November brings Columbia a full calendar of live music, neighborhood celebrations, college football and holiday lights. It is a month for exploring local shopping districts, catching a performance and gathering with friends before the busiest part of the season arrives. From Five Points to The Vista and Williams-Brice Stadium, here are some of the best things to do in Columbia this November.
Judah & the Lion
When: November 4, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Senate, 1022 Senate Street
Start the month with live music as Judah & the Lion brings its blend of folk instrumentation and alternative-rock energy to The Senate. The lineup also includes Breakfield and Band of Silver, making it an evening for discovering new music alongside familiar songs. Pair the concert with dinner nearby for a midweek night out in downtown Columbia. (experiencecolumbiasc.com)
JerryFest
When: November 8, 2026
Where: Five Points
JerryFest moves into November this year, bringing a day of live music and laid-back celebration to Five Points. Inspired by the music and legacy of Jerry Garcia, the free festival combines performances with artisan vendors, food and activities for younger guests. It is an opportunity to enjoy one of Columbia’s distinctive neighborhood gatherings while exploring the businesses around the district. (fivepointscolumbia.com)
A Devine Night Out
When: November 12, 2026
Where: Devine Street
Give holiday shopping a neighborhood feel during A Devine Night Out. This seasonal event is a chance to explore Devine Street’s boutiques and local businesses while getting an early start on your gift list. Make an evening of browsing the shops and stopping for a bite nearby, especially if you are looking to discover more of the Shandon area. (citycouncil.columbiasc.gov) (experiencecolumbiasc.com)
Vista Lights
When: November 19, 2026, beginning at 6 p.m.
Where: The Vista, Downtown Columbia
The Vista welcomes the holiday season with an evening of shopping, dining and entertainment during Vista Lights. Galleries, restaurants and shops open their doors, while performances, an artisan market and a children’s zone give visitors plenty to explore. The neighborhood tree lighting is a highlight, making this an easy choice for a festive evening with friends or family. (vistacolumbia.com)
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
When: Select nights November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027, 5–9 p.m.
Where: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Experience Riverbanks after dark during Wild Lights, when larger-than-life wildlife lanterns and illuminated displays transform the zoo. The seasonal event includes interactive experiences, photo opportunities and nightly snowfall, with Santa visits available on designated dates through December 23. Choose a night on the event calendar and enjoy a family outing that brings a different kind of wildlife experience to Columbia. (riverbanks.org)
South Carolina Football vs. Georgia
When: November 21, 2026
Where: Williams-Brice Stadium
Game-day energy returns to Columbia when South Carolina hosts Georgia at Williams-Brice Stadium. Tailgating and familiar football traditions make a home-game Saturday an experience that reaches well beyond the stadium gates. Whether you are attending the game or meeting friends to watch nearby, it is a chance to enjoy one of the city’s defining fall traditions. (georgiadogs.com)
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
When: November 23, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene Street
Ease into Thanksgiving week with an evening of holiday music at the Koger Center. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas brings its distinctive arrangements and multimedia production to Columbia, combining familiar seasonal melodies with a concert experience built around the group’s recognizable sound. Make a night of it with dinner before the performance and enjoy a musical start to the holiday season. (kogercenterforthearts.com)
A November to Explore Columbia
From live music in Five Points to shopping on Devine Street, a tree lighting in The Vista and football at Williams-Brice, November gives Columbia plenty of ways to gather. The city’s neighborhood businesses, cultural venues and seasonal traditions make it easy to plan a month that feels both festive and distinctly local.
If you are considering making Columbia home, the city’s events are just one part of what makes life in the Midlands so special. The Andy Bovender Team with Compass Carolinas is proud to serve Columbia and the surrounding communities and help buyers and sellers navigate the local real estate market. Whether you are searching near downtown, close to the University of South Carolina or in one of the area’s surrounding neighborhoods, our team is here to help you find your place in Columbia real estate.
