Pretty Bird Paradise
Rosewoods/Moore Buildings Lawn
Pretty Bird Paradise is a free, interactive exhibit open throughout the day. Step inside a tropical-themed space filled with more than 100 colorful and curious parakeets, including many rescued birds. For a small fee, you can purchase a feed stick and watch as the friendly parakeets land nearby for a snack. It is a fun, hands-on experience that also gives guests a chance to learn more about these playful, social birds.
The World’s Funnest Photo Booth
Rosewoods/Moore Buildings Lawn
The World’s Funniest Photo Booth is a fast, hilarious, green screen experience where guests can snap a photo of themselves riding outrageous things like a unicorn, dolphin or even a corn dog. Photos are printed on the spot and can also be sent digitally — making it the perfect mix of souvenir and social media moment. It’s quick, easy and guaranteed to get laughs. Don’t miss your chance to strike a pose and take home one of the most memorable keepsakes of the fair!
Carl Brunson, One-Man Band
Performing daily on the Main Street Stage
South Carolina singer Carl Brunson returns to the S.C. State Fair this year to serenade with a mix of pop, variety, Motown, blues, and more as fairgoers relax and enjoy food under the covered hospitality tent. Name it, and he can play it. Guests might even find themselves pushing back a table or two to dance!
Swifty Swine Racing and Swimming Pigs
Performing daily on Academic Avenue in front of Abernathy Arena
Always a favorite! Guests will be treated to an action-packed, fast-paced, high-energy program as “Swifty” the swimming pig plunges into an 8-foot tank, and four piglets compete for first place in a series of high-speed races. It’s the fastest pig race around!
Commerford Petting Zoo
Featured daily on Academic Avenue
Commerford and Sons Petting Zoo is a family-owned and operated petting zoo featuring domestic animals and hand-raised exotic animals that love attention. The Commerfords have been raising animals for more than 50 years. Guests are invited to get up close and meet members of the Commerford Petting Zoo family. Don’t forget to wash those hands!
Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild
Academic Avenue, Oct. 16 -18
The Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild was formed exclusively for educational purposes to encourage and facilitate the training of blacksmiths. The group shares information about sources of material and equipment, promotes the art of blacksmithing and serves as a resource for all who are interested in the craft. Guild members participate in several events throughout the year, including Ashley on the River at Magnolia Plantation in Charleston and the Renaissance Fair in Myrtle Beach.
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio Showcase
Located in the Ellison Building
Stop by the SCETV booth to discover, learn and play! Families can pick up free children’s books while exploring PBS KIDS and SCETV educational resources that inspire curiosity and lifelong learning both at home and in the classroom.
Experience the newest ways to connect with South Carolina through SCETV+ and Sound Shift. Learn how SCETV+ brings together local documentaries, public affairs, history and educational programming in one streaming destination, and explore Sound Shift, SC Public Radio’s new 24/7 streaming music service celebrating the state’s rich musical heritage.
Throughout the fair, meet some of your favorite SCETV personalities during special appearances, including Chief Meteorologist Tim Miller, Making It Growhost Amanda McNulty and everyone’s favorite friend, Smart Cat!
ERNEST LEE (“THE CHICKEN MAN”)
Appearing daily in the Small Stock Building
Beloved street artist and Columbia legend Ernest Lee is back and will be selling his popular chicken paintings, as well as other pieces, at this year’s S.C. State Fair. While Lee is widely known for his chicken paintings, his works also include ocean scenes, nature scenes, fish, pets, palmetto trees, portraits — and whatever else comes to mind.
AMERICAN TRIBUTE
The S.C. State Fair will take a moment to pay tribute to America and honor those who have and are serving the country. Every day at noon, the American flag will be raised on the main flagpole outside the Cantey Building near the South Gate and the National Anthem will be played across the public address system. Occasionally, there will be a special guest that will sing or raise the flag.