It is summertime in South Carolina! It is time for vacations, watersports, and outdoor activities of all kinds. We live in one of the most beautiful states in America, and, whether you’ve only lived here for six months or for over fifty years, I am convinced there are parts of South Carolina that we all have yet to explore. My recent trip to Landsford Canal State Park in Chester County is a perfect example of this, where the spider lilies were blooming and at their peak, making the park absolutely breathtaking!

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to discover new sights, places, and hobbies. For those of you with children, summer can be an even more exciting time with plenty of activities to juggle. My children participated in summer camps when they were younger, playing new sports and learning new skills. The eleven free weeks a child has during summer vacation serves as time to explore new passions and interests, and there are opportunities for your child right here in Columbia!

The Richland Library hosts countless activities and classes for children and adults of all ages to participate in free of charge! Throughout the summer, children can attend classes about comedy, crafting, astronomy, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), poetry, SAT prep, and much, much more. There are similar activities for adults including lessons in creative writing, photography, sewing, Microsoft Word, etc. Summer doesn’t have to be just about “hanging out” and playing on our iPads or iPhones. Whether your children attend a few fun classes or a more structured summer camp, this is the perfect time to connect with people in our community, enrich children’s minds, and expand their life experiences!

However you choose to spend your time, have a great summer in South Carolina!