Activities

• Boo at the Zoo (Oct. 20–30): Dress up and explore Riverbanks Zoo after hours during this family-friendly trick-or-treating event.
• Free Times’ Halloween Party (Oct. 27): Celebrate with costumes, an open bar, haunting decor, and a DJ dance party from 7–11 p.m.
• South Carolina State Farmers Market: Shop fresh fall produce, pumpkins, flowers, and seasonal decor throughout October.
• Lake Murray Corn Maze: Navigate an 8-acre maze and enjoy barnyard golf, wagon rides, playgrounds, and a pumpkin patch at Clinton Sease Farm.
• South Carolina State Fair (Oct. 11–22): Dive into rides, games, and delicious fair food as the fair returns with in-person activities.
• Nightmare in Elmwood 5K (Oct. 28): Join the fun with a spooky run through the Elmwood Park neighborhood.
• Gamecock Football Game: Cheer on the team and enhance your experience with our gameday guide.
• Apple Picking Road Trip: Visit regional U-pick apple farms, all within three hours of Columbia.

Fall Events

• Oktoberfests: Enjoy German-inspired beers, food, and festivities at six different Oktoberfests in the area.
• Midlands Plant and Flower Festival (Oct. 6–8): Shop seasonal plants and decor at the SC State Farmers Market.
• Cayce Fall Fest (Oct. 7): Experience live music, food, a petting zoo, and more at Granby Gardens Park.
• Trunk or Treat (Oct. 25): Head to Robert Mills House for a free evening of candy, costumes, and decorated vehicles.
• SC Philharmonic: Halloween at Hogwarts (Oct. 29): Enjoy a magical concert at the Koger Center with a Harry Potter theme.

Haunted Attractions

• Deceased Farm (Lexington): Brave six terrifying buildings, outdoor zones, and creepy cornfields ($25+).
• Terror Falls Haunted Farm (Gaston): Explore four attractions, including the chilling “Carnevil of Souls” ($20).
• The Dark Castle (Elgin): Face haunted houses, eerie trails, and a zombie survival challenge ($18+).

Embrace the season and explore all the fall fun Columbia has to offer!