Summer Festivals and Fairs That Bring South Carolina to Life
Nestled along the coast near Charleston, the historic district of Mount Pleasant comes alive each summer with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Southeastern Wildlife Expo held at Boone Hall Plantation. About a 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston, Boone Hall’s majestic oak-lined avenue provides a striking backdrop for this annual celebration of nature and art. Visitors can explore an array of wildlife exhibits, wildlife photography displays, and interactive conservation workshops that highlight the region’s rich biodiversity. The plantation’s centuries-old architecture and sprawling grounds make the experience not just educational but deeply atmospheric. Early summer, when the azaleas bloom and the air is warm but not yet humid, offers an idyllic time to witness this convergence of culture and environment.
Traveling inland to the foothills near Greenville, the city’s downtown district hosts the Greenville Scottish Games and Celtic Festival, which draws visitors from across the Southeast. About two hours northwest of Columbia, the event unfolds at the scenic Furman University campus and nearby Cleveland Park. Attendees can immerse themselves in traditional Highland games like caber tossing and hammer throwing, sample authentic Scottish fare, and enjoy performances by bagpipers and Celtic dancers. The verdant rolling hills of the Upstate provide a dramatic setting for this celebration of Scottish heritage, making it feel like a slice of the Highlands transplanted to South Carolina. Late spring and early summer, before the summer heat intensifies, is the perfect season to experience this festival in comfort.
Back on the coast near Myrtle Beach, the annual Carolina Country Music Festival transforms the expansive grounds of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk area into a vibrant music venue. Just a few miles from the bustling Grand Strand, this festival brings big-name country acts as well as rising stars to perform over several days. Visitors can stroll the beachfront promenade between sets, enjoying ocean breezes and the lively carnival atmosphere. What sets this festival apart is its seamless blend of world-class music with the quintessential beach town vibe that Myrtle Beach is known for. Summer evenings here come alive with the glow of sunset over the Atlantic, a postcard-perfect setting for music lovers and vacationers alike.
For a more intimate and arts-focused festival, the city of Beaufort, located about halfway between Charleston and Savannah, hosts the Beaufort Water Festival along the scenic Waterfront Park. This charming town, with its historic antebellum architecture and moss-draped oaks, provides a quintessential Lowcountry setting for celebrating the region’s connection to its rivers and marshes. Festivalgoers can enjoy boat races, seafood cook-offs, and art exhibits that showcase local maritime culture. The park’s grassy expanses and views of the Beaufort River make it an inviting place to relax and soak in the coastal atmosphere. Early summer brings pleasant weather ideal for outdoor gatherings, and the festival’s waterfront location offers a refreshing respite from the heat.
In the heart of Columbia, the South Carolina State Fair takes over the fairgrounds near the University of South Carolina in late summer. About a 10-minute drive from the city center, this sprawling event combines classic fair attractions—rides, games, and livestock shows—with a strong focus on South Carolina’s agricultural traditions. Visitors can taste regional specialties like barbecue and grits while exploring exhibits on farming innovations and heritage crafts. The fairgrounds themselves feature large pavilions and open fields that buzz with energy and community spirit. Cool evenings in late summer provide a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy live music performances and fireworks displays that cap off the festivities.
Further south, the town of Walterboro, roughly an hour southwest of Charleston, hosts the Colleton County Watermelon Festival, a beloved summer tradition. Set in Walterboro’s historic downtown square, this lively event celebrates one of the Lowcountry’s iconic crops with watermelon tastings, seed-spitting contests, and live music. The festival’s location amidst preserved antebellum homes and quaint shops lends a charming Southern small-town feel. Summer’s peak watermelon harvest ensures the freshest fruit and the juiciest samples, making this festival a delicious way to experience local agriculture and community pride.
In the upstate city of Spartanburg, about an hour northeast of Greenville, the annual Hub City Blues Festival brings together top blues musicians for a weekend of soulful performances. Hosted in downtown Spartanburg’s Morgan Square, the festival features open-air stages surrounded by historic buildings and vibrant murals. This venue highlights the city’s commitment to arts and culture and offers visitors a chance to explore Spartanburg’s burgeoning culinary scene and craft breweries between sets. The warm summer evenings enhance the experience, with the sounds of blues music blending into the rhythm of the city’s nightlife.
Finally, the town of Aiken, located about 30 miles southwest of Augusta, Georgia, offers the Aiken Bluegrass Festival, held in Hopelands Gardens. This picturesque public garden, once part of a grand estate, provides a serene outdoor setting with tree-lined paths and fountains. Bluegrass musicians perform on a stage nestled among the gardens’ lush landscaping, creating an intimate concert experience. The festival showcases the region’s musical traditions and draws both locals and visitors who enjoy the combination of natural beauty and soulful tunes. Early summer mornings and late afternoons, when the light softens and the garden’s flowers are in bloom, make attending the festival here especially memorable.