Big changes are coming to West Columbia’s Rhythm on the River Concert Series.

And there is a plan for a St. Patrick’s Day party.

“We plan to offer a St. Patrick’s Day option in the spring of 2020,” said Richard Skipper, the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce executive director.

Skipper acknowledged the success of the St. Pat’s event in 5 Points in Columbia that draws thousands for a day of bands.

He said the chamber wants to hold a different event in West Columbia.

“The 5 Points Association does a great job of creating a large St. Patrick’s Day atmosphere,” said Skipper. “But in 2020 West Columbia will have a an event with a more family-friendly atmosphere.

“We plan to have rides, bouncy houses and 6 hours of bands. It’s going to be free in a smaller, lower-key setting.”

The Fall Rhythm on the River Concert series in 2019 begins on Friday Sept. 27, and will be extended by one week through October.

The fall schedule will include 5 shows instead of 4. The concerts are from 6 pm until 9 pm at the West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheater.

The first concert is an alcohol-free event and will feature national recording artist Rob Crosby.

“It will fill a void in the community for a group of people who are not usually catered to,” said Skipper.

He said DAODAS (SC Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services) will sponsor the alcohol-free concert. With DAODAS support, it allows the chamber the resources to bring in a performer of Crosby’s status.

The popular Sourwood Honey will also play. In addition to the music, Skipper said more than 50 vendors in the substance abuse industry will be on-site.

“Some members of the West Columbia City Council are extremely excited about an alcohol-free event,” said Skipper. “It’s a good way for the chamber to be another resource for our community.”

Skipper also said the spring schedule for Rhythm on the River 2020 will begin on the day of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and end April 25, coinciding with the Second Annual West of the River Weekend. That weekend includes the Kinetic Derby Day in West Columbia and the Soiree on State in Cayce.

The Spring Rhythm on the River Concert Series will include 7 shows instead of 8, Skipper said.