Soda City market is one of the country’s best, USA Today says. You can help make it No. 1
If you’ve spent a Saturday morning on Columbia’s Main Street, you probably already know that Soda City Market is something special. The weekly farmers market and craft fair that takes up several downtown blocks with food trucks, shopping, musicians and more, has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
And now the festivities have caught the attention of the editors at the national newspaper company USA Today.
Soda City has been named one of the 20 best farmers markets in the nation this year as part of the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards, nominated by an expert panel. People can vote for their favorite among the 20 nominees through April 14. You can visit the Readers’ Choice website to cast your vote.
“We’re beyond surprised and excited to receive this national nod,” said Soda City Market CEO Erin Curtis in a statement. “This nomination celebrates more than the Market – it speaks to the incredible vendors who are the real superstars of Soda City, our loyal patrons, and the dynamic spirit of Columbia that make Soda City so special. Now, we’re calling on our community to help us bring this win home!”
The market has become known for helping catalyze small businesses, leading to brick-and-mortar shops for several entrepreneurs who started with weekend booths. Local favorites like Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles, Arepa South and more got their start at Soda City.
Soda City has grown into a huge event, going from a handful of booths in its first iteration 20 years ago, to now roughly 200 vendors each week. The event is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, between the 1300 and 1700 blocks of Main Street.
This story was originally published March 17, 2025 at 11:35 AM.
