Columbia, SC, October 20, 2025

News Summary

Columbia, South Carolina, continues to attract tourists with open attractions and events despite the federal government shutdown. Key sites like Congaree National Park, the Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens, and the Columbia Museum of Art remain accessible. Upcoming events include the Halloween Hoopla and the 10th Annual Fall Back Fest, while a “Shop Local, Dine Local” initiative seeks to support local businesses. The pleasant weather forecast encourages outdoor activities, as Columbia promotes exploration and community engagement.

Columbia

The thriving attractions and events in South Carolina continue to draw tourists despite the limitations imposed by the ongoing federal government shutdown. Key locations such as Congaree National Park, the Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens, and the Columbia Museum of Art are still accessible to visitors, with various events and initiatives scheduled over the coming weeks.

Weather and Conditions

On October 20, 2025, visitors can expect sunny skies in Columbia, with a high temperature of 71°F and light winds from the north-northeast at 5 to 10 mph. Overnight temperatures will drop to a low of 51°F with light and variable winds. These pleasant weather conditions provide an excellent opportunity for outdoor activities, even with some national park services being limited due to the government shutdown.

Ongoing Attractions and Events

Congaree National Park, South Carolina’s only national park, remains open for hiking despite the government shutdown limiting visitor services. The park features a scenic 2.6-mile boardwalk that allows guests to explore over 26,000 acres of ancient, untouched forest. However, visitor centers and other indoor facilities are closed temporarily.

At the Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens, a spectacular light show titled Wild Lights is currently captivating visitors each evening after sunset, providing a festive atmosphere. The Columbia Museum of Art is also hosting events to celebrate its 75th anniversary, featuring interactive galleries for children and diverse art programs for adults. An exciting new exhibit showcasing the works of Keith Haring is on display and will be available until February 15, 2026.

Local Support Initiatives

In an effort to boost the local economy, Lexington, SC, is launching a “Shop Local, Dine Local” initiative which encourages residents to support local businesses starting November 15, just ahead of the holiday season. Various family-friendly activities are being offered at Eudora Wildlife Safari Park, including a Fall Festival every weekend in October, complete with a pumpkin patch and rides.

Upcoming Events and Activities

EdVenture, an interactive museum, will host a Halloween Hoopla on October 30, with an anniversary celebration scheduled for November 8. The 10th Annual Fall Back Fest will take place in West Columbia on November 7, showcasing local artisans, live music, and food. For those interested in historical exploration, guided tours are available at the South Carolina State House, and visitors can delve into South Carolina’s military history at the Columbia Mills Building.

Additional fall events include the Lower Saluda Craft Beer Fest at Saluda Shoals Park on November 14 and the Sleigh Bell Trot on November 24. Families can enjoy rides with Santa at the South Carolina Railroad Museum during the first three weekends in December. The South Carolina State Museum will also extend its exhibition of Disney costumes until January 4, 2026. Lastly, the Lexington County Museum is offering a free walking tour focused on historical murders and mysteries on December 12.

Arts and Entertainment

The Koger Center for the Arts will feature performances including the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” on November 1 and “It’s a Wonderful Life” on November 20. Additionally, various outdoor and holiday-themed events such as the Kershaw County Christmas Parade on December 13 will be held throughout the state, providing a festive spirit for all attendees.

Background on Federal Shutdown Impact

While many attractions and events remain open and thriving, the ongoing federal government shutdown has resulted in limited services at national parks, including Congaree. As a result, visitor services, including facilities and programs, are temporarily unavailable. However, hiking trails are still accessible, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the park.

Conclusion

Despite challenges posed by the government shutdown, South Carolina’s attractions and local businesses are actively promoting initiatives and events to engage visitors and residents alike. The upcoming weeks will be filled with opportunities for exploration and community support.

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Additional Resources

• SC Daily Gazette
• Wikipedia: Congaree National Park
• Greenville Online
• Google Search: Congaree National Park
• Post and Courier
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Congaree National Park
• The State
• Google News: Congaree National Park
• Popular Science
• Atlas Obscura

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, 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 Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.