About
Come rain or shine, the Soda City Market in Columbia’s vibrant downtown is the spot to be on Saturday morning. From 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. each week, this Main Street event stretches from the 1300-1700 blocks, and is ripe with producer-only-market stands, local talent, antiquities, and delicious bites. Just as advertised, it is the ideal way to start the weekend for your Brain, Body, and Belly.
Inspired by traditional European-style markets, what started as a modest initiative in 2005 is now a prime weekend draw to Columbia’s downtown. In addition, the Soda City Market has been deemed the #1 Top Farmer’s Market not just in the Southeast but in the country. There can be upwards of 7000 market visitors on a regular Saturday, and over 10,000 on special event weekends.
Market founder Emile DeFelice and his team developed the self-funded gathering area for local farmers, artisans, and small businesses to provide a microcosm of the city and its surroundings. Reflecting this ode to the area, the market’s namesake pays homage to Columbia’s frequently abbreviated moniker, Cola.
Heralded as Columbia’s original town square, the Saturday market operates year-round, making it a staple of the city’s weekend life. Its mission focuses on supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering a connection between vendors and the community. With its central location, it’s easy to combine a trip to the market with a visit to the grounds of the South Carolina State House or the Columbia Museum of Art. This makes for an inviting Saturday outing in downtown Columbia.
Soda City Market: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The market started in the fall of 2005 at the local restaurant, Gervais & Vine, along with the assistance of the owner of Bourbon. At the beginning, just 6 vendors and 225 customers kicked off the event’s precursor under the name, the All Local Farmers Market (ALFM). Over the next two decades, the Soda City Market became a weekend mainstay on Columbia’s Main Street, contributing to thousands of businesses in the region.
A remarkable feature is that it is a producer-only market, meaning vendors must make or grow their own products. What’s more is that antiques and vintage items must be sustainably curated. These steps ensure everything at the festive Saturday market is unique, hand-crafted, and produced in the Southeast.
Another standout feature is that the market welcomes an average of 200 vendors per week, offering something new every Saturday. Furthermore, over 400 unique vendors can be found at the market throughout the year. This roster showcases local entrepreneurs, farmers, and businesses to enhance the overall sense of community pride.
Live entertainment adds an additional layer to the lively atmosphere at the market. Immerse yourself not only in the flavors of fresh produce but in the energy of live performances, entertainers, and local musical talent.
More than an open-air shopping experience, the Soda City Market is a festive celebration of Columbia’s local eats and treats. With markets happening every Saturday, this is a top destination for any Columbia, SC itinerary.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Columbia to Soda City Market:
- Start on Gervais Street heading west.
- Turn right onto Assembly Street heading north.
- Continue north for approximately 0.5 miles.
- Turn left onto Washington Street.
- Follow Washington Street for two blocks, then turn right onto Main Street.
- The market stretches along the 1300 block to the 1700 block of Main Street.
- Address: 1500 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
Local Tips
- Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce and baked goods.
- Parking is free on Saturdays! Visitors can find street parking as well as parking garages in the Main Street District.
- Bring cash for vendors who prefer it, though many accept cards.
- Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Don’t miss the live cooking demonstrations or seasonal special events.
