COLUMBIA, S.C. (WPDE) — The South Carolina State Fair is set to return Oct. 15 through Oct. 25 in Columbia, offering a whole new lineup of rides, drinks, and attractions
New additions include an all-new Pepsi Plaza entertainment area that features Palmetto Championship Wrestling, Sea Lion Splash, and several musical performances throughout the fair.
Traditional entertainment such as the free daily circus and performances at the Academic Avenue stage and Main Street will return, along with much more.
This year’s special exhibits include SC250 Revolutionary South Carolina Discovery Center, inviting guests to explore South Carolina’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary War at the Ruff Building.
Also new this year is Rooted in Remembrance: Holocaust Remembered, which shares stories of Holocaust survivors with ties to South Carolina at the Cantey Building.
More than 90 food and beverage vendors will be on site, with some new additions, including deep-fried Barria tacos, key lime crunch funnel cake, and Reese’s donut burgers.
Organizers encouraged fairgoers to take advantage of the $5 menu that features a selection of candy apples, smoothies, corn dogs, cinnamon sticks, and more.
Other attractions include the Heritage Village that offers hands-on arts and crafts demonstrations and a glimpse into colonial life through exploration of historical structures, traditional crafts and demonstrations, and learning about the daily lives of early settlers.
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A variety of competitions will be held to exhibit home and craft, fine art, livestock, and animals, celebrating the talents of our local farmers and artists. A deeply rooted tradition of agriculture that has followed the fair since its beginning.
‘Rooted in fun’ is the theme of the upcoming fair, reflecting the agriculture, food, exhibits, and family traditions that have been part of the fair since 1869. General manager Nancy Smith said in a written statement that she’s proud of South Carolina’s place in American history as the country continues its America 250 celebrations.
What makes the South Carolina State Fair so special is the way it brings people together year after year… As communities across the country recognize America 250, we’re proud to celebrate South Carolina’s place in that story while continuing to create new memories for generations to come,” said Smith
Discount admission tickets are available Oct. 14 at local participating Circle K stores for $10 and online at SCStateFair.org for $11. Ride vouchers are also available for $32 at Circle K Stores or $33 online.
Daily promotions include free admission for children younger than five, discounts for seniors, and pay-one prices that provide access to unlimited rides for one day.
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