News Summary
This weekend in Columbia, South Carolina, brings a delightful combination of flavors and stories. The inaugural Pimento Cheese Festival at Saluda Shoals Park will showcase local culinary talents, while the Read Freely Fest at Richland Library offers book enthusiasts a chance to meet renowned authors. Additionally, the 90th Carolina Cup promises thrilling horse races, creating an exciting weekend filled with activities for all ages. With a perfect weather forecast, family and friends can enjoy these events together.
Exciting Weekend Unfolds in Columbia!
Get ready, Columbia! This weekend is packed with fun and flavor as the city rolls out the red carpet for South Carolina’s very first Pimento Cheese Festival, alongside the much-anticipated Read Freely Fest and the 90th annual Carolina Cup. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy delights or a bookworm looking for some literary magic, this weekend has something special just for you!
Pimento Cheese Festival Takes Center Stage
On Saturday, March 29, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saluda Shoals Park at 6071 St Andrews Rd will transform into a cheesy paradise. Imagine the aroma of rich, creamy pimento cheese wafting through the air as you stroll among booths featuring the best pimento cheese dishes from across the state!
The festival is set to be a family-friendly extravaganza with live music, outdoor games, and plenty of activities designed to entertain all ages. Admission is free, but keep in mind there is a $5 parking fee per vehicle at the gate. For those with a taste for the delicious, tasting tickets will be available for just $5, letting you sample six different pimento cheese creations. Over ten local restaurants, caterers, and food trucks will showcase their culinary masterpieces, so you won’t want to miss this cheesy opportunity!
The fun doesn’t stop with the food. Expect inflatables, a coloring wall for the kids, and yard games for everyone. This vibrant festival is organized by local food lovers who are enthusiastic about bringing the community together to celebrate one of the South’s most beloved cheeses. So grab your friends and family, and head on out for a fun-filled day!
Read Freely Fest: A Dream Come True for Book Lovers
As if the Pimento Cheese Festival isn’t enough, book lovers will find their haven at the Read Freely Fest, running from March 28 to March 30 at the Richland Library. This fantastic event features a lineup of best-selling authors, book signings, storytelling performances, an open mic, and even a book sale! It’s a rich tapestry of words waiting for you to dive into.
Some of the headlining authors you can look forward to include DéLana R. A. Dameron, Patti Callahan Henry, Brendan Slocumb, Abbott Kahler, and Mike Curato. This festival is a great opportunity to meet these authors in person and get your favorite books signed! Grab your literary crew and wander through the various booths where you can find gems of all genres.
The Carolina Cup: A Race to Remember
Don’t forget about the Carolina Cup, taking place on March 29 at the stunning Springdale Race Course in Camden. Gates open at 9 a.m. for a day filled with excitement, and the first race kicks off at 1:30 p.m. This tradition brings together horse racing enthusiasts and families for a day of thrilling competition and camaraderie.
What Else is Happening?
But wait, there’s more! Columbia is buzzing with additional local events this weekend, including the Taste of Lake Murray, a delightful culinary event showcasing local flavors, the Media & Civil Rights History Symposium, perfect for history buffs, and the vibrant Ubuntu Dance Festival for those looking to celebrate the arts through movement.
Weather Perfect for Weekend Adventures
As you plan your weekend, don’t worry about the weather! Expect a delightful mix of sun and clouds, with temperatures reaching a high of 82°F and lows dipping to around 58°F. Perfect for spending time outdoors, enjoying great food, meeting new friends, and celebrating the arts!
This weekend promises to be nothing short of remarkable in Columbia. Between cheese, books, and thrilling races, there’s something for everyone. So gather your loved ones and get ready for an unforgettable weekend!
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Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Pimento Cheese Festival
- ABC Columbia: Local Living Pimento Cheese Festival
- WLTX: New Book Festival Headlines
- Cola Today: Plan Ahead for Events
- Cola Daily: Read Freely Fest Happening
- Wikipedia: Event
- Google Search: Columbia events March 2025
- Google Scholar: Festival Culture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Festivals
- Google News: Columbia South Carolina events
