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South Carolina
Pride Parade & Festival 2026

SC Pride is one of the largest outdoor festivals in the city and the largest LGBT event in the state attracting more than 90,000 visitors.

  • Event Dates

    From: Friday, October 16, 2026
    To: Saturday, October 17, 2026

  • Key Highlights

    • Concerts
    • The Parade
    • 90,000 visitors
    • Craft & Draft
    • movie screenings
    • food & beverage vendors

South Carolina Pride Parade & Festival 2026

The SC Pride Parade & Festival or Famously Hot South Carolina Pride as the Locals know it takes place in early Autumn in the capital city, Columbia as the temperatures cool a little and the parties last long into the night.

SC Pride

  • Next Edition: Friday 16th October and Saturday 17th October, 2026.
  • South Carolina Pride is one of the later prides to take place in the United Stages, making it the perfect place to escape for some late season fun in the sun.
  • SC Pride is one of the largest outdoor festivals in the city and the largest LGBT event in the state attracting more than 90,000 visitors.
  • Venues and lineup to be confirmed. New events include “Meltdown” an After Party on Friday Night.
  • Stay at The Aolft Columbia downtown with high end in room amenities, city views and the hotel is within easy walking distance to the pride festivities.

Get Lit Night-Time Parade & Concert | Friday

  • Friday – Warm up with a street party at 6 PM before walking in the Parade down Main Street, which starts at 7 PM.
  • If you’re planning to watch from the sidelines, find the perfect spot along Main, anywhere between Richland and Lady Streets. Bonus points for snagging an outdoor table at Michael's or The Grand for some of the best seats in the house.
  • During the parade you will see colorfully lit floats and cars, creative costumes, and a sea of positive energy, all with music to make you want to dance.
  • When the parade is over, the party doesn’t end. Follow it all up with a street dance and concert at 8 PM.

Famously Hot SC Pride Festival | Saturday,

  • Saturday – Spend the morning at Soda City Market for delicious artisanal food and more. Then stay on Main for the Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Festival from 12 – 9 PM.
  • Here you can catch food & beverage vendors, community resources, and performances by nationally recognized acts, guest DJs, Ru Paul Drag Queens and local performers.

Gay Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia has a surprisingly fervent gay nightlife scene. A couple of the town's most popular LGBTQ+ bars are within view of the state capitol building, and a few more mixed but gay-friendly bars and hangouts are in the Five Points retail and entertainment neighborhood, not far from the University of South Carolina.

  • The Capital Club: One of the longest-running gay bars in the Southeast, and the oldest in Columbia, the laid-back Capital Club is a block from the capitol building downtown. It's along a stretch of Gervais with several restaurants and mixed bars.
  • PT's 1109 is arguably the most popular gay bar and nightclub in Columbia, with a good-size dance floor and drink specials. The venue has drag shows, karaoke, and a variety of parties.
  • Art Bar is packed on Friday nights when queer folk age 21 and up hit the dance floor. The rest of the week, the venue draws a mixed crowd to its live shows, karaoke (on Wednesdays), Trivia Nights, and other festivities. It's near Capital Club and PT's 1109

Recommended Hotels in SC

Here are the Hotels we recommend that keep you close to all the action,

Graduate ColumbiaHilton ColumbiaHampton InnSpringHill Suites

Gay Map of COLUMBIA

Address: 1619 Pendleton Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • Graduate by Hilton Columbia SC mixes playful retro design with Southern charm, right beside the University of South Carolina. Rooms are stylish, comfortable, and full of character, with a welcoming vibe.
  • The Trophy Room bar and restaurant, plus bike rentals and pet-friendly policies, add to the appeal.
  • A relaxed, inclusive stay that works well for LGBT travellers exploring Columbia’s campus and downtown scene. Website

Address: 924 Senate Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • Hilton Columbia Center sits in the heart of the Vista district, close to USC, nightlife, and the Colonial Life Arena.
  • Rooms are comfortable with modern touches, and the on-site Ruth’s Chris Steak House adds a stylish dining option.
  • The outdoor pool, gym, and friendly service make it a solid downtown choice.
  • LGBT travellers will appreciate the inclusive atmosphere and walkable access to Columbia’s social scene. Website

Address: 511 Lady Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • SpringHill Suites Columbia Downtown/The Vista offers spacious all-suite rooms with modern style and comfort.
  • Its location in the Vista district puts you close to USC, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a friendly team make it a solid base.
  • LGBT travellers will find it a welcoming, convenient stay for exploring Columbia’s inclusive downtown scene. Website

Address: 822 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • Hampton Inn Columbia Downtown sits in the Vista district, close to USC, bars, and nightlife.
  • Rooms are clean, comfortable, and the staff earn high praise for being welcoming and helpful.
  • Free hot breakfast and a great walkable location add to the appeal.
  • LGBT travellers will find it a convenient, friendly base for exploring Columbia’s inclusive downtown scene. Website

Address: 1109 Assembly Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • PT’s 1109 is Columbia’s landmark gay bar and nightclub, famous for its drag shows and late-night parties.
  • The atmosphere is lively, with a mix of locals, students, and travelers filling the dance floor.
  • Friendly bartenders and themed nights keep the energy high throughout the week.
  • A must-visit for LGBT travellers wanting to experience Columbia’s most iconic queer nightlife spot.
  • Open: Daily 5pm-2am (closed Monday)
  • Facebook

Address: 1002 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • The Capital Club is one of South Carolina’s oldest gay bars, offering a mix of elegance and inclusivity in Columbia’s Vista district.
  • Known for its friendly staff and regulars, it feels like a welcoming community hub.
  • Drag shows, happy hours, and showtune nights keep the energy lively.
  • A must-visit for LGBT travellers wanting history, charm, and nightlife in one spot.
  • Open: Daily 5pm-2am
  • Facebook

Address: 1211 Park Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201

  • Art Bar is Columbia’s go-to for alternative nightlife—an inclusive, creative space with drag shows, live bands, and themed dance parties.
  • It’s lively, messy fun rather than polished, making it perfect for LGBT travellers or locals looking for community, music, and a laid-back night out.
  • Open: Daily 5pm-2am, Saturday 8pm–2am, Sunday 6pm-2am
  • Facebook

Address: 2107 Greene St, Columbia, South Carolina 29205

  • Taneyhill’s Group Therapy is a Columbia institution in Five Points, known for its laid-back vibe and sports bar energy.
  • The courtyard makes it easy to mix and mingle, with cheap drinks drawing a lively college and local crowd.
  • Strong Gamecock ties and weekend parties keep it buzzing late.
  • LGBT travellers will find it a casual, friendly stop to soak up Columbia’s nightlife spirit.
  • Open: Saturday 7pm–2am
  • Facebook

Recommended Hotels in Columbia By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Columbia that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars

Graduate Columbia
4 Star – Central Location

Graduate Columbia
Booking.com
  • 4-Star, Classic Furnishings, Business Center
  • A short walk to the gay bars
  • Work desk, seating area
  • Ideal for business travelers with a classic touch & ample meeting space, free WiFi.

Hilton Columbia
3 Star, Luxury

Hilton Columbia
Booking.com
  • 3-Star, Flat-Screen TV, iPod Docking Station
  • Close to the gay district
  • Coffee machine, desk included
  • Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, perfect for a convenient stay in Columbia.

Hampton Inn Columbia
3 Star – Great Amenities

Hampton Inn Columbia
Booking.com
  • 3-Star, Cable TV Channels, Fully Equipped On-Site Gym
  • A short walk to the gay bars
  • Coffee maker, refrigerator
  • Offers comfortable rooms & gym facilities, ideal for a relaxing stay near Columbia's historic district.

Spring Hill Suites
3 Star – Perfect Location

Booking.com
  • 3-Star, Self-Catering Facilities, Free Breakfast
  • A short walk to the gay bars
  • Microwave, fridge, cable TV
  • Features self-catering rooms & complimentary breakfast, perfect for an enjoyable Columbia stay.

Video Of South Carolina Pride Parade & Festival

Famously Hot South Carolina Pride! 2019

The Graduate Columbia

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