8 Annual Events to Add to Your Calendar in Western South Carolina

Courtest of Johnston Development Corp

There’s no shortage of fun community events in Western South Carolina. From holiday staples celebrating everything from the Fourth of July and Christmas to craft fairs and festivals, there is truly something for everyone. 

1. Aiken’s Makin’ 

What started as an arts and crafts fair in the 1970s has grown to become one of Aiken’s largest and most beloved events. Aiken’s Makin’ is held downtown and features hundreds of talented artisans, food vendors and live music. The two-day event typically takes place the second full weekend in September. 

“It’s one of the best events to find unique gifts, and my husband and I love hitting up the food trucks after we’ve shopped and browsed,” says Kelci Green, marketing and development director for the Western SC Economic Development Partnership. “We never miss an opportunity to browse, especially with our dog, Ozzy, who always makes a stop at the homemade dog treat vendors for a snack.” 

2. South Carolina Peach Festival 

A multiday celebration of the state’s peach industry, the South Carolina Peach Festival in Gaffney is a summer staple that is held in July during peak peach season. From peach-centric vendors to a parade, contests and live concerts, which are often called “Peach Jams,” this event is packed with fun, flavor and festivity. 

3. Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee 

Is it really spooky season without jack-o’-lanterns? North Augusta certainly doesn’t think so. Its Halloween-themed, family-oriented festival is a decades-old tradition that includes live music, arts and crafts, carnival rides, a costume contest and face painting. “Everyone in our region should visit the Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee,” says Will Williams, president and CEO of the Western SC Economic Development Partnership. “My family and I have attended numerous times and enjoyed rides, food and musical acts. It’s a highlight of local fall events.” 

4. Johnston Peach Blossom Festival 

The celebration of all things peachy is alive and well here. This festival boasts a small-town vibe and offers the staples you’d expect from a great event, like arts and crafts, food, rides and activities for kids. The festival is held in the spring and is a nod to Johnston’s peach industry. 

5. Edgefield Christmas Parade 

A local tradition for many decades, this Christmas parade is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, as it takes place at the beginning of December. The event brings the community together and features local schools, civic groups, bands, and, of course, Santa Claus. 

6. Aiken Seafood Festival 

The three-day Aiken Seafood Festival takes place in late September and features a variety of regional food vendors that specialize in creating delicious seafood dishes. 

7. McCormick Gold Rush Festival 

For over 40 years, the McCormick Gold Rush Festival has paid homage to the town of McCormick’s gold rush roots, with crafts, demonstrations, music and tours. “It’s a small-town big deal, and with its history dating back to the 1800s, you know McCormick has a story to tell,” says Theresa Daugherty, office manager for the Western SC Economic Development Partnership. “This is a can’t-miss on the fall festival agenda.” 

8. McCormick Independence Day Celebration 

Taking place near and on Lake Strom Thurmond, people love the boat parade and fireworks show. The event also features live music, food vendors and family zones. If you’re looking for a spectacular fireworks show with a guaranteed good view, this Fourth of July celebration has it all.