Columbia, October 8, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina State Fair opens, celebrating its 156th anniversary with the theme ‘Harvesting Happiness.’ Attendees can enjoy 50 rides, safety inspections, and a Revolutionary War exhibit. Security measures include a clear bag policy and age restrictions after 5 p.m. The fair anticipates over 400,000 visitors across its 12-day run, providing a mix of fun, safety, and education for all. Various events are also scheduled, making it a vibrant community attraction.
Columbia
The South Carolina State Fair opens today, October 8, and will continue through October 19, 2025. Marking its 156th anniversary, this year’s fair embraces the theme “Harvesting Happiness” as it welcomes thousands of visitors to the historic fairgrounds in Columbia.
Preparation for the annual event has been intensive, with the fairgrounds now fully equipped with rides and vendor booths. Safety is a top priority, with ongoing inspections for all rides to ensure a safe environment for attendees. The fair features 50 rides, each of which is subjected to daily multi-layer safety inspections.
The Richard County Sheriff’s Department will be on-site to assist with security, ensuring a safe atmosphere for all fairgoers. In line with safety measures, a clear bag policy will be implemented, allowing exceptions only for diaper bags and necessary medical equipment. Attendees can bring sealed bottles of water onto the fairgrounds, but open containers and alcohol are prohibited.
Additional security measures will be in place, including a strict age policy that requires parents or guardians over 21 to accompany anyone under 18 after 5 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and at all times on Fridays and Saturdays. There will be checks of driver’s licenses during times when the youth policy is enforced.
Organizers anticipate welcoming over 400,000 visitors during the fair’s 12-day run. Fairgoers are advised to measure their children before purchasing wristbands for rides, ensuring that all meet the necessary height requirements. Furthermore, certain rides may impose operational limits based on adverse weather conditions like wind and rain.
Additional Events
In addition to the fair, numerous events are taking place this weekend, including an original musical in Abbeville, a Grape Stomp at Greenwood Mall, and performances by various local artists.
Educational Insights
One of the highlights of this year’s fair includes a Revolutionary War exhibit by the SC250 Commission located at the Ruff Building. This exhibit provides educational insights into South Carolina’s significant role in the American Revolution, contributing to the historical aspect of the fair.
The South Carolina State Fair is poised to be an exciting combination of rides, entertainment, safety, and education, making it a much-anticipated event for locals and visitors alike.
FAQs
When does the South Carolina State Fair open and close?
The South Carolina State Fair opens today, October 8, and will run through October 19, 2025.
What is the theme of this year’s fair?
This year marks the fair’s 156th anniversary with the theme “Harvesting Happiness.”
What safety measures are in place for rides?
The fair features 50 rides, all of which undergo daily multi-layer safety inspections.
Are there any rules regarding bags and containers?
A clear bag policy will be in effect; exceptions are made for diaper bags and medical equipment. Fairgoers can only bring sealed bottles of water onto the fairgrounds; no open containers or alcohol are allowed.
What is the anticipated attendance for this year’s fair?
Fair organizers anticipate welcoming over 400,000 visitors during the 12-day event.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fair Dates | October 8 – October 19, 2025 |
| Theme | Harvesting Happiness |
| Number of Rides | 50 |
| Daily Inspections | Yes, multi-layer safety inspections |
| Security Measures | On-site security, age policy checks |
| Expected Attendance | Over 400,000 visitors |
| Special Events | Revolutionary War exhibit, local performances |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina Prep Football Media Poll Reveals Top Teams
New Virtual Engagement Center Launches for Job Seekers in Upper Savannah
South Carolina High School Football Rankings Released
Greenwood Basketball Teams Face Mixed Outcomes in Recent Games
Legal Dispute Over $200,000 Cargo Theft in Greenwood
Thrilling Week 4 in South Carolina High School Football
Dutch Fork Tops South Carolina High School Football Rankings
Bass Pro Shops Faces Scrutiny Over Tax Evasion Claims
South Carolina High School Football Rankings Released
High School Football Week 3 Results in Columbia, South Carolina
Additional Resources
- WISTV – South Carolina State Fair Opens
- WLTX – Safety Top Priority at SC State Fair
- Count On 2 – SC State Fair Opens for 12 Days
- Cola Daily – SC State Fair Kicks Off
- WACH – SC State Fair Returns with New Features
- Wikipedia: South Carolina State Fair
- Google Search: South Carolina State Fair 2025
- Google Scholar: South Carolina State Fair
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina State Fair
- Google News: South Carolina State Fair
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
