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Summer Chorus Concert
Join Summer Chorus as they present "And on Earth, peace" featuring Vivaldi's Gloria in D major, RV 589.
Other works include Norman, Walker, Williams, LaBarr and Shaw.
Free and open to the public.
Live Stream Link may be found here.
Admission Cost: Free.
Friday, July 24, 2026, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, July 27, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Kiss the Ground
Cola Rep Dance Co.’s seventh season, August 1–2, 2026 at the Koger Center for the Arts, showcases repertoire by Angela Gallo, Christian von Howard, company artists Ashlee Taylor and Erin Bailey, and emerging choreographer Molly Allen, a recent graduate of the University of South Carolina’s Betsy Blackmon Dance Program. The second half of the program features The Weight of the World, a new collection of works by Artistic Director Stephanie Wilkins exploring resilience, community, and hope. Together, these diverse artistic voices reflect Cola Rep’s mission to broaden the dance experience through innovative choreography and meaningful connections between artists and audiences.
Choreographers: Stephanie Wilkins (Artistic Director/Resident Choreographer), Erin Bailey, Angela Gallo, Ashlee Taylor, Christian von Howard and Young Choreographer Molly Allen,
Company Dancers: Bonnie Boiter-Jolley (Managing Director), Erin Bailey, Amy Brooks, Rayni Collins, Megan Kelly, Anna Lamczyck, Carrie Preus, Ashlee Taylor and…
Admission Cost: Tickets: $35.
Saturday, August 1, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Koger Center Large Rehearsal Room 128.
Kiss the Ground
Cola Rep Dance Co.’s seventh season, August 1–2, 2026 at the Koger Center for the Arts, showcases repertoire by Angela Gallo, Christian von Howard, company artists Ashlee Taylor and Erin Bailey, and emerging choreographer Molly Allen, a recent graduate of the University of South Carolina’s Betsy Blackmon Dance Program. The second half of the program features The Weight of the World, a new collection of works by Artistic Director Stephanie Wilkins exploring resilience, community, and hope. Together, these diverse artistic voices reflect Cola Rep’s mission to broaden the dance experience through innovative choreography and meaningful connections between artists and audiences.
Choreographers: Stephanie Wilkins (Artistic Director/Resident Choreographer), Erin Bailey, Angela Gallo, Ashlee Taylor, Christian von Howard and Young Choreographer Molly Allen Company Dancers: Bonnie Boiter-Jolley (Managing Director), Erin Bailey, Amy Brooks, Rayni Collins, Megan Kelly, Anna Lamczyck, Carrie Preus, Ashlee Taylor and…
Admission Cost: Tickets: $35.
Sunday, August 2, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
Koger Center Large Rehearsal Room 128.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 3, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
A Night in Nashville
The Koger Center is excited to present to you the new 2026 A Night in Nashville series! For four special evenings, we will recreate the legendary Nashville listening room environment that has helped launch the careers of some of the biggest stars in country music.
Performances feature a lineup of some of Nashville’s and the region’s top rising artists and songwriters- ones we hope you’ll be able to say you heard before they topped the charts.
Inspired by the Bluebird Café this intimate evening is designed to showcase the acoustic performances, stories behind the songs, and life in music industry.
ABOUT THE PERFORMERS,
Shelby Raye: Shelby Raye has made a name for herself singing all over the nation since she was 12 years old. She has performed alongside some of the biggest stars in the industry, such as Tim McGraw, Sheryl Crow, Dolly Parton, and T.G. Sheppard just to name a few. She has amassed millions of views on social media and was also nominated as both Best Female Artist and Best Solo Act by…
Admission Cost: Tickets: $30 - $47.
Thursday, August 6, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Koger Center Upstairs Gallery.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 10, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House
W. Gordon Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House,
Third Sunday of every month from 1 - 4 p.m. 4080 Bloomwood Rd. Columbia, SC 29206,
Take a nature break and bring a friend to USC's wildlife preserve in the heart of Columbia. The open house is the third Sunday of every month with ecology-themed presentations from faculty and regional experts twice each semester. ,
Nature walks every month. Meet at 1:30 in the Outdoor Classroom.
Find all our events and Book Club dates here.
Open Hours: Wednesdays & Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 12 pm, Thursdays 4 - 6 p.m. (Winter 3 - 5 p.m.).
Volunteers welcome! Contact us at arboretum@sc.edu to let us know you're coming. ---, Visit the botanic garden horseshoe, pollinator display gardens, and walk through 10 biomes of South Carolina along a 1/3 mile trail. Special stops are at the longleaf pines atop a bluff of fossilized sand dunes, the boardwalk overlooking a bald cypress swamp, a grove of Atlantic white cypress in the central wetland, and the allee of ancient…
Admission Cost: Free.
Sunday, August 16, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 17, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
RHA Block Party
Kickoff the year with food, giveaways, and memories on Greene St!
Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Greene Street.
Third Thursday Art Night: Isaac Udogwu
Artist Isaac Udogwu has lived in South Carolina for the majority of his life and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor of fine arts in graphic design. Udogwu’s art — which is best described as Afrofuturism — combines Black American Southern culture with fantasy and science fiction themes. The purpose of his work is to create a realm where Black people across the diaspora are free to live their lives as people.
For more information please call 803-777-7500 or email kogercenter@sc.edu.
Admission Cost: FREE.
Thursday, August 20, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
The Music of Ray Charles
The Koger Center and ColaJazz Foundation are excited to present to you the new 2026 Live in the Lobby Jazz season! Featuring 6 stunning performances, you can get your season tickets today to get every show for one low price.
Created as a partnership between the Koger Center for the Arts and the ColaJazz Foundation, Live in the Lobby 2026 will consist of six concerts held throughout the Koger Center facility. Join us to experience this one-of-a-kind series designed for audiences seeking premier jazz and specialty experiences in an exceptional setting.
About the Performers,
Created in 2015 after an epiphany Justin Varnes had while teaching a college Jazz History course, the Jazz Legacy Project combines education with entertainment. Each show features compelling stories about the artists and their influence on American music and culture woven in between authentic performances of popular jazz songs designed to engage casual audiences.
Jazz Legacy Project: Ray Charles ,
Ray Charles (1930-2004) was an…
Admission Cost: Tickets: $27 - $32.
Thursday, August 20, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Video Games in Concert
Press Start and step inside the worlds you love. From the first note, the concert hall transforms into a cinematic gaming experience—where nostalgia, adrenaline, and storytelling collide. Journey through the music of Halo, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Final Fantasy 7, Tomb Raider, World of Warcraft, Kingdom Hearts, and more, alongside iconic themes from the early days of console gaming that helped define a generation. Whether you grew up with a controller in hand or simply love epic soundtracks, this is your chance to hear these unforgettable scores performed live. One performance only—no resets, no extra lives.
Before the music begins, level up your concert experience in the Koger lobby with a hands-on gaming activation presented in partnership with Midlands Gaming Coalition. This interactive space will feature a mix of retro classics and modern favorites, giving you the chance to play the very games whose music you’ll hear on stage. Open approximately 90 minutes before the performance (and during…
Admission Cost: Tickets: $16.50 - $69.
Saturday, August 22, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 24, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Start with Success
Plan out your semester while getting a better understanding of achieving your preferred GPA! Free snacks, school supplies, and prizes!
Admission Cost: 0.
Tuesday, August 25, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM.
Thomas Cooper Library Mezzanine - Student Success Center.
Discover Columbia Fair
Experience the best of Columbia all in one place! Browse local shops, restaurants, entertainment services, and community organizations, while connecting with businesses and people that make our city vibrant!
Thursday, August 27, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Greene Street, RHUU Greene Street - Stage.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 31, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Fall Student Org Fair
Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Rutledge Chapel.
College Colors Day
It’s time to show your Gamecock pride! Join us on Greene Street for College Colors Day and celebrate all things garnet & black.
What’s Happening:
Spirit giveaways & free swag,
Fun photo ops with your friends,
Music, games, and surprise fandom moments,
A chance to win Gamecock-themed prizes,
Throw on your best garnet & black gear, bring your friends, and help us paint the street in Carolina pride!
Friday, September 4, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Greene Street.
State of the University Address
President Michael Amiridis will reflect on the achievements of this past year and look to the future with his State of the University address on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10 am on the Horseshoe.
Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
See event description for more details.
Hip Hop Wednesday
Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Greene Street.
The NINE at Columbia with Garnet Media Group 1
The Nine at Columbia offers resort-style amenities and first-rate apartments near the University of South Carolina. Schedule a tour today! https://the9columbia.com/.
Admission Cost: 0.
Thursday, September 10, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
Davis Field I - RHUU Side Space 5.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, September 14, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
The Standard w/ Garnet Media Group
The Standard at Columbia is a premier University of South Carolina off campus housing community designed to cater to the student lifestyle. Contact them today to schedule a tour or apply online to secure your spot at the hottest off campus housing community COLA has to offer! https://www.thestandardcolumbia.com/.
Admission Cost: 0.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Davis Circle Space 01.
The NINE at Columbia with Garnet Media Group 2
The Nine at Columbia brings together elevated design, outstanding amenities, and a welcoming community. It’s more than a student apartment, it’s inspired college living. Schedule a tour today! https://the9columbia.com/.
Admission Cost: 0.
Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Davis Circle Space 01.
Success Brews Here - Breakfast with the Student Success Center
Join us to kick off Family Weekend by connecting with the Student Success Center team on the Mezzanine level of Thomas Cooper Library!
Discover how they support over 7,000 students annually through services like tutoring, study skill and time management preparation, and even money management. Explore the resources they offer and learn how they contribute to student success. Enjoy light refreshments, including coffee, as you engage in informative conversations.
Don't miss this chance to gain insights and ask questions about the services provided. Start Family Weekend on the right foot by joining us for this engaging event!
Location instructions: As you enter the main entrance of the library take the elevator to the Mezzanine (MZ) level, exit left down the hallway and the SSC event will be straight ahead. If you choose to take the main staircase to the left of the library entrance go up one floor, continue straight, take a right at the hallway, then a left and the SSC event will be at the end of the…
Admission Cost: 0.
Friday, September 18, 2026, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM.
Thomas Cooper Library Mezzanine - Student Success Center.
Jazz Girls Day® Columbia
Middle and high school girls are invited to spend a day of learning, playing and performing at Jazz Girls Day®! Founded by Dr. Colleen Clark, this free event welcomes girls who are just starting jazz or continuing their musical journey. Participants will enjoy master classes, jam sessions and the chance to build meaningful connections with peers. Registration is required.
Music educators are also invited to learn how to encourage girls to play jazz by registering for our Jazz Girls Day® Jazz Education Session.
Click here to register.
Admission Cost: Free, but registration is required.
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
See Description for Event Location. Greene Street UMC A101.
Echoes of Independence: 250 Years of Revolution and Memorialization Open House
Join University Libraries on September 19th from 10am to 2pm for an open house for the "Echoes of Independence: 250 Years of Revolution and Memorialization" exhibit celebrating America's 250th. Dr. Michael Weisenburg, Director of Rare Books and Special Collections and curator of the exhibit, will be there to answer questions and guide people through the exhibit. Come see items like Francis Marion's muster roll, 1st edition of Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" and more!
This event is free and open to the public! No RSVP required.
Admission Cost: Free.
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
Hollings Special Collections Library Irvin Dept Gallery 133.
Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House
W. Gordon Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House,
Third Sunday of every month from 1 - 4 p.m. 4080 Bloomwood Rd. Columbia, SC 29206,
Take a nature break and bring a friend to USC's wildlife preserve in the heart of Columbia. The open house is the third Sunday of every month with ecology-themed presentations from faculty and regional experts twice each semester. ,
Nature walks every month. Meet at 1:30 in the Outdoor Classroom.
Find all our events and Book Club dates here.
Open Hours: Wednesdays & Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 12 pm, Thursdays 4 - 6 p.m. (Winter 3 - 5 p.m.).
Volunteers welcome! Contact us at arboretum@sc.edu to let us know you're coming. ---, Visit the botanic garden horseshoe, pollinator display gardens, and walk through 10 biomes of South Carolina along a 1/3 mile trail. Special stops are at the longleaf pines atop a bluff of fossilized sand dunes, the boardwalk overlooking a bald cypress swamp, a grove of Atlantic white cypress in the central wetland, and the allee of ancient…
Admission Cost: Free.
Sunday, September 20, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
Wind Ensemble: Americans 250
Cormac Cannon, conductor, Ryan Gonzales, guest conductor, Serena Hill-Laroche, soprano,
As part of the United States Semi quincentennial, the USC Wind Ensemble opens its season with a celebration of American stories. From Puerto Rican composer Roberto Sierra’s rousing Alegria, to Copland’s enduring classic Emblems, each work on this program highlights a unique American perspective. USC School of Music faculty member Serena Hill-Laroche is featured on Elena Specht’s evocative work Into Her Care, which tells the stories of American women. The concert closes with Benjamin Horne’s powerful Spiritual Symphony, based on numerous well-known African American spirituals.
Sierra/Scatterday, Alegria, Specht, Into Her Care, Copland, Emblems, Horne, Spiritual Symphony.
Admission Cost: FREE.
Sunday, September 20, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
Koger Center Auditorium, See Description for Event Location.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, September 21, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
USC Symphony Orchestra: Symphonie Fantastique
Celebrate the remarkable tenure of Scott Weiss during his 10th and final season as Music Director and Conductor of the USC Symphony Orchestra as he concludes his distinguished career with the University of South Carolina.
To open the season, the USC Symphony Orchestra will be joined by Spanish-Dutch pianist Albert Cano Smit in Ravel’s Concerto for the Left Hand. The program also features Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique.
Tickets are available in-person at Koger Center Box Office (803-251-2222, Monday–Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or online at KogerCenterForTheArts.com.
Admission Cost: General public - $30
Seniors/military / USC faculty and staff - $25
Children under 18 and non-USC students with ID - $8
USC Students - free with student ID.
Thursday, September 24, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts, See Description for Event Location.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Friday, September 25, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Benson 214.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Benson 214.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Sunday, September 27, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
Benson 214.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, September 28, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Benson 214.
Choirs of Carolina “Side by Side” Concert
Choirs of Carolina presents its signature Side by Side fall concert, featuring the USC Concert Choir, conducted by Alicia W. Walker, and the University Chorus, led by Dr. Evan Powers, in an evening celebrating the artistry of two outstanding choral ensembles.
Shandon Presbyterian Church, 607 Woodrow Street, Columbia, SC.
Admission Cost: FREE.
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM.
See Description for Event Location.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Benson 214.
Southern Exposure: We Were Fridays
We Were Fridays, featuring Jeff Zeigler (cello) and Reggie Gray (dance) follows a story that began in the Griot tradition of West Africa, travel to South Carolina by way of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, then north by way of the Great Migration, and beyond. It explores the music of the Gullah people of the Low Country of South Carolina, a community which to this day has preserved more of their West African linguistic and cultural heritage than any other African American community in the United States. Gullah music has influenced spirituals, gospel, ragtime, rhythm and blues, soul, hip hop and jazz. We Were Fridays extends this reach into the world of instrumental cello music. Told through cello, electronics, and dance, this work explores forbidden love, fractured lines and complex legacies follows a story that began in the Griot tradition of West Africa, travel to South Carolina by way of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, then north by way of the Great Migration, and beyond. It explores the music of the Gulla…
Admission Cost: FREE.
Friday, October 2, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Friday, October 2, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Benson 214.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Saturday, October 3, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Benson 214.
Witch
,
September 25 - October 4, 2026,
Witch, By Jen Silverman, Directed by David Britt, Benson Theatre, ,
A roguish Devil has come to the town of Edmonton and he’s looking to bargain, granting secret longings in exchange for an eternal price. But Elizabeth Sawyer, an outcast branded a witch by her neighbors, turns the tables on her tempter, sparking a dangerous game of wit and desire that threatens to upend the entire town. Jen Silverman’s wickedly funny, contemporary retelling of the Jacobean tragicomedy The Witch of Edmonton asks what we will sacrifice for our deepest desires when we’ve got nothing left to lose. ,
“Darkly humorous… thematically current… a spell worth casting.” – The Hollywood Reporter.
*Contains adult language and themes that may not be suitable for young audiences.
, .
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
Benson 214.
Symphonic Winds: Getting There
Jay Jacobs, conductor, Grant King, guest conductor,
Throughout our lives we are constantly encountering opportunities to enjoy the journey of getting somewhere or simply just finding a way of getting through a long day. A sip of espresso from Dennis Llinás’s Un Cafecito can get us through the day. A hike to a mountaintop can be a momentous journey filled with memorable moments in Adam Gorb’s Pikes Peak. Both the third movement of Gustav Holst’s Second Suite in F and Michael Markowski’s The Coppersmiths take us on a journey of getting us to the creation of something new. The USC Symphonic Winds invite you to join us on our musical journey.
Program: Llinás, Un Cafecito, Holst, Second Suite in F, Markowski, The Coppersmiths, Gorb, Pikes Peak, Sousa, Saber and Spurs March.
Admission Cost: FREE.
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
Koger Center Auditorium, See Description for Event Location.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, October 5, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Stadium Suites w/ Garnet Media Group
Welcome to Stadium Suites—where comfort, community, and college life collide. Just minutes from campus and within walking distance of Williams-Brice Stadium,
Spacious Floor Plans
ALL inclusive, fully furnished, and newly renovated 3x3 and 4x4 units, https://www.scsuites.com/
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Admission Cost: 0.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Davis Circle Space 02.
Hip Hop Wednesday
Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
RHUU Greene Street.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, October 12, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Wind Ensemble: Red, White and Black
Cormac Cannon, conductor, Ryan Gonzales, guest conductor,
Three colors weave their way through a diverse program of classic and brand-new music for wind ensemble. The USC Wind Ensemble performs the world premiere of the wind ensemble version of Noir by USC School of Music faculty composer Fang Man. Black and white emerge through the piano keys of Charles Ives’ classic The Alcotts, the imagery of historical newsreels in William Schuman’s first work for band, and two marches by John Philip Sousa. The finale, contemporary American composer Michael Daugherty’s Red Cape Tango, is a musical depiction of a “dance of death,” following Superman’s fight to the death with the villain Doomsday.
Fang Man, Noir - World Premiere of Wind Ensemble Version, Ives/Elkus, The Alcotts, Sousa, The Black Horse Troop, Sousa, The White Rose, Schuman, Newsreel in Five Shots, Daugherty/Spede, Red Cape Tango.
Admission Cost: FREE.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Koger Center Auditorium, See Description for Event Location.
Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House
W. Gordon Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House,
Third Sunday of every month from 1 - 4 p.m. 4080 Bloomwood Rd. Columbia, SC 29206,
Take a nature break and bring a friend to USC's wildlife preserve in the heart of Columbia. The open house is the third Sunday of every month with ecology-themed presentations from faculty and regional experts twice each semester. ,
Nature walks every month. Meet at 1:30 in the Outdoor Classroom.
Find all our events and Book Club dates here.
Open Hours: Wednesdays & Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 12 pm, Thursdays 4 - 6 p.m. (Winter 3 - 5 p.m.).
Volunteers welcome! Contact us at arboretum@sc.edu to let us know you're coming. ---, Visit the botanic garden horseshoe, pollinator display gardens, and walk through 10 biomes of South Carolina along a 1/3 mile trail. Special stops are at the longleaf pines atop a bluff of fossilized sand dunes, the boardwalk overlooking a bald cypress swamp, a grove of Atlantic white cypress in the central wetland, and the allee of ancient…
Admission Cost: Free.
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, October 19, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.