About this Event
We are excited to join with you all this fall for the 2026 conference! These 3 days will be packed with resources, connections, and sessions. See below what to expect.
Thursday, October 1, 2026:
A.M.
Choose to visit a local farm on your way into Columbia. You will have 3 local options available. (Farm information to be released soon).
P.M.
The Gathering at Gardeners Outpost
This opening evening at Gardener’s Outpost, sponsored by Rodale Institute, launches the SCBFC Conference and gathers growers, buyers, and partners for conversation. A grower/buyer discussion will provide attendees with firsthand insights into market needs and building successful relationships. With local food, we connect, ask questions, and strengthen field-to-market pathways. Free, but registration is required.
First Thursdays on Main
On the first Thursday of each month, we celebrate the thriving arts and culture scene of downtown Columbia with musical acts, artist displays, and performances. Main Street merchants and businesses keep their doors open late, offering menu and drink specials, special events, and more. No registration required.
What Thursday event is right for you?
- Early-bird Travelers may want to take farm tours, check into the hotel, and rest up for Friday.
- Mid-Day Mosey may be for those who will skip arriving in town early and join us for The Gathering at Gardeners Outpost.
- Evening Strollers may be those who check in late and walk downtown for First Thursdays on Main.
- Sun Chasers will be those who bounce from event to event and do it all!
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Friday, October 2, 2026:
Check-In begins at 9:15 AM
Stories From The Soil:
Breakfast & Brew + Morning Screening of Farming Freedom, with brief Q&A afterward with Kayla Turner.
Start your morning in reflection and fellowship at Stories from the Soil, featuring breakfast, coffee, tea, juice, and a screening of Farming Freedom. This powerful film invites us to consider the legacy, resilience, and collective action embedded in Black land stewardship. Together, we’ll gather not just to watch, but to listen, reflect, and carry these stories into the work ahead.
12:00 PM- Open Ground
After a morning rooted in story and stewardship, we’ll move into Open Ground, a flexible midday gathering at the museum designed for connection and exploration. Visit vendors and exhibitors, and explore the museum with a self-guided tour. Lunch will be provided in this time frame.
1:00 PM-2:30 PM- Creative Corners-hands-on stations for individuals to enjoy.
- Seed and Plant Swap
- Indigo Dye & Painting with Christina Smith Galloway
- Flower Bar-DIY Bouquets
- Health & Wellness Station
- Equipment Demo (Shared Equipment)
2:30 PM After daytime activities conclude, attendees will rest and then reconvene in the Lower space for the evening reception.
5:30 PM Doors Open for Roots & Sows Reception
6:00 PM -10 PM Dinner, Awards, & Dancing
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Full Day Sessions
Early Risers: For those who want to get an early start on the day and start with breathwork & sound baths. Come to the museum conference space early, before the day starts, 8:15 AM-9:00 AM.
9:30 AM-4:30 PM
A day filled with carefully crafted sessions and networking. The full session list will be distributed soon.
Vendor Pricing:
The vendor space is 20x50, and you receive 1 conference ticket.
Fee:
$200 (Early Bird, May-Jul), $250 (Regular Registration)-Outside Vendor Space
$200 (Early Bird, May-Jul), $250 (Regular Registration)-Inside, Upper Lobby
To inquire about vendor spots or to sponsor this event, email [email protected]
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
South Carolina State Museum, 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, United States
USD 0.00 to USD 215.26
