Whether you want to stay on campus or venture out into the surrounding areas, you’re sure to find an event or activity to enjoy. We’re spoiled for choice this year, with a wide variety of events and festivals happening in and around the Columbia area. Any one of these events could be the highlight of your semester!
Carolina’s Got Talent
When: March 24, 7 to 10 p.m.
Where: Russell House Ballroom
Admission: Free
Description: Come watch your fellow Gamecocks strut their stuff at USC's premier talent competition.
Read Freely Fest
When: March 28-30, Friday from 7 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Richland County Public Library, Assembly Street
Admission: Free
Description: The first annual Read Freely Fest is where stories find good company! The festival features bestselling author talks, panels with emerging voices, performances and interactive activities. Visit readfreelyfest.com for more information on authors, vendors and activities.
Pridechella
When: April 11, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Greene Street, in front of Russell House
Admission: Free
Description: Come celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride the way only a Gamecock can! The festival features music, performances, and art celebrating a rich history of community, hardships, progress and growth.
The Millennium Tour 2025
When: April 11, 8 p.m.
Where: Colonial Life Arena
Admission: Varies
Description: Kick it old-school at this concert featuring Trey Songz, Omarion, Bow Wow, Ying Yang Twins and more! Doors open at 7 p.m. Purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com.
Birdcage Drag Show
When: April 16, 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Russell House Ballroom
Admission: Free
Description: Come celebrate the 27th annual Birdcage Drag Show. The event features local drag performers in an exciting showcase, jointly hosted by Carolina Productions and IRIS.
Cocky Trot 5k and One-Mile Fun Run
When: April 26, 9 a.m. to noon
Where: Gamecock Park/Williams-Brice Stadium
Admission: Registration fee is $40 until April 19; on April 20, the fee increases to $45.
Description: Show your Gamecock spirit by participating in the Cocky Trot. The 5K route starts at Gamecock Park, winds through the practice fields and finishes on the field inside Williams-Brice Stadium. A one-mile Fun Run/Walk is also available. The top three finishers in various categories will receive special prizes—including season or single-game tickets to Gamecock sporting events. Participants are required to register online prior to the event.
Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume
When: May 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: South Carolina State Museum
Admission: $33
Description: Calling all Disney nerds: the South Carolina State Museum is hosting an exhibition created by the Walt Disney Archives, showcasing over 70 costumes from beloved characters. Want to know how they got the Maleficent horns on Angelina Jolie’s head? Or just how many crystals and sequins were in Cinderella’s dress? This is the event for you.
