Columbia celebrating community gardens

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Columbia officials are holding a fall event to celebrate the city’s community gardens.

Organizers say the Taste of Fall event Sunday is a way to say thank you to people for making the community garden initiative a success. Visitors can stroll through the North Main Garden and enjoy fresh vegetables, apple cider and specialty foods.

In March, Columbia included community gardens as a part of its open green space network. They are strategically located throughout Columbia on land owned or controlled by the city. Officials say the gardens provide additional healthy food options, strengthen community bonds and are places for people to relax.

The family friendly event Sunday is free.