News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina’s Soda City Market has achieved national recognition by being nominated as one of the top 20 farmers markets by USA Today. This beloved local market, which operates every Saturday, features about 200 vendors showcasing fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant atmosphere. The nomination celebrates its significant contribution to the community and invites locals and visitors to support it by voting in the Readers’ Choice Awards.
Exciting News for Columbia, South Carolina: Soda City Market Ranks Among the Best!
Columbia, South Carolina is buzzing with excitement these days, all thanks to its very own Soda City Market being recognized as one of the top 20 farmers markets in the entire United States! This cherished local market has made a name for itself, not just in the community but now on a national scale, as it has been nominated for the Readers’ Choice Awards in the Farmers Market category.
A Market with Humble Beginnings
If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting Soda City Market, let us paint you a picture! This vibrant gathering takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., stretching across the lively 1300 to 1700 blocks of Main Street. What started in November 2005 as the All Local Farmers Market (ALFM) with just six vendors has blossomed into a spectacular showcase featuring approximately 200 different vendors every week. Throughout the year, you’ll find more than 400 unique sellers offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. Talk about growth!
A Nomination to Celebrate
The Heart of the Community
Erin Curtis, the CEO and Co-Owner of Soda City Market, has expressed sheer delight about the nomination. The momentum of this local treasure can be attributed to the fantastic vendors who pour their hearts and efforts into making the market a weekly event to look forward to. Many of these vendors have transformed their weekend stalls into successful brick-and-mortar shops. Just think about places like Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles and Arepa South, which originally started at Soda City Market and have come a long way since!
A Vibrant Atmosphere for All
Soda City Market has evolved into a beloved fixture in the heart of Columbia, creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. It’s not just about shopping; it’s an experience that celebrates community spirit with a lively array of options. Visitors can wander through stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, and mouthwatering food trucks that feature a variety of cuisines. It’s a foodie’s paradise and an artisan’s feast!
A Community Hub
More than just a shopping destination, Soda City Market stands as a community hub, fostering small businesses and nurturing local entrepreneurs. It sets the scene for people to gather, eat, and discover local talents. Each visit is like a mini-adventure with new vendors and unique finds, making it impossible for locals to resist returning week after week.
Join the Celebration
With such a fun, community-driven event and a chance to be recognized nationally, now is the perfect time to dive into what makes Soda City Market so special. Whether you’re a regular attendee or planning your first visit, this is an excellent opportunity to support a local treasure and vote to help it gain well-deserved recognition.
Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and make your way to Soda City Market! It’s more than just a market; it’s a celebration of local culture, flavors, and spirit!
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Farmers’ Market
- WIS TV
- Google Search: Soda City Market
- Cola Daily
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Farmers’ Market
- WLTX
- Google News: USA Today Readers Choice Awards
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.
