A weekend of unity, culture, and community in the heart of the 803 area
The 2nd annual 803 Day celebration weekend returns August 1-3 and will include a host of activities in the Midlands area. This weekend-long event honors the pride, culture, and creativity of South Carolina’s 803 area code with a series of interactive experiences, local business participation, and community fun and exploration.
803 Day is a play on our area code, recognized synonymously with the 8/03 date. As part of the 2nd annual festivities, local businesses, organizations, residents, and visitors are invited to participate in an array of exciting activities and promotions throughout the day. Here is what you can expect at this year’s celebration:
- Pre-803 Day Mixer (August 1 in West Columbia): An unveiling and networking celebration for sponsors and community leaders
803 Day 5K Run/ Walk (August 2 in Forest Acres): Lace up your running shoes and join us for a scenic 5K run/walk through the heart of Forest Acres. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for some fun and exercise, this event is open to participants of all fitness levels. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Cola Rose Shower, a nonprofit that celebrates women and promotes awareness about feminine care issues that plague women in the Greater Columbia area. Register HERE.
Citywide Scavenger Hunt (August 2 & 3): Put your sleuthing skills to the test with a citywide scavenger hunt that will take you on a journey through the Midlands. Solve clues, uncover hidden gems, and compete for exciting prizes as you explore the community. Scavenger hunt
will be provided by the Soda City Certified app. Participants must download the free app and enter pin codes to receive points.
- $8.03 Specials (August 2 & 3): S mall businesses are encouraged to have an $8.03 special promotion for the day. Restaurants, bakeries & coffee shops, retail, barber shops, attractions, etc. are encouraged o pate. Local favorites East Bay Deli, Gervais & in Trini Lime Caribbean e each Cobbler Factory have alread up!
Free 80 Da Festival (August 3 Blythewood): Experience the beauty of Doko Meadows Park as we host a free festival featuring live music, interactive art installations, food trucks and vendors, exhibitors, and family-friendly activities. Indoor VIP access is available at Doko Manor for $ 75.00 per person and includes indoor seating and restrooms, early celebration entry at 11:30AM, top shelf private bar with complimentary 803 Day signature cocktails, light hors d’oeuvres, and 803 Day keepsakes. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day outdoors with friends and family.
Bring your canned goods/ nonperishable foods and back to school supplies. We will collect canned goods for Christian Assistance Bridge, a Blythewood nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger in Blythewood, Ridgeway, and northeast Richland County. The organization reaches out to people in a crisis situation – facing eviction, utility cut-off, homelessness or food and necessities shortages. Back to school supplies will be collected for the JoO Foundation, a nonprofit that provides resources to disadvantaged youth and families in efforts to enhance their lives and build
stronger communities.
“803 Day is more than just a weekend of events – it’s a celebration of identity and community,” said Khali Gallman, event organizer. “We are creating space for local businesses to thrive, for families to connect, and for all of us to reflect on what makes the 803 so special. It’s about pride, progress, and unity. We encourage everyone to participate in one or more of the activities as a patron, volunteer, partner, or sponsor.”
Get Involved with 803 Day
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Volunteer: There are volunteer opportunities for the pre-803 Day mixer, 5K race, and festival
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Sponsor: Support the entire weekend of events or the 5K by providing water, fruits, or gift cards for 5K winners and adding your business logo to the race t-shirt
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Exhibit/Vend: Display an activation or exhibitor table at the festival (food trucks also accepted)
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Scavenger Hunt Business Participant: Provide incentives for people who visit a sponsored public art sculpture, historic marker, mural or place of business
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Walk/Run: Participate in the 5K run/walk in Forest Acres
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Social Media: Send us your #Happy803Day and #So803 videos of your fondest 803 memories
Registration is now open for all activities. Visit www.803day org for more information. Sponsorship opportunities range from $25.00 to $25,000.00. In-kind donations are also accepted. Email hello@803day.org or call 803.922.5310 for more information. Follow @803DaySC on Facebook/Instagram for (@for)the latest updates.
