COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Vista district in downtown Columbia kicks off its holiday season next Thursday, Nov. 19, when the 41st annual Vista Lights fills the streets around Lincoln and Gervais from 6 p.m. on. Admission is free.
The Congaree Vista Guild’s open house draws upward of 60 participating galleries, stores and eateries, with many keeping late hours. Local performing groups take the stage near Lincoln and Gervais at 6:15 p.m. At 7 p.m., Prisma Health and city officials light the Vista tree in front of River Runner Outdoor Center. Chris Reed and the Bad Kids play after the lighting, and the Soda City Brass Band closes the night through 9:45 p.m.
Families can head to the free Kids’ Zone on Lincoln Street for balloon art, face painting, a visit with Santa and reindeer snacks. The Vista Lights Artisan Market, back for its third year, sets up beside the Columbia SC Visitors Center along Lincoln Street.
Drivers should plan around closures. Traffic is blocked on Park Street and Lincoln Street between 5 and 10 p.m., with Gervais Street shutting down from Huger to Assembly starting at 6 p.m. Parking is free at the South Carolina State Museum and in the garage at the Lincoln and Washington corner. From the museum lot, Steel Hands Vista runs a free loop shuttle from 5:45 to 9:45 p.m. to its spot at 705 Gervais St. Parking meters stop charging at 7 p.m.
Concealable weapons are banned at the event. Questions go to the Vista at 803-269-5946.
Section: More Aiken SC events news
Aiken events business profiles
Filed under: Aiken SC Events News
