It’s hard to believe there was snow on the ground on January 22. A week-and-a-half later, by Feb. 2, or Groundhog Day, temperatures were above 75 degrees.

Punxsutawney Phil of Young Township, PA, saw his shadow at Punxsutawney’s annual Groundhog Day celebration, this year; indicating six more weeks of winter. That’s not the case in West Columbia.

“We went from putting up tents and heaters to short pants and short-sleeve shirts in our outside courtyard,” said Victoria Porter, manager of Savage Craft Ale Works, Savage Craft held a four-year anniversary celebration at its 430 Center Street location last Saturday.

“We could not have asked for better weather,” Victoria said. “It was a day before Groundhog Day and spring was in the air. It was a great day for us.”

A block away, at WECO Bottle and Biergarten, the parking lot was full on Tuesday evening, with afternoon temperatures in the 70s. The outside tables at WECO were filled with patrons, who just a week earlier, were bundled up in heavy coats when it was 38 degrees in the daytime.

At Carraway Park At The Riverwalk, the parking lot was full, Tuesday afternoon. There were vans there that moms and kids bounded out of, running to the park to play.

“We’ve been waiting for this weather,” said Liz Denizard. She was at the park with her two children. “When it was so cold outside, the kids were getting restless and wanted to play outside. We loved seeing the snow, but I’m glad it’s gone and I much prefer the spring weather like it is now. This is a blessing.”

Across the street from Carraway Park, at the West Columbia Riverwalk, visitors have been taking in the sights this week in the warm, spring-like weather. Some were sitting on benches and looking at the scenic river view.

The Riverwalk is closed after it was damaged by Hurricane Helene. But the parking lot is open and the Amphitheater and the park benches and picnic tables are available.

“I came out with some of my friends and my sister,” said Deshaun Foster. “I haven’t been to Riverwalk Park for a couple of months because it’s been cold. But I couldn’t pass up the chance to get outside to get some fresh air. It feels good to be outside today.”

Bark West, the City of West Columbia’s dog park, at 1940 Augusta Road is also a place to get outside and let your dog run.

Bark West is an unleashed park for members and it has designated small and large dog areas.

Bark West hours are from Sunrise to Sunset. To become a member of Bark West, call 803-939-8627 or email: [email protected]

There are many opportunities to get out and enjoy the springlike weather in West Columbia. Grab a craft beer or some food to eat outside, or take advantage of West Columbia’s many parks. The weather is just going to get better.