And we’re here to help you do just that. Our experienced physicians, nurses and health professionals want nothing more than to help make you well again.
Our network of care includes more than 70 physician practices in Richland and Lexington counties. Our community medical and urgent care centers offer lab work, diagnostic tests, outpatient surgery and after-hours care. And our state-of-the-art hospital stands ready to care for you whether you’re welcoming a new baby, seeking treatment for cancer or need surgery for your heart.
Whenever you need us, Lexington Medical Center is here for you. So if you don’t already have a doctor or you’re looking for a new one, visit LexMed.com/Doctors. We wish you a lifetime of good health and happiness.
FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Welcome to the 2024 South Carolina State Fair! This year, we are celebrating with the theme, “46 Reasons to Celebrate South Carolina,” which highlights the unique character, culture, and communities that make up our great state. From the mountains to the coast, each of South Carolina’s 46 counties has something special to offer, and we are excited to showcase their stories. Visitors will be able to explore exhibits from every county, dive into our agricultural heritage, and learn fun facts about each area. It’s a celebration of everything that makes South Carolina a place we are proud to call home.
One of the most exciting new additions this year is our South Carolina Grown Marketplace, which shines a spotlight on local artisans and creators. It’s a onestop shop for fairgoers to discover and purchase handmade and homegrown products, all produced right here in the Palmetto State. By supporting these vendors, we are not only offering a taste of South Carolina’s creativity and craftsmanship but also promoting small businesses and the local economy. We invite everyone to come out, meet the makers, and experience the richness of South Carolina’s communities through their work.
At the heart of the South Carolina State Fair is our commitment to education, and this mission is central to everything we do. As a nonprofit organization, we are proud to invest in the future of South Carolina’s youth through our Ride of Your Life Scholarship Program, which has awarded over $5 million in scholarships to deserving students since 1987. By visiting the fair, you are directly supporting this mission, helping us continue to offer these life-changing opportunities to students across the state. Whether you’re enjoying a show, competing in an exhibit, or discovering new entertainment, know that you’re contributing to a legacy of education and community service that we hold dear.
As you explore this special section, we hope you’ll be inspired to plan your trip to the South Carolina State Fair. Discover exhibits you’ve never experienced, check out our entertainment schedule, and learn about the many educational opportunities waiting for you. Don’t forget to indulge in all the delicious fair food, take a spin on the fun rides, and enjoy the excitement of our free daily CIRCUS at the fair.
06 The South Carolina State Fair’s 2024 theme will highlight every county in South Carolina 08 Discover the Talent at the South Carolina State Fair’s Competitive Exhibits 15 From Ferris Wheels to Futures 16 Celebrate at the Pepsi Place Stage 16 Celebrate at the Stage Shows
17 Celebrate at the NEW Rocket Plaza
18 Here’s even more FREE entertainment you won’t want to miss
19 The State Fair is an Art Lover’s Paradise
AT THE SC STATE FAIR-INSIDE THE GOODMAN BUILDING
• 2,100 square foot Candy Maze
• 500+ Varieties of Candy (including old-fashioned candy classics!)
• Freeze-Dried Candy (a new favorite!)
The South Carolina State Fair’s 2024 theme will highlight every county in South Carolina
BY EMMITT MURRAY
CONTRIBUTOR: ABBY MILKES
The South Carolina State Fair’s 2024 theme, “46 Reasons to Celebrate South Carolina,” will showcase all that is special about each county in the state during this year’s annual fair, which runs October 9-20. This year’s theme, highlighting the vitality and history of each county, is designed to make the fair even more attractive to visitors across the entire state.
“The South Carolina State Fair is excited to offer each county an opportunity to showcase what makes them shine. By doing so, we are hopeful this will be an incentive to bring more visitors from around the state to our great fair,” said the South Carolina State Fair general manager, Nancy Smith.
Kathy Allen, the fair’s marketing and human resources director, explained that the theme was designed to provide more inclusivity statewide.
“They (Smith and the fair’s executive committee) thought “46 Reasons to Celebrate South Carolina” would be a fabulous theme for us because then we can easily involve the whole state in the celebration,” Allen said.
According to a survey conducted on the fairgrounds, about 70% of fair attendees come from within a 50–75-mile radius of Columbia. By extending a greater reach to all 46 counties, the goal is to expand the demographic to other areas of the state. Typically, the fair theme is decided after many brainstorming sessions and meetings. However, this year’s theme was inspired by the Tennessee State Fair/Wilson County Fair, which had a similar theme. In keeping with the theme, each county will have its own display and banners set up in the Ruff Building. The fair hired a project coordinator, Lauren Sherr, to handle some of the banners, county theme, and exhibit area aspects.
“My vision for it (the exhibit area) is that it feels like walking into a beautiful South
Carolina day. Then you can take a tour of the state without having to leave the building,” Sherr said. Each exhibit will also feature fun facts about the counties, which brings an additional educational aspect to the fair. There will also be a large interactive map of South Carolina displaying the counties. Visitors can use a sticker or push pin to represent what county they are from. The map will also serve as a great photo opportunity.
South Carolina elementary school students will take center stage in the Ruff building one day during the fair to perform a special county song. This statewide tradition features a catchy melody listing all 46 counties of the Palmetto
State in alphabetical order. Additionally, a karaoke machine will be set up. Fair visitors are encouraged to take the microphone and sing along to the 46 Counties Song. Use the QR code above to start practicing now with the help of Satchel Ford Elementary School students. The rear of the Ruff Building will be dedicated to an interactive area, showcasing talents of various kinds from several of our counties. Fair guests may hear some music, see some pottery thrown, or watch as a beautiful sweetgrass basket is completed. This is just a sampling of what’s to come.
Other additions to this year’s fair will be our first “South Carolina Grown Marketplace” in the Rosewoods Building. In the marketplace, South Carolina business owners can showcase and sell their products. South Carolina business owners can showcase and sell products that are made, grown, or sewn in the state. The South Carolina State Fair hopes to see the marketplace return year after year! Kayla Williams is the South Carolina Grown Marketplace coordinator. “I have been overwhelmed by the amount of interest shown from local small businesses and owners. Currently, we have a good variety of items that also represent more than 20 counties,” said Williams. She is already making plans for next year’s mar-
ketplace!
To get all the counties involved, the fair has secured the assistance of Mary-Kathryn Craft, communications director for the South Carolina Association of Counties, whose job has been to find a point of contact for each county throughout the state and connect them with the fair.
“My goal is to get all 46 counties involved and make sure they get their moment in the sun because it’s all about the counties,” Craft said.
Ultimately, fair officials want to ensure that they are able to not only highlight and bring out the best in every county but also to attract more families from around the state that typically would not have come.
“I look forward to folks from each county coming to the SC State Fair this year to see their exhibits and discover some of their county-grown products. This year’s theme is a good vehicle to attract first-time fair attendees from all across the state. They can come and see what makes South Carolina a great state,” said Nancy Smith.
46 REASONS TO CELEBRATE SOUTH CAROLINA
WE ARE LOOKING FOR BUSINESSES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND INDIVIDUALS TO SPONSOR.
PHOTO BY FORREST CLONTS
Discover the Talent at the South Carolina State Fair’s Competitive Exhibits
The South Carolina State Fair is not just about thrilling rides and delicious food—it’s also a stage for showcasing the incredible talents of South Carolinians through our competitive exhibits. Each year, individuals can register to enter their creations, crafts, and skills for a chance to win coveted blue ribbons and sometimes cash prizes.
Whether it’s a blue ribbon and a $10 prize for a student art masterpiece or a $2,500 Farm Bureau scholarship for youth in equine or livestock
competitions, the rewards are as diverse as the talents displayed. Our exhibits celebrate everything from horse, goat, and rabbit shows to intricate quilts, dollhouses, Lego creations, and even gigantic pumpkins and the most beautiful flowers. Don’t forget the impressive art and photography competitions, which feature works from students to professional artists, earning our fair a reputation for hosting one of the best art shows in the Southeast.
With adult and youth divisions across most categories, there’s something for everyone.
Plus, who could resist the charm of our pig or horse costume contests or the creativity of the scarecrow decorating contest? The South Carolina State Fair’s competitive exhibits are a true testament to the extraordinary talent found in our state.
The entry period for this year’s fair has closed, but statewide residents are encouraged to plan ahead and enter next year’s event beginning in July. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it.
For more details on competitive exhibits, please visit scstatefair.org.
Competitive Exhibit Directory
Do you wanna see a pig?
Head to the swine arena!
October 11: On Display
October 12: Jr. Swine Showmanship:
Little ones will guide their pigs through the arena and be judged on control and style
October 12: Swine Show
October 13: Swine Show
October 13 at 1 PM: Swine Costume Contest
October 15: Hog Show
Do you wanna see a cow?
Head to the cattle arena!
October 11 at 3 PM: Daily Cattle Showmanship
October 12: Diary Cattle Show:
Watch a live milking of a dairy cow in our milking parlor
October 13: Dairy Cattle Show
October 16: Beef Cattle on Display
October 17: Beef Cattle Show
October 18: Beef Cattle Show
October 19: Beef Cattle Show
Do you wanna see a horse?
Head to the horse arena!
October 9: Paso Fino Exhibition:
Guests can walk through the barns too!
October 10: Paso Fino Exhibition
October 11: Youth Horse Show Day 1
October 12: Youth Horse Show Day 2
October 12 at 11 AM: Spirit of the South Carolina Horse Costume Contest
October 13: Youth Horse Show Day 3
Do you wanna see a goat?
Head to the goat arena!
October 18: Junior Market Goat Show
Do you wanna see a chicken or a rabbit?
Head to the small stock building!
October 9-20: Chickens and rabbits on display in the small stock building
October 12: 4-H Poultry and Rabbit Showmanship
Do you wanna see some lambs and ewes?
Head to the sheep/goat arena!
October 18: Junior Market Lamb and Junior Commercial Ewe Show
Do you wanna see some donkeys and mules?
Head to the horse arena!
October 18: Donkey Mule Show Day 1: Guests can walk through the barns too!
October 19: Donkey Mule Show Day 2
Do you wanna see some bees?
Head to the Ellison Building!
Beekeepers will be visiting during the fair to answer questions and provide education on all things bees.
Be sure to stop by and shop for your favorite bee products, such as local honey, wax candles, and more!
Do you wanna see some beautiful plants and flowers?
Head to the Cantey Building!
Check out our beautiful collection of tropical plants, cut horticulture, and native species during the fair.
Do you wanna see s ome Christmas trees?
Head to the Ellison Building!
Learn about where Christmas trees come from and their connection to South Carolina.
Do you wanna see some Japanese Flower Arranging?
Head to the Cantey Building!
Check out beautiful flower arrangements by Columbia’s Ikebana International Chapter that will be on display during the fair.
Do you wanna see some South Carolina-grown produce?
Head to the Ellison Building!
Come see what’s in season and recognize some of South Carolina’s award-winning farmers.
Do you wanna see a dollhouse?
Head to the Moore Building!
Witness the precision and attention to detail in the sweet “little” hobby of dollhouse making. See a variety of miniature displays, all crafted by hand.
Do you wanna see some amazing photography?
Head to the Cantey Building!
Check out some of South Carolina’s best photographers as you browse collections of amateur and professional entries.
Do you wanna see some wine?
Head to the Ellison building!
Check out our homemade wine contest, judged by certified wine judges, and see local brews from our state.
Do you wanna see some scarecrows?
Head to the Ellison Building!
October 12: Live scarecrow building demonstration
View our collection of homemade scarecrows during the fair.
Do you wanna see a fancy cake?
Head to the Moore Building!
Admire artistic, amazing cake creations that look like they came straight from a gourmet bakery, and see some fancy cookies, too!
Do you wanna see some beautiful home-made pies?
Head to the Moore Building!
Check out our mouth-watering displays of baked goods, including every pie flavor you can imagine!
Do you wanna see a homemade quilt?
Head to the Moore Building!
Come see our collection of needlepoint, knitting, crocheting, and other projects made with love and care.
Do you wanna see South Carolina’s finest student art?
Head to the Cantey Building!
Browse our large display of impressive creations by South Carolina students from grades K-12.
Do you wanna see some amazing LEGO creations?
Head to the Moore Building!
Check out this showcase of the globally popular hobby with fantastic creations from builders all over the state.
Do you wanna see some humongous pumpkins?
Head to the Ellison Building!
You won’t see these giants at your local pumpkin patch! Check out our largest-by-weight pumpkin contest to see who reigns supreme.
46 REASONS TO CELEBRATE SOUTH CAROLINA
PHOTO BY FORREST CLONTS
Do you wanna see some fairy gardens?
Head to the Cantey Building!
Browse our gallery of amateur and professional entries from South Carolina’s best artists.
Do you wanna see some roses? Head to the Cantey Building!
October 9-10: Old Rose Exhibition
October 11-13: South Carolina Rose Society Show
Do you wanna see some Camellias? Head to the Cantey Building!
October 18-20: Mid-Carolina Camellia Show
Do you wanna see what South Carolina’s youth are entering in the fair’s competitive exhibits?
All livestock
Junior Showmanship
Student Art
All plants
Scarecrow Decorating Contest
Youth Home and Craft Divisions
4-H Home and Craft Divisions
4-H Rabbit and Poultry Showmanship
PHOTOS BY FORREST CLONTS
From Ferris Wheels to Futures: The Scholarship Benefits of the South Carolina State Fair.
BY LEXI GASTELU
The South Carolina State Fair welcomes over 400,000 guests every year. Most fairgoers bring their family members or friends along for the ride without realizing that their purchases fund a self-supporting 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Many people are unaware of one of the fair’s primary purposes—funding education for South Carolina youth.
Every ticket purchased, car parked, and corndog eaten supports the fair’s Ride of Your Life Scholarship fund. Fifty high school seniors are selected annually to receive a two or four year scholarship of $10,000. Students receive this scholarship in installments of $2,500 annually during their enrollment at any state public, private, or technical college or university. This allows South Carolina’s future professionals to gain valuable education and experience without the barrier of tuition costs.
While the South Carolina State Fair is a once-a-year thrill for families, competitors, and entertainment enthusiasts, it represents a life-changing opportunity for a select group of young adults. The Ride of Your Life Scholarship program, funded by the fair, provides more than fifty students with $500,000 in scholarship awards. This year, thanks to a generous $34,000 donation from State Fair partner, Circle K, three additional students, including a Circle K employee or dependent, will benefit from this lifechanging opportunity.
Scholarship applications for the Ride of Your Life Scholarship program are accepted every February. Awardees are selected based on a comprehensive evaluation of their academic and extracurricular achievements, communication skills, financial need, and the completeness of their application. For more information on the application process and the scholarship program, visit scstatefair.org/scholarships.
PHOTO BY FORREST CLONTS
Celebrate at the Pepsi Place Stage
The Pepsi Place Stage at the South Carolina State Fair offers free concerts with admission, featuring a wide variety of music genres and talented artists. Enjoy everything from beach music to gospel, rock, pop, and more. Most concerts begin at 7 p.m., but be sure to check SCStateFair.org for exact times and updates.
Here’s the lineup:
Oct. 9, 7 p.m. – The Tams: R&B, Soul, and Beach Music
Oct. 10, 7 p.m. – The Best of Everything – A Tribute to Tom Petty: Rock
Rising Nashville star bringing country classics and original hits.
Ron Diamond Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 9-20
Comedy, hypnosis, and illusion in an engaging, interactive show.
RENATA THE BAND Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 11-12
Harmony-driven sibling trio delivering high-energy country performances.
J. Scott Thompson & Michael Mango Netterfield Stage, Oct. 9-20
Enjoy a blend of soulful Americana storytelling and smooth pop-soul vocals.
Carl Brunson, One-Man Band Main Street Stage, daily
A versatile performer playing pop, blues, and more in a relaxed setting.
PHOTOS BY FORREST CLONTS
Celebrate at the NEW Rocket Plaza
Located near the iconic rocket and the North Gate, this exciting space will be your go-to destination for fun and excitement. It brings a new meaning to “Meet your mother at the rocket!” Check SCStateFair. org for exact times and updates.
Cast in Bronze Epic
Carillon performance by world-class musician Charlie St. Cyr-Paul.
The Farmer’s Daughter Farmtastic Tricks, gymnastics, and laughter-packed rural fun.
The Silver Starlets Dazzling Aerial acrobatics on a 20-foot trapeze rig with glitz and grace.
Major League Sports Show
A thrilling mix of circus stunts blended with baseball and football excitement.
PHOTO BY FORREST CLONTS
Here’s even more FREE entertainment you won’t want to miss
Celebrate at the CIRCUS at the Fair!
Returning for its fifth year, the CIRCUS at the South Carolina State Fair is back with thrilling new acts and fan favorites! Located near the South Gate by the Ellison Building, this 40-minute show will amaze audiences of all ages. Enjoy free daily shows at 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m., with stunning performances by Ringmaster Ian Garden, the daring Wheel of Destiny, hilarious clowns Renaldo and Little Lou, the world’s fastest juggler Nilson Escobar, and many more incredible talents including aerialist Aidan Bryant and human cannonball Tina Miser!
Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show
Performing daily near the South Gate, this high-energy show brings classic lumberjack competitions to life with thrilling displays of strength and skill.
Swifty Swine Racing and Swimming
Pigs Catch these fun-filled races and swimming pig shows daily on Academic Avenue in front of Abernathy Arena.
Commerford Petting Zoo
Featured daily on Academic Avenue, this family-owned petting zoo invites guests to meet domestic and exotic animals up close.
Handyman Hal
Appearing October 18-20 in front of Rosewoods, Handyman Hal, YouTube’s beloved children’s character, brings interactive fun and learning for all ages.
Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild
From October 11-13 on Academic Avenue, watch live blacksmithing demonstrations and explore the art of traditional metalwork.
SCETV and Public Radio Showcase
Located in the Ellison Building, SCETV offers scavenger hunts, interactive activities, and meet-and-greets with your favorite SCETV personalities.
PAALS (Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services)
On October 17 in the Goats/Swine Barn, PAALS will host sensoryfriendly events and demonstrations to showcase the life-changing work of service animals.
Chef Landry’s Comedy Cooking Show
Join Cajun Chef Scott Landry daily in the Goodman Building for a fun blend of comedy and mouth-watering cuisine.
PHOTO BY FORREST CLONTS
The State Fair is an Art Lover’s Paradise
The South Carolina State Fair offers more than just thrilling rides and delicious food; it’s also a hidden gem for art enthusiasts.
Discover Unique Artworks
Have you ever walked through the fine art exhibits in the fair’s Cantey Building and thought, “That piece would look amazing in my living room”?
Each year, the fair hosts competitive art exhibits featuring works by both amateurs and professionals in South Carolina. The categories are 2-D, 3-D, and photography. All artwork is original and has been completed within the last two years.
The various artists who have entered this year’s competitive exhibits will indicate whether their artwork is for sale and, if so, will list the asking price. If the
piece is not for sale, it will be marked “NFS.” This information can be found on each exhibit.
If you find yourself interested in an available piece, you can grab a public interest sheet available on tables near the Fine Art section in the Cantey Building. Please provide your name and contact information on the form using the pens provided. Once completed, submit the form at a designated drop-off location. The artist will receive your information when they pick up their artwork. It is the artist’s responsibility to contact interested buyers.
If you have any questions, a staff member in the Cantey Building will be happy to assist.
Ernest Lee, “The Chicken Man”
For a truly unique art experience, head to the small stock building and meet Ernest
Lee, the legendary Columbia street artist known as “The Chicken Man.” Lee’s vibrant and whimsical paintings, featuring everything from chickens to ocean scenes, are a must-see. His artwork will be available for purchase, offering visitors a chance to own a piece of South Carolina history.
Explore the South Carolina Grown Marketplace
New this year, the South Carolina State Fair is excited to introduce the South Carolina Grown Marketplace in the Rosewoods building. This unique store will feature a curated selection of products exclusively made or grown within the state, including artwork created by talented South Carolina artists.
Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply appreciate beautiful pieces, the South Carolina State Fair has something to offer everyone.
PHOTO BY FORREST CLONTS
Celebrate in the Heritage Village!
Located in Hampton Plaza near Rocket Plaza, Heritage Village offers an immersive look into early American life with hands-on crafts and historical demonstrations.
Hot Glass Academy
Watch professional artists create stunning glass art at 2,100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Michael Felk – Tinsmith See 18thCentury tinsmithing tools in action as Michael crafts practical and decorative items.
American Heritage Museum
Explore hands-on exhibits showcasing early American ingenuity and craftsmanship.
Heart Felt Creations Experience
Live demonstrations preserving traditional craftsmanship and historical skills.
Purgatory Iron Works
Watch skilled blacksmiths forge historical tools and hardware with centuries-old techniques.
NEW: Primitive Skills with Scott Jones
Learn essential frontier skills like fire making, flint knapping, and basket weaving.
NEW: Traditional Woodworking with Kaleo Simmons
See demonstrations of historical woodworking techniques and the creation of wooden household items.
Daily
Promotions at the South Carolina State Fair Oct. 9-20
FREE Admission for Children Kids 5 and under get in free every day.
Pay-One-Price (POP) Ride Days Enjoy unlimited rides by exchanging a voucher for a POP wristband at designated ticket booths. Every ride is included!
Seniors (55 & Older)
Seniors pay $15 daily, except for Senior Day on Oct. 16, when admission is just $5.
Lunch Bunch
Visit the fair from noon to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday with a special ticket. Pay the entry fee, and get a $20 ticket refunded when you return by 2 p.m.
American Tribute
Join us daily at noon for the raising of the American flag and the National Anthem at the main flagpole.
Special Day Promotions
Wed, Oct. 9 (Opening Day!)
$5 admission at the gate only. Gates open at noon, rides start at 3 p.m.
Thu, Oct. 10 Military Appreciation Day Free admission for active and retired military and dependents (ID required). SC Farm Bureau Day –Free admission for two with a valid membership card.
Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m.
Fri, Oct. 11 Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m.
Sat, Oct. 12 4-H Day – Free admission with an official 4-H membership card. S.C. Votes Day
Sun, Oct. 13 Free admission with a 2024 Walk for Life or Famously Hot Pink Walk/Race T-shirt.
Mon, Oct. 14 College Day – $5 admission for college students with a valid ID.
Military Appreciation Day – Free admission for active and retired military and dependents (ID required).
Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m.
Tue, Oct. 15 FFA Day – Free admission for FFA members with a membership card.
Physics Day – Free admission for students with an official wristband from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m.
Wed, Oct. 16 Seniors Day – $5 admission at the gate. Free Ferris wheel rides for those 55+.
Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m.
Thu, Oct. 17 Sensory-Friendly Morning – Free entry from 10 a.m.noon for individuals with autism or sensory processing disorders and one companion.
Exceptional Citizens Day – All day, free admission for individuals with for individuals with disabilities and one companion.
Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m.
Fri, Oct. 18 Lunch Bunch – Noon-2 p.m. HIS Radio 92.1 Family Day
SENSORY FRIENDLY MORNING
October 17 10 a.m. – 12 noon
SOUTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR
PHOTOS BY FORREST CLONTS
New Traffic Pattern
THE SHORT AND SWEET OF IT
We’ve made some exciting improvements to traffic patterns at the fair this year to make arrival and departure smoother than ever. This includes:
More entrance locations.
More exit locations.
Improved parking procedures.
Additional parking and street signage. You can now enter or exit through Gate 10 and Gate 6 with ease. Plus, we’ve added Gate 7 as a new entrance gate with two lanes in, and Gate 8 now has two lanes out for a quicker exit.
PRO
TIP:
If you’re heading to the fair via Shop Road driving toward downtown, we recommend turning left on George Rogers Blvd. and entering through either Gate 7 or Gate 10 for the fastest route in.
UPDATED YOUTH ADMISSION POLICY
Sunday-Thursday:
• After 5:00 PM: Anyone under 18 MUST be with a parent (21 or older) to enter.
• 18 and over? You might be asked to show a valid driver's license to prove your age after 5:00 PM. No driver's license and no parent? You won't be able to enter after 5:00 PM.
NEW
Friday-Saturday:
• All Day: Anyone under 18 MUST be with a parent (21 or older) to enter.
• 18 and over? You might be asked to show a valid driver's license to prove your age on these days. No driver's license and no parent? You won't be able to enter on these days.
Need to Know More?
• Our staff will be checking valid driver's licenses before you reach the ticket scanners during
youth policy times and days.
•
•
Celebrate at the Food Stands
The South Carolina State Fair’s 90+ food stands offer a treasure trove of both classic and adventurous foods, including foot-long corn dogs, Greek salads, turkey legs, and fried Oreos. This year, tantalize your taste buds with a range of new and exciting offerings!
Embark on a culinary journey with the new food map at scstatefair.org/foodmap.
New Food Highlights:
Mr. Seafood (#2):
Try seafood nachos, seafood fries, and classic po’ boys.
Deep Fried Tacos (#33): Enjoy deep-fried tacos, Mexi mac and cheese, and rice bowls.
Chipotle Chicken Bacon Ranch Sundae (#121):
A savory masterpiece of garlic parmesan fries, bacon, chicken, and chipotle ranch.
Strawberry Dragon Fruit Lemonade (#121 & #224):
A tropical refreshment blending lemonade, strawberry tea, and dragon fruit.
Korean Corn Dog (#215):
A crispy, panko-crusted corn dog with cheese, topped with sweet chili and Sriracha.
Rocket Iced Tea with Souvenir Cup (#227):
Sweet tea or Arnold Palmer served in a collectible rocket-shaped cup.
Deep Fried Corn on a Stick (#72): Deep-fried corn topped with mayo, Parmesan, and a side of hot sauce.
Palmetto Kettle Corn (#H2): Indulge in sweet and salty kettle corn or buttery movie-theater popcorn.
Peach Cobbler Funnel Cake (#47): A crispy funnel cake topped with peach cobbler and powdered sugar.
Poutine Burger (#224):
A burger loaded with fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Campfire Dog (#224):
A hot dog topped with baked beans and crispy bacon.
Deep Fried Golden Oreo (#212): Golden Oreos fried to perfection, wrapped in funnel cake batter.
Funnel Dog (#13 & #51):
A hot dog wrapped in funnel cake and served with maple syrup.
