Cola City Homeschoolers

Firefly Gameday: December
2024-12-06 12:00 - 14:00 UTC | In Person
Homeschool Day
by Firefly Toys & Games
First Friday of the Month
All Ages — Free
Note: This is not a Cola City Event. We are meeting up there–so keep an eye out for other Cola City connections!
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.

Bookbinding 101
2024-12-07 10:00 - 15:00
Bookbinding 101
by Columbia Museum of Art
Saturday, Dec 7th @10am
Teens/Parents — $120
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Practicing basic bookbinding techniques, participants learn how to prepare paper for handbound books, gain familiarity with bookbinding tools, and develop the skills necessary to start a new hobby or create a gift for a loved one. Each participant will leave with a complete handbound book. Taught by artist and CMA docent Velvet Underwood. All supplies and equipment provided. Ages 15 and up.
$120 / $96 for members.
More info and Registration HERE!

Christmas Parade
2024-12-08 15:00 - 17:00
Christmas Parade
by Icehouse Amphitheater
Sunday, Dec 8th @3pm
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
It’s a Christmas tradition you won’t want to miss! Join the Town of Lexington and the Lexington Jaycees for the annual Christmas Parade down Main Street!
Get in the Christmas spirit by watching an array of parade floats make their way through downtown!
For more information on parade entry, contact Heather Danley (803)530-2604 or email lexingtonjayceesparade@gmail.com.
Event link HERE.

Homeschool Farm Days
2024-12-11 10:00 - 13:00
Homeschool Farm Days
by Outside Inn Campground
Wednesday, Dec 11th @10am
All Ages –$10
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Welcome to Homeschool Farm Days!
Join us for a fun and educational morning designed especially for homeschooling families! Our “Homeschool Mornings” offer a hands-on experience where children can learn about farm life, interact with our friendly animals, and enjoy time outdoors in a natural setting.
Kids will have the opportunity to pet and snuggle with our animals, discover interesting facts about their care, and explore our beautiful farm. It’s the perfect way to combine education with a love for nature and animals.
Come spend a morning with us at Outside Inn, where learning meets adventure in the great outdoors!
Things to note:

Adult chaperones are free and must stay with their kids for the entire event.
Kids under 3 must be with thier adult at all times.
Older kids can explore approved areas with parental permission. These include the game areas, garden and walking trails.
We will take kids through the animal enclosures; It can get dirty, so please dress appropriately
We are also a campground, so please do not distrub campers while enjoying the farm

Event Location: 1074 Woolbright Rd, Santee, SC 29142
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience farm life up close. See you there!
Get your tickets HERE!

Let Grow Play Club 12/11
2024-12-11 13:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: December
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, Dec 11, 1-3 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the fall to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on WEDNESDAYs at 1 pm in November.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 1-3 pm now thru May
October’s Location: Owens Field Skate Park 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880

Paper Lantern Workshops
2024-12-11 18:00 - 19:00
Paper Lantern Workshops
by Cola Parks & Recreation
Dec 11th, 14th, or 18th @6pm or 10am
All Ages — $15
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event
This workshop teaches you how to make a paper lantern, in preparation for the Winter Solstice Lantern Parade on Dec 21st. All ages welcome, cost is $15.
This event takes place on three different dates: Wednesday, Dec 11th @ 6pm, Saturday, Dec 14th @10am, or Wednesday, Dec 18th @6pm
Come to the Columbia Art Center on Taylor Street and make your lantern for the parade!
Sign up for a session HERE! The workshops are under ‘Arts & Craft Classes’ and then ‘Workshops’

Jack Frost Ballet
2024-12-13 11:00 - 12:30 | In Person
Jack Frost Ballet
Education Outreach Performance
by Columbia City Ballet
Friday, December 13 at 11:15 am
$6.75/seat — All Ages
Note: This group rate discount is organized by Cola City Homeschoolers. Seating is limited for this sold out performance. Registration and prepayment is required–scroll down for registration.
Columbia City Ballet offers Education Outreach performances especially for children. This program is “Jack Frost”. Cola City Homeschoolers has secured a group discount rate for each seat, including adults and students on Friday, December 13 at 11:15 am.
These extended opportunities incorporate the interrelated nature of the elements of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Math). Performances last approximately 1 hour and include a Q&A session. Productions are narrated providing students a clear understanding of the story and allowing them to fully appreciate the professional dancers of Columbia City Ballet and its high artistic and production standards.
Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time to find parking and to be seated. Parking is available for an hourly rate in the nearby parking garage and also street meters.
Contact colacityinfo@gmail.com with any questions about this group event.
Call or text Kim A. if you’re running late or lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Group registration is closed
seats are still available for $8/each. Contact:
Katie Heaton, Columbia City Ballet
Director of Education Outreach
(803) 769-8243

Sensory Friendly Winter Wonderland
2024-12-14 10:00 - 13:00
Sensory Friendly Winter Wonderland
by ABS Kids
Saturday, Dec 14th @10am
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
We are excited to host you and your family at our free Sensory-Friendly Winter Wonderland event on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 10 AM – 1 PM in Columbia, SC!
Event location: 200 Springtree Dr, Suite 100, Columbia, SC 29223
We’ll have fun for the whole family including face painting, arts & crafts, and a chance to take a photo with Santa! You won’t want to miss it!
Hope to see you there!
Event info HERE!

No Play Club Today 12/18
2024-12-18
NO PLAY CLUB Today
Wednesday, Dec 18
Today is Gingerbread House Decorating Party and Pop-up Consignment Sale. No Park Meet-up.

Pop-up Consignment Sale
2024-12-18 10:00 - 14:00 | In Person
Pop-up Consignment Sale
By Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, December 18 from 10am-2pm
$1/shopper — All Ages
Note: This event is a Cola City event. Consignor registration now open–scroll down to sign up.
Got used books you want to sell? We want ’em! Everyone loves a deal–especially this time of year. So, let’s help rehome your used educational items and MORE!
Holiday Pop-up Consignments Sale: Wednesday, December 18 from 10 am-2 pm at Unitarian Unversal Congregation, 2701 Heyward St, Columbia, SC 29205
SHOPPERS: Come browse during the open hours. $1/shopper will be collected at checkout. Consider participating in the Gingerbread House Decorating Party (Click HERE to register)
CONSIGNORS:

What items can I sell? Gently used (or unused) curriculum, textbooks, educational materials, games, puzzles, and manipulatives. Educational furniture/desks, easels, dry erase boards, chalkboards, musical instruments. Picture books, chapter books, parenting books, books on CD, educational DVDs. PLUS Holiday Gifts.
How do I label and price my items? You determine the price of each item, depending on the condition and edition. When you log into the consignor’s portal, you’ll be able to create printable barcode tags for each item. We can print for you or you can print yourself.
What is the consignor share? You will keep 70% of the listed price. No registration fee! The balance helps cover the overhead costs of the Cola City Homeschoolers.
What if I don’t have a printer? We can print the tags for you to pick up ahead of time or to place your labels during drop-off.
How do I drop-off my items? In the consignor’s portal, you will select a drop off time, Tuesday afternoon 3-5 pm. A volunteer will greet you and assist with sorting your items into category placement.
When do I pick-up my unsold items? Pick-up all leftover items on Wednesday from 3-5 pm. Or you can let us know you’re donating your leftover items. Note: Donations will go toward start-up inventory for a local homeschool mompreneur to open a consignment store here in Columbia.
When will I receive payment? Within 2 weeks after the sale, we will close out the payments. You can choose payment via check mailed to you or via PayPal.
Great! How do I sign up to be a consignor? It’s quick and easy!

NEW Consignors: Closed
RETURNING Consignors: Closed
Registered Consignors, time to print your tags!

Questions? Contact Kim at colacityinfo@gmail.com
Want to attend the Gingerbread House Decorating Party?
Register HERE for Morning or Afternoon session.

Gingerbread House Party
2024-12-18 10:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Gingerbread House Party
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wed., Dec. 18th from 10-12 or 1-3
All Ages — $4/participant
Note: This is Cola City event. Registration required–scroll down to reserve your space.
It’s time to celebrate with one of our favorite holiday traditions: Decorating Gingerbread Houses!
Pre-built graham cracker houses are provided, with royal icing for each participant. Participants bring a bag of colorful candy or other edible decorative item to share “potluck style”. Carry home your finished houses.
Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia, 2701 Heyward St, Columbia, SC 29205
Seating is limited, so we’re offering two sessions: Morning 10-noon OR Afternoon 1-3 pm.
Note: While the houses/decorations are all edible, most people don’t actually eat their masterpieces. It’s recommended to be for decorative purposes only. Contact Kim with questions about allergies or dietary concerns: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Bring a bag of colorful candy or other decorative item. M&M’s, Skittles, Smarties, licorice whips, gum drops, red hots, Sixlets, Starburst, Fruit Stripe gum, Necco wafers, gummy bears, Starlight mints, candy canes and lots more. Marshmallows, chocolate chips, cereal, pretzels, even leftover Halloween candy works.
Bring a box to carry home your finished house/houses. Especially if you have young children or multiple children.
Bring some cash or debit/credit card to shop at the pop-up consignment sale, too!
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Park Meet-Up & Card Exchange
2024-12-20 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Park Meet-Up & Card Exchange
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Friday, Dec 20 from 12:30-2:30pm
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is a Cola City event. But, there is no sign up. Just show up.
Need some social interaction and community connection? This is a bonus meet-up as part of the Let Grow Play Club initiative. It’s more than just a “park meet-up” event. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages.
A few of our kids have been asking about exchanging cards and also playing nerf wars.
Location: Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Ln, Columbia, SC 29210. Parking at the lower lot, look for the driveway next to the child care center.
Bring: Nerf Blasters and Ammo (for your player and also to share). Frisbees for the frisbee golf course, Balls, and other playground equipment. Bikes and scooters also are great for this park location.
Bring: 10 (or more) prepared greeting cards and/or token gifts to exchange. Similar format to the Valentine’s exchange.
Bring: Your meet-up ideas to plan for the new year. Could be park meet-ups, field trips, hiking trails, games and more!
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com Call or text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880

Homeschool Skate
2024-12-20 13:00 - 16:00
Homeschool Skate
by Three Fountains Recreation
Friday, Dec 20th @1pm
All Ages — $5
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Homeschool skateFriday, December 20th, 20241pm to 4pm$5.00 to skate and to play golf*regular skate rental included**Bring association card for entry
More info HERE!

Owl Prowl
2024-12-20 16:00 - 19:00
Owl Prowl
by Congaree National Park
Friday, Dec 20th @4pm
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event
Have you ever heard an owl calling in the dead of night and been curious? How do they hunt? How do they see? Why do people associate them with wisdom? Join park staff for an evening hike to answer these questions and more!
Owls are mysterious creatures to many, as we do not often see them, and only hear them calling at night outside of our homes. This 1.5 hour guided hike along the Boardwalk and Sims trail. We will talk about the unique adaptations owls have made that allow them to be such capable hunters, and how they use their senses to survive and thrive in the dark. We will keep our eyes and ears open and hopefully catch a glimpse or hear one of the many owls that call Congaree National Park home, as well as possibly other nocturnal creatures that might be out in the dark as well.
What to know:
-We will be meeting at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center.
-Pets are not permitted on this walk. Service animals are welcome.
– Visitors may bring a flashlight as this program will take place after dark. Flashlights should have a red mode, or the light should be covered with red cellophane in order to preserve visitors and wildlife’s night vision. If you do not have a red mode, the park will be providing red cellophane.
-Please wear comfortable shoes as we will be walking approximately 2.5 miles. Please bring water and wear weather appropriate clothing.
– Event could be canceled due to inclement weather.
Get your FREE TICKETS HERE!

Kid' Pinball Tournament
2024-12-21 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person
Little Flippers Pinball Tournament
by Bang Back Pinball Lounge
Every 3rd Saturday from 12-2 pm
FREE — ages 4-12
Note: This is NOT a Cola City activity. If you’re going, let other know to meet-up with you there! Contact Bang Back Lounge for more information
Every THIRD SATURDAY between 12-2 pm, Bang Back is hosting a Little Flippers Tournament! This is a FREE Kids tournament for ages 4-12. Bring the whole family to learn something new about pinball, enjoy some food from the Funky Fresh Food Truck, and have fun! Directly afterwards we will have our Sensory Sensitive Fun time for kids with sensory needs to have a space of their own do discover and learn about the game we all love… PINBALL!

Winter Solstice Lantern Parade
2024-12-21 17:30 - 19:00
Winter Solstice Lantern Parade
by City of Columbia
Saturday, Dec 21st @5:30pm
All Ages — FREE
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Gather, beginning at 5:30. Bring your lantern, our volunteers provide poles and string to get you parade ready. Indah Coffee will have their scrumptious s’mores kits and warm beverages. Emerald’s Artistry will be painting faces and twisting light-up balloons for little ones.
Don’t have a lantern? We have lantern making workshops at the Columbia Art Center on Taylor Street December 11, 14 & 18. Sign up for a session here: https://parksandrec.columbiasc.gov/online-registration/ . Cost is $15
There are plenty of creative ways to make your own lantern- just grab some battery operated string lights or a flashlight to get started. You can find beautiful papers and Mod Podge at City Art or any other arts and crafts supply stores. Consider including seasonal interest: leaves, grasses and other natural materials lend themselves to the solstice theme.
When the sun goes down and shadows grow long, we will parade into the park, cross the canal and gather beside the river to reflect. Dress for the forecast; it may be chilly!This annual tradition at Riverfront Park is a free, family friendly way to enjoy nature and the outdoors. Make time to breathe in the fresh air and reflect on the year past and the promise of the ever lengthening days ahead.
More info about this event can be found HERE.

No Play Club Today 12/25
2024-12-25 | Holiday
NO PLAY CLUB Today
Wednesday, Dec 25
No Park Meet-up today. See you in the New Year!

Firefly Gameday: January
2025-01-03 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person

STEM Stations Party
2025-01-08 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
STEM Stations Kick-off Party
By Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, January 8 @12:30 pm
All ages — $5/participant
Note: This is a Cola City event. Registration required, so we can gather enough supplies. Scroll down to sign up.
Let’s kick off the new year with this fun opportunity: STEM Stations for all ages. Several activity stations will be set up. Student participants will be allowed to rotate at their own pace thru the various activities. Supplies are provided, but parents/teens can volunteer to assist at a station or shadow your own child.
Station activities included:

Spoon Catapults Make-it-Take-it
Cup Snowball Launcher
LEGO Bridge Challenge
Boat Float Challenge
Laser/Mirror refraction
Krypto: Math Facts Challenge
and more!

Cost: $5/participant to help cover the overhead costs and facility rental.
Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia, 2701 Heyward St, Columbia, SC 29205. Free parking along both sides of the street. Spaces may or may not have lines. Just don’t block driveways or firelane.
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Homeschool Spirit Day: Postponed
2025-01-22 12:30 - 14:30
The Cola City Club meet-up planned for today has been postponed till next Wednesday, Jan 29.
Click HERE for more information: https://www.colacityhomeschoolers.com/event/homeschool-spirit-day/
In the meantime, stay safe!

Homeschool Spirit Day
2025-01-29 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Homeschool Spirit Day & Dance Party
By Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, January 22 @12:30 pm
Rescheduled: January 29 @12:30
All ages — $5/participant
Note: This is a Cola City event. Registration required, so we can get an accurate head count and cover our overhead costs. Scroll down to sign up.
Due to INCLEMENT WEATHER Forecase: The alternate date is next Wednesday, January 29 at 12:30 pm, same location (at UU Congregration of Columbia).
Show off your Homeschool Spirit and come dance it out! National School Choice Week is the last week of January. We’re preparing with our own celebration day to learn the School Choice Dance (and some other fun dance steps).
Wear yellow and red clothing/accessories, if you have any!
Cost: $5/participant to help cover the overhead costs and facility rental.
Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia, 2701 Heyward St, Columbia, SC 29205. Free parking along both sides of the street. Spaces may or may not have lines. Just don’t block driveways or firelane.
Sign up here to reserve your space:

National School Choice Rally at Capitol
2025-01-30 09:00 - 12:30 | In Person
National School Choice Rally
by National School Choice Awareness Foundation
Thursday, January 30 from 9am-12:30
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event. Contact event host for more information HERE
Please join Charleston RISE and National School Choice Awareness Foundation on January 30th 2025, 9:00am – 12:30pm for a celebration of school choice! Hosted at the University of South Carolina Alumni Center, this event will begin with a talent showcase featuring students from across the state and continue with a spirit-filled march to the State Capitol Building. 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.
This event is FREE, for all ages. Street parking may have fees.
Meet at USC Alumni Center, 900 Senate Street, Columbia to gather for the march together to the State House. Or you can wait at the State House steps for the rally.
More information and registration click here. RSVP is so they can send you some reminders, but if you just head over to the statehouse, you can join in last minute as well.

National School Choice Fair
2025-02-01 11:00 - 14:00 | In Person
National School Choice Fair
by Palmetto Promise
Saturday, February 1, 11am-2pm
FREE — All Ages/Parents
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event. Contact National School Choice Awareness Foundation for more information and RSVP: Click HERE
Location: Brookland Baptist Church, 1066 Sunset Blvd, West Cola
Time/Date: Saturday, February 1 from 11am-2pm.
FREE Admission
Families in South Carolina have more choices for their children’s education than ever before! Parents: learn more about the different K–12 education options available for your kids at the Columbia School Fair on February 1st 2025, from 11:00am to 2:00pm, at Brookland Baptist Church
At the school fair, you’ll have the chance to meet representatives from traditional public, public charter, public, magnet, private, faith-based, online, home, and nontraditional schooling options, and have your questions answered.
This event is hosted by Palmetto Promise Institute in collaboration with the National School Choice Awareness Foundation. It’s family-friendly, free to attend, and will include complimentary food, face painting and balloon artists. RSVP today!
Featured Schools + Vendors: Note the Homeschool representation too!
SC Whitmore School
Hawthorne Christian Academy
Grace Christian School
Edge Christian Academy
Grace Community Academy of Columbia
Heritage Christian Academy
Hope Christian Academy
South Carolina Child Care Resource & Referral
South Carolina Virtual Charter School
Vital Connections of the Midlands
Midlands Middle College
Cutler Jewish Day School
GREEN Charter Midlands
The Suzuki Academy of Columbia
Carolinas Academic Leadership Network
South Carolina Connections Academy
Educational Scholarship Trust Fund
Colearn Academy
Soaring Eagles Christian Academy
American Leadership Academy Lexington (6-12)
Northside Christian Academy
Saint Joseph Catholic School
Clear Dot Charter School
Lexington School District Two
St. Martin de Porres Catholic School
Foundation Christian School
Gray Collegiate Academy
SC Homeschooling Connection
RoyalT Learning Center
Inspired Learning and Above
Omni Therapy Solutions
Mountains to Sea Homeschool Association
I Tutor the Kids, LLC
USC Early Social Development Lab
First Steps 4K
HERO Homeschool Group
BLAST Aerospace Magnet at WA Perry Middle School
Saluda River Academy for the Arts
Cyril B. Busbee Creative Arts Academy
St John Neumann Catholic School
SC Public Charter School District
Excelsior Academy
Montessori School of Columbia
United Way of the Midlands
Rhema Christian School
Family Connection of South Carolina
Ervin’s Enrichment
American Leadership Academy K-5th
Ascent Classical Academy
Cardinal Newman School
Dyslexia Resource Center
Cyber Academy of South Carolina
Heron Virtual Academy

Minute-to-Win-it Games
2025-02-05 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Minute-to-Win-it Games
By Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, February 5 @12:30
All ages — $5/participant
Note: This is a Cola City event. Registration required, so we can get an accurate head count and cover our overhead costs. Scroll down to sign up.
The Common Ground Collective is a space for students and parents to come together, connect, and grow. In a world often divided by differences, our mission is to create a joyful and supportive community where we celebrate what makes us unique and discover the common ground that unites us all.
Whether you’re looking to foster stronger relationships, deepen your understanding of others, or simply find joy in meaningful conversations, the Common Ground Collective offers a welcoming space to grow, learn, and thrive—together.
Join us as we build bridges, spread kindness, and create a community rooted in understanding and joy! Read more about the Common Ground Collective
This week’s activity is Minute-to-Win-it Games. Some of the games we have planned: Human Hungry, Hungry Hippos, Pool Noodle Hockey, Paperball/Snowball Fight and more. All ages. Teens can participate or help facilitate the games.
Cost: $5/participant to help cover the overhead costs and facility rental.
Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia, 2701 Heyward St, Columbia, SC 29205. Free parking along both sides of the street. Spaces may or may not have lines. Just don’t block driveways or firelane.
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Career Day Expo
2025-02-06 09:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Career Day Expo
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Thursday, February 6 from 9am-3pm
$25 — Teens (ages 13+)/Parents
NOTE: This event is hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Registration is required: Click HERE
Are you ready to explore exciting career paths and gain hands-on experience? Join us for an engaging Career Day, specially designed for homeschool high school students! This event is packed with interactive workshops, expert advice, and real-world activities that will help you discover your passions and shape your future.
An Event Especially for High Schoolers!
What to Expect:

Interactive Workshops led by industry professionals in various fields.
Hands-On Experiences that let you try out different skills and discover what excites you.
Career Exploration where you can ask questions, learn about potential career paths, and get personalized advice.
Networking Opportunities to connect with mentors and professionals who are eager to share their knowledge.

Why Attend?

Explore a variety of career options through real-world experiences.
Gain valuable insights from professionals in various fields.
Get inspired to take the next steps toward your future career.
Make connections that could help guide your career journey.

Learn, Grow, and Have Fun While Discovering Potential Career Paths!
Date and Time: Thursday, February 6 from 9am-3pm
Location: Cornerstone Presbyterian Church (Fellowship Hall), 5637 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212
Cost: $25 for teens (ages 13+); Lunch/Refreshments optional add-on; Parent-Educator/Chaperone: $25 with student

Featured Workshop: Be Pro Be Proud, Exploring Trade Skills and Careers
SC Discus: Free resources for Career Explorations for High Schoolers presented by SC State Library. Bring your own electronic device for hands-on practice
Test Prep and Science Apps: Free resources (and games) to improve your test scores presented by US Army.
Soap Knapping Workshop: Highlighting land history and preservation for park ranger/guide/naturalist by Nature As Teacher
STEM Stations Open Lab: Highlighting several hands-on STEM activities to explore your interests. Presented by Cola City Homeschoolers

Click HERE to
Reserve your space NOW!

Goldilocks Ballet
2025-02-07 11:00 - 12:30 | In Person
Goldilocks & 3 B’s Ballet
Education Outreach Performance
by Columbia City Ballet
Friday, February 7 at 11:15 am
$6.50/seat — All Ages
Note: This group rate discount is organized by Cola City Homeschoolers. Seating is limited for this sold out performance. Registration and prepayment is required–scroll down for registration.
Columbia City Ballet offers Education Outreach performances especially for children. This program is “Goldilocks & The Three B’s: Bach, Beethoven & Beyonce”. Cola City Homeschoolers has secured a group discount rate for each seat, including adults and students on Friday, February at 11:15 am.
These extended opportunities incorporate the interrelated nature of the elements of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Math). Performances last approximately 1 hour and include a Q&A session. Productions are narrated providing students a clear understanding of the story and allowing them to fully appreciate the professional dancers of Columbia City Ballet and its high artistic and production standards.
Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time to find parking and to be seated. Parking is available for an hourly rate in the nearby parking garage and also street meters.
Contact colacityinfo@gmail.com with any questions about this group event.
Call or text Kim A. if you’re running late or lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Reserve your seats now:

Homeschool Game Day: First Friday
2025-02-07 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person
Homeschool Day
by Firefly Toys & Games
First Friday of the Month
All Ages — Free
Note: This is not a Cola City Event. We are meeting up there–so keep an eye out for other Cola City connections!
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.
NOTE: Firefly is hosting a DnD tutorial for beginners for anyone who wants to learn Dungeons and Dragons. All Ages!

Let Grow Play Club
2025-02-12 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: February
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, Feb 12, 12-2:30 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the fall to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on every other WEDNESDAY.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 12:30-2:30 pm now thru May
Location: Owens Field Park, 1401 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia
Alternate location/Inclement weather: Richland Library Children’s/Teens Room, 1431 Assembly St.
Columbia
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880

Valentines Pizza Party & Card Exchange
2025-02-14 13:00 - 15:30
Valentines Pizza Party & Card Exchange
by Akoma Cares
Friday, Feb 14th @1pm
All Ages — $2
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event
Join us for our annual Valentine’s Pizza Party and Card Exchange. There will be pizza with light refreshments, music, games, and a chance for the kids to exchange Valentine’s among friends.

Please bring 30 signed kids Valentine cards, pieces of candy, OR party favors for your child/children to pass out. Bags for their Valentine cards and gifts will be provided at the party.

Tickets are donation-based with an option to pay what you want at checkout. We do ask for a minimum donation of $2 per person. Your contribution will help us cover the cost of food and supplies for the event. Thank you and hope to see you there!
Party is located at:
5637 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212, USA
More info and tickets HERE!

Little Flippers Pinball Tournament
2025-02-15 12:00 - 14:00
Little Flippers Pinball Tournament
by Bang Back Pinball Lounge
Saturday, Feb 15th @12pm
Ages 4-12 — FREE
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Every THIRD SATURDAY between 12-2 pm, Bang Back is hosting a Little Flippers Tournament! This is a FREE Kids tournament for ages 4-12.5 rounds group matchplay1 game final for top 4Bring the whole family to learn something new about pinball, enjoy some food from the Funky Fresh Food Truck, and have fun! Directly afterwards we will have our Sensory Sensitive Fun time for kids with sensory needs to have a space of their own do discover and learn about the game we all love… PINBALL!
More info HERE!
