It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Robert Mills House and Gardens in Columbia, SC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Columbia, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Lisa helped my family understand the best options for my parents and the resources available.”
“Always Best Care has been a lifesaver for our family. We have worked with them”
“Thank you for the care you gave to my dad. He did not have any”
“Always Best Care provided excellent care when I was discharged from Atrium after surgery- the”
“Lisa and her team at Always Best Care have been a great partner and resource”
“Amazing staff and services. Much appreciated.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care was just absolutely wonderful. I”
“I love working for this company.”
“I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not”
“I love being able to work with this company, the owners are great people and”
“Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing”
“I am a past client of this provider Services were geared according to need. We were”
“I am a past client of this provider I used this nursing service for my cousin”
“Chuck and his personnel are truly the best. They helped us with mom and always”
“Lisa helped my family understand the best options for my parents and the resources available. She has great contacts and helped guide us thru the process. We received wonderful service. Thanks!”
“Always Best Care has been a lifesaver for our family. We have worked with them twice, both in emergency situations and they have treated us as if we were their only clients. Within an hour of our first call, we had paperwork completed and a caregiver on the way – and that was a holiday weekend. When the second emergency occurred, we knew exactly who to contact. We truly appreciate everything that Lisa, Melissa and the entire team have done for our family.”
“Thank you for the care you gave to my dad. He did not have any family living close to him. My sister and I were relived to know he was well taken care of. The caregivers truly care about your loved ones.”
“Always Best Care provided excellent care when I was discharged from Atrium after surgery- the office staff and caregivers were professional and caring- would definitely recommend if you need care at home-”
“Lisa and her team at Always Best Care have been a great partner and resource in providing services to our patients!”
“Amazing staff and services. Much appreciated.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care was just absolutely wonderful. I needed to qualify people who could deal with my sister with brain cancer. My sister would throw people in and out of her house; it was crazy. She died on December 5th. Always Best Care sent incredible people. I don't know where they came from, but they had one girl who was the only person my sister never attempted to throw out of the house. I'd never hear one bad word about this woman who was actually pulling double shifts at the end because my sister liked her so much. For some reason, this woman understood my sister and brain cancer. Brain cancer is hard to deal with because people could be pretty mean and abusive and they don't know what they're doing really. My sister was also going blind at the same time. It was not easy. I just wanted to say what wonderful care we received from Always Best Care. It was amazing. They were just coming and being there. My sister was crazy, and she didn't want anybody overnight, until she finally let me have someone come in overnight. On that night, she died. She got to die in her home, which is what I'm trying to do because that too was the most important thing of all. Always Best Care was able to staff at short notice and send really good people. I was impressed, and I would highly recommend them. They would help my sister get to the bathroom. She weighed 70 pounds when she died, but she was still able to walk. She had cancers on both her femurs, and her blood pressure was 80/47. They just helped with everything, like fixing her small meals, fixing coffee, and talking to her if she wanted to talk or not talking to her if she didn't want to talk. They were just very great with their help. My sister had brain cancer and she was belligerent. Always Best Care would find people within their staff. Also, it didn't take them long, I didn't have to wait. We had letters from others saying they don't have staff right now. With Always Best Care, I did it over the phone with a woman who was a Godsend. I think the caregiver was sent almost the first day and was there every day except on the weekend when they sent someone else. That person seemed to work out OK, too, which amazed me. For some reason, these people knew how to appease someone who is really crazy. It was the cancer; it was in my sister's head. You have to be tough-skinned and just realize that this is the disease talking to you and not a person. They were able to do that, and I feel very blessed.”
“I love working for this company.”
“I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not express the level of care and compassion that was shown for her. The nurses felt like family! Especially Alicia. You treated my cousin as if she was your family and I can't thank you enough for that. You not only took care of her but us also. I would recommend this service 100%! We only used them for 1 month as my cousin passed quickly. I d not have a single negative remark. Thank you Chuck! Your nurses are amazing.”
“I love being able to work with this company, the owners are great people and support me daily! We have many calls to work on performance and continue to grow and learn!”
“Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing to see what was needed. Very flexible and focused needs of patient All caregivers were on time We had a great experience”
“I am a past client of this provider Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing to see what was needed. Very flexible and focused needs of patient All caregivers were on time We had a great experience”
“I am a past client of this provider I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not express the level of care and compassion that was shown for her. The nurses felt like family! Especially Alicia. You treated my cousin as if she was your family and I can't thank you enough for that. You not only took care of her but us also. I would recommend this service 100%! We only used them for 1 month as my cousin passed quickly. I d not have a single negative remark. Thank you Chuck! Your nurses are amazing. Donna O.”
“Chuck and his personnel are truly the best. They helped us with mom and always focused on the care and not a much of processes and forms. I would highly recommend them to all.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park in Columbia, SC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ruth's Chris Steak House or visit Historic Columbia, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Columbia, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Columbia, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Columbia, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Finlay Park will reopen on Nov. 15 after a $24 million renovation, featuring new playgrounds, a splash pad, pickleball courts, and the Jam Room Music Festival.COLUMBIA, S.C. — After years of delays and closed gates, Columbia’s Finlay Park will reopen Nov. 15 with a community celebration.The downtown landmark, once known for its sweeping greenspace, amphitheater and 27-foot spiral fountain, first opened in 1990 as Sidney Park. By 2015, the fountain had stopped flowing and the park fell into disrepair.City lead...
Finlay Park will reopen on Nov. 15 after a $24 million renovation, featuring new playgrounds, a splash pad, pickleball courts, and the Jam Room Music Festival.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — After years of delays and closed gates, Columbia’s Finlay Park will reopen Nov. 15 with a community celebration.
The downtown landmark, once known for its sweeping greenspace, amphitheater and 27-foot spiral fountain, first opened in 1990 as Sidney Park. By 2015, the fountain had stopped flowing and the park fell into disrepair.
City leaders launched a renovation project in 2019. After COVID-19 delays and rising construction costs that pushed the budget to more than $24 million, the park is finally ready for a comeback.
“Hopefully, the waterfall will be refurbished and I get that feeling because I remember as a kid walking under that waterfall,” said Columbia resident Faida Whittaker. “It was so exciting and exhilarating. I love that part, and I can’t wait to show my children."
The city says the project is more than just restoring the iconic fountain. The renovation includes a hillside playground, a splash pad, an outdoor fitness area, pickleball courts and space for festivals and concerts.
City officials are also budgeting $2 million in the park's first year for safety and operations, with plans for cameras, emergency call boxes, police presence, and park rangers on duty.
“All the amenities don’t mean anything if people don’t feel comfortable being in the space,” said Henry Simons, Columbia’s assistant city manager of operations. “So, we were very intentional about that, making sure that we have the appropriate presence to make people feel comfortable being in this park.”
Residents say they are eager to see Finlay Park come back to life, both for its new amenities and the memories tied to its past.
“It was awesome back then, and I’m just waiting now for the fountain to be revived and the waterfall to come back on again,” said architect and Columbia resident Rohit Patel. “That will be really awesome. It brings back memories.”
Simons said the goal goes beyond new structures. “We're just looking forward to giving back to our citizens in a way that you've never seen it before,” he said. “We're just excited about everyone to see the work that's been done and how it's gonna impact this city.”
The grand reopening will also serve as the new home for the Jam Room Music Festival. The Nov. 15 event will feature 10 acts on two stages, including performances in the park’s new amphitheater.
City leaders said the reopening is not just about cutting a ribbon, it is about restoring a gathering place built to last for future generations.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Four additional cases of measles have been reported in South Carolina.The South Carolina Department of Public Health said Tuesday that four new cases have been reported, bringing the total number reported in South Carolina this year to 23. Of that number, 20 are associated with an outbreak at two Spartanburg County schools and a Greenville County gym.DPH said that of the four new cases, two were from those who were already quarantining after being exposed to close contacts, and the other two were related ...
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Four additional cases of measles have been reported in South Carolina.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health said Tuesday that four new cases have been reported, bringing the total number reported in South Carolina this year to 23. Of that number, 20 are associated with an outbreak at two Spartanburg County schools and a Greenville County gym.
DPH said that of the four new cases, two were from those who were already quarantining after being exposed to close contacts, and the other two were related to a business in Spartanburg.
None of the cases resulted in additional public exposure, according to the agency.
DPH also said a child was exposed to measles on Sept. 30 at a Crunch Fitness location on South Pleasantburg Drive in Greenville. Anyone who was at that location on that day between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. is asked to see their healthcare provider if they believe they were exposed.
The case above is now being counted as part of the current outbreak due to “unrecognized community transmission,” the department said in a statement.
DPH also reported Tuesday that the exclusionary period for Global Academy in Spartanburg County is over, and the quarantine period for students at Fairforest Elementary ends Wednesday.
A mobile unit from DPH will also offer measles vaccinations later this week in Spartanburg County.
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough and a runny nose - followed by a rash that can last up to six days. More severe complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling and death can also occur.
Health officials recommend the MMR and MMRV vaccines as the best way to protect against measles.
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Fall has a way of slowing you down — in the best possible way. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure or a weekend packed with food and festivals, Columbia makes it easy. Grab your sweater and your favorite travel buddy and get ready for a few days that feel equal parts laid-back and full of surprises. | SponsoredWhy Fall is the Perfect Time to Visit ColumbiaCooler temps and colorful trees set the stage for one of the most inviting times to experience Columbia. Swap the daily rush for street...
Fall has a way of slowing you down — in the best possible way. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure or a weekend packed with food and festivals, Columbia makes it easy. Grab your sweater and your favorite travel buddy and get ready for a few days that feel equal parts laid-back and full of surprises. | Sponsored
Cooler temps and colorful trees set the stage for one of the most inviting times to experience Columbia. Swap the daily rush for streets lined with fiery foliage, sunny patios with room to linger and plenty of fresh air. This season has a way of showing off the city’s charm while keeping things refreshingly low-key.
Start your morning with a stroll or bike ride along the Three Rivers Greenway. The crisp air and river views are every bit as good as the snapshots you’ll take. Just a short drive away, Congaree National Park offers boardwalk trails and golden canopies that feel worlds apart from the city.
If you’re up for more, cast a line on Lake Murray or the Saluda River, both local favorites for fishing. Or settle into Sesquicentennial State Park, where shaded sites, hiking trails and a quiet lake make it easy to soak up the fall season.
Columbia’s dining scene doesn’t hold back when fall rolls in. Kick things off with a maple cold brew or pumpkin spice latte from Drip Coffee. Then head to Hunter-Gatherer Brewery at Curtiss-Wright Hangar, where craft beers are paired with wood-fired pizzas under soaring hangar ceilings.
Looking for a dinner spot that changes with the seasons? Motor Supply Co. Bistro builds its rotating menu from fresh, local ingredients. And for wine lovers, the James Beard Award-winning Lula Drake Wine Parlour pairs curated pours with small plates, ideal for date night or catching up with friends.
Columbia makes family fun easy this time of year. Spend the day at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, where the cooler weather brings out the animals’ playful side. Or head to Clinton Sease Farm for hayrides, a corn maze and the kind of pumpkin patch kids will remember.
If you’re here on a Saturday, don’t skip Soda City Market. It’s part farmers market, part street festival and all fun. Kids (of all ages) can taste fresh treats, dance along to live music and pick out goodies from local makers.
Looking for a fall getaway with a little romance? Share tapas and wine under the string lights at Gervais & Vine before strolling hand-in-hand through the galleries at the Columbia Museum of Art. Then catch a show at the Koger Center for the Arts. Home of Broadway in Columbia, there’s always a world-class lineup of productions to choose from.
Want to linger longer? Order seasonal cocktails by the rooftop firepit, and wrap up the night under autumn skies at Hendrix.
Columbia’s hotels make it easy to feel right at home. In the heart of Main Street, Hotel Trundle blends boutique style with Southern hospitality. (Pro tip: don’t miss their complimentary breakfast). Or check into Graduate Columbia, located right on the University of South Carolina campus and filled with playful, one-of-a-kind details that rally USC school spirit. Go Gamecocks! Whatever your style or budget, you’ll find a place to stay that feels just right.
Fall weekends here come with a full lineup. Raise a glass at any of our numerous Oktoberfests in the Soda City, where live music and local brews make it hard to be bored. Head to the South Carolina State Fair for rides, treats and plenty of Southern deep-fried food. And for a dose of arts and holiday spirit, Vista Lights turns downtown into a glowing street party with gallery strolls, music and late-night shopping. Check the full events calendar to see what’s happening while you’re in town — you’ll be glad you did.
Lucky you. You just found COLAtoday’s Plan Ahead, a list of some of the biggest events taking place throughout Columbia each month.Take out your calendar, grab your day planner, or text all your friends — these are the top events we recommend heading into October. Psst: Don’t forget to bookmark this page and come back; we update our guide monthly.Great American Whiskey Fair | Friday, Oct. 3 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | 701 Whaley, 701 Whaley Street | $95+ | Sip and savor rare bourbons, ryes, and internatio...
Lucky you. You just found COLAtoday’s Plan Ahead, a list of some of the biggest events taking place throughout Columbia each month.
Take out your calendar, grab your day planner, or text all your friends — these are the top events we recommend heading into October. Psst: Don’t forget to bookmark this page and come back; we update our guide monthly.
Great American Whiskey Fair | Friday, Oct. 3 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | 701 Whaley, 701 Whaley Street | $95+ | Sip and savor rare bourbons, ryes, and international pours.
Famously Hot SC Pride Festival | Saturday, Oct. 4 | 12-9 p.m. | Main Street District | Free | A parade, live music, and celebrations make this one of the city’s biggest annual parties.
Tacos & Margarita Festival | Saturday, Oct. 4 | 12-5 p.m. | Segra Park | $10 | Hit the ballpark for an afternoon of tacos, margaritas, live music, and even pro wrestling fills the ballpark, with VIP options for foodies who want the full experience.
JerryFest 2025 | Sunday, Oct. 5 | 12-8 p.m. | Five Points District | Free | Fans gather to celebrate the music of Jerry Garcia with tribute bands.
Southern Gothic Festival | Friday, Oct. 10-Saturday, Oct. 11 | Times vary | Rutledge Street, Camden | Free | Stories of the dark South fill local businesses with music, art, and storytelling.
Titus Andronicus | Friday, Oct. 3-Saturday, Oct. 4 | 8-10 p.m. | Amphitheater Earlewood Park | Free | Shakespeare’s tragedy unfolds on an outdoor stage.
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors | Thursday, Oct. 9-Sunday, Oct. 19 | Times vary | Chapin Branch Library, Chapin | $20+ | The classic horror gets a hilarious twist in this fast-paced parody.
Dracula: Ballet with a Bite | Saturday, Oct. 25 | 7:30 p.m. | Koger Center for the Arts | $42+ | This ballet blends graceful choreography with gothic drama.
Live Outside: J Roddy Walston & The Automatic Band | Friday, Oct. 3 | Koger Center Outdoor Stage | Free | Get ready for piano-pounding rock anthems
Maxwell: The Serenade 2025 | Saturday, Oct. 4 | 8 p.m. | Colonial Life Arena | Smooth vocals and R&B classics set the stage.
Koger Center Presents Live Outside: The Ramblers | Friday, Oct. 10 | 5 p.m. | Koger Center for the Arts | Free | Kick back with Americana tunes from this local group.
Turnpike Troubadours: Wild America Tour | Friday, Oct. 10 | 7 p.m. | Township Auditorium | Oklahoma’s red dirt country stars roll into town.
EarleJam | 1 p.m. | Earlewood Park | Free | Local bands fill the park with a day of tunes, food trucks, and community fun.
Chamber Crawl | Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 7 p.m. | Hazelwood Brewing, Lexington | Free | Classical musicians take over the brewery for a relaxed night of music and craft beer.
Live Outside: Indianola | Friday, Oct. 17 | 7 p.m. | Koger Center | Free | Enjoy the Americana rock of Owen Beverly’s current project.
The Runarounds | Friday, Oct. 17 | 7 p.m. | New Brookland Tavern, West Columbia | $49 | The band from Amazon’s new TV series steps off the screen and onto the stage for a night of pop-rock energy.
Kansas & Blue Oyster Cult | Friday, Oct. 17 | 7:30 p.m. | Township Auditorium | $125 | Arena-rock legends team up for a powerhouse double bill of classic hits.
Tracy Lawrence & Josh Turner | Friday, Oct. 24 | 7 p.m. | Township Auditorium | $117 | Two country stars share the stage for an evening of hits old and new.
Penelope Road and Winyah | Friday, Oct. 24 | 7 p.m. | The Senate | Up-and-coming bands light up the stage with fresh takes on Southern rock and folk.
USC Symphony Orchestra: Wynton Marsalis’ Trumpet Concerto | Tuesday, Oct. 28 | 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. | University of South Carolina | $30 | Experience a masterwork of modern jazz and classical fusion performed live by USC’s orchestra.
Gamecocks Football vs. Alabama Crimson Tide | Saturday, Oct. 25 | TBD | Williams-Brice Stadium | $125+ | The Gamecocks look for one of their biggest wins of the season.
Ready for sweater weather, Columbia? From pumpkin patches and corn mazes to apple picking and German beer celebrations, fall is one of our favorite seasons in the Capital City.
Get ready to come alive — or play dead at a fall-tastic haunted house like Deceased Farm — with this guide featuring 40+ fall events happening now through November.
Hop with Pop | Tuesday, Oct. 28 + Wednesday, Oct. 29 | 6:15 p.m. | Columbia | Join this progressive dining experience that takes you on a culinary tour of downtown.
Fall Plant Sale | Saturday, Oct. 11 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens | Free | Stock your garden with seasonal blooms, native plants, and expert advice from horticulturists.
SC State Fair | Thursday, Oct. 8-Sunday, Oct. 19 | $15 | Fill up on Fiske fries and a corn dog before you tour the exhibits, spin on the rides, and catch the circus.
Columbia Garden Club Fall Plant Exchange | Saturday, Oct. 11 | 9:15 a.m.-12 p.m. | Talbots Parking Lot | Free | Bring a plant, take a plant, and swap stories with fellow green thumbs.
PAW Patrol Live! “A Mighty Adventure” | Saturday, Oct. 11, Saturday, Oct. 11, Sunday, Oct. 12 | Times vary | Colonial Life Arena | The pups hit the stage for an action-packed musical adventure the whole family can enjoy.
Dachshunds of Columbia Weenie Walks | 10 a.m. | USC Horseshoe | Free | Expect tail wags, belly rubs, and plenty of tiny legs trotting through Columbia during these monthly fall strolls.
The Cat Behind the Hat - The Art of Dr. Seuss | Friday, Oct. 24-Saturday, Oct. 25 | Times vary | Rob Shaw Gallery | Free | xplore the whimsical and rare artwork of Dr. Seuss beyond the beloved books.
Halloween at the Park: Trick-or-Treat Trail and Outdoor Carnival | Friday, Oct. 24 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Crooked Creek Park, Chapin | Free | Families can enjoy costumes, candy stations, and carnival games in a festive outdoor setting.
COLUMBIA — Earlejam, the outdoor concert the downtown neighborhood association hosts each fall, is beefing up its lineup of food trucks, local vendors and musical acts, thanks in part to a new partnership with The Senate.“We're going to have a much better showing than we had in previous years,” said Meg Southern, member of the Earlewood Community Citizens Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing quality of life in the North Main neighborhood.At last year’s event, The Senate’s Nicole Moore ...
COLUMBIA — Earlejam, the outdoor concert the downtown neighborhood association hosts each fall, is beefing up its lineup of food trucks, local vendors and musical acts, thanks in part to a new partnership with The Senate.
“We're going to have a much better showing than we had in previous years,” said Meg Southern, member of the Earlewood Community Citizens Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing quality of life in the North Main neighborhood.
At last year’s event, The Senate’s Nicole Moore and Will Heil saw the potential in the grassroots event that is held each year at Earlewood Park’s amphitheater. Southern said working with The Senate has “just been dynamite.”
In addition to coordinating schedules, running sound on the day and promoting the festival, The Senate booked Earlejam’s all-SC lineup of acts: E.Z. Shakes, Flower Shopping, H3RO, Sweetheart City and Greenville-based Sherwoods Florist.
Peace of Soul will be on-hand to serve vegan soul food from a food truck and Curiosity Coffee will be slinging beer and wine while Indah Coffee will have caffeine. Vendors — including Freeway music, a jewelry designer and embroiderer — will be there, as well as community resource tents like Historic Columbia, who will be on-hand to offer advice about living in and renovating historic homes.
John Furr and Zach Seibert of E.Z. Shakes, a longtime rock band from Columbia, are set to headline the 2025 festival. Though they’ve been playing for years, the two musicians are having to get creative to break through to new audiences.
“Doing something like Earlejam is a good way for us to mix it up and also get in front of some new people,” Furr said.
The roots-rock band will be playing a few songs slated for their upcoming album, as well as tracks from their eight albums, including 2024’s “Leaves Grow Back.”
“We’re excited to be on the stage and grateful to headline,” Furr said.
Southern said the neighborhood group has been planning this year’s event since February — even before they’d secured a grant from Richland County to help pay this year’s performers. Southern is hoping the result is a neighborhood event that brings in folks from beyond Earlewood’s borders.
“I wish I could say it was organic, but it definitely took a lot of intentionality,” she said.
Earlejam is a free event at the Earlewood Park Amphitheater on Oct. 12 from 1 to 6 p.m. Southern encourages folks to bring blankets and chairs to make themselves comfortable.
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