Columbia, SC, October 19, 2025
News Summary
This weekend, Columbia, SC, is ready for an exciting blend of activities as the last days of the South Carolina State Fair coincide with a thrilling football game featuring the Gamecocks against the #14 Oklahoma Sooners. Families and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to attend, but should prepare for large crowds and parking delays. In addition, a variety of fall festivals, haunted houses, and trick-or-treat events are scheduled, showcasing Columbia’s vibrant community spirit and seasonal offerings.
Columbia, SC Welcomes a Weekend of Fun with the State Fair and Football
This weekend in Columbia, SC, the final days of the 2025 South Carolina State Fair coincide with an exciting home football game as the Gamecocks take on the #14 Oklahoma Sooners. The game is set to start at 12:45 p.m. at Williams-Brice Stadium, making it a thrilling day for local sports fans and families seeking weekend entertainment.
Visitors to the State Fair or the football game are advised to wear comfortable shoes, arrive early, and exercise patience regarding parking due to expected large crowds.
Additional Weekend Activities
In addition to the State Fair and football game, Columbia offers several fall festivals, haunted houses, and Halloween trick-or-treat events for those looking for more laid-back festivities.
- Boo at the Zoo: Running from 6-9 p.m. at Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens, this event offers family-friendly Halloween activities.
- Hall of Horrors: This nonprofit haunted attraction operates from 7:30-10:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Sundays, and 8-11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in Cayce.
- Deceased Farm Haunted Attraction: Open from 7:30-11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 7:30-10 p.m. on Sundays, featuring new frightful elements.
- Fall Festival at Cottle Farms: Available from 10 a.m. until dark on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with activities like a corn maze and wagon rides.
Special Events and Activities
A Diwali Kickoff Party will take place on Thursday at the Columbia Museum of Art from 6-9 p.m. It will feature dancing, shopping, food, and art activities.
Music lovers can enjoy a free concert featuring Indianola and a performance by Kansas and Blue Oyster Cult at Township Auditorium on Saturday.
The Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume exhibition at the SC State Museum showcases over 70 costumes worn by iconic actors, making it a must-visit for Disney fans.
Also scheduled is the Pumpkin Run & Fall Festival at the Northwest Family YMCA from 7 a.m.-10 a.m., which includes a kids’ fun run and a 5K event. Additionally, the HUSH No More Walk Against Domestic Violence will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Moore Park, featuring live performances and local vendor services.
Market and Community Events
The Soda City Market will take place on Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., offering a variety of artisan goods and food. Community trunk or treat events are also set for several locations, including the Richland County Wellness Center on October 17, and various events on October 31.
The Fall Freedom Festival at Lake Wateree VFW Post is scheduled from 1-4 p.m. and will include BBQ, a kids’ costume contest, and more festive activities. Arts and culture will be represented by a free walking tour at the Congaree Creek Civil War battlefield, taking place on Saturday at 10 a.m..
The Market at Richland Library will run from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, supporting local artisans and small businesses. Residents can also visit various farmer’s markets throughout Columbia on Saturday morning to promote local produce and crafts.
Conclusion
This weekend in Columbia, SC promises a wide range of family-friendly activities, thrilling sports, and seasonal events suitable for all ages, ensuring there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
FAQ Section
What events are happening during the final days of the South Carolina State Fair?
The final days of the 2025 South Carolina State Fair are happening this weekend.
When is the Gamecocks football game against Oklahoma?
The Gamecocks will host a home game against #14 Oklahoma on Saturday at 12:45 p.m. at Williams-Brice Stadium.
What should attendees wear and prepare for if visiting the Fair or the game?
Attendees planning to visit the Fair or the game should wear comfortable shoes, arrive early, and be patient regarding parking.
What other events will take place in Columbia this weekend?
Other laid-back options include fall festivals, haunted houses, and Halloween trick-or-treat events.
What is Boo at the Zoo?
Boo at the Zoo runs from 6-9 p.m. featuring family-friendly Halloween festivities at Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens.
What performances are scheduled for Saturday?
A free concert featuring Indianola and a performance by Kansas and Blue Oyster Cult at Township Auditorium are scheduled for Saturday.
| Event | Date & Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| South Carolina State Fair | Final Days This Weekend | Enjoy rides, games, and fair food. |
| Gamecocks vs. Oklahoma | Saturday, 12:45 p.m. | Football game at Williams-Brice Stadium. |
| Boo at the Zoo | Friday-Sunday, 6-9 p.m. | Family-friendly Halloween festivities at Riverbanks Zoo. |
| Hall of Horrors | Thursdays & Sundays, 7:30-10:30 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays, 8-11 p.m. | Nonprofit haunted attraction in Cayce. |
| Deceased Farm Haunted Attraction | Fridays-Saturdays, 7:30-11 p.m.; Sundays, 7:30-10 p.m. | Haunted attraction with new features. |
| Fall Festivals | Friday-Sunday | Family activities, including corn mazes and wagon rides. |
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Columbia, SC Welcomes a Weekend of Fun
- ABC Columbia: Events to Enjoy this Halloween Season
- Hudson Valley Magazine: Halloween Events
- Columbia Tribune: October Fall Festivals
- WIS TV: Richland County Halloween-Themed Events
- Wikipedia: Halloween
- Google Search: Halloween events Columbia SC
- Google Scholar: Halloween celebrations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Halloween
- Google News: Halloween events
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
