Welcome, South Carolina 2025

The city of Columbia, located in the central part of South Carolina, is the state capital and largest city in the state. It is a bustling metropolis with a rich history, diverse culture, and plenty of things to see and do.

Population:

As of 2020, Columbia' claims a population of 133,654, making it the second-largest city in South Carolina.

Culture:

Columbia is known for its diverse cultural scene, with a mix of art, music, theater, and dance. The Koger Center for the Arts hosts concerts, plays, and ballet performances, while the Columbia Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art from around the world. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the South Carolina State Festival, which celebrates music, food, and culture.

Special Events:

Throughout the year, Columbia hosts various special events, including the Taste of Columbia, a food festival featuring local cuisine, and the Famously Hot New Year, a News Year's Eve celebration with live music, fireworks, and food. The city also hosts the South Carolina State Fair, which draws visitors from across the state and features live music, rides, and local food.

Local Attractions:

The city of Columbia has several local attractions, including the South Carolina State House, a historic building completed in 1855 that offers guided tours of the building and grounds. Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, a 170-acre botanical garden along the Saluda River, is also popular.

People:

The median age of the city's population is 28.4 years, with 48% of the population identifying as female and 51% as male. The racial composition is 49% black, 45% white, and 5% Asian.

History:

The city of Columbia was founded in 1786 as the new state capital, and it was incorporated as a town in 1794. During the Civil War, the city was occupied by Union forces and became a center for supply and communication for the federal army. In the 20th century, Columbia became a major center for textile manufacturing and began to industrialize, attracting workers from rural areas of the state. Today, the city continues to grow, with a focus on education, healthcare, and tourism.

Food:

Columbia is well-known for its barbecue, with several restaurants serving up traditional South Carolina-style barbecue. However, the city's cuisine scene extends beyond barbecue, with everything from Southern homestyle cooking to fine dining, ethnic cuisine, and food trucks.