It was a day at the beach – without the sand.

The Brookland Beach Bash Saturday at the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater was sponsored by Soda City and Palmetto Outdoor Center.

“It’s a family-friendly event that gave us another opportunity to showcase our River-walk and take advantage of the river,” said West Columbia Mayor Bobby Horton.

“It was a first-class event from Michael Mayo of Palmetto Outdoor and Emile DeFelice of Soda City.”

The City of West Columbia supports the bash by offering parking, shuttles and the services of West Columbia Police.

Mayo said the event has more than one purpose.

“It’s the kind of activity needed to not only attract tourism, but to encourage families to move to the Three Rivers region,” Mayo said. “We’re trying to coin the phrase ‘waterside recreation’ as a means for relocation.

“The Brookland Beach Bash offers a variety of activities, on and off the water,” he said.

“We are promoting cultural diversity. I’m very big about creating a welcoming space, without barriers.

“All you have to do is wear your life jacket and it’s safe for anyone.”

Palmetto Outdoor Center and Canoeing for Kids offered free tubing and kayaking at the bash.

Music was presented by Prettier Than Matt, Boo Hag and Kings For A Day.

The bash included games, frisbees, hula hoops, badminton, and kickball provided by Todd and Moore Sporting Goods, and a movie from FunFlicks in the evening.