Columbia, South Carolina – A Christmas Story is a community festival that will bring a warm burst of holiday joy to downtown. It will also show off local businesses and generate money for Richland County First Steps. The City of Columbia and 7Sunday’s BizArts are working together to make it happen. The Columbia Museum of Art will host the event on Sunday, December 14, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. The museum space will be turned into a dynamic center for family-friendly activities and seasonal creativity.
The goal of the event is to bring together families, teachers, artists, and small business owners in one place, using the arts as a way to engage with the community. Throughout the day, guests will be able to do hands-on art projects, study in interactive spaces, and listen to stories that are meant to get young learners interested.
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The museum’s Intersection on Main exhibit will be open for people to explore, giving families another source of inspiration as they go through the event. Ritchie the Rhino and Santa Claus will be there to make the event even more fun for kids of all ages.
Elizabeth Kabalka, the new Executive Director of Richland County First Steps, will give a speech as part of the program. During the holiday season, her comments will focus on the organization’s ongoing efforts to support early childhood development and the importance of community collaborations.
Families with children who are a member of RCFS will get free tickets so that everyone can come. This will give them access to a place that is focused on reading, writing, and sharing experiences.
The people in charge of the event stress that the afternoon will have more than one aim.
“This event is more than a holiday celebration—it is an opportunity to enrich young learners, empower local entrepreneurs, and bring our community together through the arts,” said Deon Generette, Founder & CEO of 7Sunday. “We invite you to join us as we kindle the spirit of generosity, the joy of Christmas, the warmth of family, and the power of unity and collaboration through community.”
Visitors are also encouraged to contribute to the Holiday Hope Donation Drive. The collection will help families that are connected to Richland County First Steps and others in the Columbia area who don’t have enough food. Some things you could donate include infant formula, diapers, winter clothes for kids, new books, educational toys, and non-perishable meals.
BizArts, the partner in charge of organizing the event, wants to improve connections between the arts and business by giving small businesses and artists a place to grow. Richland County First Steps is still working to get kids ready for school by focusing on families and working with other groups.
The City of Columbia and BizArts want A Christmas Story to be a welcoming place where giving, creativity, and community are the main themes.
