Oct. 15-25, 2026

Days
Hours
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Academic Avenue Stage

Academic Avenue Stage

Located at the top of Academic Avenue next to the Rosewoods Building, the Academic Ave Stage will feature a lively lineup of entertainment throughout the South Carolina State Fair. Music, comedy, magic and crowd-favorite fun will fill the stage each day. Here are some of the highlights:

Please note: Acts are subject to change without notice.

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🥜 BOILED PEANUT EATING CONTEST

Academic Avenue Stage Oct. 15, 5:30 p.m.

Step up to the plate for one of the most entertaining matchups at the S.C. State Fair. Local celebrities face off in this lighthearted, peanut-packed challenge to see who can munch their way to the title. Expect plenty of laughs, playful banter, and a whole lot of happiness. Come be a part of the Rooted in Fun fan-favorite showdown that’s uniquely Southern.

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BISCUITVILLE EATING CONTEST 

Academic Avenue Stage Oct. 17, XXXX p.m.

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RON DIAMOND

Academic Avenue Stage, daily

The S.C. State Fair welcomes back longtime favorite Ron Diamond for another spectacular run of comedy, hypnosis and illusion. Combining mesmerizing showmanship with lighthearted humor and active audience participation, Diamond’s high-energy performances are not to be missed.

Dennis Lee Band 2025

DENNIS LEE BAND 

Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 16-25

Be sure to catch Dennis Lee and his band, a talented group from Memphis, Tenn., featuring the fabulous Renee Riddle on fiddle. The Dennis Lee Band blends musical favorites, comedy, country music, old-time rock ’n’ roll, and patriotic numbers. The group has been a S.C. State Fair favorite for 43 years!

 

Nick Burningup Blaze

NICK “BURNINGUP” BLAZE

Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 9, 8:30 to 9:00 pm 

Nick “Burningup” Blaze is a passionate hip-hop artist from Spartanburg, South Carolina, known for his uplifting energy, authentic lyrics, and dedication to his craft. Raised by a hardworking single mother and grounded in faith, Nick brings a message of positivity, perseverance, and purpose to every performance. With a growing resume of shows across the Southeast—from festivals to community events—he continues to build his brand through connection, consistency, and belief in what’s possible.