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11th Annual Midstate Classic Softball Tournament Returns to Columbia in March

Issue #658

February 04, 2026

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

⛅️ Columbia’s Thursday Weather - Partly Cloudy w/ high of 39, low of 28

🥎 11th Annual Midstate Classic Softball Tournament Returns to Columbia in March

❤️ 2/13: Presidential Love Letters Event at Polk Home

👉 Sleep in Heavenly Peace Seeks Volunteers to Build Beds on Saturday

🗓 List of Upcoming Events

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

11th Annual Midstate Classic Softball Tournament Returns to Columbia in March

Columbia will once again take center stage for collegiate softball as the Midstate Classic returns on March 10, 2026, marking the 11th year the City of Columbia has hosted the popular tournament at the Ridley Sports Complex.

Presented by the City of Columbia, the Midstate Classic has grown into a marquee spring sports event, drawing athletes, fans, and families from across the region. Known for its competitive matchups and welcoming atmosphere, the tournament showcases all levels of the game—from high school to NCAA Division I.

The 2026 schedule features three games throughout the day:

• 10:00 a.m. – Columbia Central High School Lions vs. Spring Hill High School Raiders

• 1:30 p.m. – Columbia State Community College Lady Chargers vs. Calhoun Community College Warhawks

• 5:30 p.m. – University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers vs. Austin Peay State University Governors

City Manager Tony Massey said the tournament reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to athletics and community engagement.

“The Midstate Classic remains a signature event for our community,” Massey said. “It reinforces Columbia’s role as a destination for high-caliber athletic competition while providing residents the opportunity to experience exceptional sports programming close to home. Columbia always looks forward to hosting the Lady Vols softball team.”

Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan noted that the event has become a signature event for Ridley Sports Complex.

“This softball showcase is a point of pride for our department,” Reagan said. “From high school athletes to nationally recognized collegiate programs, the Midstate Classic delivers a full day of exciting softball and an exceptional fan experience. We expect strong attendance once again.”

Mayor Chaz Molder emphasized the broader impact of the tournament on the community.

“Hosting the Midstate Classic for the eleventh year speaks volumes about Columbia’s reputation as a sports-friendly city,” Mayor Molder said. “Events like this strengthen our community, support local tourism, and create memorable experiences for families and fans throughout the region.”

Gates will open at 7:30 a.m. on the day of the event. General admission is $10, which includes access to all three games. Complimentary ADA transportation will be available before, during, and after the tournament to ensure accessibility for all attendees.

For additional information, call (931) 388-8119.

2/13: Presidential Love Letters Event at Polk Home

The President James K. Polk Home and Museum offers a festive, educational and fun event for adults this Valentine's Day!

Presidential love letters are classic, enduring and, sometimes, scandalous. Learn about six presidential love affairs while enjoying a wine and chocolate tasting. Each president featured will include love letters and a paired chocolate and alcoholic drink tasting.

This adult only event is for singles and couples 21+ and will last approximately one hour. Seating is extremely limited and pre-purchased tickets are required.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace Seeks Volunteers to Build Beds on Saturday

Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a group of volunteers dedicated to building, assembling and delivering beds to children (ages 3-17) in need in the Columbia and surrounding areas.

Child bedlessness may not be a real word but it is a real problem. 

They believe in sharing the need with the community and then providing ways for the community to help meet that need. They are locally all volunteer.

The Columbia chapter began in October 2022 and have delivered dozens of beds already… getting kiddos off the floor! 

From SHP’s post on Wednesday…

We still need volunteers for this Saturday, February 7th at MCPR. It's going to be a beautiful day.... sunny...mid 40's.... thank the Lord! It will be an afternoon build to take advantage of the warmer temperatures. We could really use more volunteers if you're able to help.

We look forward to replenishing our bed stock and being able to deliver more beds!

Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Thursday, February 5th

Saturday, February 7th

Sunday, February 8th

👇 Click the Links to Learn About our Local Business Sponsors! 👇

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Thursday, February 5
Todd Ciprian - Tito’s Spring Hill, 6–9 PM
Ashton Smith - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30–9 PM

Friday, February 6
Scotty Freel - Grinder’s Switch Winery, 6–8 PM
Chief Smiley Ricks and The C-Town Specials - Daniel’s Barber Shop on the Square, 6–8 PM
Kirwan, McCreary’s Irish Pub & Eatery, 7–9 PM
Rett Stockstill’s Ministry of Fun - Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30–9 PM
The Deltaz - Puckett’s, 7:30–9 PM
Benji & The Jets - Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 8–11 PM

Saturday, February 7
Tom & Robert - McCreary’s Irish Pub & Eatery, 7–9 PM
Winter Series - The Bourbon Gospel, 7:30 PM
Taylor Hughes - Puckett’s, 7:30–9 PM
Vintage Voltage - Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 8–11 PM

Want to get your business in What’s Up Columbia? Let’s talk