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The time of year that you buy a new car can have a big impact on what vehicle you get and how much you spend on it. Experts don't always agree about the best time to buy a car, but you can learn from their opinions to make a good decision. Buying a Car in December Can Save You Money The holidays make December so hectic that you probably don't even want to think about buying a new car. Going to the dealership in December, however, could save you quite a bit of money. Some research shows that consumers get 7.7 percent off MSRP when they buy cars in December. Dealerships lower prices in December because they know that most people don't have time to shop for cars. When fewer people shop, dealerships have to sweeten deals for people who walk through the door. Dealerships also know that most people don't want to buy cars in bad weather. The very idea of walking around a lot in 30-degree weather will make most people pass on the opportunity to save some cash. Many buyers also prefer test driving cars in good weather when they can push engines and enjoy the ride. If you're willing to brave the cold weather, you might want to think about getting a new Kia as a Christmas present to yourself. more Buying a Car in Summer Gives You More Options Buying a new vehicle at the end of the year could help you save money. Unfortunately, you'll have a limited selection because other shoppers have already bought the most popular models. If you want a larger selection, then you should shop for a new Kia during early summer. Kia tends to release most of its new models about halfway through the year. The company doesn't always follow this schedule, but it's true more often than not. By shopping during early summer, you can choose the specific Kia that you want. That matters a lot to discerning drivers who do their research and know which vehicles match their lifestyles best. Shopping at the End of Any Month Could Save You Money Most car dealerships have to meet monthly quotas so they can qualify for bonuses. If they fall short, then they can lose a lot of money. Knowing this, it makes sense for you to shop for your next Kia at the end of the month. Salespersons who haven't met their quotas will make deals to get cars off the lot quickly. It doesn't matter what time of the year it is. If you shop at the end of the month, you have a good chance of saving money and getting some freebies. The time of year that you choose to shop for a new Kia depends on your priorities. The good news is that you always have an opportunity to buy an affordable vehicle that fits your lifestyle. By shopping at the right time, though, you can save some money or get the features that you love most. Image via Flickr by Nicholas_T

The Columbia area has a lot of fun activities planned for June. If you want to find something interesting for your family, check out these top three events. There is a good chance that one of them will excite you. Southeastern Piano Festival The Southeastern Piano Festival brings some of the world's best pianists to Columbia. Some of this year's guest artists include Frederic Chiu, Washington Garcia, Vandym Kholodenko, and the Anderson and Roe duo. The festival will also feature some alumni of the University of South Carolina School of Music. This festival takes place annually, but it always offers something new and exciting for music lovers. Events take place from Sunday, June 18 to Saturday, June 24. In addition to attending concerts, musicians can take master classes from renowned players. The Southeastern Piano Festival includes so many events that it needs more than one venue. Some of 2017's venues will include the Kroger Center for the Arts, USC School of Music Recital Hall, and Trinity Cathedral. Prices vary according to the venue and the artist's popularity Many events conducted by the Southeastern Piano Festival sell out, so you should buy your tickets ahead of time to ensure you get a seat. When: June 18 - 24 Where: Various Price: Varies by day and artist more Doko Fest Bluegrass Festival If you don't care for pianos, maybe you'd prefer to see bands play mandolins, fiddles, and banjos. Bluegrass fans should make plans to attend the Doko Fest Bluegrass Festival in nearby Blythewood. The Lion's Club sponsors this festival each year, so you get to enjoy free admission. Just bring your own lawn chair so you will have a comfortable place to sit. Specifics for the bluegrass festival haven't been announced yet. Last year's concert took place on June 11. Check the festival's Facebook page to learn more as the event develops. Organizers will announce the date and bands before summer. When: Will announce soon Where: Doko Meadows Park, Blythewood Price: Free! Blythewood Doko Rodeo This year, Blythewood will present its seventh annual rodeo in Blythewood Community Park. If you haven't been before, now is the time to reserve your tickets since you can save a couple of dollars by purchasing them in advance. The Blythewood Doko Rodeo is a professional affair with numerous events. Cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country come to Blythewood to compete for prizes and money. Many of these professionals want to participate in the Blythewood event because it earns them points toward qualifying for the International Finals Rodeo held in Oklahoma. If they do well in Blythewood, then they can secure a spot in the finals. If you want to watch bucking broncos and lassoing, this is the June event for you. When: June 2 - 3 Where: Blythewood Community Park Price: Advanced tickets cost $14 for adults and $7 for kids ages 6 through 12. Whether you love listening to music or watching cowboys get bucked to the ground, you'll have a good time this June in the Columbia area. Image via Flickr by knownaa

Baseball season is fast approaching, so it is time to make plans and decide where you want to spend opening day. There are many sports bars and pubs in the Columbia, South Carolina area where you can grab a stool at the bar or see the game from a table with your friends. Here are some of the top places to watch opening day. Carolina Ale House Head to Carolina Ale House and watch opening day on one or more of the 50 TV's they have around the restaurant. Not only can you watch the game, but you can also get a good variety of drinks including beer and cocktails, and they have an extensive menu. Spend the afternoon grazing on apps such as Frickles or CAH nachos, or get a big juicy burger piled with bacon, onion, and secret sauce. You'll find Carolina Ale House on Lady Street in Columbia, and they stay open until 2 a.m. more Wild Wing Cafe No matter where you are in Columbia, with three locations you can easily get to a Wild Wing Cafe. You can sit and watch the game while you enjoy happy hour drinks and wings from the all-you-can-eat wing bar. There are always specials at Wild Wing Cafe so you can fill up without breaking the bank. If you like burgers, make sure to try the Guinness burger, or if you want to share, the mile-high ultimate nachos come with enough for several people. Thirsty Fellow Thirsty Fellow on Gadsen Street has a good selection of beer, great pub food, and an outside deck. All the tables offer a good view of the TVs so you can see the game, and they serve up bar food made just right. Their pizza is amazing, with a buttery and flaky crust and an abundance of toppings along with just the right amount of cheese. Twin Peaks If you like ice-cold beer to go with your baseball, then head to Twin Peaks on Gervais Street in Columbia. They have several high-definition flat screens throughout the restaurant and bar along with a delicious menu. Try some of their in-house specials such as hand-cut mozzarella bites or pulled pork nachos. You can even get venison chili to go with your ice-cold beer. They always have the most important and popular sports on, and that includes the opening-day games for the MLB on April 2. Cantina 76 If you are up for a crowd and a party atmosphere, go to Cantina 76 on Devine Street. Nothing says baseball like some nachos and chimichangas, and you can get them both here. There are TV's in the bar playing the latest sports event, and on opening day you can be sure to see the game. Baseball's opening day is exciting no matter which team you are rooting for. Spend the afternoon with friends eating and drinking while you watch the game and get the season off to a good start. Image via Flickr by Keith Allison

The Kia Forte is a compact car that offers drivers an abundance of features. For 2017, Kia gave the Forte some updated styling and added a new sporty trim level. They also made some changes to the features available on the other trims. Here are some of the top features of the 2017 Kia Forte. The LX Trim The LX trim is the base level for both the sedan and the hatchback. It comes with 15-inch steel wheels and power accessories. With this entry-level trim, you'll also get heated mirrors, a trip computer, and a sound system with four speakers. Technology features include Bluetooth, satellite radio, and both a USB port and an auxiliary jack. You can add the Popular Package with Fortes equipped with an automatic transmission for automatic headlights, a rearview camera, and a 4.2-inch touchscreen display. more The S Trim The new S trim level is only available on the sedan models and gives it a sporty look and feel. This adds a sport-tuned suspension, and you'll get 16-inch alloy wheels. It also adds a rear spoiler and a chrome exhaust. The S comes with adjustable drive modes and its own unique black upholstery. Interior features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 7-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. You'll also get Kia's Uvo eServices system as a standard feature with the S trim. Add the Technology Package for fog lights, keyless entry, and safety features such as lane departure warning with prevention and blind-spot monitoring with emergency braking. An additional Premium Package added to the Technology Package adds a sunroof and heated front seats, and you'll also get driver memory settings and a navigation system with voice controls. The EX Trim Choose the EX for a larger 2.0-liter engine and 17-inch alloy wheels. This trim will also get you ambient interior lighting and leather seats, LED turn signal indicators right on the mirror housings, and LED taillights. The Premium Plus Package gets you a sunroof, adaptive xenon headlights along with cooled front seats, and a navigation system. The Premium Plus Package also adds the driver assist safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning with mitigation. The SX Trim You can get the SX trim in the hatchback body style and the two-door Forte Koup. This is another sporty trim that adds a sport-tuned suspension along with larger front brakes and larger 18-inch wheels. You'll also get LED taillights, and the rearview mirror has an automatic dimming feature. The SX trim comes standard with Kia's Uvo eServices telematic systems. Optional features available with this trim include keyless ignition, power-adjustable front seats with both heat and ventilation, and a sunroof. You can also add HD radio and a navigation system. All of the Kia Forte models come well-equipped with features and technology. You also get a choice of body styles and engines depending on the trim to help you build the compact car of your dreams. Image via Flickr by jameshamel

Shopping at an antique store is like hunting for treasure, and Columbia, South Carolina has plenty of places where you can spend the day looking for your next big find. Whether you want to find something rare and valuable or just some fun knickknacks, here are some places for antique shopping in Columbia. 763 Meeting Street Antique Mall The 763 Meeting Street Antique Mall on Meeting Street in Columbia has over 11,000 square feet of space and a wide variety of antiques and collectible items. From classic board games to old LP's that are sure to bring back memories, this place has a little something for everyone. If you have your own items to sell, you can even rent space at 763 Antique Mall and set up a spot. more The Red Lion In downtown Columbia on Hampton Street, you'll find the Red Lion. This estate services and auctioneering company offers consignment and estate tag sales along with on-site auctions. At the Red Lion location, they sell items from estate sales in the 10,000-square-foot space. Here you can find treasures from a vintage tool used for grape harvesting to mid-century furniture including unique chairs, dressers, and tables. They are open Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and until 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Ivy House Ivy House Antiques offers vintage and handcrafted home decor along with original and mid-century modern art. They work with other 100 dealers to fill their space with vintage jewelry, and a variety of industrial items. They also offer embroidery services, and they have handmade American Girl doll clothes for sale. Ivy House is open seven days a week, and you'll find them on Two Notch Road in Columbia. Attic Fanatic The eclectic variety of items you'll find at Attic Fanatic ranges from antique furniture pieces to lamps and pottery. They have a variety of home decor and furnishings along with art and unique knickknacks such as a hand-painted serving platter. They accept consignments if you make an appointment and they are open from Tuesday through Saturday. You'll find Attic Fanatic on Augusta Street in West Columbia. Duke Antiques Duke Antiques on North Lake Drive in Lexington, South Carolina offers a variety of Victorian pieces along with some traditional antiques and some modern pieces. They also have a special vintage jewelry collection and a collection of specialty glass. Stop at Duke Antiques and spend some time in their garden gallery where they have a selection of vintage iron patio furniture and pieces where you can sit and relax or pick out some to buy and take home. This lovely antique store is open from Tuesday through Saturday and their hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you love antiques and your favorite way to spend the day is working your way through several antique stores, then you should head to Columbia and the surrounding areas. Here you can explore the shops and look for your next treasure. Image via Flickr by adactio

Whether your family is just getting started or you have older kids, you need a vehicle that will accommodate all kinds of situations. Here are some of the best Kia models for families. Kia Cadenza The Kia Cadenza is a large sedan that has a sleek look and an abundance of features. For 2017, Kia gave the Cadenza a complete redesign, and now passengers can enjoy a smoother ride. Inside the cabin, you'll find premium materials and a luxury look. It comes in three different trim levels, and even the base level Premium trim has a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The top-level Limited trim comes with a head-up display and the trunk has a power open and close feature. You'll also get rear sunshades in the Limited and heated rear seats. more Kia Optima The Kia Optima is an excellent choice for families who want a good value without feeling like they are in an economy car. The LX trim with the Convenience Package will get you almost everything your family needs from an intuitive touchscreen and safety features such as blind-spot monitoring. If you want more power than the other trims, the SX trim has a powerful turbo engine. This trim also has a hands-free trunk so you can get items in and out even when your hands are full, and it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen complete with navigation. Kia Sedona You can't have a list of family vehicles without including a minivan, and the 2017 Kia Sedona delivers. This van offers a good amount of power and a quiet ride so the kids can sleep on long road trips, and there are tons of standard and optional features. The mid-level EX trim comes with tri-zone climate control so everyone can feel comfortable, and it has sunshades in the second and third rows. The Sedona has room for up to eight passengers and comes with a powerful 3.3-liter V6 engine. Inside, you'll find plenty of storage spaces for small items, and there are 142 cubic feet of cargo room with the seats down. You can get second-row captain's chairs that slide forward for easy access to the back row, and the LATCH anchors for child safety seats are easy to find and easy to access. Kia Sorento Choose the Kia Sorento if you want space for the kids and their gear along with a vehicle you can take on weekend adventures. The 2017 Sorento is a midsize SUV available in configurations for five or seven passengers.  While front wheel drive is standard with this vehicle, you can opt for all-wheel drive, and there is also a choice of engines. Depending on the trim you can get a navigation system, a 110-volt plug for the kid's electronics, and a panoramic sunroof. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision mitigation. There are several Kia models that are an excellent choice for families whether you need a sedan, minivan, or SUV. Image via Flickr by jimwerner25

If you have never experience St. Patrick's Day in Columbia, SC., you should as soon as possible. It is an exciting time filled with fun events for everyone. There's a major celebration in the Five Points area for the holiday, and it is the highlight of the day. Everyone gets together for major concerts and other events. There is plenty to do in Columbia the entire day and well into the night. If you are looking for a new way to spend the holiday, here's your guide to St. Patrick's Day 2017 in Columbia, South Carolina. St. Pat's in Five Points The largest celebration in Columbia will be St. Pat's in Five Points. It's one of the largest festivals in the area and is dedicated entirely to St. Patrick's Day. There will be a range of events happening including art, music, food, and shopping events around the area. The festival runs from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., which is plenty of time to experience all that the festival has to offer. Music will be on the main stage with a lineup that includes Old Dominion, Villanova, and Drive By Truckers to name a few. There will also be a big parade for all to attend. It's a great event to take the entire family to. more St. Pat's Day Runs Aside from the concerts and other activities, there will be three runs scheduled in Columbia. There is a one-mile run, a 5K, and a 10K that are open to the public. They start at Maxcy Gregg Park and end at Devine Street near the festival. If you're athletic and you want a fun way to get to the festival grounds, sign up for one of the fun runs as they end near the festival's entrance. If you are able to finish the race, you'll receive a medal. Either way, each race will be a lot of fun. The Silent Disco If you're looking for something fun and adventurous that you have never tried before, check out the Silent Disco. It's a big disco-style dance party where you can dance and meet new people or dance with your friends. Everyone in the disco is provided with a set of wireless headphones, so there is no loud music. From a distance, the entire disco is completely silent, while everyone dances and has fun. If you've never tried it, you definitely should. It's an experience that you'll always remember. Family Events There are also several children-focused events that the entire family can participate in. There is a petting zoo available with small animals that little children will enjoy spending time with. There are also rides and games for the kids. They'll have a great time while learning more about St. Patrick's Day and the history behind it. The kid's area is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. St. Patrick's Day can be a fun and memorable holiday for you and your entire family. Columbia, South Carolina, is filled with fun and exciting things to do throughout the day. Between the festival and the surrounding events, you and your family can have a fun-filled day of new experiences. Image via Flickr by MDGovpics

Kia continues to innovate and improve the technology available in each of its vehicle lines. The Kia Optima is a popular choice for drivers around the world. For 2017, Kia is updating the design to include new features, as well as several new versions for different customer needs. Each has a variety of trim packages focused on improving the style and performance of the Optima line. If you are interested in the Kia Optima, here are some highlights to help you determine which 2017 Kia Optima is right for you. 2017 Kia Optima The 2017 Kia Optima is likely the most popular version available. Over the years, the Optima line provided drivers with reliable, stylish, and affordable cars that meet their needs in new ways. For 2017, Kia is updating the navigation and other interior technologies. The Optima also has a redefined engine for better performance. Several upgraded versions are available, all of which maintain affordable prices while adding new style features in different trim packages. All of the new Kia Optima models retain much of their traditional styling. Slight changes were made to the exterior, and more body modifications are available in different trim packages. The biggest changes are on the inside, where Kia added new technologies and updated the old ones to be the latest versions of what is available. more 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid For the last several years, the Kia Optima has had a hybrid version available that has been well received by drivers. Kia is using its developments in hybrid technology to improve its driving distance and performance. The new battery and hybrid engine make the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid more efficient. With the addition of the new DCT transmission, the Kia Optima can drive efficiently in gas or electric modes to extend its range without sacrificing performance. 2017 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid New to the Optima line is the 2017 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid which combines the efficiency of an electric vehicle with the performance of a gas vehicle. Unlike the Optima Hybrid, the Optima Plug-in Hybrid can be charged by plugging it in, allowing you better control over the charging process. It can be charged in places with the appropriate equipment including at home or any equipped fuel station. One of the best features about the Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid is that you can monitor its charging progress and performance using the associated Kia app. This lets you keep an eye on your vehicle while you're away and plan your trips better by knowing when your car is ready to travel. It also includes other features like the ability to lock your car remotely. Kia is consistently a leader in developing new technologies that allow drivers to experience the best performance available. Kia integrated many of the features that it developed in other projects into the Optima line, adding value to an already affordable option. With the addition of the new Plug-in Hybrid and the updates to the Hybrid and Optima, there is a model of the Optima for everyone. If you are interested in getting a new Kia Optima, then check out the three available types to ensure you get the right one for you. Image via Flickr by theKCB

There is always a lot going on in Columbia, South Carolina. You can find something new and interesting to do every day of the week. Although you're likely to enjoy many different events, there are several events that are widely known around the area. Spring is coming, and Columbia is getting ready for several big events that you are sure to enjoy. These signature events stand out because they are the most unique and enjoyable events that you can find. If you are looking for something fun and new to try, here are three signature events you won't want to miss in Columbia this spring. The Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic If you are into fishing and other outdoor sports, check out the Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic. It's a series of smaller events that highlight the best parts of being outdoors. There are things that everyone in your family can enjoy. If you're interested animals, then take your family to the Extreme Raptors show to learn more about them. You can also visit many exhibits about wildlife and outdoor sports activities. There's also a fishing competition if you're good at fishing. The Palmetto Sportsmen's classic is held March 24–26 beginning Friday at 12 p.m. Tickets are on sale through Eventbrite. Friday tickets are $5 if you order early. Saturday and Sunday tickets are $8.38 each. more The Run Hard Columbia Marathon The Run Hard Columbia Marathon will be held on March 4. If you are into running, you should check it out. Every year, Columbia hosts the marathon as a great way to start off the season. There is a half marathon as well. If you are interested in running, but you're not sure if you could do it alone, there is a marathon relay that you and your friends can participate in. If you are an experienced runner, there are cash prizes for the top three finishers, so you could recover your entry fee and some additional cash. You can register online, but do it as soon as possible. The sooner you register, the lower the price is. The Craftsmen's Classic Art and Craft Festival Columbia also has its own well-known art and craft show, the Craftsmen's Classic Art and Craft Festival. Every year, craftsmen from a variety of different focuses get together to demonstrate their work. Each craftsmen manages a booth where you can examine their work. Some items will even be for sale. The festival takes place March 3–5. Admission for adults is $8. You can get a free return pass from the admissions desk that is good for all three days. Columbia is a great place to experience new things. Spring is getting closer and Columbia is getting ready for these signature events. If you are in the area, plan to attend any and all of these signature shows for an event that you won't soon forget. Image via Flickr by Tony Fischer Photography

Electric vehicles have made major advancements in the last several years. Kia is leading these new developments with the new 2017 Kia Niro. It is a hybrid crossover with new technologies and features that can make it one of the leading crossovers on the market. If you are looking for a new car, consider the Niro. Here are some reasons why the 2017 Kia Niro is Kia's most impressive hybrid yet. Extended Driving Range When investigating hybrids, most people as the same important question about gas mileage. You'll be surprised by the Niro as it gets an amazing 50 miles per gallon and an almost 600-mile range. With a range like that, the Niro can meet or exceed the majority of cars available. Kia used advanced electronics and better technology to extend the Niro's range, making it one of the longest distance hybrids available. more Advanced Driving Technology One of Kia's main focuses is to develop new safety and driving technologies for its future vehicles. The 2017 Kia Niro uses Kia's latest smart driving technology to make safety and quality improvements in the design. The Niro comes equipped with sensor technologies like Smart Cruise Control that allows it to sense cars in front of it and adjust its speed accordingly. It also has sensors built in to monitor conditions around the car and provide you with feedback through the collision detection and lane departure warning systems. These systems help keep you safe from potential hazards on the road. Improved Drive Systems One of the most impressive changes that Kia made is that the Niro moves away from the CVT transmission design. Most electric vehicles have CVTs in order to maximize the output of their electric and gas engines. Kia developed a new transmission system that allows the Niro to achieve the maximum power output while using a six-speed DCT transmission similar to the transmission in most gas-powered cars. This new system makes the Niro feel closer to a normal gas-powered vehicle while maintaining all of the benefits of a hybrid. Energy Saving and Generating Technology If you are looking at getting a hybrid, then charging it may be a concern. The Niro can help recharge itself. Kia's braking charge technology allows the Niro to conserve and generate more energy while you drive. Each time you brake, the Niro engages a charging system that allows it to generate a charge for the battery. So by braking, the Niro can recover some of its charge. This results in an extended range by reducing the amount of energy lost each time the car changes its speed. While it may not be enough to completely recharge the battery, it helps keep your Niro running longer. Kia continuously improves its technology so that each vehicle consistently improves. The 2017 Kia Niro is the next step in the development of hybrids and raises the bar significantly. Consider these reasons that make the 2017 Kia Niro Kia's most impressive hybrid yet if you are interested in finding the best hybrid. Image via Flickr by ceiling

There's never a shortage of things to do in Orangeburg, South Carolina. With plenty of natural beauty, Valentine's Day need not be a big expense. A picnic by the lake, romantic boat trip, or stroll in the park are all great options for couples looking to spend some one-on-one time. For all the extra Valentine's touches, here's where to find what you need to round off your special day. Florists Who can forget the heart-melting sight of Richard Gere on the escalator holding a single red rose on his way to meet Susan Sarandon's character in the movie "Shall We Dance?" Flowers are always romantic and the quintessential Valentine's gesture. They never fail to delight and bring a smile to someone's face. Orangeburg has three florists to select your picture-perfect bouquet from – Acacia Flower Shop Inc., The Garden Gate Florist, and Devin's Flowers. If your loved one is overseas, Acacia and Devin's both deliver internationally. For a personalized touch, Garden Gate offers custom-made arrangements and you can choose to include balloons, chocolates, and stuffed animals. more Restaurants There's something about sharing food that draws people closer, and there's no better way than fondue. For the ultimate romantic dinner, The Melting Pot, a fabulous fondue restaurant in Columbia, is the place to book. This restaurant is popular on Valentine's Day due to its five romance packages. Go all out with the Romance Package for $150, which buys you a private booth, four-course meal, bottle of wine or champagne, a dozen roses, and framed photo to take home. You can also opt to do something smaller, like have chocolate-covered strawberries waiting on the table. Yes, this restaurant is pricey and can easily cost upward of $100 for two, but you're also paying for the unique experience. Sweets and Desserts Remember when you handed out heart-shaped candy with "Be My Valentine" written on it as a kid? Now you think it's corny, but chocolates and cakes are still a winner in the romance category. For a little nostalgia, Simply Sweets Candy Shoppe will take you back to those days of old-school candy, jelly beans, and chocolate-covered pretzels, complete with candy-dispensing machines. For ice cream, milkshakes, fudge, and desserts, head to Edisto River Creamery. The ice cream is custard-like and wonderfully rich and decadent. It's located near Edisto Memorial Gardens, known for its wide variety of beautiful flowers and award-winning roses. This makes for a perfect romantic stroll to walk off all that indulgence afterwards. Hotels and Spas If you're a visitor to Orangeburg or if you're a local looking for a staycation, check into Country Inn & Suites by Carlson. Inquire about the romance package, which treats you and your partner to a bottle of sparkling cider and a box of Ferrero Rocher candy. With late check-out until 1:30 p.m. you can laze under the covers a bit longer. If you're looking to spoil your partner with a trip to a day spa, both Me Time Body Boutique and Day Spa and Above and Beyond Wellness Day Spa will do the trick. Orangeburg has all your Valentine's needs covered. Once the restaurant is booked, the flowers are ordered, and the chocolates are wrapped, all that's left to do is to enjoy quality time with the one you love. Image via Shari's Berries

Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or you simply want a romantic meal with your special someone, there are plenty of restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina, to fit the occasion. Here are three romantic dining spots we think you'll love. Alodia's Cucina Italiana Here at Alodia's, you'll find authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for date night. Favored dishes include parmesan-panko shrimp, stuffed mushrooms, and bruschetta. Alodia's is open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, and you can take advantage of 'Tini Tuesdays with $5 martinis as well as special Wednesday discounts where you'll get $8 off every bottle of wine. From the wide selection of appetizers, entrees, soups, salads, sides, and kids' dishes, Alodia's Cucina Italiana features a memorable dining experience as well as prompt service and a friendly staff. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday brunch is available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., while Sunday dinner runs from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Location: 2736 N. Lake Drive more Solstice Kitchen Solstice Kitchen offers a unique, farm-to-table experience with a variety of seasonal soups, starters, entrees, and vegetarian dishes. May we suggest the fried green tomatoes? They're a favorite among diners. However, no matter what you choose, you'll appreciate the excellent food presentation and friendly service. You can stop by for lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. You can also stop in for dinner Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. If you're interested in checking out the extensive wine list, the bar is open Monday through Saturday starting at 5 p.m. Location: 841 Sparkleberry Lane - Suite 4 This popular restaurant fills up quickly, so be sure to book a reservation in advance! Cellar on the Greene With a full menu featuring appetizers, entrees, pizzas, flatbreads, and desserts, Cellar on the Greene is a great choice for date night. You can choose a three-course meal for $22, indulge in the chocolate mousse, and explore the many wines available from across the globe. In fact, you might want to stop by during the Giant Wine Sale & Tasting event, which takes place every other Saturday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Cellar on the Greene features a small dining area, making it ideal for couples wanting to enjoy a romantic meal in an intimate setting. The Wine Shop is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Wine Bar is available Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Location: 2001-D Greene St. From the unique menu items to the impressive wine collections, these three restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina, offer everything you need to pull off that special night with your partner. Which one tops the list as your favorite romantic spot? Image via Flickr by Katri Niemi