Columbia is more than South Carolina’s capital — it’s a city full of energy, tradition, and heart. From the bustling dining and arts scene in the Vista and Five Points to the beauty of the Congaree River, and from the strength of local businesses to the pride of Gamecock Country, the Columbia area is a place where community truly shines.

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That spirit is exactly what The State set out to celebrate with The State’s Best — a program designed to honor the people, businesses, and organizations that make life here so remarkable.

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This year’s contest reached exciting new heights. More than 2,000 businesses, organizations, and individuals competed across 235 categories, and the community cast over 107,000 votes — a remarkable 29% increase year-over-year. That growth is a testament to how much pride Columbia residents take in uplifting their local favorites.

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Producing a program of this scale takes a dedicated team, engaged businesses, and the strong support of our advertisers. We are proud to showcase their efforts and shine a spotlight on the winners who earned recognition in their categories.

To everyone who took the time to vote — thank you. Your passion and support fuel this celebration of local excellence. We invite you to explore VotedTheStatesBest.com and discover this year’s honorees. Whether they are longtime community staples or exciting new discoveries, each winner reflects the resilience, creativity, and spirit that make Columbia one of the South’s best places to live, work, and thrive.

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Congratulations to all of the 2026 winners of The State’s Best!