The Five Points Association (FPA) is proud to celebrate another year of remarkable achievements and community impact. At the Five Points Annual Meeting on December 12 at Boyd Innovation Center – powered by GrowCo, the organization reflected on its successes while recognizing the outstanding contributions of individuals and businesses with the FPA Awards. 

This past year, the Five Points Association spearheaded several initiatives that fostered community spirit, enhanced local business growth, and showcased the vibrant culture of the Five Points area. Highlights included: 

• 2024 St. Pat’s in Five Points donated $67,100 to 40 local charity organizations, the largest amount in the festival’s 42-year history. 

• JerryFest celebrated 10 Years in Five Points and welcomed the largest crowd in festival history which also included two stages full of musical performances, the “Little Hippie Corner” and free commemorative t-shirts. 

• 2 Inaugural Events: 

• NEON Joy – Poised to be Five Points’ new annual celebration to kick off the holiday season, the night included a free laser light show, entertainment, extended shopping hours and specials. 

• Tour of Tea – An elevated journey of tea tasting, delightful bites and cultural exploration which celebrated the rich traditions and flavors of multiple AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) countries.  

• Five After Five – After a seven-year hiatus the concert series returned with four free concerts at the Five Points fountain 

• Philosophy of Five Points – For the second year, the collaboration with Cola Love and the University of South Carolina Philosophy Department once again brought attendees together for a free evening of interactive and immersive art and exploring big questions as a community. 

• 3rd Annual Paint the Town Garnet & Black – A collaboration event with the University of South Carolina to commemorate USC Homecoming. 

• Nine new businesses openings, and five ribbon cuttings in the Five Points district. 

• 2 Beautification Projects:  

• “Splash of Color” Mural by award winning artist, Shelby LeBlanc. 

• Robot Head “Fritz” by local artist, Clark Ellefson. 

• Winner: Best Music Festival (Free Times Best of Columbia) – St. Pat’s in Five Points 

• Silver Winner: Best Annual Event/Festival (Free Times Best of Columbia) – St. Pat’s in Five Points 

• Winner: Best Local Festival (Best of Carolina) – St. Pat’s in Five Points 

• Silver Winner: Best Annual Event/Festival (The State’s Best) – St. Pat’s in Five Points 

• Runner-up: Best Shopping District (Columbia Metropolitan Magazine) – Five Points 

Announcing the 2024 FPA Award Winners 

The evening’s highlight was the announcement of the 2024 FPA Award winners. These awards honor individuals and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the Five Points community: 

Spirit of Five Points Award – Cola Love 

 FPA New Member of the Year – The Skinhouse 

FPA Philanthropist of the Year – Ruby Sunshine 

FPA Member of the Year – Ashley Lindler, A Little Happy 

 FPA Good Neighbor Award (FPA President’s Award) – Robert Anderson, City of Columbia Public Works Director 

Additional honorees during the program included recognizing board members who rolled off for their years of dedicated service and contributions to the organization: Caitlin Bright, Sue Hamilton, Larry Lucas, Gene Massey, and Bob Thompson. 

Looking Ahead 

Building on this year’s accomplishments, the Five Points Association has ambitious plans for the coming year. Projects in development include completion of the SCDOT road diet and beautification project, a district-wide security camera upgrade and expanded efforts in neighborhood beautification. 

 

The Five Points Association also extends its gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and volunteers who have supported its mission over the past year.