ColaJazz & Roots Fest takes place May 15–16, 2026 at Finlay Park in downtown Columbia, SC.

Yes. The festival is free and open to the public.

No ticket is required for general admission. VIP experiences may require a separate ticket.

Yes! We have a VIP experience:

• VIP parking below Governor’s Hill
• VIP private bathrooms in The Nest
• Premium covered viewing
• Seating and tables
• VIP bar
• VIP catering
• Golf cart shuttle for those who may need it

Learn more: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-fest-vip

• Arsenal Hill Garage (1812 Lincoln St):This is the absolute closest garage. It’s right across the street from the park's west side and usually has visitor parking on the lower level. [map]

• Taylor Street Garage (1600 Assembly St): Located just a block away from the southeast corner of the park. It’s a very easy, flat walk to the entrance. [map]

• PJ Cannon Garage (1227 Taylor St): A slightly longer walk but a reliable backup if the closer ones are full. [map]

• Street Parking (limited): If you’re lucky, you can find metered spots along Gadsden St and Laurel St

• ADA parking will be available at the Finlay Park Upper Lot (930 Laurel Street) [map], as well as parking meters covered with blue bags near the Taylor St. entrance of Finlay Park.

• Lincoln Street in the Vista, as it’s an easy walk down Lincoln and through the tunnel. [map]

• DOWNLOAD PDF MAP

Helpful Parking Tips:

• Check the Meters: Street parking is typically free on weekends and after 6:00 PM on weekdays, but always double-check the signs or the "Passport Parking" app.

• Event Days: If there is a major festival at Finlay, the Arsenal Hill garage can fill up fast, so the Taylor Street Garage is often your best "stress-free" bet.

Yes. ColaJazz & Roots Fest is designed as a welcoming community celebration with music, culture, and activities for audiences of all ages.

Friday features Soda City Brass Band, Martin Bejerano presents The Purple Project, and SYR.

Saturday features Brittany Turnipseed, Willie Bradley, Folderol, Lucia, and headliner Endea Owens & the Cookout.

See Lineup: https://colajazzfest.com/#lineup

Yes. Folding chairs are allowed at Finlay Park. We recommend bringing what you need to enjoy the music comfortably.

Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed if they follow Finlay Park’s approved bag and container guidelines. Food and beverage vendors may also be available on site.

Yes. Finlay Park has a clear bag policy in effect every day, including during events. Please plan ahead and bring an approved clear bag or small clutch.

Yes. Dogs are allowed at Finlay Park but must remain on leash, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.

Visit the festival website and follow ColaJazz on social media for lineup updates, parking notes, weather updates, and other important announcements. Also, subscribe to our email newsletter: https://colajazz.com/contact/#newsletter

Answers to questions on clear bag policy, food & beverages, personal items, smoking, chairs, pets, scooters, bikes, safety and more can be found here: https://finlaypark.columbiasc.gov/frequently-asked-questions/

1. For the security of all park visitors, a Clear Bag policy is in effect at all times. Exceptions will be made for diaper bags and medically necessary items.

2. All animals must be on a leash. Animal waste must be picked up immediately and disposed of in waste receptacles. Bags are available at posted locations around the park.

3. No smoking or vaping on park premises.

4. No firearms or concealable weapons allowed (see Ordinance Sec. 15-16).

5. No swimming, wading, or fishing in the pond, fountain, or grotto.

6. No littering.

7. Profanity, loud music, and disrespectful behavior will not be allowed.

8. Vending, selling, soliciting, and/or peddling without a permit is prohibited.

9. Private Events and activities by Permit only.

10. Groups of 25 or over must apply for a permit (see Ordinance Sec. 15-2).

11. Fires and fireworks are prohibited.

12. No grills, fryers, or griddles permitted. Cooking on site by Permit only.

13. No alcoholic beverages are permitted. Sales and consumption by Permit only.

14. Unauthorized vehicles (including cars, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and mopeds) are prohibited.

15. No Skateboarding within Finlay Park. Please utilize the Vista Greenway.

16. E-bikes, Electric Scooters, Electric Unicycles (EUC), Onewheels, and other self-propelled ride-on devices are prohibited within the boundaries of Finlay Park. Please utilize the Vista Greenway. Individuals with mobility disabilities are exempt from this restriction.

17. No cycling within Finlay Park. Bike racks are located near main entrances on Taylor Street and Assembly Street and throughout the park. Park visitors wishing to use a bike rack inside the park must walk their bikes inside.

18. No Urban Camping (see Ordinance Sec. 14-105).