If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate the new year in a vibrant, Downtown city, look no further than Columbia, SC. Each year, Columbia hosts many NYE parties, ticketed events and more for people of all ages.
Why Celebrate NYE in Columbia, SC?
As the capital of South Carolina, Columbia has many great attractions and entertainment options comparable to a larger city. But, its smaller size makes it less crowded and more affordable.
Columbia is also a short distance from many larger cities in the Southeast, like Charlotte, NC or Atlanta, GA.
On top of a variety of fun NYE events, the city is home to delicious dining options, attractions, outdoor recreation and more.
Check out this Downtown Columbia guide for ideas:
This all makes celebrating an occasion like NYE in Columbia a win-win!
Keep reading for a list of the top events and activities happening in Columbia, SC this NYE.
Top NYE Events + Activities
Each New Year’s Eve brings events both new and old to Downtown Columbia. The top ways to celebrate in the city include ticketed events, NYE parties and chances to see fireworks.
Ticketed Events
Many local restaurants and bars host ticketed NYE events with food, drinks, live music or entertainment and more. Below are some events you’ll find in Columbia to ring in 2023.
1. The Grand on Main New Year’s Eve Bash
The Grand is a bowling alley, restaurant and bar in Columbia’s Main Street District. This NYE, they’re hosting a ticketed event with games, a DJ and a countdown to the ball drop. There are VIP and general admission ticket options.
- When: Dec. 31, beginning at 7 p.m. for VIP and 9 p.m. for general admission
- Where: The Grand on Main
- Price: VIP booths for up to 6 guests with food and drinks start at $800. A dining reservation for general admission begins at $200/table.
2. Dueling Piano New Year’s Celebration
If you love music and a cozy jazz-bar atmosphere, the Venue is the place for you this NYE! The Venue on Main Street will have a ticketed dueling piano show, with drinks and food available by order.
- When: Dec. 31, beginning at 8:30 p.m.
- Where: The Venue
- Price: $10 per person
3. NYE Celebration at Market on Main
For more fun on Main Street, check out the NYE celebration at the lively restaurant and bar, Market on Main. A ticket will get you a gourmet 3-course meal and access to the open bar. Plus, enjoy a DJ and a countdown to the ball drop.
- When: Dec. 31, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Market on Main
- Price: $125 per person
NYE Parties
If your idea of a great New Year’s Eve includes a party, you’ll want to check out this list.
An NYE party in Downtown Columbia can be fun for the whole group! Plus, there’s no stress of having to host or clean up the next day.
1. NYE Throwback Block Party
The Senate and Tin Roof music venues in Downtown Columbia are hosting a 90s and 2000s-themed block party you don’t want to miss! There will be music, dancing, VIP table options and more. A ticket gets you access to both venues.
- When: Dec. 31, beginning at 7 p.m.
- Where: The Senate
- Price: Tickets start at $30
This is the perfect event to show up ready to party with supplies for the whole crew! Check out this NYE party kit on Amazon for some fun, themed accessories.
2. Capital City Club New Year’s Eve Party
The Capital City Club is known for throwing amazing NYE parties in Downtown Columbia! A ticket to the 2023 NYE party includes food, drinks, a champagne toast, live music, a countdown and more.
This is the tallest building in the city, so on top of a great party, you’ll have an amazing view of Downtown.
- When: Dec. 31, beginning at 9:30 p.m.
- Where: Capital City Club
- Price: $75 per person
3. Red Carpet NYE at Smoked
Smoked on Main Street is hosting a Red Carpet NYE party sponsored by Moet. Tickets include gourmet bites, an open bar, a champagne toast, indoor and outdoor music, a photo booth and more.
This would be the perfect party for couples to spend a romantic night out. For other romantic date night ideas in Columbia, you can check out this post!
- When: Dec. 31, beginning at 9 p.m.
- Where: Smoked
- Price: $125 each or $200 for couples
Fireworks
Of course, nothing says Happy New Year like a Fireworks show. Downtown Columbia has not announced a fireworks show yet, but you can find some a short day trip away!
For a family-friendly New Year, make the trip to Myrtle Beach for a Fireworks Extravaganza. This show begins at 8 p.m. at the Broadway at the Beach entertainment center.
You can find more info about beaches near Columbia, in this blog post.
Other Ways to Celebrate
In short, you can see there are plenty of ways to ring in 2023 in Columbia, SC! From ticketed events to nearby fireworks and more, there is something for everyone.
But, if extravagant events and parties aren’t for you, there are other ways to celebrate.
For a quiet getaway, you could take a relaxing trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia.
Or, you can bring the party to your own home! Here’s a starter kit to perfect your at-home NYE party setup:
No matter how you celebrate, have a happy and safe New Year!
