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 Gamma Delta
- Alpha Chapter 14631 – Beta Sigma Phi
- Ancient Order of Hibernians
- The Arc of the Midlands
- Carolina For All Education Foundation
- Cayce-West Columbia Jaycees
- Children’s Alliance of North Columbia
- City Year, Inc.
- Columbia Opportunity Resource
- Columbia Police Citizens Academy
- Columbia Roller Derby
- Columbia SC Starlings Volleyball
- Columbia Women’s Rugby
- Dreher High School Band Booster Club
- Free Mom Hugs – South Carolina
- Gamecock Club Swimming
- Girls Scout Troop 3375
- Kappa Delta Sorority – Beta Zeta Chapter
- Ly-Ben Dance Alliance
- MLK/Lower Waverly Neighborhood Association
- Military Vehicle Collectors of SC – In partnership with Living Word, Legion Post 90, VFW Post 11079
- Positively Influencing The Community with Heart
- Revolution Red
- Richland County Regulators Derby Team
- SC Pride Movement Inc.
- The Talented Tenth South Carolina
- Transgender Awareness Alliance
- 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.
