Cola City Homeschoolers

Minecraft Escape Room Challenge 2
2025-08-29 06:00 - 08:30 (America/New_York) | In Person
Minecraft Escape Room Challenge
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Friday, August 29 at 10 am
Ages 7-10 — $10/player
Note: this is a special activity hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Scroll down to register.
A dangerous presence has infiltrated the SC STATE MUSEUM and your help is needed to defeat it! Search for wandering traders, solve puzzles and collect the necessary supplies to aid you on your heroic journey. Do you have what it takes to save the museum?
** Players: Ages 7-10 can participate in this amazing escape room challenge by Cola City Homeschoolers. Space is limited to 25 players who will be grouped in teams of 5. $10/player/participant.
**Volunteers: We also need volunteers (previous players/teens/parents) to help facilite activities stations as “Wandering Traders.” There’s a question on the sign up sheet to volunteer. Volunteers do not pay the player fee. Any other questions contact: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Recommended: Training/Orientation for Volunteers on Wednesday, August 27 at noonish at Firefly Toys/Games on St. Andrews Road.
**NO DROP-OFFS. Families with younger siblings may explore the museum during the event. But we ask everyone to stay on site. Bring snacks/water if you want. There’s also a cafe/snack bar to purchase refreshments.
**Admission to the museum is free with your homeschool certificate/membership letter. Additional adults or non-homeschooling friends must pay museum admission rates.
We’ll meet on Friday, August 29th at 10 am in the front lobby at the SC State Museum. Located at 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201.
Look for Angela/Katrina to greet you and to organize into age groups, before you check in with the museum ticket desk.
Registration has closed. Thanks for your interest!
Join the new app, to keep up with the next opportunity:
https://colacity.ourschoolhangout.com/Account-Setup

Firefly Game Day
2025-09-05 08:00 - 10:00 | In Person
Homeschool Game 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.
We are launching the Cola City PLUS app to streamline communications and registrations. Set up your account to get in on this new opportunity and help build the community together!

Salamander Study part 1
2025-10-16 06:00 - 08:00 | In Person
Salamander Study with Ranger Jay
hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers
Thursday, October 16 at 10 am
$5/participant — Ages 12+
Note: This activity is hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. SCROLL DOWN to reserve your space. It is NOT a drop off event.
Ranger Jay is facilitating a nature study series for ages 12 and up to learn about Salamanders. This project revolves around this important question: How can the presence or absence of salamanders help determine the health of our forest ecosystems?
Data from this study will help the Park visitors understand the value of the salamanders as an indicator species and why our stream habitats are important. This knowledge will help Saluda Riverwalk Park Rangers care and conserve our sensitive stream habitats.
Salamanders’ patterns of population change, when coupled with measurements of their surroundings, will permit the investigation of the effects of geographic location, land management, air quality, vegetation, and associations with other species on salamander population dynamics.
Students will engage in collecting meaningful scientific data about salamander populations. This data will be used as an indication of forest ecosystem health. The series is conducted in 4-parts, continuing thru the seasons of the year.
Part 1: October 16th: Learning about Saluda Riverwalk using maps, biodiversity plots, walking observations and journaling. Students will learn why it is important to study our indicator species such as the salamander to assess the overall health of the ecosystem.
Part 2: November 13th (registration opens after part 1): Introduction to Salamanders. Fieldwork and Data Collection. Students will collect stream data at two to three sites depending on time allowance. We will sample for water quality data such as PH, Temp, and turbidity. Place cover boards for future terrestrial monitoring. Visit stream sites for salamander collection and identification.
Part 3: TBD Winter: 2nd visit for stream data collection. Check cover boards, Check streams for salamander population changes. Develop hypothesis relating to status of salamanders. Is habitat healthy? Are there concerns?
Part 4: TBD Spring: Last Visit for Stream data Collection. Check cover boards. Check streams for salamanders. Record data and draw initial conclusions.
Location: Saluda Riverwalk 650 Candi Lane, Columbia 29210
Restrooms and Parking Lot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and water bottles also recommended. Bring your own snacks or bag lunch to hang out on the rocks afterwards, optional.
Look for Angela to greet you–and Ranger Jay. This is not a drop off-event. Parents can chaperone to listen in on the lesson activity too.
Families with younger siblings/non-participants:

You can follow along behind the ranger-led activity–to listen in. There’s a sidewalk if you have younger siblings with a stroller or wagon.
You can go along the walking path for your own nature explorations. Be sure to let Angela (our coordinator) know, so you can meet back when the group activity is concluded.

Sign up below to reserve your space:

Parent NameNote: Please include the name of the adult contact for this registration

First

Last

EmailLook for an automated confirmation when you submit the form

Mobile PhoneInclude a number just in case we need to reach you last minute.Teen/Tween Participant name and ageTeens/Tweens 12+/High school. Use the plus (+) sign to add rows for additional participants. Parent chaperone verificationWill the parent chaperone with the facilitated group activity or supervise younger siblings? This helps us estimate the total number in the group, as space is limited. Teens/ChaperoneYounger Siblings/Non-ParticipantsCola City PLUS appAre you on the Cola City PLUS app yet? Sign up is free to try now!

Yes, I'm on the app

Not on the app yet
Rander-Led Study Session QuantitySelect the number of middle/high school participants.

Price:
$5.00

Quantity
TotalPlease submit payment to secure space.
$0.00

Submit

Nerf Battle & Candy Exchange
2025-10-29 08:00 - 10:00 | In Person
Nerf Battle & Candy Exchange
By Cola City & Akoma Cares
Wednesday, October 29 from noon-2pm
All Ages — FREE
Note: This event is co-hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers and Akoma Cares. Please RSVP here so we know how many are coming! CLICK HERE
💥 Hero vs. Villain Nerf Battle! 💥Get ready for an epic showdown between heroes and villains!
Location: Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane. Parking at the lower lot, by the daycare building.
Come dressed as your favorite character (costumes are optional but encouraged!) and bring your own Nerf blasters —just make sure to label your stuff so it makes it home safely.
Some darts will be provided, however, we would love to have more. Please label them if you would like to take them back home.
Eye protection is highly recommended.
Each family should bring a bag of candy to pass out.
Any darts that are not labeled will be collected and saved for our next Nerf event.
>>Click here to RSVP<<

Salamander Study 2
2025-11-13 05:00 - 07:00 | In Person
Salamander Study with Ranger Jay
hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers
Thursday, November 13 at 10 am
$5/participant — Ages 12+
Note: This activity is hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. SCROLL DOWN to reserve your space. It is NOT a drop off event.
Ranger Jay is facilitating a nature study series for ages 12 and up to learn about Salamanders. This project revolves around this important question: How can the presence or absence of salamanders help determine the health of our forest ecosystems?
Data from this study will help the Park visitors understand the value of the salamanders as an indicator species and why our stream habitats are important. This knowledge will help Saluda Riverwalk Park Rangers care and conserve our sensitive stream habitats.
Salamanders’ patterns of population change, when coupled with measurements of their surroundings, will permit the investigation of the effects of geographic location, land management, air quality, vegetation, and associations with other species on salamander population dynamics.
Students will engage in collecting meaningful scientific data about salamander populations. This data will be used as an indication of forest ecosystem health. The series is conducted in 4-parts, continuing thru the seasons of the year.
Part 1: October 16th: Learning about Saluda Riverwalk using maps, biodiversity plots, walking observations and journaling. Students will learn why it is important to study our indicator species such as the salamander to assess the overall health of the ecosystem.
Part 2: November 13th: Introduction to Salamanders. Fieldwork and Data Collection. Students will collect stream data at two to three sites depending on time allowance. We will sample for water quality data such as PH, Temp, and turbidity. Place cover boards for future terrestrial monitoring. Visit stream sites for salamander collection and identification.
Part 3: TBD Winter: 2nd visit for stream data collection. Check cover boards, Check streams for salamander population changes. Develop hypothesis relating to status of salamanders. Is habitat healthy? Are there concerns?
Part 4: TBD Spring: Last Visit for Stream data Collection. Check cover boards. Check streams for salamanders. Record data and draw initial conclusions.
Location: Saluda Riverwalk 650 Candi Lane, Columbia 29210
Restrooms and Parking Lot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and water bottles also recommended. Bring your own snacks or bag lunch to hang out on the rocks afterwards, optional.
Look for Angela to greet you–and Ranger Jay. This is not a drop off-event. Parents can chaperone to listen in on the lesson activity too.
Families with younger siblings/non-participants:

You can follow along behind the ranger-led activity–to listen in. There’s a sidewalk if you have younger siblings with a stroller or wagon.
You can go along the walking path for your own nature explorations. Be sure to let Angela (our coordinator) know, so you can meet back when the group activity is concluded.

Sign up below to reserve your space:

Parent NameNote: Please include the name of the adult contact for this registration

First

Last

EmailLook for an automated confirmation when you submit the form

Mobile PhoneInclude a number just in case we need to reach you last minute.Teen/Tween Participant name and ageTeens/Tweens 12+/High school. Use the plus (+) sign to add rows for additional participants. Parent chaperone verificationWill the parent chaperone with the facilitated group activity or supervise younger siblings? This helps us estimate the total number in the group, as space is limited. Teens/ChaperoneYounger Siblings/Non-ParticipantsCola City PLUS appAre you on the Cola City PLUS app yet? Sign up is free to try now!

Yes, I'm on the app

Not on the app yet
Rander-Led Study Session QuantitySelect the number of middle/high school participants.

Price:
$5.00

Quantity
TotalPlease submit payment to secure space.
$0.00

Submit

Let Grow Play Club: January
2026-01-14 07:30 - 09:30 | In Person
Let Grow — Play Club park meet up
January 14th 12:30pm-2:30pm
at Finlay Park

All ages, even Teens and Adults. It’s unstructured social time.

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.

For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, click here: https://colacityhomeschoolers.com/let-grow-play-club/

No sign up, just show up. Comment below if you’re coming–so we know to keep an eye out for you. In case of inclement weather: Meet at Main Branch of Richland Library Downtown

Cola City PLUS: Zoom Chat
2026-01-19 09:30 - 10:30 | Virtual Event
Cola City PLUS: Zoom Chat
Monday, January 19 @2:30pm
FREE — Parents
What are you gonna do about socialization? You know the question. And you may have some cliches to answer. But, just between us–we have to acknowledge socialization is harder when we are homeschooling.
Let’s be honest: The struggle is real.
Finding interesting activities, kids that your kids like, and moms that you like. Plus coordinating schedules and paying for the fees. Then, what happens when conflicts arise or your friends move away?
Finding a group makes you feel like you’re Goldilocks. This one’s too big; that one’s too small. Or too quiet or too loud. Or too far away or too expensive. You can’t find one that fits just right.
So, what are your biggest challenges? Let’s put the problems out there and start brainstorming some possible solutions.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85685414485?pwd=[REDACTED]
Or go to: https://us02web.zoom.us/join
Meeting ID: 856 8541 4485
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Read more Cola City PLUS

Columbia School Choice Fair
2026-01-24 06:00 - 09:00 | In Person
Columbia School Choice Fair
By National School Choice Week and Palmetto Promise
Saturday, January 24 from 11am-2pm
FREE — Parents/Families
NOTE: This is *NOT* a Cola City event. It’s FREE and open the public.
Pre-registration is recommended: HERE
Stop by to see SC Homeschooling Connection (Kim Andrysczyk), or come hang out at her vendor space.
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 January 24, 2026, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, at Brookland Baptist Church.
At the school fair, you’ll have the chance to meet representatives from traditional public, public charter, magnet, private, faith-based, online, home, and nontraditional schooling options across the greater Columbia and Lexington area 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 snacks, face painting and balloon artists.
RSVP today!

Play Club with ABC Fitness
2026-01-28 07:30 - 09:30 | In Person
Let Grow — Play Club park meet up
January 28th 12:30pm-2:30pm
at Finlay Park
hosted with ABC Fitness

All ages, even Teens and Adults. It’s unstructured social time.

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.
Fun Day at Finley Park with ABC Kids Fitness & Cola City Homeschool Group! ABC Kids Fitness is super excited to partner with Cola City Homeschool Group for an unforgettable afternoon of movement, laughter, and community fun a. Join us for plenty of fun fitness challenges and fun group games designed to keep everyone moving and smiling. Bring your family, invite a friend, and come enjoy a joyful day of active play and connection!

For more information about ABC Kids Fitness, click here: https://www.abckidsfitness.com/

For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, click here: https://colacityhomeschoolers.com/let-grow-play-club/

No sign up, just show up. In case of inclement weather: Meet at Main Branch of Richland Library Downtown

Share Fair: DIY Minute-to-Win-it Games
2026-01-30 07:30 - 09:30 | In Person
Share Fair: January
DIY Minute-to-Win-it Games
and School Choice Photos
Friday, January 30th @12:30pm
at St. Andrews Branch/RCPL
FREE — All Ages
Note: This event is hosted by Cola City PLUS. It’s free, but RSVP so we can have enough space for facilitators and supplies for participants. (SCROLL DOWN to RSVP).
This is part of the Cola City PLUS initiative to build community. We’re hosting a monthly “Share Fair” with a theme for presentations. Location: St. Andrews Branch Library, 2916 Broad River Rd, Columbia, SC 29210
This month is: DIY Minute-to-Win-it Games. Here’s a link with some quick and easy ideas to inspire you. And a few photos.

Bring a game to share–or just come and play. All ages!
Fill out the form below to RSVP:

Firefly Game Day: February
2026-02-06 07:00 - 09:00 | In Person
Homeschool Game 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 Cola City PLUS initiative. Socializing and communnity building with “Third Place” spaces. Read more about Socialization with Cola City PLUS
No need to sign up–just show up.
Communication updates thru Our School Hangout App.
Set up your account to try for free now (pay later, only $5/month)

Park Meet-Up: February
2026-02-11 07:30 - 09:30, 2026-02-25 07:30 - 09:30 | In Person
Let Grow — Play Club park meet up
Wednesdays: 12:30pm-2:30pm
February 11 & 25
at Finlay Park
All ages, even Teens and Adults. It’s unstructured social time.

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 to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. Community building and collaboration!

For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, click here: https://colacityhomeschoolers.com/let-grow-play-club/

No sign up, just show up. In case of inclement weather: Meet at Main Branch of Richland Library Downtown
Updates in Our School Hangout App.
Set up you account here to try it for free.

Battle of Aiken 2026
2026-02-20 03:30 - 10:00 | In Person
Battle of Aiken
Living History School Days 2026
February 20, 8:30-3 pm
Free — All ages
NOTE: This is *not* a Cola City Event. Contact Battle of Aiken for more information and details. Pre-registration is recommended
Field Trip

Since 1995, thousands of school children have traveled to the Battle of Aiken Park 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! Over 75,000 children have experienced the program. Today, some of the past attendees are now parents and bring another generation of students to the program! Schools from across Georgia and South Carolina attend every year. 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.
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.
Location: 1210 Powell Pond Road, Aiken, SC 29801
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.
Contact: www.boalivinghistory@gmail.com
School Day Coordinator: Darlene Stokes 706-589-8479
To register, please click HERE

Homeschool Game Day: March
2026-03-06 07:00 - 09:00

Play Club: March
2026-03-11 08:30 - 10:30, 2026-03-25 08:30 - 10:30 | In Person
Let Grow — Play Club park meet up
Wednesdays: 12:30pm-2:30pm
March 11 & 25
at Finlay Park
All ages, even Teens and Adults. It’s unstructured social time.

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 to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. Community building and collaboration!

For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, click here: https://colacityhomeschoolers.com/let-grow-play-club/

No sign up, just show up. In case of inclement weather: Meet at Main Branch of Richland Library Downtown
Updates in Our School Hangout App.
Set up you account here to try it for free.

Career Day
2026-03-20 06:00 - 08:00 | In Person
College & Career Day 2026
Friday, March 20th, 10am-noon
Hosted by: PAC Athletics
Teens/Parents — FREE
NOTE: This event is NOT hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Please contact PAC Athletics for more information: Click HERE.
Location: 578 Ander Dr, Columbia, SC 29203
Admission is FREE, but preregister to reserve your space
Come learn more about various career opportunities and colleges to help you as you prepare for your next season! PAC Athletics is excited to have several vendors there for students and graduates. Here are just a few participating businesses and colleges:
Blanchard Machinery
Carolina Chillers
Still Hopes
Carolina Comfort Solutions
Water Mission
Hoffman Mechanical
Palmetto Propane
Carolina Industrial Products
Mashburn Construction
Mighty Kidz Services
Columbia International University
Midlands Tech
Erkine College
and more…
PREREGISTER HERE

Read Freely Fest
2026-03-27 15:00 - 2026-03-29 12:00 | In Person
Read Freely Fest
By Richland County Library
March 27-29th
FREE — All Ages
More information: Click HERE

Location: 1431 Assembly Street, Columbia
Read Freely Fest is South Carolina’s newest book festival, celebrating stories and ideas with bestselling author talks, panels featuring fresh voices, performances and interactive activities. Each spring at Richland Library Main in downtown Columbia, you can meet favorite authors, discover new reads and connect with readers and writers who share inspiring perspectives.
See you at Read Freely Fest, where stories find good company.

Homeschool Game Day: April
2026-04-03 08:00 - 10:00 | In Person

Play Club: Interest Survey
2026-04-08 04:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
I believe in the mission of building community and this initiative to give our kids agency and autonomy. We get sparks of enthusiasm, that have never really taken off though. Let’s just take a moment to reconsider the possibilities for putting our efforts together. Please fill out this form to get involved: Loading…

Virtual SC Open House
2026-04-14 07:00 - 08:00 | Virtual Event
Homeschool Meet/Greet
by Virtual SC
Tuesday, April 14 @ 11 am
Parent/Educators — FREE
Note: This is not a Cola City event. Please contact Virtual SC for more information.
The VirtualSC Outreach and Support Team invite you to their annual Homeschool Meet and Greet on April 14th at 11 am​​. This virtual event is a great opportunity to learn more about the VirtualSC program, including course registration and current course offerings, and how they support your student’s homeschooling experience.
Click here to register
Read more about Virtual SC–by the SC Homeschooling Connection: What is Virtual SC? It’s a great resource to consider including in your homeschool course of study.

Break into College Conference
2026-04-17 04:00 - 2026-04-19 13:00 | Virtual Event
NOTE: This is NOT a Cola City event. Please contact the host for more information and registration: Click HERE

Barrier Breakers, a national education nonprofit, is hosting our annual Break Into College Conference, a free, fully virtual event designed to help high school students and families navigate the college admissions process with clarity and confidence.

April 17–19, 2026 Fully Virtual & Free Open to students nationwide Accessible in English & Spanish All sessions recorded

Students will hear directly from:

Admissions deans and college representatives

Financial aid experts

Scholarship leaders

Test prep professionals

Essay specialists

Featured speakers include:

Julissa Arce, producer, activist, and bestselling author

Ethan Sawyer, The College Essay Guy

Jed Applerouth, President of Applerouth Tutoring

Plus 30+ additional expert speakers and panels.

Students who register will also be eligible for scholarship giveaways, free test prep opportunities, book bundles, and additional resources announced throughout the conference.

We would be grateful if you would share this opportunity with your students and families.

Register here: https://barrier-breakers.org/

Curriculum & Resource Fair
2026-04-18 06:00 - 10:00 | In Person
Curriculum & Resource Fair
hosted by: Trinity Homeschool Academy
Saturday, April 18 from 10am-2pm
Open to the Public — Donation Entry
NOTE: This in NOT hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Please contact Trinity Academy for more information: CLICK HERE
Curriculum, STEAM, Art, 4H, Sewing and other free activities. Homeschooling in SC information–and more!
Admission: Canned Goods Donation
Vendors: Click HERE to reserve a space
Location: Restoration Life Ministries 4208 Rhame Road, Columbia, SC

Blossoming Together Conference
2026-04-25 04:00 - 13:00 | In Person
Blossoming Together Conference
by Homeschool Charleston
Saturday, April 25th from 10am-4pm
Click here to register
Note: This event is not hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. But, SC Homeschooling Connection will be at the Vendor Hall, so stop by our vendor space.
Location: Northwoods Baptist Church, Charleston
Tickets: $10/adult. Childcare extra.
Get ready for an exciting and fulfilling event! The 2026 Blossoming Together Homeschool Convention will be packed with vendors and include a full day of seminars! Vendors will include local co-ops, associations, classes, programs, social groups, businesses, curriculums, and much more! Check out the FAQ page if you have any questions!
This year we are so excited to be partnering with Marea Parson from Recess & Results to offer on-site childcare! This will be separate registration and cost.
More information: Click HERE

Irmo International Festival
2026-04-26 07:00 - 11:00 | In Person
Irmo International Festival
Public event: Not hosted by Cola City
Sunday, April 26
More Info CLICK HERE
The Sharpvue Irmo International Festival (SIIF) is a nonprofit event dedicated to celebrating the cultures, traditions, and people that make our community vibrant. Join us for a lively day of international food, music, performances, and activities that bring neighbors together through shared experiences.
Sunday, April 26, 2026Moore Park · Irmo, South Carolina
Come experience the flavors, sounds, and stories of cultures from around the world! It’s a day of connection, discovery, and fun for all ages.
What to Expect:• International food vendors• Cultural performances and music• Local vendors and artisans• Family-friendly activities• Community celebration of global cultures

Homeschool Game Day: May
2026-05-01 08:00 - 10:00 | In Person

Festival at the Friar's Gate
2026-05-16 06:00 - 2026-05-17 13:00
Festival of the Friar’s Gate
May 16-17
Moore Park in Irmo, SC 29063
Public Event — Free
NOTE: This is a public event, *not* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. More information HERE
HEAR YE, HEAR YE! Let it be known throughout the realm!
The First Grand Festival at the Friar’s Gate shall be held upon the 16th and 17th days of May in the Year of our Realm, 2026 within the Irmese village of Ravenmoore, where sea serpents guard the lake and old magic stirs in the soil.
Come ye one, come ye all, to a place out of time, where jesters shall tumble, blades shall clash, music shall rise, and tankards shall overflow with cheer. Marvel at strange beasts, rare crafts, enchanted wares, and ancient customs. Witness contests of skill and honor, and feast like kings ‘neath the banners of yore.
Let thy garb be fine and thy spirits high, for the gates of the fair shall open at the tenth bell.
Ravenmoore awaits thee with open arms, and the old road knows the way…
~ So Declared in Ink and Wax, by the Keeper of the Raven Banner

K5 Graduation & Awards Program
2026-05-23 05:30 - 07:30
K5 Graduation & Awards Program
by SC TOP & Cola City PLUS
Saturday May 23, 10-11:30am
Pre-registeration by May 8th
All Ages — $15/participant
Note: the event is hosted by SC TOP Association, but is open to all Cola City Homeschoolers. REGISTRATION HERE
Location: St. David’s Lutheran Church (Gym) 132 St Davids Church Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170
Celebrate the important milestones you’ve accomplished this year! We invite all SC TOP members to participate in this celebration of learning!

Kindergarten Graduation or
Completing the 1st year of Homeschooling at any grade level
5th Grade and 8th Grade Graduation
Any other Milestone acomplishment or grade level promotion

We’ll compile a promo video that you can share with your friends and family. We’ll also have a fun presentation with minute-to-win-it games and award certificates for all participants.
Note: This non-religious, informal program — uniquely homeschool. Caps/gowns are optional.
Fill out the pre-registration form for each student honoree that you want included in the video and/or the live program. Pre-registeration by May 8th to be included in promo video. Click here to see 2022 video, 2023 video, 2024 video, and 2025 video

Video participants (free): Picture will be included (no names or details about the student will be included in the video–for privacy and safety in sharing publicly to our extended friends and family). See examples of previous promo video. Digital Award Certificate will be emailed.
Program participants ($15): Name and photo of the student will be included in the live in-person event, but no other contact information will be revealed for privacy and safety. Also video details above. Printed Certificate will be presented in person.

Click HERE to REGISTER

Homeschool Game Day: June
2026-06-05 08:00 - 10:00 | In Person
