The Fourth of July is approaching, and as a senior in Columbia, SC, you might find your calendar depressingly empty. Have you ever wondered if there are patriotic events for older adults that you can enjoy?
You’re in luck. Columbia is bursting with Fourth of July celebrations. From holiday crafts and games to fireworks celebrations, there is no shortage of safe senior gatherings for memory-friendly July 4th fun.
Read on to learn all about Columbia’s many Fourth of July activities for you to enjoy.
Experience the Lexington County Peach Festival
If peaches are a staple in your summer fruit rotation, consider stopping by the Lexington County Peach Festival. The unique celebration of peaches takes place on July Fourth. It is located in Gilbert Park in Gilbert, SC, a short distance away from Columbia.
Some of the key highlights from the Peach Festival include:
- Peach Parade
- Car show
- Musical performers
- Peach pageants
- Fresh peaches for sale
- Fireworks finale
- Carnival rides
- Various food and drink vendors
Admission to the Peach Festival is free, making it an affordable option for large groups or budget-conscious families. Parking is available on the streets near the festival.
Attend the Lexington Independence Day Celebration
After a day out in the hot sun, cool down in the evening with a free concert, followed by a spectacular Fourth of July fireworks show. The Lexington Independence Day Celebration is hosted by the town of Lexington, SC, and features the 246th Army Band.
Join the Independence Day concert starting at 7 PM at the Icehouse Amphitheater, followed by an exciting fireworks show around 9:20 PM. The following are available for purchase:
- Beer
- Wine
- Nonalcoholic beverages
- Food
Do you want to bring your fireworks viewing experience to the next level? Tune in to 93.1 FM The Lake for a patriotic soundtrack to accompany the fireworks show.
Experience Columbia SC recommends optimal viewing locations for the Lexington Independence Day fireworks display, including:
- Downtown parking lot areas
- Icehouse Amphitheater
- Restaurants on Main Street
- Lexington Veterans Monument
- Lexington Square Park
Want to buy peaches from the vendors? Make sure to get them early, as they sell out fast!
Spend the Day on Lake Murray
If you crave a change of scenery from your independent living community, consider bringing your family and friends to Lake Murray. The lake is a massive reservoir that is around 50,000 acres in size. The lake also boasts 650 miles of shoreline.
Lake Murray is a fantastic spot for fishing, where you can catch specimens such as:
- Bluegill
- Redbreast sunfish
- Florida bass
- Redear sunfish
- White perch
- Striped bass
If you are not into fishing, plenty of other activities can keep you occupied all day long, including:
- Boating on the lake
- Golfing
- Hiking and biking trails
- Dining
- Shopping
- Entertainment venues
After a fun-filled day, enjoy the spectacular fireworks show at 9:30 PM. Prime fireworks viewing locations include Spence Island and Dreher Island State Park.
As a bonus, the Lake Murray fireworks show features a patriotic soundtrack, allowing you to fully embrace the Independence Day spirit.
Get Your Sweat on at the Born in the USA Running Event
Are you a senior who still maintains a high level of fitness? Try participating in the Born in the USA Running Event. The event features three different races:
- Born in the USA 4 Miler: Out and back course with a downhill finish
- Born in the USA 4 Mile Relay: Two-person relay (two miles each)
- Firecracker Youth Run: Flat and downhill, with a shorter course overall
If you would like to attend the event, keep in mind that no sign-ups are allowed on race day. You must also pay an entrance fee, depending on your age group and race of choice.
Remember, the race takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for all types of weather. Check the weather forecast a few days out and plan accordingly.
If you’re a strong runner, there are numerous prizes available for top finishers in each race and age category.
Attend a Lexington Blowfish Baseball Game
Nothing says Fourth of July like America’s favorite pastime: Baseball. While Columbia, SC, isn’t home to Major League Baseball teams, it proudly supports the Lexington County Blowfish, a local baseball club.
The Blowfish have games running all Fourth of July weekend. If you’re interested in attending a game on the Fourth of July, you can watch the Blowfish go head-to-head with the Glowfish at Lexington County Baseball Stadium.
On July Fourth, the stadium hosts a special We Love America Night. The event is a special two-hour, seven-inning game, followed by a fireworks show.
Take a Guided Paddle Tour at Saluda Shoals Park
It may be common to get out on the water during the Fourth of July in a yacht or pontoon boat, but have you ever considered paddling? For a serene start to your day, consider joining the guided paddle tour at Saluda Shoals Park.
There is a Saluda River Tour available from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on July Fourth. The experience is a wonderful opportunity for paddlers of all experience levels, and an ideal event for families.
The tour includes:
- Rapid riding at one of two islands
- Viewing local wildlife in their natural habitat
- Learning about the Lake Murray dam
The cost of the tour varies, but expect to pay $50 to $80 per person. If you have children under the age of 11 in your group, they must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult.
Consider These Fourth of July Activities in Columbia, SC
For seniors in Columbia, SC, the Fourth of July can be a fun day filled with festivities. With these and more Fourth of July activities, you are guaranteed to have plenty for your Independence Day itinerary.
Are you interested in more senior community celebrations? At TerraBella Windsor Lake, we make every holiday special for our residents. With amenities such as caring and attentive staff, a roster of activities, and restaurant-style meals, our community stands out as a premier senior living option in Columbia, SC.
Ready to make the transition to a senior living community? Reach out to us today to learn more about TerraBella Windsor Lake, or visit our vibrant location in person to see it for yourself.






