When does the South Carolina State Fair 2025 happen? Join us October 8-19 for rides, food, and fun in Columbia, South Carolina.
Table Of Contents
Introduction
Hey there, fair fans!
At THOUSIF Inc. – USA, we are pumped to answer the question: When is the South Carolina State Fair 2025?
This iconic event highlights Palmetto State’s calendar, bringing together families, foodies, and thrill-seekers for 12 days of unforgettable fun.
This guide will dive into the dates, location, history, attractions, and insider tips to help you plan your visit.
Whether you are a local or just passing through, the South Carolina State Fair is a must-experience celebration of Southern culture and community spirit.
When And Where Is It Happening?
The South Carolina State Fair 2025 will be held from October 8 to 19 at the State Fairgrounds in Columbia, South Carolina.
Located at 1200 Rosewood Drive, Columbia, SC 29201, the fairgrounds are easily accessible from Interstates 26, 77, and 20, making them a convenient destination for visitors across the state and beyond.
The 12-day event runs daily, with hours typically from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., though these are subject to change due to weather or fair management decisions.
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | October 8-19, 2025 |
| Location | 1200 Rosewood Drive, Columbia, SC 29201 |
| Hours | Generally 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (check website for updates) |
| Parking | $5 at Gate 6 (901 George Rogers Blvd); free in some lots |
A Deep Dive Into The Fair’s History
Since its inception in 1869, the South Carolina State Fair has been a cornerstone of its agricultural and cultural heritage.
The State Agricultural and Mechanical Society of South Carolina, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, organized the fair to showcase the state’s farming and industrial achievements.
It is now South Carolina’s largest recurring event, drawing over 400,000 visitors annually.
The fair’s journey reflects South Carolina’s resilience and evolution.
Early fairs in the Lowcountry date back to the 1720s, with state fairs held in Columbia from 1841 to 1861.
After a pause during the Civil War, the fair was revived in 1869 on Elmwood Avenue before settling at its current Rosewood Drive location in 1904.
Remarkably, it operated yearly during World War II, with only one cancellation in 1918 due to the Spanish flu.
A pivotal moment came in 1965 when the fair was integrated, ending the era of the separate Colored State Fair (later the Palmetto State Fair), which ran from the 1890s to 1969.
By 1970, the fair became a unified event, welcoming all.
Today, it continues to honor its roots while embracing inclusivity and modern entertainment with initiatives like the Ride of Your Life Scholarship program, which awards $500,000 annually to South Carolina students.
What To Expect At The 2025 Fair
The South Carolina State Fair is a vibrant celebration of rides, food, entertainment, and agriculture.
Here is a breakdown of what is in store based on recent years:
Thrilling Rides
With nearly 70 rides provided by North American Midway Entertainment, the fair offers something for everyone.
Thrill-seekers can tackle high-energy rides like The Zipper, known for its spins and G-forces, while families enjoy classics like the Double Decker Carousel or Flying Dumbos.
The Celebration Wheel, a 150-foot Ferris wheel, offers breathtaking views of Columbia, especially at night.
Look out for Pay-One-Price (POP) ride days, where a wristband grants unlimited rides, perfect for maximizing fun.
Mouthwatering Food
With over 90 food stands, the fair is a food lover’s paradise.
Dig into classics like foot-long corn dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy, or try bold new items like peach cobbler funnel cakes, poutine burgers, or deep-fried golden Oreos.
Local flavors shine with South Carolina barbecue and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
For a sweet treat, visit the Pro Kitchen Cookie Kitchen for warm cookies paired with coffee from Oliver Gospel Mission.
Live Entertainment
The fairgrounds buzz with performances across multiple stages.
The free CIRCUS at the Fair features daring acts like the Wheel of Destiny, while stages like Pepsi Place and Academic Avenue host local bands, tribute acts, and comedians.
Roving entertainers like magicians and hypnotists like Ron Diamond add spontaneous fun.
The Rocket Plaza near the North Gate is a new hub for acts like Cast in Bronze, featuring the majestic carillon, and The Farmer’s Daughter, a high-energy farm-themed show.
Agricultural Exhibits
The fair stays true to its roots with exhibits celebrating South Carolina’s farming heritage.
Explore displays of pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and livestock competitions, or visit the Commerford Petting Zoo to meet farm animals.
The From Field to Fair program offers hands-on learning about sustainable agriculture, while the Swifty Swine Racing Pigs bring laughter and excitement.
Themed Attractions
The 2025 fair continues the 46 Reasons to Celebrate South Carolina theme, highlighting the state’s 46 counties through interactive exhibits.
The South Carolina Grown Marketplace in the Rosewoods Ballroom showcases local crafts, produce, and goods.
The Heritage Village offers a glimpse into frontier life with historical structures and crafts like glassblowing.
Art lovers can stroll through the Cantey Building to admire works by amateur and professional artists, from ceramics to photography.
| Attraction | Highlights | Why It’s a Must |
|---|---|---|
| Rides | Celebration Wheel, The Zipper, Flying Dumbos | Thrills and family fun |
| Food | Funnel cakes, poutine burgers, and local barbecue | Classic and bold flavors |
| Entertainment | CIRCUS at the Fair, Rocket Plaza acts | Diverse, free performances |
| Agricultural Exhibits | Petting zoo, racing pigs, produce displays | Educational and interactive |
| Themed Attractions | SC Grown Marketplace, Heritage Village | Celebrate local culture |
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of the South Carolina State Fair, here are some practical tips:
- Tickets: Buy in advance at Circle K stores or online for savings. At the gate, tickets are typically $20 for ages 6-54 and $15 for seniors (55+), with kids 5 and under free. The Lunch Bunch deal (Monday–Friday, noon–2 p.m.) lets you pay $20, enjoy the fair, and get a refund if you leave by 2 p.m.
- Special Days: Look for promotions like Seniors Day (October 15, 2025, with $5 admission for 55+) or Military Appreciation Day. Check the fair’s website for the full schedule.
- Parking: Parking costs $5 at Gate 6 (901 George Rogers Blvd), but some lots are free on a first-come, first-served basis. Use the North Gate for pedestrian or drop-off access.
- Clear Bag Policy: For safety, bags must be clear and no larger than 12x12x6 inches, with exceptions for diaper bags or medical needs.
- Comfort: Wear comfy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—Columbia’s October weather can be warm. Bring sunscreen and hats.
- Cash and Cards: Most vendors accept cards, but cash is handy for smaller stands and games.
| Tip | Details | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Buy Tickets Early | Circle K or online | Save money, avoid lines |
| Special Days | Seniors Day, Military Day | Discounted admission |
| Parking | $5 at Gate 6; some free lots | Budget-friendly access |
| Clear Bag Policy | 12x12x6 clear bags | Hassle-free entry |
| Comfort | Sneakers, sunscreen | Enjoy exploring |
Community Impact
The South Carolina State Fair is not just about fun.
It is a force for good.
As a nonprofit, it supports education through the Ride of Your Life Scholarship program, awarding $500,000 annually to 50 South Carolina high school seniors.
Since 1997, over $6 million in scholarships have helped students pursue higher education.
The fair also boosts the local economy, generating $16.6 million in wages and a total impact of $45.5 million.
Recent efforts include a $200,000 donation for Hurricane Helene relief in 2024.
Conclusion
So, when is the South Carolina State Fair 2025?
It will be held October 8-19 at the State Fairgrounds in Columbia, and it will be a blast!
From heart-pounding rides and delicious eats to live entertainment and agricultural exhibits, this 12-day event has it.
Whether chasing thrills, savoring local flavors, or learning about South Carolina’s heritage, the fair delivers memories that last a lifetime.
Visit the official South Carolina State Fair website for the latest on tickets, schedules, and attractions.
We at THOUSIF Inc. – USA, are counting the days.
We hope to see you there, soaking up the Palmetto State’s charm!
Trivia
Did you know the South Carolina State Fair has run almost every year since 1869, with only one cancellation in 1918 due to the Spanish flu? That is over 150 years of bringing joy to South Carolinians.
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