About This Event
Dear Bridge Dinner attendees,
We’re excited to announce that the Gervais Street Bridge Dinner will proceed as scheduled this Sunday, October 26. The forecast looks favorable, and while we know weather can always change, current conditions suggest a good odds for an evening to enjoy one of Columbia’s most beloved events.
Our team will continue to monitor the forecast closely and will notify attendees promptly if any changes arise.
At this time, we look forward to welcoming you to the bridge for an unforgettable evening of dining, community, and celebration.
Thank you for your patience and enthusiasm as we’ve kept an eye on the weather — we can’t wait to see you this weekend!
EVENT FAQ
Where can guests find parking?
We highly recommend using Uber or Lyft to travel to and from the event.
Columbia Side (East)
Guests arriving on the Columbia side can access the event through the South Carolina State Museum parking lot via Huger Street. You may also take Senate Street from Huger and turn right onto Gist Street. Please note that Gervais Street from Huger Street to the bridge will be closed to traffic.
West Columbia Side (West)
Guests arriving from West Columbia are encouraged to be dropped off at the intersection of Meeting Street and State Street for the easiest access to the event entrance.
Parking Options
If you plan to drive, parking is available in the South Carolina State Museum lot on the Columbia side of the bridge and in public parking lots on the West Columbia side.
Accessibility
Golf cart shuttles will circulate around parking areas on both sides of the bridge to assist guests who need transportation to and from the event entrances.
How can I find my table when I arrive?
Tables are arranged in sections along the bridge to help guests easily locate their seating.
Sponsor Tables
Sponsor tables are located in the center of the bridge. Each table is labeled with both a table number and the sponsor’s name.
VIP Group Tables
VIP Group tables are positioned on both sides of the Sponsor section and are labeled “VIP Group” along with a table number.
West Columbia side: Tables 30–51
Columbia side: Tables 100–122
If you purchased a VIP Group Table, your table number has been emailed to you. If you haven’t received it, please reach out to us at gervaisstreetbridgedinner@gmail.com.
VIP Early Entry Tables
VIP Early Entry tables are labeled “VIP Early Entry” with a table number. Seating in these sections is open, so you may sit at any available VIP Early Entry table.
There are two VIP Early Entry areas:
One between the VIP Group Tables and General Admission on the West Columbia side
One between the VIP Group Tables and General Admission on the Columbia side
General Admission Tables
General Admission tables offer first-come, first-served community-style seating.
West Columbia side: Tables 1–27
Columbia side: Tables 125–150
What is the event schedule?
Sponsor and VIP Entry: 3:00 PM
General Admission Entry: 4:00 PM
Upon arrival, each guest will receive a custom event wine glass, a branded koozie, and a brochure featuring the event layout and bar menu.
Guests are invited to enjoy a drink and explore the four grazing tables located along the south sidewalk — the same side as the event stage.
A call to be seated for dinner service will take place around 5:15 PM.
Last call for the bar will be at 7:00 PM, and guests are encouraged to stay and enjoy the evening’s entertainment until the event concludes at 8:00 PM.
Is there a rain date?
Yes, Sunday November 2nd.
Do I have to be 21 years old to attend?
Yes, this is a 21+ event. Please bring a valid form of ID (driver's license, passport, or government issued ID card) to show at entry.
Will there be a meal option for people with dietary restrictions?
Due to the complex logistics of this event, alternative meals for dietary restrictions are unavailable.
What should I wear?
Dress to impress or Sunday best is a good guide. You'll want to as amazing as the view from the bridge, and comfortable enough to walk the length of the bridge...probably a few times over.
Is there a refund policy?
Ticket sales are final.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Should the event be cancelled for any reason including but not limited to, inclement weather or instances beyond our control, all ticket sales will be considered a charitable donation and distributed to the beneficiaries chosen prior to the event.
Event Update On Liquor
Since its debut in 2015, cocktails have been a celebrated part of the Gervais Street Bridge Dinner experience. However, due to shifting liability regulations and increased scrutiny around liquor service in South Carolina, we will not be able to serve spirits at this year’s event.
Guests can still look forward to a full bar program featuring beer, wine, and thoughtfully crafted low-proof cocktails and aperitifs designed to complement the evening and uphold the spirit of the Bridge Dinner.
We anticipate the return of full cocktail service in 2026, as the regulatory landscape stabilizes and new partners are welcomed into the planning process. Until then, we remain committed to delivering an unforgettable evening on the bridge.
Since it’s inception in 2015, the Gervais Street Bridge Dinner has become a flagship event for the Midlands, and a celebration of the rivers that bring us together. Hosted on the iconic Gervais Street Bridge, this 1,200 person seated Sunday supper offers a breathtaking view of the Congaree River while guests enjoy live music plus beer and wine.
This year’s event will take place on Sunday October 26, 2025 with a rain date of Sunday November 2, 2025. Sponsor and VIP Group Tables begin at 3PM with General Admission at 4PM. Event concludes at 8PM.
Please sign up for 2025 event updates and notifications for 2026 bridge dinner here. Follow the bridge dinner on Facebook and Instagram.
To date, this event has raised over $250,00 for local charities. This year’s event beneficiaries are non-profits with focus on river-centric recreation, preservation, and beautification.
The West Columbia Beautification Foundation
For event questions email gervaisstreetbridgedinner@gmail.com.
Where It's Happening
Meet the Organizer
