Students help bring Finlay Park to life through art

The City of Columbia’s Public Relations, Media & Marketing Department hosted a community pop-up art event at Soda City Market on Saturday, October 18, 2025, to celebrate the upcoming grand re-opening of Finlay Park.

The event featured students from Richland One and Richland Two School Districts, including H.B. Rhame Elementary School and Richland Northeast High School, who created original artwork inspired by what they’re most excited to experience in the revitalized park.

Throughout the morning, department staff shared information boards highlighting Finlay Park’s new amenities, improved accessibility, and safety features while speaking with attendees about what to expect when the park opens and the two-day grand re-opening weekend on November 15–16, 2025. Children and families also participated in a community paint-by-numbers activity and received Finlay Park coloring pages and crayons.

Finalized artwork from Richland One and Richland Two students will be proudly displayed at Finlay Park throughout the grand re-opening weekend, showcasing Columbia’s bright future and the imagination of its youngest residents.

The Finlay Park Grand Re-Opening Ceremony will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, followed by the Jam Room Music Festival. The celebration continues on Sunday, November 16, 2025, with the Day Two Festival, which features performances from local and national artists. Both events are family-friendly and free to attend.

We invite everyone to join us for the grand re-opening weekend to experience the revitalized Finlay Park and see all of the incredible young artistic talent from our local schools.