Columbia, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The Jam Room Music Festival returns to Columbia with its 12th annual event at the newly renovated Finlay Park. The festival will feature live performances from ten acts, including a mix of local and national talent, and will be a free, family-friendly event. Attendees can also enjoy food trucks and children’s activities. This year marks a relocation for the festival, coinciding with the park’s reopening after extensive renovations. The event promises a vibrant celebration of music and community.
Columbia to Host Jam Room Music Festival at Finlay Park
The Jam Room Music Festival (JRMF) will return for its 12th annual event on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the newly renovated Finlay Park. This marks a significant relocation from its previous home on Main Street, coinciding with the grand reopening of the park following extensive renovations of $25 million.
This year’s JRMF will offer a free and family-friendly experience, featuring live music performances from ten talented acts spanning local, regional, and national scenes on two stages. The festival is set to run from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., with performances occurring at the park’s brand-new amphitheater, which is one of the designated performance venues.
Festival Highlights and Lineup
Among the lineup, notable performers include Steve Ray Ladson, a finalist on “America’s Got Talent,” celebrated for his eclectic mix of blues, soul, country, and R&B. Indie-rock band Silkworm, which recently reunited, will also take the stage, promising fans an engaging musical experience. Additional artists will be announced at a fundraising lineup-preview event on Thursday, October 9, at WeCo Bottle and Biergarten.
The festival will kick off with various activities, including food trucks and children’s programming starting at noon on the day of the event. In preparation for the festival, several partner events will take place, including a screening of “It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley” on November 6 and a kickoff concert at Art Bar on November 14.
Community Engagement and Accessibility
Finlay Park’s strategic location makes it easily accessible, being within walking distance from the Main Street District and the Vista, where attendees can explore numerous dining and nightlife options. The grand reopening ceremony for the park will take place at 10 a.m. the same day, featuring city officials and other representatives, further enhancing the community’s engagement with the event.
Mission and History of the Jam Room Music Festival
The mission of the JRMF is to celebrate Columbia’s vibrant music culture and community spirit. Since its inception in 2012, the festival has remained free to the public, funded primarily by the City of Columbia and Richland County. It aims to establish Finlay Park as a vibrant hub for community events, bringing together residents and visitors alike to appreciate the local musical talent.
The festival not only honors the memory of a legendary Columbia recording studio but also provides a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their talents. As the festival approaches, excitement is building within the community, promising a day filled with music, fun, and celebration.
Key Features of the Jam Room Music Festival
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | November 15, 2025 |
| Location | Finlay Park, Columbia |
| Time | 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. |
| Cost | Free |
| Performers | Ten acts including Steve Ray Ladson and Silkworm |
| Pre-festival Events | Film screening (November 6), Kickoff concert (November 14) |
| Funding | City of Columbia and Richland County |
FAQ
What is the Jam Room Music Festival?
The Jam Room Music Festival is an annual music event showcasing local, regional, and national musical talent.
When is the festival taking place?
The festival will be held on November 15, 2025.
Where will the event be located?
This year, the festival will take place at Finlay Park in Columbia.
Is the festival free to attend?
Yes, the Jam Room Music Festival has been free since its inception in 2012.
What types of performances can attendees expect?
The festival will feature a mix of genres, including blues, soul, country, and indie rock, among others.
Will there be activities for children?
Yes, there will be children’s programming along with food trucks and other entertainment options available.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia, SC Weekend Events: Family Fun and Community Spirit
Columbia Prepares for 43rd St. Pat’s in Five Points Festival
Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Jam Room Music Festival New Location and Date
- WLTX: Jam Room Music Festival New Finlay Park Location
- Cola Today: Jam Room Music Festival Returns
- Wikipedia: Festival
- Google Search: Jam Room Music Festival
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