Last year, we had the unique opportunity to stay at the Inn at USC (thank you, Experience ColumbiaSC). We enjoyed our time there so much, we absolutely had to return!

Once again, we were not disappointed. Everything from the extra-friendly (and helpful) staff, to the extra-clean and comfy rooms made our stay PERFECT.

If you’re wondering where my favorite spot is, here ya go! The most peaceful place to work and/or relax. Do those two things go together? Hmm… Anyway. We love hangin’ out in the S. Carolina rockers (GO COCKS!) 

The reason for this visit to Columbia was to attend the Mardi Gras festival. 

Established in 2009, City Roots is a family-owned, 3.5 acre organic farm, located in the Rosewood neighborhood of Columbia, South Carolina. Their top priority is “to grow the highest quality products while educating our community on the benefits of local food and stewarding the land we farm.” 

The farm grounds and Pavilion make City Roots the perfect location to host festivals and events.

The Krewe de Columbi – Ya-Ya founded the Mardi Gras Columbia Festival in 2011. The festival and parade are held each year on the Saturday before Fat Tuesday. I was not aware of Krewe de Columbi-Ya-Ya Honestly, I should write an entirely separate blog post about them. Without going into too much detail, you should know that KDCYY (can I use that abbreviation?) is an “all volunteer, non-profit organization based in Columbia and dedicated to doing charitable work.”

Saturday, we joined the hundreds of other Mardi Gras goers for the music, food trucks and outdoor entertainment.

Revelers came in hats, masks, costumes and oh, so many beads! Even four-footed friends were all decked out in Mardi Gras colors.

Six bands performed on the Front Porch Stage, six on the Back Porch Stage and stages in between.

Several vendors offered help to those whose wardrobes needed a little accessorizing.

We stood in awe of the creative costumes. This was one of the more tame ones, I assure you. 

In addition to dancing to the different bands, there was an art table set up for the kids.

Make your plans now to attend Mardi Gras Columbia 2020!

Stay tuned for more from our weekend in Columbia…