St. Pat’s in Five Points donates more than $62,000 to local charities and nonprofits

Thirty-three Midlands organizations recognized at annual check presentation event

St. Pat’s in Five Points concluded its 43rd season with a check presentation recognizing 33 Midlands-area charities and nonprofit organizations. The event took place Tuesday, May 13, at Blossom Plant & Produce, 1920 Blossom St., in Columbia, S.C.

“This year, thanks to the incredible support of our attendees and partners, we are proud to donate over $62,000 to 33 local charities, pushing our total impact to more than $1.3 million over the festival’s 43-year history,” says Heather McDonald, executive director of the Five Points Association. “St. Pat’s in Five Points’ legacy of giving proves that when a community comes together, we don’t just celebrate, we make a difference.”

The annual recognition event underscores St. Pat’s in Five Points’ commitment to giving back to the Midlands community that has been its biggest supporter. This year’s $62,857 donation supports the following organizations:

• Alpha Chapter 14631 Beta Sigma Phi
• Alpha Gamma Delta
• Ancient Order of Hibernians
• Beta Zeta Chapter of Kappa Delta Sorority
• Carolina for All Education Foundation
• Cayce-West Columbia Jaycees
• Children’s Alliance of North Columbia
• City of Columbia (Columbia Police Citizens Academy Alumni)
• City Year Inc.
• Columbia Bombshells Women’s Rugby
• Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR)
• Columbia Roller Derby
• Columbia S.C. Starlings Volleyball
• Connick School of Irish Dance
• Dreher High School Band Booster Club
• Free Mom Hugs – South Carolina Chapter
• Gamecock Club Swimming
• Girl Scouts Troop 3375
• Legion Post 90
• Living Word
• Ly-Ben Dance Alliance
• Military Vehicle Collectors of South Carolina
• MLK Lower Waverly Neighborhood Association
• Positively Influencing The Community with Heart (P.I.T.C.H.) Inc.
• Revolution Red
• Richland County Regulators Derby Team
• South Carolina Pride Movement Inc.
• The Arc of the Midlands Inc.
• The Talented Tenth South Carolina
• Transgender Awareness Alliance
• VFW Post 11079
• Westminster Presbyterian Church
• Wheeler Hill Neighborhood Association

“The success of the 2025 St. Pat’s in Five Points is a testament to the incredible spirit of our community,” says McDonald. “To our attendees, volunteers, partners and the City of Columbia — thank you for bringing the energy, passion and support that make this festival truly special. Together, we don’t just throw a great party, we build something meaningful year after year.”

This year’s festival welcomed more than 26,500 attendees and featured several highlights, including:

• Gamecock legend A’ja Wilson was Grand Marshal for this year’s parade, which reached maximum capacity, with all entry spots sold out.
• The Get to the Green race had a record-breaking turnout with 2,500 participants.
• The Pot O’ Gold Playland was full all day and is being considered for expansion in 2026.
• Congress the Band’s high-energy performance on the Santee Stage drew a huge crowd, possibly the largest at that stage in recent festival history.
• The Saint mocktail lounge returned for a second year, offering a festive, alcohol-free space.
• Smooth and efficient access at festival entry gates.

For more information, visit stpatscolumbia.com or follow the festival on Facebook @stpatsinfivepoints and Instagram @stpatsinfivepoints.

About St. Pat’s in Five Points

Set in the vibrant Five Points district of Columbia South Carolina, St. Pat’s in Five Points is one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day festivals in the Southeast, drawing more than 26,500 attendees of all ages from across the region and beyond. The annual event showcases a diverse lineup of musical acts across multiple stages and also features a variety of food and beverage vendors, artisans and family-friendly attractions, including the Pot O’ Gold Playland, the Get to the Green race and the St. Pat’s Parade. St. Pat’s in Five Points is a Columbia tradition known for its fun atmosphere and focus on giving back to the Midlands community. To date, the Five Points Association has donated more than $1.3 million to local charities.

About the Five Points Association
Founded in 1983, the Five Points Association is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the growth and evolution of Five Points, a one-of-a-kind commercial and residential district that is home to more than 100 businesses. Led by an executive director and governed by a board of directors, the Five Points Association oversees the efforts to promote, grow and support the Five Points district. The Five Points Association oversees the district’s events, development, clean and safe team and beautification projects. Visit https://fivepointscolumbia.com to learn more.