South Carolina State Fair Announces 2025 Lineup, New Foods, Rides and More

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) Sept. 30, 2025 —The South Carolina State Fair returns to Columbia, S.C. Oct. 8-19 for 12 days of fun, rides, food and entertainment. Fairgoers can look forward to 15 new food and drink offerings, a mix of new and returning rides, a special appearance from celebrity chef Sandra Lee, a free daily CIRCUS, live music and entertainment, competitions, exhibits and countless ways to make lasting memories. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/fair-calendar/ for the daily events calendar.

 

“The South Carolina State Fair is more than an event — it’s a tradition that brings our state together year after year,” says Nancy Smith, general manager of the S.C. State Fair. “From exciting rides and one-of-a-kind foods to live entertainment, competitions and showcases of South Carolina’s best in art, agriculture and more — plus a special appearance by celebrity chef Sandra Lee — this year’s fair promises something special for everyone.”

 

For the S.C. State Fair, “Harvesting Happiness” is more than this year’s theme — it’s the organization’s mission in action. As a nonprofit, the S.C. State Fair is committed to planting the seeds of opportunity, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to students across the state each year. The 2025 theme honors the fair’s deep agricultural roots and its role in uniting communities. Rooted in tradition and bursting with fresh energy, the fair invites guests to cultivate lasting memories, experience 12 days of pure joy and reap a true harvest of smiles.

 

2025 S.C. State Fair Highlights

 

Special Exhibits

• Anne Frank: A History for Today brings to life the story of the young Jewish girl who — through the pages of her world-renowned diary — documented two years of hiding in German-occupied Amsterdam during World War II. Developed by the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam in the late 1980s, this powerful traveling exhibit has been presented in more than 80 countries. The exhibit is located in the Cantey Building. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/themed-attractions/ to learn more.
  • Guided tours are offered four times daily, and visitors can register in advance through Eventbrite. Walk-up visitors are always welcome, whether to join a tour or explore the exhibit independently. A QR code for tour registration will also be displayed at the entrance and exit of the exhibit space.

 

• The SC250 exhibit, presented by the South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission, invites guests to explore South Carolina’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. Through immersive displays, reenactors, authentic weaponry and hands-on activities — including the chance to sign the Declaration of Independence — you’ll walk in the footsteps of patriots, loyalists and legendary figures like Francis Marion and Rebecca Motte. The exhibit is located in the Ruff Building. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/themed-attractions/ to learn more.

 

Special Appearance by Sandra Lee

• 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 kick off opening day with a festive ribbon cutting on Wednesday, Oct. 8, and will stay through Oct. 9 to host lively food competitions and more. A longtime supporter of fairs, Sandra Lee brings a message of hope and resilience. As a breast cancer survivor, she joins the fair in giving back and supporting breast cancer awareness. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/more-to-see/ to learn more.

 

America 250 Day

• The S.C. State Fair will host a special America 250 Day celebration on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 4 p.m. on the Pepsi Place Stage to celebrate South Carolina’s agricultural roots and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Gov. Henry McMaster will proclaim “America 250 Day” at the fair, recognizing South Carolina’s role in the founding of the nation and celebrating 250 years of American independence. The Fort Jackson 282nd Army Band will perform, adding to the patriotic spirit of the day. Enjoy stirring music, remarks from dignitaries, then make your way to the to experience the immersive and educational SC250 Revolutionary War exhibit in the Ruff Building.

 

Food and Drinks

The 2025 S.C. State Fair is serving up 15 new foods and drinks. From over-the-top savory creations to sweet indulgences and refreshing sips, this year’s new foods menu adds exciting twists to the mix. And of course, all the beloved classics will be back too — from foot-long corn dogs and Fiske Fries to fried Oreos and more.

 

• Here’s a taste of what’s new: Jim’s Fries, Giant Tenderloin Sandwich, Cantina Louie, Brody’s Mac & Cheese, Surf N Turf Alfredo Sundae, Parmesan Steak on a Stick, Campfire Burger, Deep Fried Enchiladas over a Bed of Rice, Reuben Sandwich Pizza, Buffalo Chicken or Bacon Pimento Cheese Fries, Deep Fried Cheesecake Trio, Walking Caramel Pretzel Sundae, Dubai Chocolate or Dubai Strawberries, Tornado Potatoes, and Cotton Candy Lemonade.
• Visit org/Food for a full list of new and returning food and drinks. Click here to view the Food and Drink Guide.

 

Entertainment

Get ready for a full day of fun where live entertainment takes center stage! From roving performers around every corner to free music shows on multiple stages, plus daily CIRCUS acts and more. Visit www.scstatefair.org/entertainment/ to learn more.

 

• CIRCUS at the Fair: The free, daily CIRCUS at the Fair is returning for a sixth year and will feature fresh new acts and a never-before-seen show. The CIRCUS, located beside the Ellison Building near the South Gate Entrance, will perform three 40-minute shows each day. Shows begin at 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Daily admission is free with your fair admission ticket. Visit scstatefair.org/entertainment/circus-at-the-fair/ to learn more.
• Led by Ringmaster Ian Garden, the CIRCUS acts will include performances from:
  • Lopez Thrill Riders (four-wheeling)
  • The Remarkable Renaldo and Little Lou (clowns)
  • Ian Faraonel (hand-balancing)
  • Nicole Montgomery Bryant (aerial)
  • Brando Anastasini (tight-wire)
  • The Rimar Duo (roller skating)

 

• Pepsi Place Stage: The following performances will take place on the Pepsi Place Stage. Visit scstatefair.org/entertainment/pepsi-place-stage/ to learn more.
  • Kazual, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m.
  • America 250 Day Celebration, Oct. 9 at 4 p.m.
  • Good Vibrations: Celebrating the Music of the Beach Boys, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m.
  • Elliot Poston, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m.
  • Jaramillo’s Dance Academy, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m.
  • Latin Soul Band, Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Columbia’s Praise Day Presented by 95.7 FM & 1170 AM, Oct. 12 at 4 p.m.
  • Armed Services Band, Oct. 13 at 1 p.m.
  • Jared Rogerson, Oct. 13 at 7 p.m.
  • Reggie Sullivan Band, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.
  • Richie & The High Street Rockers, Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m.
  • DAZR, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m.
  • Nu-Blu, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m.
  • Jermaine Dolly, Brought to you by WFMV, Oct. 19 at 4 p.m.

 

• Academic Avenue Stage: Musical shows, comedians and more are part of an incredible lineup of Academic Avenue stage shows that will capture audiences of all ages. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/entertainment/academic-avenue-entertainment/ to learn more.
  • The Boiled Peanut Eating Contest, Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m.
  • Dennis Lee Band, Oct. 8-12
  • Mad Chad, Chainsaw Juggler, Oct. 8-19
  • The Everly Set, Oct. 13-19
  • Nick “Burningup” Blaze, Oct. 9 at 8:30 p.m.

 

• Main Street Entertainment: Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/entertainment/main-street-entertainment/ to learn more.
  • Carl Brunson, 8-19

 

• Netterfield Stage: Behind the Ellison Building and right next to the entrance of the CIRCUS at the Fair, the Netterfield Stage is the perfect spot to relax, refuel and enjoy live entertainment. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/entertainment/netterfield-stage/ to learn more.
  • David Bynes, Oct. 8-19

 

• Rocket Plaza: Located near the iconic rocket and the North Gate, this lively area is your go-to destination for fair fun. It puts a fresh spin on the classic phrase, “Meet your mother at the rocket,” with a vibrant atmosphere perfect for gathering, exploring, and making memories! Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/rocket-plaza/ to learn more.
  • The Farmer’s Daughter
  • The Silver Starlets
  • Major League Sports Show

 

• Roving Acts: The amazing roving entertainers will have visitors creating unforgettable fair memories. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/entertainment/roving-entertainment/ to learn more.
  • The Illuminator (walking radiance)
  • The Amazing Aydar (unicyclist)
  • The Ice Cream Comedy Show (comedian)
  • Denny the Clown, Oct. 8-12 (clown)
  • Washboard Willy, Oct. 8-13 (musician)
  • Mariachi Divas, Oct. 8-16 (musicians)

 

Attractions

Get ready for a full day of fun where entertainment, excitement and tradition come together for all ages! Enjoy nearly 70 rides and games, step into the Heritage Village for hands-on demonstrations, then celebrate the fair’s agricultural roots with homegrown produce, livestock showcases and crowd favorites like racing pigs and the petting zoo. Don’t miss exciting new attractions, including larger-than-life balloon sculptures and the World’s Funnest Photo Booth.

 

• Rides and Games
  • Prepare to be swept away on a whirlwind of excitement as the S.C. State Fair presents an awe-inspiring lineup of nearly 70 rides. From thrilling sky-high adventures to family-friendly classics, North American Midway Entertainment brings you a wide range of rides and carnival games. See the full ride list here.
  • New rides! The S.C. State Fair has several exciting new ride additions this year. Learn more here.
    • Straight from the factory floor, the Downdraft makes its debut, spinning, tilting and soaring to deliver nonstop high-speed thrills.
    • Also new to our midway is the Flash Dance, a music-fueled ride that whirls guests in every direction with lights and energy, and the breezy Mulligan Swing, which sends riders soaring sky-high in open-air swings.
    • The Tornado and Toon Town are back after a short hiatus!

 

• Attractions Around Every Corner
  • The Balloon Guy, located in the Goodman Building
  • The World’s Funnest Photo Booth, located in front of the Moore Building
  • Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, performing daily near the South Gate
  • Swifty Swine Racing and Swimming Pigs, performing daily on Academic Avenue in front of the Abernathy Arena
  • Commerford Petting Zoo, featured daily on Academic Avenue
  • Phillip Simmons Blacksmith Guild, Academic Ave., Oct. 10-12
  • Ernest Lee “The Chicken Man,” appearing daily in the small stock building
  • South Carolina ETV and Public Radio Showcase, Ellison Building

 

• Heritage Village
  • A visit to the South Carolina State Fair’s Heritage Village offers a glimpse into the past and colonial times. Explore reconstructed historical structures, observe traditional crafts and demonstrations, and learn about the daily lives of early settlers. Heritage Village aims to recreate the atmosphere and ambiance of a frontier community. Encounter reenactors dressed in period costumes who can provide information about the challenges and customs of the time. Heritage Village offers a tangible connection to history and will feature:
    • Hot Glass Academy
    • Michael Felk – Tinsmith
    • American Heritage Museum
    • Heart Felt Creations
    • Blacksmithing
    • Broom Making
    • Woodworking

 

• Flower Shows
  • The beauty of art and flowers will return to this year’s flower show. The many plants will be dispersed among a wide range of artworks throughout the Cantey building.
  • In addition to potted plant and cut horticulture competitions, several garden clubs hold their shows in the Cantey Building at the S.C. State Fair, including the Ikebana International Chapter #182, the Garden Club Council of Greater Columbia in conjunction with the Nationally Accredited Judges Council of South Carolina, the Mid-Carolina Camellia Society and the South Carolina Rose Society. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/competitions/flowers/ to learn more.

 

• Crafts & Art
  • The S.C. State Fair celebrates the talents of local bakers, crafters and artists with a range of exhibits and competitions, including:
    • Home and Craft Exhibits: Home arts, including baking, cake decorating, canning, hobby crafts, quilting and sewing, are among the many divisions found in the Moore Building each year as youth and adult exhibitors compete for a coveted blue ribbon.
    • Fine Art Exhibits: Patrons can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Fine Art Department in the Cantey Building as they view the works of some of the state’s best amateur and professional artists. Featured categories include ceramics, pottery, painting, drawing, mixed media, prints, photography, digital art, open media and sculpture.
    • Student Art Exhibits: The works of some of the state’s most talented young artists will be on display in the Cantey Building.

 

• Agriculture, Livestock and Animals
  • The S.C. State Fair is deeply rooted in agriculture and offers a variety of competitions and exhibits highlighting the state’s rich farming traditions.
  • Agriculture: Each year, South Carolinians compete for bragging rights and a coveted blue ribbon with their homegrown entries including apples, garden wagons, giant pumpkins and watermelons, Christmas trees, sugar cane, sweet potatoes, corn, tobacco, peanuts, soybeans, honey, wine and more. There’s even a scarecrow-decorating contest! Visit From Field to Fair and McLeod Farms in the Ellison Building. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/agriculture-livestock/ to learn more.
  • Animals: Livestock exhibits, featuring cattle, horses, goats and more, provide an up-close look at farm animals and their care. View the livestock schedule here.

 

Daily Promotions

The S.C. State Fair offers a variety of daily promotions. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/plan-your-visit/promotions/ to learn more.

• Children: All children 5 and under will be admitted FREE every day.
• Pay-One-Price (POP) Ride Days: The S.C. State Fair will feature Pay-One-Price (POP) ride days every day. Enjoy unlimited rides by exchanging a ride voucher for a POP wristband at specially marked tents inside the fairgrounds. Every single ride is eligible for POP, ensuring that you can maximize your enjoyment and make unforgettable memories.
• Seniors (55 and older): $15 admission every day, except on Senior’s Day on Wednesday, Oct. 15, when admission is $5 at the gate only.
• Lunch Bunch: Pop in and out of the S.C. State Fair for lunch with a special lunch bunch ticket, available from noon-2 p.m. each weekday (except Wednesday, Oct. 8). Pay your entry fee and receive a refundable $20 ticket. Return to the ticket booth with the ticket by 2 p.m. to get your money back.
• American Tribute: 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 PA system. Occasionally, a special guest will sing or raise the flag. Guests are invited to pause in a moment of unity and reverence — bringing the fair community together with this heartfelt tribute.
• Color As Easy As Pie — Get ready to Harvest Happiness with a sweet and simple activity for all ages! Download a fun coloring page from our website at org/colorme featuring this year’s theme. Color your creation, then bring it to the Pro Kitchen Cookie Kitchen (located at #12 in the Rosewoods Building) during the fair. Trade your masterpiece for a FREE delicious cookie!

 

Special Promotion Days

The S.C. State Fair offers several special promotion days. Visit https://www.scstatefair.org/plan-your-visit/promotions/ to learn more.

• 8 – Opening Day!
  • $5 admission at the gate (Gates open at noon. Rides start at 1 p.m.)
  • Opening Day Book Giveaway
    • The first 500 guests through the gates will receive a free copy of Meet Me at the Rocket by Rodger Stroup, celebrating 150 years of the South Carolina State Fair. Coupons will be distributed at the gates and can be redeemed the same day at Cotton’s Novelties.
  • 9
    • Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
    • America 250 Day
    • Military Appreciation Day
      • Active and retired military and their dependents (with proper military identification cards) will be admitted free. Dependent children 14 years old and older must present ID.
    • South Carolina Farm Bureau Day
      • Free admission for two with valid S.C. Farm Bureau Membership card.
    • 10 — Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
    • 11
      • 4-H Day
        • Free admission for all those with an official 4-H membership card.
      • Vote Local Day
        • Presented by SC Votes.
      • 12
        • Walk for Life Day
          • Free admission with official 2025 Walk for Life and Famously Hot Walk/Race t-shirt.
        • Countdown to Coverage Day
          • Brought to you by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
        • 13
          • Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
          • College Day
            • $5 admission (at the gate only) for college students with a current valid college identification.
          • Military Appreciation Day
            • Active and retired military and their dependents (with proper military identification cards) will be admitted free. Dependent children 14 years old and older must present ID.
          • Joe Pinner Day
        • 14
          • Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
          • Future Farmers of America (FFA) Day
            • Free admission for all FFA students with FFA membership cards.
          • Physics Day
            • All students wearing the official physics-day wristband admitted free from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (Academic Avenue Stage). Physics Day information is here.
          • 15
            • Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
            • Seniors Day
              • $5 admission (at the gate only). Free Ferris wheel rides for those 55+. Seniors may also enjoy the Double Decker Merry-Go-Round at no cost.
            • Oct 16
              • Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
              • Sensory-Friendly Morning
                • From 10 a.m.- noon, children and adults with autism or sensory processing disorders (and one companion) are welcome to enter the fairgrounds, as our guest, up to one hour before the gates officially open and participate in Sensory-Friendly Morning. For more information, visit org/sensoryfriendly.
              • Exceptional Citizens Day
                • Free admission for persons with lifelong developmental or physical disabilities (and one companion).
              • Military Appreciation Day
                • Active and retired military and their dependents (with proper military identification cards) will be admitted free. Dependent children 14 years old and older must present ID.
              • 17
                • Lunch Bunch (noon-2 p.m.)
                • Midlands Landscape Day
                • John Windhorn Day
              • 18 – HIS Radio 92.1 Family Day
              • 19 — Last day of the fair!

 

Know Before You Go

 

Youth Admission Policy

To promote a family-friendly environment, the S.C. State Fair has updated its Youth Admission Policy, which outlines important guidelines for minors attending the fair. From Sundays to Thursdays after 5 p.m., guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old to enter the fairgrounds. All day on Fridays and Saturdays, all guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old to enter the fairgrounds. Visit www.scstatefair.org/plan-your-visit/fair-rules-safety/ to learn more.

 

Clear Bag Policy

To provide a safe environment, the S.C. State Fair has a mandatory clear bag policy. This year all bags must be clear with two exceptions: diaper bags accompanied with a baby and medically necessary items. This policy is similar to those implemented throughout Columbia, S.C., and the country, complying with a new level of security expected of large, heavily attended events and festivals. Visit www.scstatefair.org/plan-your-visit/fair-rules-safety/ to learn more.

 

 

 

 

Discount Tickets

Discount admission tickets, now through Oct. 7, are $10 per person at participating Circle K or $11 online at SCStateFair.org ($15-$20 during the fair) and discount ride vouchers are $32 per person at a participating Circle K or $33 online at SCStateFair.org ($40-$42 during the fair).

 

Ride Vouchers

Ride vouchers may be purchased online or at participating Circle K stores. Each voucher may be redeemed at the fairgrounds for one of the following:

 

• Pay-One-Price Wristband – Unlimited rides on any one day of the fair (valid all 12 days, including weekends). The rider must be present at the time of exchange.
• Reloadable Ride Card – Includes 90 ride tickets.This card may be used on any day of the fair, shared with others and saved for next year, if tickets remain.

 

“We look forward to welcoming guests from across the state and beyond to experience the magic of the fair,” says Smith. “Each guest will find countless opportunities to make memories and celebrate everything that makes South Carolina unique.”

 

Discover more about this year’s fair and start planning your visit at SCStateFair.org.

 

About the South Carolina State Fair

The South Carolina State Fair, a self-supporting 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, was organized in 1869 and is dedicated to preserving and promoting South Carolina’s agricultural roots while supporting statewide education. In addition to the 12-day South Carolina State Fair, the charitable organization manages annual football parking, is a popular event venue, and has awarded nearly $6 million in scholarships since 1997.

 

More information can be found at SCStateFair.org.

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Media Outlets:

• Press Kit: Click here to access the S.C. State Fair Digital Press Kit.
• Media Guide: Click here to access the 2025 comprehensive Media Guide.

• Photos: Click here to access the full photo library.