Columbia Unveils Special Holiday Ornament Celebrating The Arcade Building

Columbia Gets Ready for the Holidays with a Special Ornament!

Hey there, Columbia! With the holiday season fast approaching, you might want to stop by for something special that could add a festive touch to your home décor this year. Earlier this week, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and friends from the Babcock Center revealed this year’s official city ornament, and it’s a beauty!

A Glimpse of Columbia’s History

For 2024, the ornament showcases none other than The Arcade Building, an iconic structure right in downtown Columbia. Many locals fondly remember The Arcade Building as a bustling hub filled with shops and cafés, making it a perfect representation of Columbia’s vibrant community spirit. This sparkling ornament is the 32nd in the City of Columbia collectors’ series, and it’s designed with a touch of elegance—crafted from 24-karat gold on brass and presented in a plush felt case.

Support a Great Cause

Now, here’s the best part: every ornament sold supports the Babcock Center Foundation, a fantastic non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting over 800 individuals with lifelong disabilities. What a wonderful way to deck the halls, right? So, as you hang this ornament on your tree, you can feel good knowing you’re contributing to such a meaningful cause.

Where to Get Your Ornament

If you’re eager to snag one (or maybe a few?) for yourself or as gifts, they are priced at $24 each. You can pick them up at the Babcock Center Foundation Office, located at 2725 Banny Jones Avenue in West Columbia, or swing by the Columbia Visitor’s Center. Not in town? No problem! Ornaments can also be ordered over the phone by calling 803-799-1970, or you can hop online and place your order at www.babcockcenter.org.

What’s the Weather Like?

Before you head out, you might be wondering about the weather. Expect some cloudy skies early on—but don’t worry, those clouds will start to clear up later in the day, with a slight chance of a rain shower here and there. The temperature should be pretty mild, with a high reaching around 70°F. Winds will be light, blowing from the east-northeast at about 5 to 10 mph. As night falls, the skies will cloud over again with temperatures dipping to around 54°F.

Join the Holiday Spirit!

So, Columbia, whether you’re an ornament collector or just looking to add some festive cheer to your home or office, make sure to grab this year’s beautiful piece of history. Plus, talking about our lovely city while supporting a greater cause is definitely a win-win! Let’s embrace the holiday spirit together and make this season one to remember!

Happy decorating, Columbia! Don’t forget to share your ornament with family and friends this season—because nothing brings people together like a little holiday cheer!