September Events in Columbia: What to Do This Month
September is a great time to experience Columbia. As summer begins to wind down, the Midlands comes alive with outdoor concerts, cultural celebrations, local markets and plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the community. From a Saturday morning at Soda City Market to one of the city’s favorite annual festivals, here are some of the best things to do in Columbia this September.
Soda City Market
When: Saturdays throughout September, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: Main Street, Downtown Columbia
Start your Saturday with one of Columbia’s most-loved traditions. Soda City Market stretches along several blocks of Main Street with local makers, artists, food vendors and more. Whether you are grabbing breakfast, shopping for something unique or simply enjoying the energy of downtown, it is an easy way to spend a Saturday morning like a local. Soda City Market
Admiral Radio Free Outdoor Concert
When: September 10, 2026, 5–7 p.m.
Where: Plaza Stage at the Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene Street
Enjoy live music outdoors at the Koger Center during the Levitt AMP Columbia Music Series. Admiral Radio takes the stage on September 10 for an evening of free live music in the heart of downtown. Bring your friends, settle in and enjoy one of Columbia’s best perks: great entertainment without the ticket price.
Columbia’s Greek Festival
When: September 17–20, 2026
Where: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1931 Sumter Street
A Columbia favorite returns this September for four days of Greek food, music, dancing and culture. Columbia’s Greek Festival is the perfect place to enjoy traditional Greek dishes and pastries, listen to live music, browse vendors and experience one of the Midlands’ most anticipated annual celebrations. With free admission and plenty to see and taste, it is an easy event to turn into a full afternoon with family or friends. Columbia's Greek Festival
Black Nerd Mafia Free Outdoor Concert
When: September 17, 2026, 5–7 p.m.
Where: Plaza Stage at the Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene Street
Keep the live music going with another free concert at the Koger Center. Black Nerd Mafia brings its sound to the outdoor stage on September 17 as part of the Levitt AMP Columbia Music Series. It is a fun way to spend a Thursday evening downtown and enjoy Columbia’s growing music scene.
SC Horror Convention: Con of the Dead
When: September 19–20, 2026
Where: Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln Street
For something a little different, horror fans can head downtown for the South Carolina Horror Convention. Con of the Dead brings celebrity guests, vendors, costumes and plenty of spooky entertainment to the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Despite the theme, the event is designed to be family-friendly, making it a unique weekend outing for horror fans of all ages.
Molly Martin Free Outdoor Concert
When: September 24, 2026, 5–7 p.m.
Where: Plaza Stage at the Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene Street
Another Thursday means another opportunity to enjoy live music under the Columbia sky. Molly Martin performs at the Koger Center’s outdoor plaza as part of the Levitt AMP Columbia Music Series. Grab a friend and make an evening of it with dinner or drinks downtown before or after the show.
Cola Café Fest
When: September 27, 2026, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln Street
Coffee lovers will not want to miss Columbia’s first artisan coffee, tea, dessert and pastry convention. Cola Café Fest brings together local and regional vendors for a full day dedicated to all things caffeinated and sweet. It is a great way to discover new favorites while supporting the local food and beverage community.
A September to Explore Columbia
September is the perfect month to get out and experience Columbia from a local’s perspective. From the weekly energy of Soda City Market to cultural festivals, outdoor concerts and unique events downtown, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the city as summer gives way to fall.
If you are considering making Columbia home, the city’s vibrant events calendar is just one part of what makes the Midlands such a special place to live. The Andy Bovender Team with Compass Carolinas is proud to serve Columbia and help buyers and sellers navigate the local real estate market. Whether you are searching for a historic home downtown, a family-friendly neighborhood or a property in one of the surrounding Midlands communities, our team is here to help you find your place in Columbia real estate.
