Saturday, Jun. 07, 2008

South Carolinians will find any excuse to party

Whether it’s delectable (or strange) food, interesting films or live performances, you can find something to do all year round.

Here is a sampling of major events in Richland, Lexington and Kershaw counties. It doesn’t even include sports and community festivals — so you get the idea that there’s plenty to keep you busy.

We’ve noted events in the months they typically occur, but keep in mind they are subject to change. To find out more specific information about the events listed here:

• Closer to the month of the event, log on at www.thestate.com or check events listings in Friday’s Weekend section in The State newspaper.

• Contact the Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau: (803) 545-0000 or www.columbiacvb.com• For things to do statewide — and there’s plenty — call (803) 734-1700 or go to www.discoversouthcarolina.

JANUARY

A Grand Affair: A Celebration of Life After 55: Vendors and activities targeted to seniors

FEBRUARY

S.C. Book Festival: Lectures, book signings and lots of vendors make this a popular event, typically held at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

International Festival of Wine & Foods: Sample some of the best wines and dishes from Columbia area restaurants and retailers.

MARCH

St. Patrick’s Day Festival: Live music, food and drink celebrating all things Irish; held annually in Five Points.

Columbia International Festival: The world comes to Columbia, with a parade of nations, exhibits, food and more.

Carolina Cup: This annual steeplechase event in Camden draws a crowd of about 50,000 to enjoy tailgating, fashion and horses.

Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic: The name says it all — if you like sports, this is your event.

APRIL

Artista Vista: Annual gallery walk that showcases artists and artwork in Columbia’s Vista.

Western Weekend Rodeo: Cowboys and cowgirls at heart won’t want to miss this annual event in South Congaree.

Plant and Flower Festival: This event includes vendors selling plants, flowers, yard art, outdoor furniture and more.

Sparkleberry Country Fair: It’s among the largest of the community festivals, held at the Sandhill Research and Education Center in Northeast Richland.

S.C. Oyster Festival: Tons of oysters plus live music.

MAY

South Carolina Poultry Festival: One of Lexington County's largest festivals and a salute to farming in the county's western parts, the event in Batesburg-Leesville includes a parade, live entertainment, family activities and more.

Camden Polo: Enjoy polo matches — and the nice spring weather — in Camden, at one of the oldest fields in the United States.

JUNE

Southeastern Piano Festival: Classes for aspiring pianists, and showcase performances by celebrated and new artists, held annually at the University of South Carolina.

JULY

Lexington County Peach Festival: Held in Gilbert on July 4, this event showcases peaches and includes a parade, live entertainment and lots of peach-themed fun.

Lake Murray Fourth of July Celebration: Music, fireworks and a boat parade add up to a festive way to celebrate the holiday.

Jammin in July: Lots of bands, plus a historic setting, make for a day of fun in Camden.

AUGUST

Jubilee Festival of Heritage: A celebration of African-American art and culture, held in Columbia.

South Carolina Peanut Party: This three-day festival in Pelion celebrates the peanut with carnival rides, food vendors, parade, live entertainment and more.

SEPTEMBER

Chapin Labor Day Festival: This annual event includes a run/walk, parade, live entertainment and food.

Greek Festival: There is dancing and arts and crafts, but most folks come to downtown Columbia to enjoy the fabulous Greek food.

Lexington Fun Festival: Music, arts and crafts, and vendors make for a pleasant day for families.

Irmo Okra Strut: If you’re new to Columbia, okra may be new to you. Introduce yourself at this event, which includes a parade, street dance, plus plenty of okra.

GastonCollardFestival: You’ve got to know about this other Southern favorite — collards — and this annual festival in the small Lexington County town is a good way to discover it. A parade, fireworks and kids activities also are on tap.

OCTOBER

S.C. State Fair: One of the biggest advantages of living in Columbia is the State Fair. Indulge in fair food favorites, tour exhibits, ride the rides and check out the animals. A great event for the family.

Columbia Blues Festival: Live blues, food and more, held annually in Five Points.

Carolina Downhome Blues Festival: Live music, held in venues throughout Camden. Features local and regional talents.

Carolina Q Cup: There are lots of barbecue events across the state. This one celebrates each of the four types of barbecue cooked in the Palmetto State: tomato-based, ketchup-based, vinegar-based or mustard-based barbecue.

Boo at the Zoo: Among the many Halloween-related events is this one, which features Riverbanks Zoo decorated for the event, treats for the kids and more. Held in the evening.

NOVEMBER

Colonial Cup: This steeplechase event in Camden, the final event of the national steeplechase season, is a great family event — featuring not only horse racing but mule rides for kids, food, terrier trials, vendors and more.

Holiday Lights on the River: Among the many holiday-related events, this one has Saluda Shoals Park near Irmo decked out in lights for a long run through the holidays. Runs through December.

Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo: Another seasonal favorite, visitors can enjoy an evening stroll with thousands of twinkling lights, visits with Santa and more. Runs through December.

DECEMBER

Holiday events: They’d be too numerous to list, but some of our favorites are the tree-lightings, parades and other special events that most of the small towns in the community offer. It’s a great opportunity to get out and meet your neighbors in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade: This 50-plus-year-old parade is a tradition for many families, with marching bands, floats, Santa and more.

Elgin Catfish Stomp: Come for the catfish stew, which many folks buy in bulk to put in the freezer to enjoy during the winter months. It’s prepared by local firefighters.

WOW! Ring in the new year with activities for the whole family. Held in downtown Columbia.

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