South Carolina State Fair
An annual event held in Columbia, SC since 1869, the South Carolina State Fair is one you won’t want to miss. The fair attracts over 400,000 visitors each year, and is easily the state’s largest recurring event. This huge gathering of people features great food and rides, agricultural competitions and events, and big-name performers from all over the world.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
The onstage entertainment at the State Fair is varied, yet every single act is wonderful and well worth seeing. From famous bands and musicians to local dance troupes, acting clubs, and choirs, there is something for everyone.
Best of all, because the fair features a few different stages, you’ll also be able to find some awesome performers to see during your time at the South Carolina State Fair.
Of course, onstage entertainment isn’t the only thing to see and do at this enormous event.
In addition to the plentiful performers, there are also plenty of fun competitions to check out or even participate in. There are food vendors galore, and booths selling all kinds of interesting products. Agricultural demonstrations are always interesting to see, and of course, the midway—with its many rides and games—is a must for families with kids.
Finding something to do while at the fair is never an issue, and this is especially true for the State Fair of South Carolina.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
The Palmetto State knows how to take care of its locals as well as its guests. For this reason, it should come as no surprise that the South Carolina State Fair offers a number of amenities to keep you comfortable.
Wheelchairs and scooters can be rented from the fair for your convenience. Additionally, the fair has strollers available for those who need them. There are a number of ATMs and bathrooms scattered around the fairgrounds, and a health building is the place to go should you need any sort of non-emergency medical help.
It is important to note that there are a few rules that must be followed by all patrons. For instance, no children under the age of 18 are permitted on the fairgrounds without an adult after 6pm. Additionally, all bags will be checked at the gate, and certain items—such as weapons, outside food and drinks, and even selfie sticks—won’t be allowed inside. Finally, no soliciting is allowed, and smoking is allowed only in designated areas.
LOCATION
As mentioned before, this event is located in Columbia, SC.
RVING AT THE EVENT
RVing at the South Carolina State Fair is the very best way to make sure you get to see and do everything. After all, what could be easier than staying right in the middle of the action? By staying onsite, you can go in and out of the fair whenever you please throughout the week, and you can schedule your days around the things you really want to check out.
In order to get an RV spot at the fairgrounds during the fair, you will need to fill out an online application. If your application is approved, you will be expected to pay the full amount and will be given a site with electric hookups.
Of course, even if you can’t get an RV spot at the fairgrounds, there is always the option of staying in a nearby RV park or campground. Some of the best local campgrounds include the Sesquicentennial State Park and Barnyard RV Park.
No matter where you end up staying, you will want a comfortable rig to take with you. If you don’t own an RV of your own, a rental from RVshare should fit the bill just fine!
PARKING
It’s near the center of town, making it easy to reach from any direction, and is near plenty of local attractions as well as places to eat and shop.
Parking at the fairgrounds is easy enough, and it’s quite plentiful, meaning you should never have trouble finding a spot despite the massive number of visitors the fair sees. There is a $5 charge for regular onsite parking. Handicap parking is available at Gate 6 to those who have an official handicap license or placard.
TICKETS & PRICING
Tickets to the South Carolina State Fair can be purchased in a variety of locations. Those who prefer to buy in advance can purchase their admission tickets, ride vouchers, and Grandstand concert tickets online at etix.com. Another option is to purchase in advance at local Circle K locations. That said, concert tickets cannot be bought at gas stations. Finally, there is, of course, the option of buying at the gate. However, Grandstand concert tickets may no longer be available the week of the fair.
Pricing is very reasonable, and Grandstand tickets include daily admission to the fair, making them an excellent deal. Ride tickets can be purchased individually, but buying as a package is a much better value, and the all-day ride wristband is the best deal for all.
More details about ticket pricing and purchasing can be found on this page.
WRAP UP
Are you one of the many people going to the South Carolina State Fair in 2019? If so, we’d love to see photos or hear your stories at [email protected].
Check out @SCStateFair on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for event updates!
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page.