(Columbia, SC) – The highly anticipated 3rd Annual 803 Day Weekend is set to return July 31 through August 3, bringing together residents, businesses, and visitors for a multi-day celebration of everything that makes the 803 region special.
803 Day is a play on the area code, recognized synonymously with the 8/03 date. The weekend-long celebration has quickly become a signature summer tradition designed to promote local pride, support small businesses, and connect communities across the Midlands and beyond.
Event Schedule
Friday, July 31
The Prelude: A Pre-803 Day Mixer
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
An exclusive kickoff reception for sponsors, partners, and elected officials to preview the weekend and connect ahead of the festivities.
Saturday, August 1 – Monday, August 3
$8.03 Specials
Local restaurants, retailers, and businesses will offer exclusive deals priced at $8.03 throughout the weekend and on 803 Day.
All participating locations and specials will be featured on the official 803 Day website, social media, and the Soda City Certified app, encouraging residents to shop, dine, and support local.
Local staple East Bay Deli has already signed up to offer:
- Sausage and cheese bagel with coffee for $8.03 until 10:30 AM
- Chicken Caesar wrap for $8.03 after 10:30 AM
The specials will be available Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, August 1–3, at all area locations.
Saturday, August 1 – Sunday, August 2
Citywide Scavenger Hunt
Time: 8:03 AM – 8:03 PM
Everyone is invited to participate in this free scavenger hunt spanning Richland and Lexington counties.
Participants can explore local landmarks, businesses, and hidden gems through an interactive experience powered by the Soda City Certified app, a free mobile application highlighting events, restaurants, and attractions in the Midlands.
Participants must download the app and enter pin codes to receive points.
Saturday, August 1
803 Day 5K Run/Walk
Time: 8:03 AM
Starting Point: 4801 Forest Drive, Forest Acres
Lace up your running shoes and join the community for a scenic 5K run/walk through the heart of Forest Acres.
Whether participants are seasoned runners or simply looking for some fun and exercise, this event is open to all ages and fitness levels.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Cola Rose Shower, a nonprofit that celebrates women and promotes awareness of feminine care issues impacting women in the Greater Columbia area.
- Early bird registration: $30 before June 1
- Registration: Register HERE.
Saturday, August 1
Columbiapedia Spelldown Adult Spelling Bee for Charity
Time: 8:03 PM
Location: Virginia Bedford Community Center at Earlewood Park
Address: 1113 Recreation Drive, Columbia, SC 29203
Doors Open: 7:00 PM
A new addition to the 803 Day weekend lineup, the Columbiapedia Spelldown is a fun and engaging way to support local nonprofits while flexing spelling skills.
No more than 12 nonprofits will select a local celebrity representative to participate in the spelling bee, where they will compete for cash prizes.
The event will be hosted by news anchor and media personality Intisar Faulkner.
- Tickets: On sale now HERE.
- Note: Tickets are limited.
Sunday, August 2
Free Movies in the Park
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Another new addition to the 803 Day weekend lineup, families are invited to enjoy a free evening of entertainment featuring:
- Outdoor movie experience
- Food trucks
- Vendors
- Community engagement
Monday, August 3
Free 803 Day Festival
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The weekend culminates with a free, high-energy community festival featuring:
- Live music
- Entertainment
- Vendors
- Food trucks
A VIP experience will also be available, offering exclusive access, private hors d’oeuvres, and bar service.
Renowned artist and muralist Ija Charles will design the official 803 Day T-shirt.
Quote from the Organizer
“803 Day has grown into something much bigger than a single event; it’s become a movement that celebrates who we are as a region,” said Khali Gallman, event organizer. “Each year we’re intentional about creating experiences that bring people together, support local businesses, and inspire pride in where we live. Our goal is to have numerous activities for everyone to support as a patron, volunteer, partner, or sponsor. We are excited to expand the footprint this year while continuing to build something that truly belongs to the entire 803. We’ve got a few more surprises so stay tuned.”
Community Donations
Canned goods and nonperishable items, as well as back-to-school supplies, will be collected at the following events:
- 5K Run/Walk
- Columbiapedia Spelldown
- Movies in the Park
- 803 Day Festival
Food items will benefit the Christian Assistance Bridge, which supports individuals and families facing food insecurity and crisis situations.
School supplies will benefit the JoO Foundation, which provides resources to disadvantaged youth and families.
New & Noteworthy for 2026
In addition to the Columbiapedia Spelldown and Movies in the Park events, several new and noteworthy additions are planned for this year’s 803 Day celebration.
803 Day 5K Shirt Design Competition
Local artists are invited to submit designs for the official 5K T-shirt. The public will vote to select the winner.
Now Accepting Tax-Deductible Donations
Community members are encouraged to support 803 Day by joining the 803 Circle and donating $8.03 to the Carolina Celebration Collective, a 501(c)(3) organization that supports quality community events encouraging healthy lifestyles and civic pride.
All donors will have their names displayed at the Columbiapedia Spelldown, Movie Night, and Festival.
Upcoming Fundraiser Auxiliary Events
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews
- Locations: Sandhills and Harbison
- Date: Thursday, May 28
- Time: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Occasion: National Hamburger Day
- Details: 20% of food sales in-person and online will benefit 803 Day.
- Note: Must mention the 803 Day fundraiser when ordering.
Slim Chickens Fundraiser
- Location: 2089 North Beltline Blvd.
- Date: July 27
- Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Occasion: National Chicken Finger Day
- Details: 15% of food sales will benefit 803 Day.
- Note: Must mention the 803 Day fundraiser when ordering.
Get Involved
803 Day organizers are currently seeking:
- Sponsors and corporate partners
- Community partners
- Committee members
- Entertainers and performers
- Volunteers
As the celebration continues to grow, 803 Day remains committed to its mission: bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and creating meaningful experiences that reflect the spirit of the region.
Registration is now open for all activities.
For more information, visit www.803day.org.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $25 to $25,000. In-kind donations are also accepted.
For sponsorship information, email hello@803day.org or call 803.922.5310.
Follow @803DaySC on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
