Michael Pisaro
Tuesday, October 25 | 7:00 pm"The American composer Michael Pisaro likes his music to develop as a slow-motion force, with adjustments of tone and pitch and instrumentation so long-brewing that you lose your awareness of the player's hand and the composer's will. He's into field recordings, sine waves and percussion, unusually played. Per Mr. Pisaro's instructions the percussionist Greg Stuart attacks metal by pinging, dropping, bowing - generally anything but playing with sticks or mallets." - The New York Times
Doors open at 6:00 pm.
Tickets $10/ $8 for members.

Lisztomania
Sunday, November 13 | 3:00 pm

Lisztomania features works by Franz Liszt to celebrating the 200th anniversary of his birth. Liszt's compositions for piano demonstrate remarkable ingenuity in terms of form, sonic landscapes, and technical requirements. This recital highlights a variety of his works, representing his Transcendental Etudes, Hungarian Rhapsodies, Années de pèlerinage (Years of Pilgrimage), and Schubert song transcriptions.Pianist and SC native, Ryan Smith regularly performs in a variety of settings, both as a solo and collaborative pianist. Over the past few years, he has appeared in recitals at the Palmetto Theatre, Piccolo Spoleto Festival, and Carnegie Hall, as well as many venues across the Southeast. His students have won awards at both the local and state level. Smith is completing his doctorate in Piano Performance at USC, where he coaches with Charles Fugo.

Free Admission.

General Museum Information:The Columbia Museum of Art is South Carolina's premier international art museum and houses a world-class collection of European and American art. Founded in 1950, the Museum opened its new building on Main Street in 1998 with 25 galleries. The collection includes masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo from the Samuel H. Kress Collection, porcelain and works by significant furniture and silver makers, as well as American, Asian, and modern and contemporary art.

Keep up with Columbia Museum of Art on Facebook and Twitter.

Historic Columbia Foundation 'Second Sunday Stroll' This Weekend

2011-09-09T15:49:00.000-04:00

Melrose Heights neighborhood in Columbia, SC was recently named one of the "Best Old House Neighborhoods in the Country" by the publishers of This Old House magazine. On September 11, 2011 at 2:00 p.m., Historic Columbia Foundation is offering a walking tour of this historic neighborhood as a part of its new “Second Sunday Strolls” program.

Founded in 1900, Melrose Heights features Tudor Revival, Craftsman, Colonial Revival, Cottage, Airplane Bungalow, Minimal Traditional, and Prairie style homes. A gallery of many of the homes in this historic neighborhood (with detailed descriptions) can be found on the Historic Columbia Foundation Facebook page.

Those interested in joining the guided tour may make a reservation by email at reservations@historiccolumbia.org, or by phone at (803) 252-1770 ext. 24. The cost of the tour is free for members, $6 adults, and $3 youth (17 and under).

Second Sunday Strolls are a part of Historic Columbia Foundation’s Retrace: Connecting Communities Through History (CCTH) initiative. The initiative includes six virtual tours available online as well as printed tour brochures available in the Museum Shop at 1616 Blanding Street.

Upcoming Second Sunday Strolls (begin at 2 p.m. on the dates below):Sept. 11-Melrose Heights. Meet at (Melrose Park – Corner of 1500 block of Fairview Avenue).
Oct. 9-Hollywood/Rose Hill. Meet at Hollywood Park, 200 block of South Gregg Street.
Nov. 13-Robert Mills East. Meet at the Museum Shop at Robert Mills.
Dec. 11-Main St. Meet at the front steps of the State House on the Gervais St. side.
January 15-Heathwood. Meet at Heathwood Park, 800 Abelia Rd.
February 12-Lower Waverly. Meet at Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 230 Green St.
March 11-Old Shandon. Meet at Wheatley Branch, RCPL, 931 Woodrow St.
April 15-The Vista. Meet at The Big Apple, 1000 Hampton Street.
May 13-Robert Mills West. Meet at Seibels House, 1601 Richland St.
June 10-Arsenal Hill. Meet at Palmetto Armory and Ironworks, 1900 Lincoln St.

About the tours, Robin Waites, Executive Director of Historic Columbia Foundation says, “As one of Columbia’s earliest suburbs, our Second Sunday Stroll of Melrose Heights will showcase many popular architectural forms and styles, including Colonial Revival, Cottage, Airplane Bungalow, and others”.

Historic Columbia Foundation was founded in 1961 by a group of preservationists determined to save the Ainsley Hall House, known today as the Robert Mills House. More than four decades later, Historic Columbia Foundation manages four historic house museums and their associated artifacts, and tells the stories of people, places and progress in Columbia and Richland County. For more information, please visit http://www.historiccolumbia.org.

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/histcolumbia
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/historiccolumbia
Web: http://www.historiccolumbia.org
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/discoverhistory

History Tour + Happy Hour = One 'Famously Hot' Combination!

2011-09-07T13:59:00.000-04:00

Historic Columbia Foundation invites you to learn about Columbia’s first planned suburban neighborhood, now known as Five Points, during a Happy Hour History Tour in September. These guided tours will meet at the fountain in Five Points at 5:30 p.m. on Friday evenings, September 9 – 30, 2011. Tours will last approximately two hours and include two drinks and appetizers. Five Points began as a trolley hub and has evolved into the shopping, dining, and entertainment district that it is today, surrounded by 5 historic neighborhoods.

The cost for these Happy Hour History Tours is $20 for Historic Columbia Foundation members and $25 for non-members (prices include two drinks and appetizers). Reservations are required and can be made by emailing reservations@historiccolumbia.org or by calling 803.252.1770 ext. 24. More information about the tours can be found by visiting historiccolumbia.org.

Planned Sights of Interest Include:

Former Five Points Theatre (now known as Red Hot Tomatoes): The bright marquee at Red Hot Tomatoes is no accident – the building was designed as a movie theater in 1939. After the theater shut its doors in the early ‘60s, The Stage Door bar continued drawing in customers looking for a taste of glamour.

Claussens Bakery: The Inn at Claussen’s pays tribute to its legacy as a renowned bakery with its daily treats for guests. Built in 1928 by the grandson of a German immigrant, Claussen’s Bakery served as an anchor business just as Five Points became an urban village.

Gibson’s Economy Drug Store (now known as Yesterday’s restaurant): Known today for its rather public bathtub, Yesterday’s Restaurant and Tavern was built as one of the first businesses in Five Points – Gibson’s Economy Drug Store. A watch repair shop and other restaurants shared space in the “flatiron” until 1976, when Yesterday’s opened its doors.

Harrelson “T.J.” Roofing Company / 5 Points Coal & Supply Co. (now known as the Salty Nut): The Salty Nut Café originally featured a more mundane assortment of coal, paint, and roofing materials. As the 1940s home of Harrelson “T.J.” Roofing Company and 5 Points Coal & Supply Co., the Nut’s eclectic style recalls its unusual past.

Historic Columbia Foundation was founded in 1961 by a group of preservationists determined to save the Ainsley Hall House, known today as the Robert Mills House. Today, Historic Columbia Foundation manages four historic house museums and their associated artifacts, and tells the stories of people, places and progress in Columbia and Richland County. For more information, please visit historiccolumbia.org. You may also find us on Facebook at facebook.com/historiccolumbia, on Twitter at twitter.com/histcolumbia and on YouTube at youtube.com/discoverhistory.

New Chicks in Town at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

2011-09-06T15:42:00.001-04:00

Guests visiting Riverbanks Zoo and Garden during the Labor Day weekend were among the first to see the Zoo’s two toco toucan chicks — now on exhibit for a limited time.

The toucan chicks hatched on July 16, 2011, and since that time have been hand-raised by the Zoo’s bird staff.

“At about 6 weeks old, the chicks begin to fly, explore their surroundings and learn the skills necessary to feed on their own,” said Martin Vince, curator of birds. “Because of their young age, however, we will continue to keep them under careful observation during the day and move them into the Bird Conservation Center at night.”

Guests visiting the Zoo can watch as bird keepers feed the toucan chicks during a special presentation at 11:30 a.m. daily — in the Bird Garden across from Kangaroo Walkabout.

But hurry! The birds will be moved off exhibit in mid-September to prepare them for transfer to other zoos as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ national breeding program. Riverbanks has been breeding toco toucans since 1977 and is one of only a few zoos to successfully do so each year.

It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $11.75 for adults, $9.25 for children ages 3 – 12 free for children 2 and under. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit www.riverbanks.org, www.facebook.com/riverbankszoo, or follow them at http://twitter.com/RiverbanksZoo.

What's 'The Buzz' in Columbia this Week?

2011-09-01T17:04:00.004-04:00

The Buzz, presented by Columbia Opportunity Resource and WXRY Radio 99.3, will tell you what's 'famously hot' in Columbia, SC. Here are some highlights for the week:

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Tonight is First Thursday on Main Street. After work grab a friend, or make a new one, and wander from store to store admiring the art displays and outdoor performances.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
The Village at Sandhill continues its Summer Concert Series with a performance featuring Square Roots. Fun and games begin at 5:00 pm. and the performance starts at 7:00 pm. Admission is completely free.

In addition, the Village at Sandhill's Village Artists will host their First Friday Artists Wine & Cheese Reception from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. The Village Artists features local artists using a variety of art techniques, including oil painting, watercolor, and professional photography.

Meanwhile, at the Columbia Museum of Art, Cola-Con is where hip-hop music and comic book culture intersect. The event will include comic book artists, vendors, visual artists, lectures, panels and music.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

Is your house full of gadgets and you don’t know what to do with them? Then be sure to stop by the E-Cycles Drop-Off Event on from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on 116 E. Main Street. Click here for a complete list of accepted computer items.

If you feel like work has you stuck in a cocoon, make some time to visit with beautiful butterflies. Stop by EdVenture Children's Museum today for their exhibit, Blooming Butterflies, featuring more than 20 different species.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Terence Young, Smooth Jazz Guitarist, will be performing at Finlay Park 5:30 to 9:00 pm as part of the Summer Smooth Jazz Concert Series.

If you’re looking for a great admission deal at the South Carolina State Museum, Sunday is the day! Admission is only $1 as part of their $1 Sundays on the first Sunday of each month.

Harvest Hope is always seeking volunteers to help in their cause to collect food for those in need. These range from hosting food drives to volunteering in their warehouse to help package and ship their food. For more information of how you can get involved, visit their website and click on the "get involved” link.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Are you in the mood for a good comedy about love? There are just a few days left to see Nickelodeon’s film, Beginner’s, about people traversing the ins and outs of first time love, featuring Golden Global Award nominee Ewan McGregor.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
Cheer on the South Carolina Gamecocks as the men’s soccer team takes on the Charlotte 49ners. Game time is 7:00 pm. Click here for a complete schedule and ticket information.

If you love displays of professional photography, then stop by the Columbia Museum of Art. They are currently showcasing the photographic works of Michael Kenna.

Do you have any experience in playing orchestra music? The Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra is holding auditions for several instrument players. If you are interested, please visit their website and look for their "Audition Information” link at the bottom of their home page.

Contributed by guest blogger, Katherine Swartz, executive director of COR | Columbia Opportunity Resource and vice president of leadership development and community development of Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Columbia Opportunity Resource is an innovative volunteer-based 501 (c)(3) community development organization focused on engaging and connecting a new generation of Columbians to make our region a better place to live, learn, work and play.

Keep up with COR | Columbia Opportunity Resource on Facebook, Twitter and their blog.

Columbia Museum of Art Honors Sisters with Special Exhibition

2011-08-31T11:30:00.002-04:00

Janet Fish

Columbia Museum of Art honors two sisters, Ethel S. Brody and Leona Sobel, for their significant support of the Museum and lifelong commitment to art with the exhibition, A Tale of Two Sisters: Gifts from Ethel S. Brody and Leona Sobel. The exhibition will be on view Friday, September 9 through Sunday, November 27, 2011.

“Their voracious love of art and keen eyes have significantly broadened the Museum’s collection,” executive director Karen Brosius said. “Families, children and art lovers will greatly benefit from their legacy for many decades to come.”

Sobel and Brody have provided generous financial support toward museum exhibitions, object conservation and public programs, and have volunteered countless hours of research time for more than thirty five years. They have also played an active and integral role in shaping the growth of the permanent collection by donating objects and providing funds for the purchase of art. From Leona Sobel’s donation in 1976 of a Royal Doulton ewer to the recent acquisition of American photographer David Hilliard’s triptych from Ethel Brody, more than 175 works have been acquired through their generosity. Their donations represent all media and range from Old Master paintings to contemporary art.

Bartholomeus Breenbergh

A Tale of Two Sisters is a unique exhibition, in that it is installed museum-wide, showing visitors the depth and breadth of the sisters’ support for the collection. The majority of the exhibition is on view in Gallery 15, with additional works on display in the Garden Terrace and second floor atrium. To help visitors identify works acquired through the generosity of Sobel and Brody, a special logo has been designed and placed adjacent to the work throughout the collection galleries. “We encourage visitors to look for the logo on their next visit to the Museum, and enjoy taking a ‘treasure hunt’ through the galleries, looking for objects acquired from Ethel and Leona,” Curator of Decorative Arts Brian Lang said.

General Museum Information:

The Columbia Museum of Art is South Carolina's premier international art museum and houses a world-class collection of European and American art. Founded in 1950, the Museum opened its new building on Main Street in 1998 with 25 galleries. The collection includes masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo from the Samuel H. Kress Collection, porcelain and works by significant furniture and silver makers, as well as American, Asian, and modern and contemporary art.

Keep up with Columbia Museum of Art on Facebook and Twitter.

Vulture Conservation Takes Flight at Riverbanks Zoo

2011-08-31T07:30:00.005-04:00

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is among more than 90 organizations taking part in International Vulture Awareness Day on Saturday, September 3, 2011. From 10:00 am until 2:00 pm, guests are invited to participate in several interactive and educational activities highlighting vulture conservation and awareness. Visitors can measure up to a vulture's giant wing span, dissect a fake carcass in the Zoo's version of the game Operation, discover why bald is beautiful and its importance to these birds of prey, and even act out what it’s like to be a vulture.

Other activities include Riverbanks’ Wings of the South bird show at 1:30 pm followed by a keeper-guided feeding and vulture walk to various bird exhibits throughout the Zoo. There will also be several up-close animal encounters throughout the day. View general admission rates.

Note: Vultures face threats in many areas where they live, and some species are even in danger of becoming extinct. International Vulture Awareness Day is a coordinated effort to bring greater attention to the importance of vulture conservation around the world. To see a list of participating organizations in 2011, visit www.vultureday.org.

'Famously Hot' Food Truck Food Court Back for Seconds

2011-08-30T17:00:00.002-04:00

If you missed the very first Food Truck Food Court last month, well, you missed out. But you're in luck -- Food Truck Food Court is back this Wednesday, August 31, 2011 from noon to 3:00 pm. Head over to Cromer's for lunch as the four Columbia food trucks join together again for another incredible lunch break with tasty street food, sno-cones and great deals. Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels, 2 Fat 2 Fly Wings, Pawleys Front Porch Food Truck, Alfresco Mobilista will all be there, and did we mention, Cromer's has boiled peanuts?! Yum! The last Food Truck Food Court was packed, so get there early if you want to beat the crowds.

Food trucks are one of the latest trends to sweep across the nation, and our food trucks are leading the way in that trend. Most recently, 2 Fat 2 Fly made the list of "12 Food Trucks Mashable Readers Love" and Alfresco Mobilista is in the running to become "America's Favorite" in The Great Food Truck Race sponsored by Food Network. Now, go vote so we can share our 'famously hot' Columbia cuisine with the rest of the country!

View photos on Facebook or Flickr, watch our video on YouTube, keep up with the latest on the Columbia Food Trucks on our website, and mark your calendar for the first Columbia Food Truck Rodeo at City Roots on Friday, September 23 from 4:00 to 11:00 pm.

P.S. We hear Cupcake has a truck making deliveries for their King Street location, but there have been no reported sightings at the Columbia location just yet. We'll keep our fingers crossed for the next Food Truck Food Court.

Columbia, SC Remembers 9/11

2011-08-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

September 11, 2011 marks the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the United States. Two memorial events are scheduled in Columbia, SC to remember the fallen from that day and to honor first responders.

First Responders Remembrance Memorial Unveiling Ceremony
The official First Responders Remembrance Memorial unveiling ceremony is planned for Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 3:00 pm at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center to honor 56 great American heroes to date who have lost their lives.

The memorial will include a pair of 25 foot granite towers and two steel beams which will be crossed, showing how the country united after the attacks on the United States on 9/11/01. The memorial will include the names of all of the victims of the attack on New York City, both citizens and first responders, who gave their lives in New York that day, along with the names of all the South Carolina Midlands first responders (police, fire, EMS, and military) who have given their lives since that morning in 2001.

Track the progress of the First Responders Remembrance Memorial on Flickr or view the live stream.

Attendees are encouraged to enjoy the many shops and restaurants in the area before the Midlands' 9/11 Remembrance Concert begins just a few blocks away at Finlay park.

Midlands' 9/11 Remembrance Concert
The South Carolina Philharmonic takes to the stage in Finlay Park on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 7:00 pm for the Midlands' 9/11 Remembrance Concert. This free, public concert marks the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2011 terrorist attacks on the United States, remembering the fallen from that day and honoring the first responders who keep Midlands communities safe today. All personnel from first-response agencies across the Midlands are invited as honored guests. The agencies are encouraged to bring a response vehicle to display in the park to represent their agency. SC Philharmonic music director, Morihiko Nakahara, is presenting a program of works such as Barber's Adagio for Strings to allow reflection on the national tragedy. Stirring patriotic favorites like "God Bless America" will also be featured.

The City of Columbia is partnering to donate and coordinate park services and the Celebrate Freedom Foundation will display vintage military aircraft and vehicles. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and SCE&G are sponsoring the concert, and media sponsors of the event are Clear Channel, the Free Times, The State and WIS-TV.

Picnics, lawn chairs and blankets are all encouraged, but alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited in Finlay Park. Free parking is available in the Taylor Street garage located at the corner of Taylor and Assembly.

Mayors from across the region are expected to be in attendance. There are many hotel options nearby for those traveling from out of town for the memorial events.

View other September 11th memorial events around the state on the South Carolina Insiders Blog.

The 'Wildest Fundraiser in Town': ZOOfari

2011-08-29T15:32:00.002-04:00

Mark your calendar for the wildest fundraiser in town!

Riverbanks ZOOfari will take place on Friday, September 30 at 7:00 pm. The annual event offers those who are wild about wildlife the chance to support Riverbanks Zoo and Garden while enjoying the ambiance of the park after hours and getting a palate-pleasing fill of cool cocktails and mouth-watering munchies. Throughout the night, guests can sample a variety of culinary classics---everything from grilled shrimp and chicken skewers to portabella mushroom sliders and s’mores.

Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind silent and live auction items including a private Brew at the Zoo for 10 people and a weekend getaway to the Windy City where you’ll visit Riverbanks’ former sea lions at Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo and get a behind-the-scenes tour of their new home.

"ZOOfari offers a unique, all-inclusive evening in the Zoo with intimate tours and up-close animal encounters; and most importantly, it provides a great service to the animals that call Riverbanks home,” said Lochlan Baskin, events manager at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. "All proceeds from the event will go directly to the care of our animals here at the Zoo.”

Woyate West African Drum and Dance Company will help set the tone for ZOOfari with live performances throughout the evening.

A limited number of tickets will be sold. Admission is $50 for Riverbanks members, $60 for the general public and $70 on the day of the event. Tickets may be purchased online at http://www.riverbanks.org/ or at the Zoo’s ticket booth. ZOOfari will take place rain or shine.

Riverbanks ZOOfari is a fundraiser hosted by Riverbanks Society, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the needs of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. All proceeds help care for the animals at Riverbanks. A portion of the ticket price is tax-deductible.

Keep up with Riverbanks Zoo and Garden on Facebook and Twitter.

Jubilee: Festival of Heritage This Weekend!

2011-08-22T14:01:00.002-04:00

Celebrating the rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of Celia Mann and her descendants – who lived and worked on the same property for more than 140 years – Historic Columbia Foundation presents the 33rd annual Jubilee: Festival of Heritage this Saturday, August 27, 2011.

This free, family-friendly event will be held on the grounds of the historic Mann-Simons Site, 1403 Richland Street (at Marion) from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The Mann-Simons site historically was a collection of commercial and domestic spaces owned and operated by the same African-American family from at least 1843 until 1970.

Live music by the Benedict College Concert Choir, live reggae, live jazz, and headliner Drink Small, the “Blues Doctor”.

Entertainment also includes:
The Jubilee Choirs,
African Dancing by 4 Trinity Evangelistic Dance Ministry,
The Double Dutch Forces Jumprope Troupe,
Dante Lewis,
Coolie G, and
A Groundbreaking, collaborative performance, "Generations," by the theatre group NiA and Darion McCloud with the Columbia Housing Authority.

Demonstration artists with hands-on demonstrations:
Ms. Pat Kabore, Printmaker
Mr. Joseph McGill, 54th Mass. Volunteer Infantry
Mr. Charles Williams, Fish Nets
Ms. Dorothy Montgomery, Gullah Quilts
Ms. Kitty Wilson-Evans, Interpretive Storyteller
Ms. Arianne King-Comer, Batik, Indigo Dressmaker
Mr. Peter Werner, Broom Maker

Historic Columbia Foundation archaeologist Jakob Crockett will be reviewing findings from his recent excavation.

Tours of the Mann-Simons site and the Modjeska Simkins property, as well as their popular bus tours of African American heritage sites will be offered throughout the day. Also enjoy a Yam Cook-Off, Kids’ Poster Contest, and a Street Fair!

The Main Street Latin Festival will also take place this Saturday, August 27, 2011 from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, bringing Latin culture and vitality to Columbia, SC.

ENTER TO WIN!
Celebrate 'famously hot' culture on us while enjoying two of Columbia’s popular annual festivals and enter our sweepstakes!

Celebrate 'Famously Hot' Culture on Us

2011-08-19T11:24:00.000-04:00

The Main Street Latin Festival and Jubilee: Festival of Heritage will both be held downtown in Columbia, SC on August 27, 2011. Celebrate 'famously hot' culture on us while enjoying two of Columbia’s popular annual festivals and enter our sweepstakes!

Start your day at the 33rd Annual Jubilee: Festival of Heritage. Jubilee celebrates the life of Celia Mann and her descendants. Although only one house stands today, the Mann-Simons site historically was a collection of commercial and domestic spaces owned and operated by the same African-American family from at least 1843 until 1970. Jubilee: Festival of Heritage takes place on August 27, 2011 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The Jubilee experience includes:
• Hands-on demonstrations from some of the region's most skilled artists and craftsmen,
• Musical entertainment including R&B, jazz, blues and gospel with special performances from Drink Small and the Benedict College Concert Choir,
• Vendors with African-influenced and traditional merchandise, and
• Tours of the Mann-Simons Site, bus tours of African-American heritage sites, the Modjeska Simkins property, and
• Poster Contest, Yam Cook-Off, and Demonstration Artists!

Your Jubilee: Festival of Heritage prize includes:
• 4 tickets for a tour of the Mann-Simons Site
• 2 tickets for a bus tour of African-American heritage sites (to be redeemed the day of the Festival),
• 4 Historic House Museum Tour tickets for any Historic Columbia Foundation (can be redeemed at a later date, value $24)
• A special gift from the Museum Shop (value $25).

The “Famously Hot” celebration continues as you make your way to the Main Street Latin Festival! You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the Festival, as After-Party festivities continue well past midnight!

The Main Street Latin Festival takes place in City Center Columbia on August 27, 2011 from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. Bringing Latin culture and vitality to Columbia, SC.

The Festival brings:
• Sizzling hot Latin and Caribbean Music,
• Salsa, Grupera, Latin Pop & Reggaeton including special performances by Choco Orta, Ronny Soler, and Tito Nieves,
• Caribbean, Cuban, Mexican, & Puerto Rican Food, and
• Hands-on activities for kids to Columbia’s City Center!

Your Main Street Latin Festival prize includes:
• Two tickets to the Main Street Latin Festival After Party (beginning at 9:00 pm) to enjoy a special performance by Tito Nieves and his orchestra (two general admission tickets, value $90).
• A one-night stay at the Columbia Marriott Hotel (includes room rate and taxes – add ons such as room service are not included, value $99).
Prize Value: $250

ENTER TO WIN

Keep up with Historic Columbia Foundation and Jublilee: Festival of Heritage on Facebook and Twitter. Be sure to "like" Main Street Latin Festival on Facebook and follow @mainstlatinfest on Twitter.

SC State Fair Offers Hot Early Bird Deals

2011-08-17T13:57:00.004-04:00

Temps are a little cooler this week than our typical August weather in Columbia, SC, which has many of us thinking of fall and eagerly anticipating two things: South Carolina Gamecock football and South Carolina State Fair. The fair will run from October 12-23 this year. It may be a couple of months away, but the SC State Fair will be here before you know it -- and it's not too early to take advantage of some hot discounts! Buy early and save big with Family Fun Packs, which are a steal at only $55 and valued at $110. This discount is only available online during the month of August while supplies last, so you'll want want to take advantage of this now if you plan to bring your family to the fair this year and want to save a bundle.

What's included? ($110 value for $55)

5 admission tickets
2 ride vouchers
10 $1 off food coupons

The fine print:
Offer ends August 31, 2011. Tickets will be mailed through the SC State Fair office. Please allow 3 weeks for delivery. Tickets can be redeemed any day at the fair. Buy as many as you need. Note: Ride vouchers may be exchanged for a POP (pay-one-price unlimited) ride wristband on weekdays (M-F) or 28 ride tickets; on weekends (Sat. & Sun.) the ride voucher may be exchanged for 28 ride tickets.
Purchase Family Fun Packs

Enter to Win:
South Carolina State Fair is also giving away five Family Fun Packs. Enter through the sweepstakes tab on their Facebook page before August 26, 2011 at 12:30 pm EST for your chance to win!
Enter the Sweepstakes

Make a weekend of your fair adventure and book a hotel online.

It's a Boy! Four-Week-Old Giraffe Calf Now on Exhibit at Riverbanks Zoo

2011-08-09T13:42:00.000-04:00

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is pleased to announce its newest arrival—a giraffe calf, born at the Zoo on July 11.

The now four-week-old giraffe weighed 105 pounds and stood 5 feet tall at birth and is the second born to parents Charlie and Ginger.

“We are very excited about this latest addition to our giraffe herd,” said John Davis, curator of mammals. “The calf is doing very well and growing at a steady pace, but he won’t be full grown until about 5 years old.”

Adult giraffes can reach heights of up to 18 feet tall (record is 20 feet) and can weigh as much as 2,600 pounds.

There have been 5 giraffes born at the Zoo since February 2009; the last one arrived on Labor Day 2010.

Guests can expect to see the calf on exhibit daily from 9:30 am - 12:30 pm in the Zoo’s African Savanna exhibit.

It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $11.75 for adults, $9.25 for children ages 3 – 12 free for children 2 and under. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit www.riverbanks.org or www.facebook.com/riverbankszoo. and

Brew at the Zoo on Tap for this Saturday

2011-08-02T19:28:00.001-04:00

Tickets are still available for the coolest suds sippin’ safari in town! Brew at the Zoo has been named one of Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Events and it's happening this Saturday, August 6, from 7:00 to 9:30 pm. Guests ages 21 and up are invited to enjoy an evening exploring the park, while sampling from more than 100 specialty domestic, imports and microbrews.

The event will feature musical entertainment by John Wesley Satterfield and His Damn Fine Band. Scheduled animal presentations and encounters will also take place throughout the evening.

Riverbanks encourages responsible drinking. Proper photo identification is required and no one under the age of 21 will be permitted. To help ensure the safety of guests, Riverbanks will pay the first $10 of cab fares to homes or hotels in Richland and Lexington Counties.

Advance tickets are $30 for Riverbanks members and $40 for the general public. All tickets will be $50 the day of the event. Tickets can be purchased online at www.riverbanks.org or by visiting Sam’s Fine Wine and Spirits located at 5050 Sunset Boulevard in Lexington. Designated driver tickets will also be available for purchase on the night of the event for $15.

Brew at the Zoo is a fundraiser hosted by Riverbanks Society, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the needs of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. All proceeds from the event support the ongoing conservation and education efforts of Riverbanks.

Make a weekend of your brew safari and book one of the special Brew at the Zoo packages available at Embassy Suites or DoubleTree -- or view a full list of hotels available in the Columbia region and book a room online.

'Famously Hot' Food Truck Food Court is a Hit in Columbia, SC

2011-07-28T17:58:00.001-04:00

Calling all Food Lovers - What is more exciting than seeing four food trucks, in just one parking lot, on a ‘Famously Hot’ lunch hour? I can’t think of anything!

Yesterday this reality came true in the Cromer’s parking lot. 2 Fat 2 Fly Food Truck, Bone-In Artisan Barbeque on Wheels, Pawley’s Front Porch Food Truck, and Alfresco Mobilista were lined up eager for the gathering lunch crowd.

Chef Scott Hall, at Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels, does a wonderful job of creating the distinct and original flavor of the much loved comfort BBQ. After spending ten years in New York City, Scott returned to the Columbia Area in 2009 and from his high-concept catering service, Scott Hall Catering, he launched Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels, the first Columbia Area entry of the West Coast Food Truck craze.

Popular items include handmade focaccia sandwiches with smoked hickory-hoisin brisket, BBQ pulled pork, smoked chicken salad, grilled pimento cheese, and hand-cut potato chips and buttermilk-cilantro slaw.

Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels is easily accessible for lunch, at happy hour, on professional campuses, after cultural events, during parties, out in a field, or whenever and wherever.

Anxious customers locate Bone-In Artisan Barbeque on Wheels by following the truck on Twitter, and "liking" them on Facebook.

As of last November, the 2 Fat 2 Fly Wings team offered Columbia a new twist on the traditional chicken wing. Everything you ever imagined about the possibilities of a chicken wing has been thrown to the curb. 2 Fat 2 Fly breaks all barriers!

Imagine biting into a delicious 100% jumbo, bone-in, South Carolina raised chicken wing tasting Jalapeno, Bacon and Cheddar. Simply delicious! The glorious combination of the chicken and filling is a second to none. The 2 Fat 2 Fly Food Truck, aka “The Fonz”, travels around the Columbia area updating hungry followers of their whereabouts on Twitter.

2 Fat 2 Fly has won numerous awards for their “un-clucking believable” chicken wings. These awards include the 2011 Capital City Music & Wing Fling Best Wing and International Wing, 2010 15th Annual Budweiser War of the Wings Judges Choice, and the 2009 Capital City Wing Fling Peoples Choice and Best All Around -- and most recently today -- the list of "12 Food Trucks Mashable Readers Love."

Be sure to follow 2 Fat 2 Fly on Twitter to receive “The Fonz’s” locations, and "like" 2 Fat 2 Fly on Facebook.

Pawleys Front Porch Food Truck continues to please customers, now offering their delicious burgers on a mobile food truck.

Pawleys Front Porch was recently spotlighted on the hit Food Network show, “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives." The show, hosted by Guy Fieri, filmed a segment in late October 2009 at the Five Points restaurant and showcased their unique and innovative burgers created by their trained chef, Kyle Taylor.

Like the other food trucks, Pawleys Front Porch Food Truck can be found by their updated tweets on Twitter. In addition, the food truck is also available for catering services.

Follow Pawleys Front Porch Food Truck on Twitter and be sure to “like” them on Facebook.

The newest food truck to Columbia, Alfresco Mobilista or “AlfMob” for short, is creating quite the “buzz” around town. The name Alfresco Mobilista came from “Alfresco” for eating outdoors – and “Mobilista” for on the move.

“AlfMob” was created by Adams Hayne & Julie soon-to-be-Hayne for their love of food, entrepreneurial spirit and just wanting to spend more time together. After spending so much time learning from others – whether catering large weddings and events on the coast or local Columbia events – Adam’s dream of owning his own business continued to build.

Alfresco Mobilista brings a fresh bistro fare to the masses. Their approach is a creative spin on old favorites, and some new ideas to throw in the mix. Simple southern food with a Latin and Mediterranean twist build the delectable menu.

Be sure to follow “AlfMob” on Twitter and "like" them Facebook to find out where they will be located next.

Mark your calendars for the next Food Truck Food Court to be held at Cromer's Parking Lot. The date is set for August, 31st from 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. All four food trucks will be present. We will see you there!

View photos on Facebook or Flickr and hear what our very own
Kim Jamieson has to say about the Food Truck Food Court on YouTube:

Historic Columbia Introduces Second Sunday Strolls

2011-07-28T16:35:00.000-04:00

Explore Columbia and discover the rich history found in historic downtown neighborhoods on Historic Columbia Foundation's new Neighborhood Walking Tours, Second Sunday Strolls. Tours will be offered on the second Sunday of the month and will be 30 - 60 minutes in length. They're kicking off the program with a tour of Cottontown on August 14 at 2:00 pm. Get the details and be sure to check their online calendar to see what historic neighborhood they'll be exploring next.
The cost is $6.00 for adults, $3 for youth (17 and under), and free for members. Reservations are requested. Please call 803.252.1770 ext. 24 or email reservations@historiccolumbia.org.

Second Sunday Strolls are a part of Historic Columbia Foundation's Retrace: Connecting Communities Through History initiative. Proceeds benefit Historic Columbia Foundation.

About Cottontown:
Drawing its name from the cash crop that South Carolina extensively farmed during the 19th and early 20th centuries, Cottontown is among a handful of early Columbia suburbs established over a century ago. Today, the narrow district is bounded on the west by North Main Street, the north by Grace Avenue, the east by Bull Street, and the south by Elmwood Avenue.

In its earliest years, this area lay immediately outside the original city limits and housed significant numbers of cotton warehouses. For several decades, beginning in the late 19th century, Cottontown was renamed Bellevue, perhaps in the hope of drawing greater numbers of new residents. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places as the "Bellevue Historic District" in 1997, Cottontown features a remarkable concentration of residences representative of early 20th-century suburbanization.

Virtual Retrace Tours:
Get a sneak peak at their August Second Sunday Stroll neighborhood by taking a virtual tour of Cottontown. This tour is available as a part of our Retrace: Connecting Communities Through History initiative. Explore 28 historic sites in Cottontown on your computer. The Cottontown neighborhood is just one of six virtual tours available on their website. They'll be showcasing the Retrace neighborhoods in the coming months during their Second Sunday Strolls. Your story could be just around the corner.

Town of Lexington Launches 150th Anniversary Scavenger Hunt

2011-07-26T14:14:00.001-04:00

The Town of Lexington launched its 150th Anniversary Historical Sites Scavenger Hunt for children during this past weekend’s Farmers Market.

A limited number of passports are still available that will allow children to take photos of Lexington’s treasured landmarks.

Parents may pick up the passports at Town Hall Customer Service (111 Maiden Lane, first floor, Lexington, SC 29072) or Columbia Regional Visitors Center (1101 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC 29201). The hunt will last until September 2, 2011.

Small prizes will be awards to all participants – Learn about Lexington, 150 Years in the Making!

For more information, contact Jennifer Dowden, Events and Media Coordinator at 803-356-8238 or jdowden@lexsc.com.

Keep up with the Town of Lexington on Facebook and Twitter.

Don't Sweat It : 7 Ways to Cool Off this Summer

2011-07-22T15:06:00.001-04:00

I'm a huge fan of summer in the South. Warm weather is my excuse for more kayaking trips, more Saturdays spent floating down the rivers, more sailing at Lake Murray, more water park adventures, more visits to my favorite indoor spots - and a lot more frozen yogurt!
If you're looking fun things to do to cool off this summer, don't sweat it. Here is a list of seven ways to cool to cool off this summer in Columbia - your famously hot summer to-do list, if you will:

Float down the Congaree, Broad or Saluda rivers in a tube. (Tubing is one of my favorites!)
Need tubes? Visit one of our local outfitters to stock up on the gear.
Kayak or canoe down one of the three rivers or at Congaree National Park. If you're like me and not an avid kayaker, take a guided tour or get the scoop on the best locations from the experts at Adventure Carolina, River Runner Outdoor Center, Get Your Gear On or one of our other outdoor outfitters.
Rent a boat and take on the lake at Lake Murray!
Browse our full listing of boat and pontoon rentals on Lake Murray.
Sail on Lake Murray! Lanier Sailing Academy offers sailboat rentals as well as classes for those interested in learning. (This is on my must-do list this summer! Ay ay!)
Go fishing and take a guided fly fishing trip with Frank's Fly Arts. This is perfect for the novice and fly fishing expert alike. No gear needed - bring your sunglasses, and let Frank's take it from there.
Slip and slide at the Palmetto Falls Water Park at Fort Jackson - or take the kids to splash around at Saluda Shoals Park.
Take the fun indoors at one of our top attractions. Get lost in history at one of Historic Columbia Foundation's historic homes, brush up on South Carolina culture at South Carolina State Museum, spend your day with the kids at EdVenture Children's Museum or get your arts fix at Columbia Museum of Art.

Do you have another cool summer "must-do" in Columbia to add to the list? Leave a comment below and let us know what you're doing to cool off this summer.

Boiled Peanuts: South Carolina's Official State Snack

2011-07-18T19:37:00.002-04:00

Those who know me well know that I have an addiction during the summer: boiled peanuts. By mid spring I'm usually checking the South Carolina State Farmers Market website to see when green peanut season will begin. Once it arrives, I make trips almost weekly to a local produce stand or grocery store to buy "new crop" boiled peanuts or green peanuts to boil my own.

If you're from South Carolina, you probably grew up snacking on boiled peanuts and drinking sweet tea. If you're not, you've probably wondered what you've been missing. Boiling peanuts may seem a bit strange if the only kind of peanut you've ever had is the crunchy kind. To me, they remind me a little of edamame or a slightly crunchy black eyed pea -- only better. It's one of those things you really just have to try yourself to understand.

So, why is the boiled peanut the official state snack of South Carolina? There's some history behind boiled peanuts. South Carolinians began boiling them in the 1800's, and they were designated as the official state snack in 2006. It is said that during times of war when soldiers were in need of nutrition with high protein and without cooking facilities, they boiled peanuts over campfires. They discovered that these peanuts would not spoil for several days.

Where to buy them in Columbia:
Here are a handful of spots I've found that have the real deal, new crop boiled peanuts or green peanuts to make your own. Key words: new crop. There is a difference in the new crop and the old ones. I'm kind of a peanut snob and will not eat them if they aren't new crop, unless I'm at a sporting event where that's all that's available. You can tell the difference in taste and color. The new crop are usually lighter in color on the inside and outside, easier to get out of the shell, and aren't slimy.

New crop, ready-to-eat boiled peanuts:
1. Wood Produce in Lexington
2. Wood Produce on Two Notch
3. South Carolina State Farmers Market
4. Barnyard Flea Market (Sometimes they also have the 'Big Whites' and 'Jumbos' - love these!)
5. Susie's Produce
6. Cromer's (These are darker, but they are still excellent. You can even order them online).

Green peanuts to boil your own:
1. Piggy Wiggly
2. Wood Produce in Lexington
3. Wood Produce on Two Notch
4. South Carolina State Farmers Market
5. Walmart (Occasionally they have them in the Certified SC produce section).
6. Other locations across South Carolina

How to make them:
They're pretty easy to make and pretty hard to screw up. If I can make them, anyone can. All you'll need is green peanuts, salt, a big pot with a lid, something to stir with, and a bowl to put them in. Some people like to add spices, beer, salt water, or salty meat like ham to season them.

1. Rinse the green peanuts.
2. Put them in a large pot with a lid.
3. Add salt. Start with less rather than more, then add as you cook. I sprinkle a handful or so to start. You don't want to ruin them and make them too salty to eat. Some people add up to a cup per gallon, but this is way too salty for my taste.
4. Add water. I add enough water to cover the peanuts by a few inches.
5. Put the lid on the pot, the stove on high, and set the timer for 30 minutes while they cook.
6. When the timer goes off, check the peanuts, stir and taste them. They should still be pretty crunchy (but I'll eat some anyway because I like them crunchy). Add a little more salt and water if necessary and set the timer for 30 more minutes. Reduce heat to medium to medium high.
7. Repeat step six.
8. They may be done by now, but cooking times can vary greatly depending on the size of the pot, maturity of the peanuts, and how soft you prefer them. If they're still too crunchy for your taste, set the timer and check and stir in 15 minute increments until they're done.
9. Spoon some out, put them in a bowl, and grab something to put the shells in. Enjoy!
10. Let the rest sit in the pot until they're cool or slightly warm. They'll absorb more of the salt water and continue to cook. Drain them, store them in a large bowl, and put a wet paper towel over them. This keeps them from drying out and tasting fresh when you refrigerate them. They'll be good for a few days to a week, depending on maturity.

What are your favorite spots to get fresh boiled peanuts or your favorite recipes? Leave a comment on this post and let us know!

SC Philharmonic to visit 'Famously Hot' Spots this Summer

2011-07-13T17:12:00.001-04:00

Morihiko Nakahara, Music
Director of the South
Carolina Philharmonic

Like many during this vacation season, the South Carolina Philharmonic plans to visit some hot spots this summer, venturing into the community for July and August performances.

The “Where in the Midlands is Morihiko?” Series gets a reprise to enjoy the “Famously Hot” summer and give more of its popular ensemble performances.

The first concert is at a traditional Columbia hot spot, Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse. The concert will begin at 9 p.m and finish around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20th. Unlike other concerts in this recurring series, this performance lasts longer than one hour, and the more modern, eclectic music selection provides a larger scope for the all-SCP quintet. Admission is free.

The second concert will be held in Columbia’s newest hot spot – the recently-opened Mast General Store – on Thursday, Aug. 4th from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. A quartet of SCP musicians on violin, flute, clarinet and cello will play for one hour at the store’s front entrance. Admission is free.

On Friday, July 22, Morihiko presents a South Carolina Philharmonic ensemble of string quartet with djembe at West Columbia’s newest hotspot, Conundrum Music Hall. The genre-bending “Classical Conundrum” concert explores a program inspired by pop, hip-hop, bluegrass, gypsy and Middle-Eastern music, among others. Tickets are just $8, but the intimate house seats only 99. Doors open at 8 p.m. for the 9 p.m. concert.

For ticket and program information, refer to South Carolina Philharmonic. Be sure to "like" South Carolina Philharmonic on Facebook and follow the group on Twitter.

Miss South Carolina Scores Today Show and GMA Appearances

2011-07-11T20:22:00.006-04:00

If you weren't at the Miss South Carolina Pageant the other week, you sure did miss a great show -- but perhaps you caught a glimpse of the contestants on the floats as we celebrated the 'back to back' College World Series wins by the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team on Main Street. Between hosting the Miss South Carolina Pageant and the Gamecocks' big win it was a pretty exciting week for Columbia, and it's shaping up to be a whirlwind month for the newly crowned Miss South Carolina.

Aside from some incredible new leadership, the pageant hosts really helped take a top notch production over the top. Hosts included former title holders, such as former Miss America, Kim Aiken, and crowd favorite (and could-be-future-comedian), Kristie Green. After nearly a week full of incredible talent, entertainment and beauty on stage, Columbia title holders made us proud and 'brought it home' this year at The Township Auditorium. Miss Capital City, Bree Boyce, and Caitlen Patton, Columbia Teen walked away with the titles. Also of note, was talent winner, Lindley Mayer, who wowed the crowd and judges during the talent competition with her moon walking abilities.

The new Miss South Carolina, Bree Boyce, has already been making headlines across the nation. By now you have probably heard about her incredible weight loss story (which led to someone encouraging her to compete in the pageant to help spread her platform to inspire others and help fight obesity to a wider audience) on The Huffington Post and dozens of other media outlets. It doesn't stop there -- we saw posts just last week on both the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization and Bree Boyce Facebook pages that appearances on The Today Show, Good Morning America and Inside Edition were in the works. It turns out the two morning show segments will air tomorrow morning, Tuesday, July 12, according to TheState.com.

Congratulations to Bree and Caitlen -- two more reasons Columbia, SC is "famously hot!"

Bree Boyce, Miss Capital City, is crowned Miss South Carolina

Caitlen Patton, Columbia Teen, is crowned Miss South Carolina Teen

Lindley Mayer, Miss Greater Carolina, moonwalks across stage

View more video highlights and photos from the pageant or read coverage from Otis Taylor and The Shop Tart on TheState.com.

"Maters Matter" at The Palmetto Tasty Tomato Festival

2011-07-11T13:01:00.001-04:00

Do you love tomatoes, music, good food + drink and old time festival fun? Come celebrate local food and the TOMATO, champion of the home garden at the 2nd Annual Palmetto Tasty Tomato Festival on Sunday, July 17, 2011 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at City Roots urban sustainable farm. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the gate. Kids admission and parking are free.

Sit back, relax and listen to live Americana + bluegrass music by Tom Hall and The Plowboys or the sparkling folk and cool old gold by DJs Steve Gibson and Scott Padgett. Enjoy some of Columbia's tastiest tomatoes along with barbeque, fresh tacos, pies, tomato coctails, locally brewed beer and more! If you're still craving those "'maters," don't miss the tomato tastings and tomato sandwich bar.

The Palmetto Tasty Tomato Festival highlights the taste superiority of the sustainably grown tomato, celebrates the bio-diversity of foods, and gathers the progressive South Carolinian food community for a relaxed, family-friendly party!

This event is presented by Slow Food Columbia and Sustainable Midlands. Find more information about the 2nd Annual Palmetto Tasty Tomato Festival on Facebook. Stay up to date with @SlowFoodCola on Twitter and @SustainableMid on Twitter.

Mezza Lebanese Bistro & Hookah Lounge Grand Opening

2011-07-08T10:24:00.014-04:00

Last week the hip and thriving Congaree Vista area had yet another fabulous restaurant open for business. Mezza Lebanese Bistro & Hookah Lounge, located at 701 Gervais Street, had quite the turnout at their grand opening.

Upon gracing the doors of Mezza, one can’t help but notice the black exposed piping lining the ceiling. I don’t know if it’s just me or what, but spaces with exposed piping always get a few more cool points in my book! I just love that industrial feel.

While some might think this lends to a colder atmosphere, Mezza has done a great job of coupling this feature with some warm, over-sized art pieces scattered throughout the dining area.

If the atmosphere has not motivated you to get off the couch, then Mezza’s amazing take on Lebanese food will. Mezza serves up everything from chicken, beef and kafta kabobs to hummus with pita chips, vegetarian grape leaves, Mediterranean salads and baba ghannoug. (Isn't that a fun word? BABA GHANNOUGH!) For the perfect ending to a meal at Mezza, they have traditional Turkish coffee with a side of delicious baklava. What more could you want?

For more information about Mezza Lebanese Bistro & Hookah Lounge, visit them on Facebook and/or Twitter.

2011 South Carolina Gamecocks College World Series Championship Celebrations and Gear

2011-06-29T15:30:00.007-04:00

Congratulations to the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team for bringing home "back to back" College World Series National Championship titles! With a "famously hot" win, comes plenty to celebrate. Here's what's planned in Columbia:

TUESDAY:
Did you miss the celebrations at Colonial Life Arena and in Five Points Tuesday night? Check out the story and video from The State.

WEDNESDAY:
The South Carolina Department of Athletics invites fans to Colonial Life Arena to celebrate the 2011 National Champion Gamecock baseball team on Wednesday, June 29. Doors will open at 4:00 pm, and the team is scheduled to arrive at the arena at 5:30 pm.

A replay of the championship game will be played on the scoreboard, and concession stands will be open. Championship merchandise will also be available for purchase. Parking for the event is free and will be on a first-come, first-served basis in all surface lots at Colonial Life Arena and the Discovery Garage.

The program will include a highlight package of the championship run, introductions of players and coaches and remarks from various governmental, University and department of athletics officials in addition to head coach Ray Tanner and selected players.

Local law enforcement has requested that fans wanting to celebrate the championship do not go to the airport to meet the team's flight due to Transportation Security Administration regulations in that area.
Event Details

FRIDAY:
The City of Columbia will host a victory parade this Friday, July 1, to honor the University of South Carolina’s second consecutive NCAA Baseball National Championship title.

“Coach Ray Tanner and his team continue to prove that that if you work hard, believe in yourself and aim for the stars you can do the impossible,” said Mayor Steve Benjamin. “We’re honoring them because they are more than simply an outstanding team. They are simply outstanding young men.”

The parade is scheduled to begin at noon and will march South down Main Street from Laurel Street to Gervais Street. The parade will conclude at the State House grounds with a ceremony and celebration.

All those planning to attend the parade and/or celebration are encouraged to wear garnet and black to show their support for the team.
Event Details

AROUND COLUMBIA:
South Carolina State House
The University of South Carolina flag is atop the South Carolina State House again. Here's a Facebook photo from last year. Check it out!

Five Points
The fountains are garnet!

Welcome Signage
This was fast!

View photos from last year's parade on Facebook or Flickr.

GAMECOCK GEAR:
Want a "Famously Hot & Cocky" tee of your own? They're just $12 at Columbia Regional Visitors Center or you can customize one on Zazzle at varying price points. The State has the scoop on the College World Series National Championship gear available at local retailers.

Fourth of July Fireworks and Festivities in Columbia, SC

2011-06-28T14:59:00.002-04:00

Looking for ways to fire up your Fourth of July in Columbia, SC? We've put together this list of hot events and things to do to keep you entertained throughout this long Independence Day weekend, complete with tons of fireworks! For more information about these events, view our calendar.

FRIDAY, JULY 1, 2011

Fort Jackson's 'Torchlight Tattoo'
Fort Jackson's annual Torchlight Tattoo event will feature a concert by the 282nd Army Band at 8:00 pm, with the Salute to the Nation Ceremony at 9:00 pm, followed by a 30 minute fireworks display. Parking areas will open at 3:30 pm and concession stands and children's play areas are scheduled to open at 4:00 pm.

Miss South Carolina 75th Anniversary Celebration
What's more American than the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Miss South Carolina? Celebrate glamour from every era and meet the women who have worn the crown. Walk down memory lane and witness the glam of the Miss South Carolina Museum at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

SATURDAY, JULY 2, 2011

City of Columbia Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate the Fourth of July with the City of Columbia this Saturday at Finlay Park. They will have a variety of activities for the entire family, including a children's area, food and beverage vendors, karaoke for children and adults, live entertainment, and a fireworks show. Admission is free and festivities begin at 3:00 pm.

July 4th Celebration on Lake Murray
This star spangled event will feature a boat parade and fireworks choreographed to a patriotic musical show. The boat parade will kick off at noon, led by the Southern Patriot Tour Boat. Fireworks will be launched at dusk (or around 9:15 pm) from Dreher Island and Spence Island, with prime viewing spots at Dreher Island State Park or the Lake Murray Dam park. Get there early, as parking will close when it reaches capacity.

Fireworks Cruise on the Spirit of Lake Murray
Enjoy the Lake Murray fireworks aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray while dining and mingling on the water. Cost is $80 per person and includes food and two beverages.

Let's Go Sailing on Lake Murray
This July 4th weekend, enjoy a two hour sample of sailing with Lanier Sailing Academy-Lake Murray with a certified sailing instructor. Cost is $25 per person.

75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Pageant
Show your patriotic spirit at the 75th Annual Miss South Carolina Pageant at the Township Auditorium in Columbia, SC this year. Tickets for the 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant are available for purchase at the Township Auditorium box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Village at Sandhill Neighborfest
Kick off "Celebration Weekend" at the Village at Sandhill's inaugural NeighborFest on Saturday, July 2 in Town Center Commons from noon to 6:00 pm. Local charities, school organizations, dance troupes, singing groups, and more have been invited to join in the festivities, including a special 2:00 pm performance by Allen University's View the Midnight Skies, an ensemble of original poetry, dance, and chamber music. A special display and presentation of equipment by the Columbia Police Department is scheduled.

Fireworks with the Columbia Blowfish
The Columbia Blowfish will celebrate Independence Day by having a fireworks show at Capital City Stadium after their games on July 2, 3 and 4. Kids will also have the chance to play catch on the field with the Blowfish players before the game. Games start at 7:05 pm. Ticket prices range from $5 to $7.

SUNDAY, JULY 3, 2011

Let's Go Sailing on Lake Murray
This July 4th weekend, enjoy a two hour sample of sailing with Lanier Sailing Academy-Lake Murray with a certified sailing instructor. Cost is $25 per person.

Fireworks with the Columbia Blowfish
The Columbia Blowfish will celebrate Independence Day by having a fireworks show at Capital City Stadium after their games on July 2, 3 and 4. Kids will also have the chance to play catch on the field with the Blowfish players before the game. Game starts at 6:05 pm. Ticket prices range from $5 to $7.

MONDAY, JULY 4, 2011

Lexington County Peach Festival and Fireworks Show
The 53rd Lexington County Peach Festival will be held Monday, July 4 at Gilbert Community Park and will feature an antique car show from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm, a tractor show from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, the Peach Parade at 9:30 am, the Junior Peach Pageant at 2:00 pm, the Miss Lexington County Pageant at 7:00 pm and fireworks at 10:00 pm.

Freedom Festival at the Village at Sandhill
Village at Sandhill's annual Freedom Festival returns on July 4th with a day of arts, crafts, and music that will cap off with the mid-state's premier fireworks show. The Richland County Sherriff's Department will also be on-hand with equipment displays and demonstrations. A full slate of the area's top music talent is also scheduled throughout the day featuring bands Rock Candy at 2:00pm, Angela Easterling and The Beguilers at 5:00pm, and The Fabulous Kays rounding out the evening's live music at 7:30pm. The fireworks show kicks off at 9:30pm.

Fireworks with the Columbia Blowfish
The Columbia Blowfish will celebrate Independence Day by having a fireworks show at Capital City Stadium after their games on July 2, 3 and 4. Kids will also have the chance to play catch on the field with the Blowfish players before the game. Game starts at 6:05 pm. Ticket prices range from $5 to $7.

Let's Go Sailing on Lake Murray
This July 4th weekend, enjoy a two hour sample of sailing with Lanier Sailing Academy-Lake Murray with a certified sailing instructor. Cost is $25 per person.

Newberry's Annual 4th of July Fireworks
A fantastic evening of rides, music, sky diving, and fireworks is on tap as the Newberry County Law Enforcement Officers Association presents its annual 4th of July celebration at Newberry High School. Festivities begin at 6:00 pm, when the gates open with music and rides for the children. There will be a sky diving exhibition led by Trent Purcell at 8:00 pm, and the evening will culminate with one of the southeast's largest fireworks displays around 9:00 pm. Admission is free, but there will be food and beverage vendors with items available for purchase.

Can't make it out for the festivities? Watch our video of fireworks from last year's 'Torchlight Tattoo' at Fort Jackson on YouTube:

View a full list of events on our calendar or book a hotel room and make a weekend of it. Read more about these events and others around the state on the Discover South Carolina Insider blog or WIStv.com.

While you're here for the Miss South Carolina Pageant

2011-06-28T12:38:00.001-04:00

The wait is over! The Miss South Carolina Pageant is here, and the famously hot week of festivities is underway in Columbia, SC. Now that you're here, you won't want to miss out on the many things to do while you're not watching shining tiaras and sashes on stage at the 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization Pageant.

Here are nine ways to fill your free time while you're in town for Miss South Carolina:

Follow in the pageant contestants' footsteps and visit Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, the largest zoo in the Southeast. Make sure to stop by and say "G'day" to the koalas, feed the giraffes and check out the babirusa!
Tour some of the nation's most intriguing historic homes and gardens, like the Robert Mills House, Hampton Preston Mansion, Mann-Simon Cottage with Historic Columbia Foundation.
Keep the kids entertained by visiting Eddie, the world's largest kid, at EdVenture Children's Museum.
Cool off with a kayak or canoe trip down one of our three rivers. If you're looking to stay dry outside, stroll along the river or have a picnic at one of the region's parks or riverwalks.
Brush up on your South Carolina history at the South Carolina State Museum.
Get out, explore South Carolina's only national park and hit the trails at Congaree National Park.
Check out the famously hot Chihuly masterpiece at the Columbia Museum of Art and their current exhibit, An Artist's Eye.
Shop 'til you drop and check out Columbia's best shopping and boutiques in Five Points, along Devine Street and on Main Street. (Say "hello" to Sally Salamander if you spot her!)
(Hot tip: Stop by Columbia's newest addition to Main Street, Mast General Store to find everything from old general store candy to South Carolina gifts!)
Soak up the many Fourth of July festivities and fireworks shows happening this weekend! Find what's going on in Columbia, SC for July 4th weekend and Monday, July 4 on our calendar of events.

For more things to do, places to eat, shopping and more, visit columbiacvb.com, stop by the Columbia Regional Visitors Center or tweet us @ColumbiaSC for visitor information. Stay up to date with Columbia, SC on Facebook.

Tickets for the 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant are available for purchase at the Township Auditorium box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Book a hotel room online at columbiacvb.com.

Be Queen for a "Famously Hot" Weekend at the Miss SC Pageant

2011-06-27T13:03:00.001-04:00

Ever dreamed of being queen for a day? How about an entire weekend?! You could be queen at the Miss South Carolina Pageant in Columbia, SC when you enter our sweepstakes to "Be Queen for a 'Famously Hot' Weekend."

The lucky winner will receive two (2) tickets to the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization, Inc. 75th Anniversary Gala and Pageant events at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center on Friday, July 1 and The Township Auditorium on Saturday, July 2 (including two (2) green room passes after the pageant and a photo opp in your “Famously Hot” sash and crown with Miss South Carolina and the new titleholders!) two nights at the Inn at USC, plus lunch for two (2) at ZPizza, two (2) tokens to Cupcake, a pedicure from Logan Raye, two (2) passes to Columbia Museum of Art, two (2) Historic Columbia Foundation house tour passes, two passes to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, two (2) famously hot t-shirts, and your very own “Famously Hot” sash and crown.

Enter to win and this could be you!

Don't want to wait to see if you're a winner? Tickets for the 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant are available for purchase at the Township Auditorium box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Book a hotel room online at columbiacvb.com.

Meet the Miss South Carolina Contestants

2011-06-25T11:54:00.001-04:00

Growing up, many girls dream of one day becoming a princess, complete with a beautiful dress and sparkling tiara. Next week, 89 young ladies from across South Carolina will have the opportunity to make their dreams become a reality here in Columbia. To see who is competing for the ultimate title of Miss South Carolina and Miss Teen South Carolina, view them on the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization website:
Miss South Carolina Contestants
Miss Teen South Carolina Contestants

Tickets for the 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant are available for purchase at the Township Auditorium box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Book a hotel room online at columbiacvb.com.

For pageant updates, be sure to "like" Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization, Inc. on Facebook.

'Famously Hot' Weekends Mean 'Surprisingly Free' Music + Movies

2011-06-17T15:03:00.000-04:00

What's hot about Columbia weekends this time of year? FREE concerts and movies in our scenic parks and trendy districts! Make the most of this "famously hot" summer and keep your cool with this list of weekend fun. Bring your family, your friends or plan something different for date night without breaking the bank.

FREE MOVIES
Free Movies at Finlay Park
Free family movies will be shown Friday nights at Finlay Park this summer, beginning June 17 and ending July 22. There will be free popcorn and drinks provided for everyone. Movies begin at sunset, or approximately 8:00 pm. Bring chairs or a blanket, but leave the pets, alcohol and glass containers at home. Picnics welcome. Movies: June 17- Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (PG); June 24- Dr. Dolittle: Tail to the Chief (PG); July 1- Horton Hears A Who! (G); July 8- Ice Age 2: The Meltdown (PG); July 15- Nim’s Island (PG); July 22- Space Chimps 2: Zartog Strikes Back (PG).

Free Movies at North Springs Park
Movies in the Park is a free outdoor movie event in Northeast Columbia at North Springs Park. Enjoy Despicable Me on a giant 15X25 movie screen, with drinks, popcorn, and Sno Cones on Friday, June 17. Don't miss the Chick-fil-a cows, the HUGE bounce house and slide, and the opportunity to register for great giveaways from area restaurants and attractions. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket. Gates open at 7:30 pm. They will be collecting food and paper product donations and selling glow bracelets for $1, with all proceeds going directly to Hannah House.

FREE CONCERTS
Summer Concert Series at Finlay Park
This free summer concert series will be held Saturdays in June and July at Finlay Park from 8:00 to 10:00 pm. This year's star-studded series opens with Groovetown and closes with Soul Unique.

Village at Sandhill's Summer Concert Series

Join the fun and games and dance to live music at this summer concert series every Friday night at Village at Sandhill from June 3 to September 2. Returning for another season are magician Nick Propst, face painter Sarah Dippity, and the balloon art of Balloonopolis. Fun and games begin at 5:00 pm and the music starts at 7:00 pm. The music line-up includes: June 3: Swing Set-Style: Swing/Jazz; June 10: Fabulous Kays-Style: Party Band, Beach; June 17: Square Roots-Style: Rock, Blues, Pop; June 24: Casual Kings-Style: Rock, Funk, Soul; July 1: Analog Machine-Style: Rock; July 8: Angela Easterling & the Beguilers-Style: Americana, Folk, Roots; July 15: Casual Kings-Style: Rock, Funk, Soul; July 22: Rock Candy-Style: 80‘s Rock, Metal; July 29: Men of Distinc-tion-Style: Party Band; August 5: Black Bottom Biscuits-Style: Rock, Country, Bluegrass; August 12: Rock Candy- Style: 80‘s Rock, Metal; August 19: Mason Jars-Style: Acoustic, Blues, Folk, Americana; August 26: The Chasers-Style: Pop, Beach; September 2: Square Roots-Style: Rock, Blues, Pop. The July 4th Freedom Festival is also returning on Monday, July 4 with its renowned fireworks show, along with great music. Confirmed music acts are The Fabulous Kays, Rock Candy, and Angela Easterling, with more tentatively scheduled.

You be the Judge: Vote your choice for Miss South Carolina!

2011-06-16T15:00:00.000-04:00

How would you like to have your pick in the 75th Annual Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant? This year, the public has the opportunity to cast their votes for Miss South Carolina and Miss South Carolina Teen by voting for the People's Choice Award!

Check out contestants' personal YouTube video submissions explaining why they should be chosen as the next Miss South Carolina or Miss South Carolina Teen, pick your favorite - and vote!

Vote two ways:

- "Like" your favorite contestant's video on The Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization's Facebook page

- "Like" your favorite contestant's YouTube video

One vote per person per voting method each day. Only votes cast through one of the official voting methods will count toward the final tally. Voting closes at 11:59p.m. EST on June 30, 2011. "Likes" on videos posted on other Facebook pages, personal Facebook profiles or any other website will NOT count toward the final tally. View full voting details.

The public's favorite contestant will be announced as the People's Choice Award winner at 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Pageant, live on Saturday, July 2, 2011 at the Township Auditorium. You won't want to miss the chance to see if your choice for 2011 Miss South Carolina is the People's Choice!

Tickets for the 75th Anniversary Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant are available for purchase at the Township Auditorium box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Book a hotel room online at columbiacvb.com.

Treat Dad to a 'Surprisingly Cool' Father's Day in Columbia

2011-06-15T16:10:00.032-04:00

Treat your dad to a special experience in Columbia, SC to celebrate Father’s Day this year. Here's our round up of unique ways to spend the day:

EdVenture Children's Museum
Relax and let your kids entertain themselves during Father’s Day at EdVenture! Fathers receive free admission on Sunday, June 19. Regular admission applies to additional guests. While visiting EdVenture, you will be able to explore EDDIE®, The World’s Largest Child, BodyWorks, World of Work, Mission Imagination, The Great Outdoors, Critter Garden, My Backyard, Aha Factory, and Kangaroo Crossing Exhibits. What a great way to learn, relax, and have fun!

Make sure to check out Edventure on Facebook and Twitter.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Once again, Riverbanks Zoo has teamed up with Operation Military Kids for Father’s Day at the zoo. Kids who have military dads (and moms) deployed overseas must bring a copy of their parent's deployment to receive free children admission on June 19th. In addition, all fathers with their children in tow receive free admission to the Zoo on Father's Day. Don’t miss out on seeing the elephants, penguins, sharks, formal gardens, and all Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has to offer!

Check out Riverbanks Zoo and Garden on Facebook and Twitter.

South Carolina State Museum
Fathers would love to visit the South Carolina State Museum on Father’s Day. There will be free general admission for fathers accompanied by their children of any age. Does not apply to the blockbuster exhibit "Animal Grossology" which carries an extra charge. Four floors of fun - it's South Carolina Under One Roof!

Make sure to check out South Carolina State Museum on Facebook, and follow Bubba for the inside scoop from the museum's favorite invisible character on Twitter!

Two Lake Murray Cruises

Spirit of Lake Murray Cruises is offering a Father’s Day Special on June 19th. You and your father can board the boat at 6:00 pm and sail around the beautiful Lake Murray from 6:30 pm until 9:00 pm. Father’s love a good meal - the menu for the night includes fried chicken and pulled BBQ pork, hash and rice, cheesy mac and cheese, fresh green beans, cole slaw, banana pudding, and sweet tea and sodas will be included. A cash bar will be available for beer and wine. The cost of the cruise, including dinner, is $43.00. Each father in attendance will receive a special gift from Spirit of Lake Murray Cruises.

Check out Spirit of Lake Murray Cruises on Facebook.

The Southern Patriot will help make Father's Day a day to remember with a scenic cruise on Lake Murray, complete with a delicious Southern fare by Dupre Catering. On the menu: light hors d'oeuvres, shrimp capped grit cakes with sausage, tomato gravy, grilled skirt steak carved on-site with horse radish sauce, served on fresh yeast rolls, three cheese spinach casserole, marinated Mediterranean vegetable salad, strawberry shortcake and iced tea. The cost is $39.50 per adult, $29.50 for children under 13, and FREE for children under the age of five. Call 803-749- 8594 to reserve your space.

Check out The Southern Patriot on Facebook.

Historic Columbia Foundation
This month Historic Columbia Foundation's Dollar Sunday $1 admission happens to fall on Father's Day. Take Dad on a tour of one of the historic house museums for just $1. Visit the Robert Mills House, Hampton-Preston Mansion or the Mann-Simons Cottage. Tickets are available for purchase at the Museum Shop at Robert Mills House.

Follow Historic Columbia Foundation on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Gifts
For the traditional, try Brittons on Devine Street or Granger Owings on Main Street. Maybe you'll even get to meet Lucky Levinson, star of our top "How to Tie a Bow Tie" instructional video on YouTube. If Dad is into the outdoors, try one of our local outdoor outfitters -- or how about a cool fly fishing experience with Frank's Fly Arts? Check out this recent guest post about our world-class fly fishing and some great Father's Day deals!

Have something cool we should add to the list? Leave a comment and let us know!