Firefly Game Day
2024-01-05 07:00 - 09:00, 2024-02-02 07:00 - 09:00 (America/New_York)
Homeschool Day
by Firefly Toys & Games
First Friday of the Month
All Ages — Free
Note: This is not a Cola City Event.
This free event is the First Friday of the month from 12-2pm. Open to all ages. Located at Firefly Toys & Games, 736 Saint Andrews Rd Ste C, Columbia, SC
Firefly staff will be highlighting and teaching educational board games which cover a range of subjects, such as: Math, Science, Geography, Chemistry and many more.
Use games for education; come learn about it.
And look for other Cola City Homeschoolers! We’re scheduling this as a meet-up time/location for our “Let Grow Club” initiative.

SC Military Museum STEM: The Darkest Dark
2024-01-11 05:30 - 06:30
STEM series: The Darkest Dark
by SC Military Museum
Thursday, Jan 11th @10:30am
FREE — K-5th

Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
SCMM’s Homeschool STEM series takes place most Thursdays at 10:30am and consists of a short lesson and hands-on activity.
Space is limited to the first 20 registrants. Registration is required for all participants (students)- adults do not need to register.
Adults are expected to stay with and assist their students throughout the class. All ages and abilities welcome, most lessons are appropriate for K through 5th grade.
Classes last approximately one hour.
Registered participants are asked to cancel their registration in a timely manner if plans change or they are unable to fulfil their spot so that other participants may attend.
Please contact Jennifer at 803-299-2730 or jennifer.gossett@scmd.sc.gov with any questions.
SC Military Museum is located at 1 National Guard Rd Columbia, SC 29201

MLK Day at Columbia Museum of Art- FREE
2024-01-15 07:00 - 12:00
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
by Columbia Museum of Art
Monday, Jan 15th @12pm
FREE — All Ages
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the CMA is open with free admission and hosting special MLK Day programming. Don’t miss FAAAC presents A Storytelling Celebration, featuring line dancing on Boyd Plaza hosted by Franklin Jones beginning at 1:00 and a storytelling celebration beginning at 1:30. Free admission supported by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program.
Columbia Museum of Art is located at 1515 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
More info about the Museum and this free event here!

Managing Eco-Anxiety- Virtual Workshop
2024-01-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Event
Managing Eco-Anxiety through Outdoor Learning
by Outdoor Learning Store
Tuesday, Jan 16 @7pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event. For more information, contact The Outdoor Learning Store Workshop Series.
The Outdoor Learning Virtual Workshop Seasonal Series

We are excited to offer this series in partnership with Take Me Outside and our Outdoor Learning Partners!

Registration is FREE and there will be plenty of draw prizes for attendees!
All registrants will receive a discount code to access outdoor learning resources when they register
Workshops are 60 minutes and will take place at 7pm Eastern
For those who can’t attend live these will each be recorded and posted on our Recordings Page
Following the workshop, participants will receive a link through which they can access a Certificate of Attendance
Subscribe to our seasonal updates to stay in the loop on these and future workshops

With Educators and Earth Rangers, Stephanie Doyle and Nicole Forsyth

When kids are worried about the environment, they can feel scared, overwhelmed and even hopeless. This is called eco-anxiety. But what can we do about it?
How about turning Eco-Anxiety into Eco-Action? Eco-anxiety is a valid response to the real challenges our kids see around them. As adults, our job isn’t to make their concerns go away; it’s to help channel them into positive action. Join Stephanie and Nicole who will share research and practical ways on how Outdoor Learning and Environmental Action can help to manage Eco-Anxiety.
Stephanie Doyle, PhD, is the Education Programs Manager at Earth Rangers. Earth Rangers Homeroom supports K-6 educators in transforming children’s concerns about the environment into positive action through classroom resources, an eco clubs program and the “Eco-Anxiety to Eco-Action” micro-credential.
Nicole Forsyth is the Managing Director for Earth Rangers, USA, a nonprofit committed to instilling environmental knowledge, positivity, and the confidence to take action in every child in Canada and now the United States.
All registrants will be entered to win some great draw prizes! Following the workshop, you will receive a discount code to access the resources shared, the recording, and a link to access your Certificate of Attendance.
Learn more from Earth Rangers Experts in our:

‘Eco Anxiety to Eco Action’ Podcast Episode

Take Action with Climate Education:

Groundswell: Indigenous Knowledge and a Call to Action for Climate Change
Teaching Kids about Climate Change
Teaching Teens About Climate Change

Kid Inventor's Day FREE Printable
2024-01-17 03:00 - 12:00
Kid Inventor’s Day printable
by Chalkboard Academy on TPT
Wednesday, Jan 17th
FREE — K-5
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event
January 17 is Kid Inventors’ Day (KID), a day to encourage all the children in your life to think outside the box and invent something. Did you know… that the snowmobile, popsicles, and braille were all invented by children? The unofficial holiday commemorates the birthday of all-around genius and kid inventor, Benjamin Franklin, and celebrates kid inventors around the world. It also aims to encourage children to be curious about the world around them and to be creative when solving problems. Franklin, one of the most prolific persons in history was responsible for inventing the precursor to the swimming flippers at the age of eleven, a year after he stopped going to school. His invention was made for the hands instead of the feet.
This Create Your Own Invention Worksheet combines creative writing, science and math! The creative thinking opportunity makes this the perfect science bellringer worksheet for elementary aged students.
Find the link here.

Gladys' Gang Preschool Edition
2024-01-17 05:00 - 06:00
Gladys’ Gang Toddler Tour
by Columbia Museum of Art
First Wednesday of the Month
Toddlers/Preschoolers — $$
Note: Gladys’ Gang is not hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Contact Columbia Museum of Art for more details and registration. FYI: Solo Memberships are $55 for one adult (and includes admission for all children under 18)
Toddler edition: First Wednesday of every month
Preschool edition: Third Wednesday of every month
10-11am
(Toddler) This program is specially designed for 2-3 year old participants and their adult companions as a way to explore art through movement and play. This program includes story time, gallery exploration, and a creative studio activity related to the art exploration theme. (Siblings welcome!)
(Preschool) This program is specially designed for 4-5 year old participants and their adult companions as a way to explore art through play and inquiry. This program builds skills for kindergarten readiness through story time, gallery conversations, and a creative studio project related to the art exploration theme. (Siblings welcome!)

SC Military Museum STEM: Air Powered Rockets
2024-01-18 05:30 - 06:30
STEM Series: Air Powered Rockets
by SC Military Museum
Thursday, Jan 18th @10:30am
FREE — K-5th

Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event.
SCMM’s Homeschool STEM series takes place most Thursdays at 10:30am and consists of a short lesson and hands-on activity.
Space is limited to the first 20 registrants. Registration is required for all participants (students)- adults do not need to register.
Adults are expected to stay with and assist their students throughout the class. All ages and abilities welcome, most lessons are appropriate for K through 5th grade.
Classes last approximately one hour.
Registered participants are asked to cancel their registration in a timely manner if plans change or they are unable to fulfil their spot so that other participants may attend.
Please contact Jennifer at 803-299-2730 or jennifer.gossett@scmd.sc.gov with any questions.
SC Military Museum is located at 1 National Guard Rd Columbia, SC 29201

Homeschool Skate at Three Fountains Recreation
2024-01-19 08:00 - 11:00
Homeschool Skate
by Three Fountains Recreation
Friday, Jan 19th @1pm
All Ages — $5
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Come hang out for skating and mini golf with fellow homeschoolers on Friday, January 19th from 1-4pm. Regular skate rental included, bring your homeschool friends and your association card!
More info about Three Fountains Recreation here. This facility is located at 2724 Emmanuel Church Road, West Columbia, SC.

The Festival of Storytellers- Virtual Book Festival
2024-01-22 03:00 - 2024-02-04 17:00
The Festival of Storytellers
by Reader’s Magnet
Jan 22nd- Feb 4th
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event.

Calling all book lovers! It’s time to mark your calendars for the next chapter of the Festival of Storytellers!

From January 22 to February 4, we’ll be bringing back all the amazing features from our last event, but with an enhanced user experience for all ages.

We’re talking about more interactive sessions, immersive experiences, and new ways to connect with your favorite authors and fellow bookworms.

Our team has been working tirelessly to curate an unforgettable two weeks of literary magic, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of fiction, a history buff, or a lover of poetry and prose, there’s something for everyone at the Festival of Storytellers.

Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as we get closer to the event.

But in the meantime, start making your reading list and get ready to join us for two weeks of storytelling that you won’t want to miss.

See you there, book lovers!
Register HERE for the Biggest Virtual Book Festival

Campus Preview @CSU
2024-01-23 - 2024-01-24 | In Person
A Day in the Life Campus Preview
by Charleston Southern University
Wednesday, January 24
High School Seniors — Free
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event. Contact Charleston Southern for more details and registration.
This special event is intended for high school seniors who are interested in Nursing or Science/Math majors. Come attend Chapel, sit in on actual classes, and more! This event will allow you to get a taste of everyday life as a Buccaneer. Sign up for A Day in the Life below!
Click HERE

School Choice Rally at State House
2024-01-26 04:00 - 07:00
School Choice Rally at State House
by Charleston RISE & SC Education Choice Coalition
Friday, Jan 26th @ 9am
All Ages — FREE

Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.

Please join Charleston RISE, the South Carolina Education Choice Coalition and National School Choice Awareness Foundation on January 26th, 2024 9:00am – 12:00pm for a celebration of school choice! Hosted at the University of South Carolina Alumni Center, this event will begin with a talent showcase from 9:30am – 10:30am featuring students from across the state. At 10:45am, we will continue with a spirit-filled march to the State Capitol Building for a celebration program running from 11:00am to 12:00pm. We will celebrate students’ access to school choice with a Proclamation from the governor and hear speeches from parents and students to share their school choice story!
Later in the day at the Alumni Center, there will be a presentation for parents on school choice public policy change.
This event is FREE
Check here for more info on this event, and here for a link to a parent workshop!

FREE Black History Month Bite-sized Bios
2024-02-01 03:00 - 04:00
Black History Month Bite-sized Bios
by SC Military Museum
Thursday, Feb 1st
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Bite-sized biographies of 11 African Americans from South Carolina with military connections.
This is a free PDF lesson offered by SC Military Museum through Teachers Pay Teachers. Find the resource HERE.

SC Black History Icons by SC Military Museum
2024-02-01 04:00 - 05:00
South Carolina Black History Icons
by SC Military Museum
Thursday, Feb 1st
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
This is an interactive resource that can be used directly with students. It highlights 18 Black South Carolinians from all areas of industry.
A FREE PDF lesson is included here, made available by the SC Military Museum to celebrate Black History Month.

Groundhog Day FREE printable
2024-02-02 03:00 - 04:00
Groundhog Day Fact Book
by Teachers Pay Teachers
Friday, Feb 2nd
FREE — K-3
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
This Mini Groundhog Day Fact Book is a fun way to review facts about groundhogs and Groundhog Day! Each page has a topic tab and facts!
This freebie is part of a larger pack that is an optional purchase($4) on the website by The Curious Hippo.

Kroger Chef Junior: Pineapple Salsa
2024-02-03 04:00 - 08:00
Chef Junior: Pineapple Salsa
by Kroger
Saturday, Feb 3rd @ 9am
All Ages — $7
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Join us on Saturday, February 3rd or Saturday, February 17th, and your kids can learn how to make delicious Pineapple Salsa! A Kroger Chef will guide your child as they learn to create this sweet and savory dip. In addition, your child will receive a recipe card, apron, chef hat, recipe box, badge, and Kroger Chef Junior Chopper to add to their kitchen tool collection!
There are several locations and times to choose from, register HERE!

Online Book Club with TSCHAA
2024-02-05 03:00 - 04:00
Online Book Club
by TSCHAA
Feb 5-9
FREE — Parents

Did you know professional development is important for all careers, including homeschooling?? One of the best ways to grow as a homeschool educator is to read books about homeschooling!
You are invited to join TSCHAA for an online book discussion for The Modern Miss Mason by Leah Boden. We will read the book on our own and then discuss it online from February 5-9 in a private online group. This is open to ALL homeschool parents.
Registration opens soon!

Rev War Center: Colonial Living
2024-02-07 05:00 - 07:00
Homeschool Day: Colonial Living
by Revolutionary War Center
Wednesday, Feb 7th @10am
All Ages — FREE
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Once a month, the Rev War Center will offer a free homeschool educational day where small school groups can come together and experience one of the educational programs offered by the Center. A minimum of ten students will be needed to host these educational programs, if the minimum is not met then parents will be notified a week prior that the program will be canceled.
For parents with scholars of multiple ages, don’t fret. Children 7 years old or under will be given a fun coloring and activity packet to complete off to the side so the whole family can enjoy the day.
February Program: Colonial Living into the Revolutionary War
Students will be given a colonial personality in which to view the events leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The group will discuss the different taxes and events that led to America wanting to declare independence and end by asking, should we sign the Declaration of Independence? Is it worth it?
Be sure to register HERE!
The Revolutionary War Visitor Center is located at 212 Broad Street Camden, SC 29020

SC Military Museum STEM: Cross the River Challenge
2024-02-08 05:30 - 06:30
STEM Series: Cross the River Challenge
by SC Military Museum
Thursday, Feb 8th @10:30am
FREE — K-5th
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
SCMM’s Homeschool STEM series takes place most Thursdays at 10:30am and consists of a short lesson and hands-on activity.
Space is limited to the first 20 registrants. Registration is required for all participants (students)- adults do not need to register.
Adults are expected to stay with and assist their students throughout the class. All ages and abilities welcome, most lessons are appropriate for K through 5th grade.
Classes last approximately one hour.
Registered participants are asked to cancel their registration in a timely manner if plans change or they are unable to fulfil their spot so that other participants may attend.
Please contact Jennifer at 803-299-2730 or jennifer.gossett@scmd.sc.gov with any questions.
SC Military Museum is located at 1 National Guard Rd Columbia, SC 29201

Careers in Education at Newberry College
2024-02-09 05:00 - 09:00
Careers in Education
by Newberry College
Friday, Feb 9th @10am
FREE — Teens

Newberry College Department of Education would like to cordially invite you and your students to a special day of education activities. Join us for a tour of the Japanese Gardens where we will be working on math problems and math activities.
Then we will treat you to a free meal and finally there will be a time to meet and greet local experts. These experts will discuss how their education has helped them in their careers. This event is not just for future teachers we would like to welcome anyone who would like to join us.
The event is planned for February 9, 2024 at Newberry College
From 10:00am -2:00pm
We will meet at The Center for Teacher Education
1121 Speers Street
Newberry, SC 29108
PLEASE RSVP to Angelia Bedenbaugh at angelia.bedenbaugh@newberry.edu no later than January 29, 2024
More information on Newberry College’s Department of Education HERE.

Chapin Library: Valentine's Exchange
2024-02-12 13:00 - 14:00
Homeschool Hub: Valentine’s Exchange
by Chapin Branch Library
Monday, Feb 12 @ 6pm
All Ages — FREE
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Join us for our Homeschool Valentines exchange! Bring a dozen valentines, candy or small token gifts to exchange. There will be fun and games for all.
Contact the branch if an individual with a disability needs reasonable accommodations or support:
Josie Seacrist
Branch Librarian
Chapin Branch Library
129 NW Columbia Ave
Chapin, SC 29036
PH 803.345.5479
www.lex.lib.sc.us

Homeschool Days at Old Santee Canal Park: Trees
2024-02-14 05:00 - 06:00
Homeschool Days: Trees
by Old Santee Canal Park
Wednesday, Feb 14th @ 10am
3rd – 6th — $2/person
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Are you a single homeschool family looking for more educational opportunities? This class is for you!
Only 30 students will be allowed to register for the in-person class. The class will be taught at a 3rd thru 6th-grade level, but all ages are welcome. This class will be $2 per person including students, parents, chaperones, and siblings. To register you must pay in advance due to limited capacity. This does not include anyone under the age of 3. Register by calling 843-899-5200.
Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Program Fee: $2 per person
Pre-Registration: Required by Tuesday before the program
Meeting Place: Interpretive Center
Age Limit: All ages, under 13 accompanied by an adult
Contact: Adam Bedard (843-899-5200) or education@oldsanteecanalpark.org
Link to the event Here.

SC Military Museum STEM: Hiking Backpacks
2024-02-15 05:30 - 06:30
STEM series: Hiking Backpacks
by SC Military Museum
Thursday, Feb 15th @10:30am
FREE — K-5th
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
SCMM’s Homeschool STEM series takes place most Thursdays at 10:30am and consists of a short lesson and hands-on activity.
Space is limited to the first 20 registrants. Registration is required for all participants (students)- adults do not need to register.
Adults are expected to stay with and assist their students throughout the class. All ages and abilities welcome, most lessons are appropriate for K through 5th grade.
Classes last approximately one hour.
Registered participants are asked to cancel their registration in a timely manner if plans change or they are unable to fulfil their spot so that other participants may attend.
Please contact Jennifer at 803-299-2730 or jennifer.gossett@scmd.sc.gov with any questions.
SC Military Museum is located at 1 National Guard Rd Columbia, SC 29201

Kroger Chef Junior: Pineapple Salsa
2024-02-17 04:00 - 08:00
Chef Junior: Pineapple Salsa
by Kroger
Saturday, Feb 17th @ 9am
All Ages — $7
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Join us on Saturday, February 3rd or Saturday, February 17th, and your kids can learn how to make delicious Pineapple Salsa! A Kroger Chef will guide your child as they learn to create this sweet and savory dip. In addition, your child will receive a recipe card, apron, chef hat, recipe box, badge, and Kroger Chef Junior Chopper to add to their kitchen tool collection!
There are several locations and times to choose from, register HERE!

SWU Campus Preview
2024-02-18 - 2024-02-19
SWU Campus Preview
by Southern Wesleyan University
Monday, February 19 @9am
Teens/Parents — FREE
Note: This is *NOT* a Cola City Event. Contact SWU for more details and registration
Preview Day is a great way to explore SWU alongside other prospective students and learn more about the campus, community, and what it’s like to attend college there. You’ll have the opportunity to tour campus, interact with students and faculty, learn about our majors, and more!
In an effort to remove barriers, there is no application fee and we are test optional, which means students are not required to take the SAT/ACT for admission to the university.
Click here to register for SWU preview day, located at 907 Wesleyan Dr, Central, SC 29630
Southern Wesleyan University Office of Admissions
(864) 644-5550
admissions@swu.edu

Homeschool Huddle: Discus Workshop
2024-02-20 12:30 - 14:00
Homeschool Huddle: Discus Workshop
By South Congaree Branch/Lexington Library
Tuesday, February 20 at 5:30 pm
FREE — Parents/Educators

NOTE: This is *NOT* a Cola City event. Please contact Lexington Library for more details.
Homeschool Huddle is a monthly workshop hosted by South Congaree-Pineridge Branch Library at 200 Sunset Drive, West Columbia, SC 29172.
Tuesday, Feb 20, 5:30 PM: Reference coordinator for the library system, Amanda Stone, will be the guest speaker and will present a workshop on using Discus. It is truly a hidden gem! Come learn how to use this wonderful tool in your homeschool.
Youth services staff will hang out with your children and work on some STEM activities or they can sit in on the parent workshop if you prefer that.
No need to sign up, just show up. You do not have to be a county resident to learn about the Discus resource–it’s available statewide for all SC residents.
Contact Branch Librarian for questions.
Carol Clark, 803.785.3050
CCLARK@lex.lib.sc.us

SAT Test Registration Deadline
2024-02-23 03:00 - 12:00
Digital SAT Test Registration Deadline
By Collegeboard.org
Friday, Feb 23rd
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event.
At this time, registration is open for all students for the entire 2023–24 testing year.
All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S.
These test dates and deadlines apply to all students—U.S. and international—taking the digital SAT:
Registration Deadline- Feb 23, 2024
Deadline for changes/regular cancellation/late registration- Feb 27, 2024
SAT Test Date- March 9, 2024
*Students who need to borrow a device from College Board will need to register and request their device earlier than the registration deadline—at least 30 days before test day.
**Late registration is available internationally starting in March 2024. Additional fees may apply.
<REGISTER HERE>
Info on test fees and other policies found at the link.

Battle of Aiken
2024-02-23 04:00 - 10:00 | In Person
Battle of Aiken Education Day
by SC Palmetto Battalion Reenactors
Friday, February 23 9am-3pm
FREE — All Ages
Note: this is *not* a Cola City event. Contact Battle of Aiken for more information and reservations.
Since 1995, thousands of school children have traveled to the Battle of Aiken Park (1210 Powell Pond Rd. off 1-20 exit, Aiken SC) for the annual School Field Trip Day held the Friday, after President’s Day, each February. Students go through a living history program that makes history come alive!

All public schools, private schools, and home schools are invited to attend this event which is appropriate for all ages. The educational program is believed to be the largest attended single day field trip in the state.

Thanks to our generous sponsors, the field trip will have no costs to schools and is free of charge to students and teachers.

Admission: Free
Time: Gates open at 8:30 A.M. and close at 3:00 P. M. Presentations begin at 9 A. M. There is no minimum or maximum time requirement. Most schools spend five hours at the site.
When: Friday morning prior to the annual Battle of Aiken reenactment.
Food: Students are welcome to bring box lunches. Food and soft drinks are available for purchase at our concessions.
What to Bring: Warm clothing, umbrella, jacket, cap, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera.
Souvenirs: Some historical-based souvenirs and books will be available for purchase.

Among Us at the Museum
2024-02-23 05:30 - 07:00
Among Us at the Museum
by Liz Cordova @ SC State Museum
Friday, Feb 23rd @10:30 am
Ages 10+ — FREE
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event
Come join us for ROUND 3 of Among Us at the museum. We had such a great time last time that we are going to do it again. Hosi has it all ready to go. We are really hoping that more kids will be able to join us this go round. It is open to 10 and up. The biggest thing is they will need a phone that can text because that is how they will be communicating during the game.
–For those who are not familiar with how we play Among Us think of it as a scavenger hunt while playing tag. We will give them an envelope with their “tasks” and the one who is it will have something else.
–The tasks will be clues that they have to figure out what and where it is.in the museum. We do stay within a certain area.
–The museum is free as long as you bring proof of Homeschooling. (like a card or letter)
–Little siblings can tag along but won’t be able to play. We are really wanting to be able to let the 10 and ups have the ability to hurry and get things done before the “tagger” wins.
Hosi is super excited to be able to host ROUND 3!
I will be pinning a head count at the top of the page so please let me know how many will be joining there.
We look forward to seeing everyone there!
Remember: You get into the State Museum for FREE with your association’s membership card.
The SC State Museum is located at 301 Gervais St in Columbia, SC.
Please RSVP HERE so the organizers have a head count for this event!

Homeschool Open Gym
2024-02-23 07:00 - 09:00
Homeschool Open Gym
by All Star Gymnastics & Cheer
Friday, Feb 23rd @12pm
Ages 4+ — $5-10
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Homeschool Open Gym 12PM to 2PM!
February 23
March 15 & 28
April 26
Ages 4 and older! No reservation or previous experience necessary. A time set aside for older friends to get their energy out and play with others! Message, email, or call with questions. Cost $10 first child, $5 each additional child. No charge for adults.
Fun for all ages!
Event link here.
All Star Gymnastics & Cheer is located at 4046 Fernandina Rd, Columbia, SC
