SANDRA LEE
Oct. 8 – 9
The S.C. State Fair is serving up something extra special this year! Beloved celebrity chef, bestselling author, breast cancer survivor and Netflix’s Blue Ribbon Baking Championship co-host Sandra Lee will join the opening day celebration with a festive ribbon cutting on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Known for her approachable cooking style and passion for gathering people around food, Sandra Lee will also be onsite Oct. 8-9 hosting lively food competitions and more!
A proud supporter of fairs nationwide — and especially the S.C. State Fair — Sandra Lee brings a message of hope and resilience. As a breast cancer survivor, she joins the S.C. State Fair in giving back and supporting breast cancer awareness efforts, adding a meaningful layer to her visit. Whether you’re cheering on local cooks, celebrating survivorship or soaking in the opening-day excitement, you won’t want to miss this chance to see Sandra Lee in action at South Carolina’s biggest fall tradition.
THE BALLOON GUY
Goodman Buildling
Jeremy Telford, owner of Balloon Guy Entertainment, has spent decades wowing audiences around the world with his incredible large-scale balloon sculptures. A world record holder and featured artist in Ripley’s Believe It or Not, he’s not your average balloon twister. Stop by the Goodman Building to watch as he brings the fair’s themes to life — first with “Harvesting Happiness” (Oct. 8-12), a balloon barnyard scene with a tractor and farm animals, followed by “Merry-Grow-Round” (Oct. 13-19), a whimsical carousel of animals and produce.
PAUL BUNYAN LUMBERJACK SHOW
Performing Daily near the South Gate
Back for another year, the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show brings a slice of Americana and a whole lot of family fun to the South Gate area. Watch world-class lumberjack competitors go head-to-head in high-energy events that will keep you cheering and grinning from start to finish—because the good times never log off!
THE WORLD'S FUNNEST PHOTO BOOTH
Located outside the Moore Building
The World’s Funnest 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!
PHILIP SIMMONS BLACKSMITH GUILD
Academic Avenue, Oct. 10-12
The Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild was formed exclusively for educational purposes to encourage and facilitate the training of blacksmiths. The group disseminates information about sources of material and equipment, exposes 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, such as 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
Visit SCETV at the South Carolina State Fair and discover a dynamic mix of history, learning, and family fun! Families can meet Smart Cat during scheduled photo opportunities and step into a special Ken Burns and SC250 feature space highlighting The American Revolution and South Carolina’s vital role in it. Our booth also spotlights SCETV’s news and election coverage as we prepare to keep citizens informed heading into 2026. Guests can relax in the cozy Book Nook, where children may choose a free book to take home, reinforcing our commitment to literacy. Visitors will also enjoy branded giveaways, Kids Club sign-ups, and meet-and-greets with on-air personalities—making SCETV’s presence interactive, educational, and truly memorable.
ERNEST LEE (“THE CHICKEN MAN”)
Appearing daily in the smallstock building.
Street artist and Columbia legend Ernest Lee 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 just whatever comes out of his head.
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.