Events this weekend in Columbia

Events this weekend in Columbia this weekend 🔥

This weekend in Columbia has that oddly specific mix we do so well: a little glam, a little grit, some serious sports energy, and at least one excuse to drink pink alcohol before sunset. With 3,690 people already locked into plans, this is not one of those sleepy, "might just stay in" weekends. This is the one where group chats are arguing over whether to dress cute for a gala or comfy for a 5K.

If you’re chasing serotonin (and not just from scrolling), Dopamine Market @ Bang Back is the move. It’s got that artsy, maker-market feel without being precious about it – think local vendors, good people-watching, and the kind of stuff you actually want in your house. Same idea, different flavor over at HOPS & SHOPS: the Feb. 8th Market pairs your browsing with beer, which is frankly how all shopping should work. Both are perfect if you want to be out, social, and mildly productive without committing to full chaos.

On the bigger end of the spectrum, Colonial Life Arena is pulling double duty – from cozy corners to full-house crowds, it’s where the city’s big-night-out energy lives this weekend. Add in the action at Carolina Softball Stadium at Beckham Field, and you’ve got that very Columbia blend of sports fans, students, and families all moving through town at once. If you like people-watching and parking challenges, you’re in luck.

For the dress-up crew, An Evening in the Woods – the 3rd Annual Trustus Gala – is the artsy, slightly theatrical night out you treat like an excuse to finally wear that nicer outfit hanging in your closet. And if your vibe is more bubbly than black-tie, the 5th Annual Cola Rosé Shower is basically a love letter to people who plan their weekend outfits around what they’re drinking. Somewhere in the middle, the Dog Daze 5K 2026 is there for the runners, the dog people, and the "I’ll jog if there’s a T-shirt" crowd.

Here’s how to actually play it:
- Book first: An Evening in the Woods – 3rd Annual Trustus Gala (for arts lovers and dress-up energy)
- For casual weekend wanderers: Dopamine Market @ Bang Back
- Beer-and-browsing vibe: HOPS & SHOPS: Feb. 8th Market
- For the early-risers and dog people: Dog Daze 5k 2026
- Big-crowd energy: Events at Colonial Life Arena and Carolina Softball Stadium at Beckham Field
- For the rosé-obsessed: 5th Annual Cola Rosé Shower

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