Spring into the Fun: 8 Can't-Miss Events in Columbia & Lexington, SC This April 2025

Looking for exciting things to do this April in Columbia and Lexington, South Carolina? From wine walks to dog parades and international food festivals, the Midlands is blooming with energy and events for the whole family. Whether you're a foodie, a pet parent, an art lover—or all three—you'll find something to love this spring.

Here’s your ultimate local event guide, brought to you by Palmetto Scoopers Pet Waste Removal, proud sponsor of this year’s Bark to the Park!

1. Bark to the Park – April 5, 2025

Location: Saluda Shoals Park, Columbia, SC

Time: 10:00 AM – Registration | 11:00 AM – Dog Walk | 11:30 AM – After-Pawty

Admission: See event website for ticket details

We’re sponsoring this one! Join us at Saluda Shoals Park for Bark to the Park—Pawmetto Lifeline’s signature fundraiser for homeless pets. Walk with your dog, then stay for the After-Pawty featuring music, food trucks, contests, and local vendors. Stop by the Palmetto Scoopers booth for freebies, giveaways, and exclusive promotions for pet parents!

2. Soda City Market – Every Saturday (April 5, 12, 19, 26)

Location: 1300-1600 blocks of Main Street, Columbia, SC

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Admission: Free

Soda City is Columbia’s most beloved weekly market with over 150 vendors, local art, live music, global eats, and handmade goods. Dog- and family-friendly!

3. Dining on the Dam – April 6, 2025

Location: Lake Murray Dam, Lexington, SC

Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Tickets: $165

This once-a-year dinner experience lets you dine on the historic Lake Murray Dam while enjoying live music and stunning sunset views.

4. Columbia International Festival – April 5–6, 2025

Location: SC State Fairgrounds, Columbia, SC

Time: Sat 10:00 AM–7:00 PM | Sun 12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Admission: $7 adults, $3 children

Travel the world without leaving town! This festival features global food, music, culture, and fashion from over 80 countries.

5. Artista Vista – April 11–13, 2025

Location: The Vista, Columbia, SC

Admission: Free

Celebrate creativity during Columbia’s annual gallery crawl. Enjoy pop-up exhibits, live painting, sculpture, street art, and local bites.

6. Lexington Wine Walk on Main – April 12, 2025

Location: Main Street, Lexington, SC

Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Tickets: $30 in advance, $40 at the gate

Wine tasting, live jazz, and boutique shopping all in one perfect spring evening on Main Street.

7. Kinetic Derby Day – April 26, 2025

Location: West Columbia River District

Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Admission: Free

This creative derby day brings soapbox racing, obstacle courses, foam pits, and colorful chaos to West Columbia. Great for kids and adults alike!

8. Columbia Food and Wine Festival – April 22–27, 2025

Location: Various venues

Admission: Varies by event

A week-long celebration of the Midlands’ top chefs, wine experts, and mixologists. Events sell out fast—don’t wait to book!

Want More Local Scoop?

Follow Palmetto Scoopers on Instagram and Facebook for pet-friendly happenings, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes looks at Columbia's #1 pet waste removal crew.

We’ll see you out there—come say hi and support local this spring!