Since 2020, the Columbia Animal Shelter has been hosting a Summer Concert Series, featuring live music performances in the grassy field next to the shelter. Now the organization is expanding its entertainment offerings into the colder months with the new Winter Concert Series. The concerts will be held in the warehouse across the street from the shelter, located at 265 S. 10th St., Columbia, from 6 to 9 p.m. on the second Saturday of the month from January through March.

"This is a new addition to our event lineup for 2023," said Tammy Jalbert, executive director of the shelter. "The Summer Concert Series is growing so much in popularity that people were saying they wished we could do this in the winter, too. So, we are giving people what they asked for."

The Winter Concert Series will kick off on Saturday, Jan. 14, with a performance by Matches Funk on Fire. The Columbia-based 10-piece band performs party and funk music. On Saturday, Feb. 11, rock cover band The Werx will entertain. The series will wrap up on Saturday, March 11, with a performance by Blue Voodoo.

The concerts help support the mission of the Columbia Animal Shelter, which is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming at-risk cats and dogs while also providing healthcare services for animals. Food and beverages will be for sale at the shows, with proceeds benefiting the shelter. Although there will be some tables and chairs for seating at the concerts, attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs. There is also a suggested donation for admission to the concerts, but it is not required, Jalbert said.

She encourages everyone to check out the concerts, noting that each show will offer a fun night out. "(We are) supporting local area bands and providing folks a place to gather and listen to awesome music in the winter," she stated. "Throw in some good food and beverages all to benefit Columbia Animal Shelter, and it will be an awesome night all around."

For more information on the concert series or the shelter, visit https://columbiaanimalshelter.com or search for "Columbia Animal Shelter" on Facebook.