Best Social Outing: Soda City Market

It should be no surprise to University of South Carolina students that Soda City Market won Best of Carolina 2024’s Best Social Outing. 

On Saturday mornings, first-year students and seniors alike populate Main Street in downtown Columbia to enjoy the ever-expanding market. What began in 2005 as the “All Local Farmers Market” at a small restaurant, Gervais and Vine, has now expanded into an attraction that attracts hundreds to peruse various food trucks, craftsmen and other booths for hours every weekend. 

Not only does Soda City offer a fun escape off-campus, but it also looks to uplift all students in their endeavors — and many students likely wouldn’t be aware of this. 

Olivia Pope, Soda City business manager, says organizers “look to utilize the market for educational growth and other opportunities free of charge. From conducting research studies, surveying, fundraising, educational workshops, raising awareness of a cause, to business incubators, the market is here to help bolster these academic endeavors.” 

In fact, keep an eye out for the ‘Student Side Hustle’ event on April 13, which is “specifically for university students with side hustles looking to set up at the market as a pop-up,” Pope said.

Soda City is an enriching source of entertainment and support for USC students, and it is integral to the Columbia community so don’t pass up on the opportunity to enjoy what many dub the “Best Social Outing.”