Congaree National Park has announced the dates for the much anticipated 2023 Synchronous Fireflies Viewing Event, which will take place on May 13-16 and May 19-24, 2023, and will offer the public opportunities to observe the synchronous fireflies. Passes will be required to enter the park on event nights. This year’s event will feature some modifications compared to past years. The goal of these changes is to enhance visitor access and opportunities for viewing the synchronous fireflies and to further improve the long-term sustainability of this annual event. These modifications will include ..read more

A historic southern town steeped in tradition, Blythewood boasts a high concentration of quality golf courses, peaceful surroundings, great lakes, farmlands, and forest views with outstanding amenities. Home to the University of South Carolina Golf Center at Cobblestone Park, the options go from good – to better- to best! You can count on the Blythewood golf scene to deliver an exceptional golf experience time after time. With a location just outside of Columbia, SC, and less than an hour from Charlotte, NC, Blythewood has always been attractive to golfers looking for the southern charm of the ..read more

It’s officially 2023, and that means a fresh start on a new year. Have you made your new year’s resolution? Each year we hear millions of people say they want to eat healthy, do more, and spend more quality time with friends and family. You can do all of that and more by exploring your own backyard – Lake Murray Country. Did you know that Forbes Magazine named our region a “Top Southern Destination” in 2021? The Capital City/Lake Murray Country region has so many fun things to do, attractions to explore, and restaurants to experience. So we’ve rounded up our top “To Do List” in the region to g ..read more

There’s snow-place like the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region for the holidays! Take a drive and see millions of colorful lights from the comfort of your vehicle or meander through the zoo and sip hot cocoa. Make a new holiday tradition this year with the first-ever Fireflies Holiday Lights at Segra Park and take a photo with Santa and Mason, the Fireflies mascot. From our family to yours, we wish you a Murray Christmas and a bright holiday season! Let’s play a game and get in the holiday spirit! Can you guess the Christmas carol titles from the lyrics?  Let’s take the road before u ..read more

Photo: North Pole Nights in Newberry It’s that magical time of year again; where memories are made, traditions are shared, and anything is possible! From a visit with Santa to seeing over million twinkling lights, this list of 30 Murray events is sure to get in you and your family in the holiday spirit. How many can you check off of your list?   Vista Lights Thursday, November 17 | 5:00 – 9:00 PMColumbia Downtown Vista  The 37th Annual Vista Lights is the neighborhood’s signature open house which ushers in the holidays in Columbia! More than 60 galleries, shops, and restaurants saf ..read more

Grab your gift list and shop local this holiday season in Lake Murray Country. We’ve compiled a list of open houses, markets, and sales across the region to get you started. With the holidays just around the corner there’s nothing more gratifying than checking off your list early and supporting local business.   Greater Chapin Area Holiday Open House Thursday, Nov. 3 – Saturday, Nov. 5 Chapin Chamber: 302 Columbia Avenue, Chapin, SC 29036 Kick off your holiday season with the Greater Chapin Area Holiday Open House! Area restaurants and businesses are offering special offers and activities ..read more

With summer winding down and football season in full swing, Autumn is finally here in Capital City/Lake Murray Country. There are many exciting events and activities for the whole family to explore. The Lake Murray Country region is home to some of the best farms, festivals, and attractions in the state. Fall in love with Lake Murray Country as we dive into our top 10 things to do.   1. Go Shopping Blythewood Farmers Market Open Wednesdays 4:00 – 7:00 PM Doko Meadows Park, 171 Langford Road, Blythewood, SC 29016 This small town market is rich in agricultural history dating back hundreds o ..read more

Photo Credit: Anthony Gagliardi (Coach to team USA, XVI Black Bass World Championship) Capital City/Lake Murray Country is one of the world’s top fishing destinations! With over 650 miles of shoreline, Lake Murray is home to some of the best freshwater fish, making it the perfect “fishing hole.” With over 12 species of fish including largemouth bass and striper luring local and national fishing tournaments each year – anglers love Lake Murray as they can easily spot their lures in the clear water while reeling in a big one! The old adage “teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime” rem ..read more

Travelers know that the locals often have the best inside information on the region. They’ve found the best restaurants, things to do, and in the case of this local where to fish! Welcome to our Meet a Local series of blog posts were we introduce you to locals from Lake Murray Country who love the region and want to share their knowledge with visitors! Make sure to say hi, when you see them around! South Carolina professional angler Anthony Gagliardi is a member of the USA Bass Team and calls Lake Murray home. Anthony is one of a small handful of anglers who have won both a Forrest Wood Cup (2 ..read more

Photo Credit: Anthony Gagliardi (Coach to team USA, XVI Black Bass World Championship) Capital City/Lake Murray Country is one of the world’s top fishing destinations! With over 650 miles of shoreline, Lake Murray is home to some of the best freshwater fish, making it the perfect “fishing hole.” With over 12 species of fish including largemouth bass and striper luring local and national fishing tournaments each year – anglers love Lake Murray as they can easily spot their lures in the clear water while reeling in a big one! The old adage “teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime” rem ..read more