What's New In South Carolina: Fall & Winter 2025

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​WHAT’S NEW & NOTABLE IN SOUTH CAROLINA: FALL & WINTER 2025

Seasonal Highlights Across the Palmetto State: New Events, Openings & Festive Fun

South Carolina welcomes visitors with a dynamic lineup of new events, exciting attractions, festive experiences, and major milestones this fall and winter. From charming small-town celebrations to major culinary happenings, the Palmetto State promises enriching experiences for every type of traveler.

New & Signature Fall + Winter Events

Capital City/Lake Murray Country

  • Newberry Oktoberfest (Oct. 4): This free event in historic downtown Newberry includes German food and biergartens, local arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, amusement rides, and all-around fall fun.
  • Oktoberfest Columbia (Oct. 11–12): Incarnation Lutheran Church offers a fun, authentic German experience, with German beer, homemade German food and treats, and plenty of great entertainment for all ages.
  • Fall Back Fest (Nov. 7): This free event in West Columbia celebrates autumn with live music, food, and drinks, plus local artists painting dazzling murals before attendees’ eyes.

Charleston & The Lowcountry

  • MOJA Arts Festival (Sept. 25–Oct. 5): A cornerstone cultural celebration in Charleston honoring African American and Caribbean heritage, MOJA features performances, visual arts, gospel, jazz, storytelling, and more.
  • Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch (Sept. 26–Oct. 26): One of South Carolina’s largest and longest-running fall festivals, this family tradition offers a day of old-fashioned fun on the farm.
  • The Fall Tours (Oct. 1–31): Presented by the Preservation Society of Charleston, these tours open the doors to historic homes, gardens, and architecture during Charleston’s most picturesque season.
  • PPA Tour Challenger Series (Oct. 3–5): Experience competitive pickleball at the 2025 PPA Challenger — a must-attend event for both fans and players!
  • Riverfront Revival (Oct. 10–11): This two-day festival is loaded with unforgettable live music, engaging culture, and flavors inspired by the region's unique foodways.
  • AfroSouth Film Festival (Oct. 16–19): This unique festival focuses on filmmakers, their creative spirit and their sources of inspiration throughout the lowcountry, extending beyond screenings to theaters with interactive panels, workshops, youth programs, music and networking opportunities.
  • Food & Wine Classic Charleston (Nov. 14–16): Experience the warm hospitality of the Lowcountry at this three-day event featuring culinary icons, world-renowned wine and spirits, and the best of local food and culture.

Lake Hartwell Country

  • Walhalla Oktoberfest (Oct. 17-19): Since 1979 visitors have flocked to Walhalla to celebrate the town's German heritage at Sertoma Field.
  • Native American Celebration at Hagood Mill (Nov. 14-15): Join in a vibrant and immersive cultural experience as the Eastern Cherokee, Southern Iroquois, and United Tribes of South Carolina come together at the historic Hagood Mill.

Thoroughbred Country

  • BBQ, Blues & Boos Festival (Oct. 24–25): This family friendly fest in Barnwell is a fundraising event built to promote the vibrant culture of the region with great food, live music and fun activities.
  • North Augusta Wine Walk (Nov. 8): The North Augusta Beautification Foundation hosts this event, featuring unlimited wine tastings and live, local music.

Old 96 District

  • Pumkin Fest at Sara’s Farm (Sept. 19 – Nov. 16): South Carolina’s newest fall festival blooms with 20+ attractions — from hayrides and corn mazes to pig racing and pumpkin-town photo ops — plus evening “Jack O’Lantern Lane” strolls under glowing carvings, food trucks, and fun for all ages.
  • Squealin’ on the Square (Oct. 17–18): Get ready for two days filled with live music, local vendors, delicious food, family fun, and all the small-town charm you know and love.
  • Hogs and Hens Festival (Oct. 17–18): Since its kickoff in 2013, this festival has drawn thousands to the charming town of Abbeville with craft vendors, live music, and some of the best BBQ this side of the Mississippi.

Olde English District

  • The Colonial Cup (Nov. 23, 2025): Held at Springdale Race Course in Camden, this milestone steeplechase event features high-stakes horse races, tailgating, a holiday market, corgi races, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun — all benefiting health services in Kershaw County.

Santee Cooper Country

  • Sumter Oktoberfest On Main (Oct. 11): Sumter’s largest street party returns downtown on Main Street, with German music, dancing, authentic German-and-local beer & menu items, family-friendly activities, and proceeds benefiting Sumter United Ministries.

The Upcountry

  • Fall for Greenville (Oct. 10–12): A three-day foodie & music street festival along downtown Greenville’s Main Street, featuring over 50 local restaurants serving some 250+ dishes, more than 80 musical acts on multiple stages, local brews & wine vendors, and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Pee Dee Country

  • SC Sweet Potato Festival (Oct. 11): Held in downtown Darlington, this long-running celebration (42nd annual in 2025) features food and craft vendors, live entertainment, a car show, children’s games, and tons of community fun — all with sweet potatoes front-and-center.
  • SC Pecan Music & Food Festival (Nov. 1): Downtown Florence’s one-day fall blowout with free admission, live music across multiple stages, a classic car show, arts vendors, a kids zone, pecan-themed eats & drinks, and all the autumn fun you’d expect.

New Openings: Hotels, Restaurants, Attractions & More

Charleston & The Lowcountry

  • Rivayat: Opening in September 2025, this new spot offers coastal Indian cuisine from Chef Sujith Varghese.
  • Shokudo: This lively Japanese tavern in Charleston serves up shareable izakaya plates, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality in a stylish atmosphere.
  • Timber Pizza Co.: This Michelin-recognized Washington, D.C.-based artisanal pizzeria recently opened up a new location in downtown Charleston.
  • Soda House: This craft soda bar from a 22-year-old entrepreneur opened its doors in summer 2025, offering dirty sodas, crave-worthy flavors, and custom combos.
  • Hotel Círculo: This newly opened boutique hotel in the Park Circle neighborhood of North Charleston serves as a gathering space for cultural exchange and a welcoming retreat for relaxation.
  • Folly Beach History Museum: Dedicated to Folly Beach’s rich oceanside past, this new museum is now open, with its first exhibit showcasing the region’s surf culture.

Capital City/Lake Murray Country

  • Moxy Columbia Downtown: This new hotel puts guests in the heart of Columbia’s vibrant downtown, offering a lively atmosphere, playful decor, and One Moxy Rooftop Bar, a stylish “above-it-all” spot for cocktails, small bites, and sweeping views.
  • Ember Lexington: An elevated steakhouse experience now open in downtown Lexington, Ember has a menu full of steak, fish, and pasta.
  • Lazy Daisy Coffee Co.: A new, cozy coffee shop tucked away in the heart of Forest Acres, Lazy Daisy strives to create a welcoming space for all.
  • Finlay Park Re-Opening (Nov. 15): Columbia’s signature downtown green space reopens following major renovations, with a grand celebration featuring the Jam Room Music Festival, upgraded amenities, and refreshed grounds.

Lake Hartwell Country

  • T.E. Market: Devoted to local farms and producers, this new food hub in Anderson offers one convenient location for customers to purchase local products — without being restricted to limited hours of a traditional farmers market.
  • Andrew Pickens 250th Exhibition at The Pickens County Museum (Fall): The Pickens County Museum debuts a new exhibit honoring Revolutionary War hero Andrew Pickens as part of America’s 250th commemorations.

Thoroughbred Country

Old 96 District

    • Christine’s Farm to Fork Welcomes New Chef: The Edgefield restaurant debuts a new menu under the leadership of Executive Chef Matt Flemister, a decorated Army veteran and award-winning culinarian. Working alongside owners Jacob and Jared (sons of founder Christine), Chef Matt brings farm-fresh creativity and acclaimed expertise to elevate the dining experience.

    Olde English District

    • Greener Pastures Brewing Co.: Recently opened on Broad Street in Camden, this new brewery features small-batch brews, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a spotlight on local flavors.

    Holiday Experiences & Events

    Christmas in Camden (Nov.–Dec.): Running from November through the holiday season, this festive series transforms downtown with a classic Norman Rockwell vibe, complete with seasonal events and even snowfall on Friday evenings.

    Historic Columbia Holiday House Tours (Nov. 14–Jan. 5): Step inside some of Columbia’s most storied homes and landmarks during this beloved seasonal tradition, featuring festive décor and guided tours.

    Vista Lights (Nov. 20): The 40th Annual Vista Lights presented by Prisma Health kicks off holiday season in Columbia with live performances, tree lighting, and more.

    Holiday Lights on the River (Late Nov. – Dec. 31): Holiday Lights on the River in Lexington is a drive-through attraction with more than 400 light displays around a two-mile loop through Saluda Shoals Park just outside of Columbia.

    McCormick Holiday Celebrations (Dec.): Downtown McCormick shines bright with festive traditions, from the annual Christmas Parade that fills the streets with holiday cheer to the Festival of Trees, where local businesses and organizations showcase beautifully decorated displays.

    Laurens Christmas Tree Lighting on Main Street (Dec.): This cherished holiday tradition brings the community together with festive lights, music, and holiday spirit in downtown Laurens.

    Christmas in Cayce (Dec. 4-13): The city of Cayce brings the holiday spirit to life with an array of seasonal experiences, including carols along the riverwalk, the annual tree lighting ceremony, and much more.

    Joye to the World (Dec. 7): Enjoy a lively holiday concert featuring Riley Mulherkar, Joye in Aiken’s Artistic Director for Jazz, alongside New York’s finest jazz vocalists and musicians.

    Pendleton Christkindl Market (Nov. 28-29, Dec. 5-6, Dec. 12-13): Inspired by the historic and beautiful holiday markets in Germany and across Europe, this unique tradition offers a great way to shop local during the season.

    Christmas at Connie Maxwell (Dec. 4-6): In Greenwood, enjoy a spectacular live nativity performance, concert series, and Christmas village, including a petting zoo, hot chocolate, wagon rides, and a photo booth.

    Holiday Craft Faire (Dec. 13): Hosted at the Aiken County Museum, this annual fair showcases artisans, crafts, and holiday shopping in a festive atmosphere.

    Christmas at the Train, Greenwood Railroad Historical Center (Dec. 16): Families can enjoy holiday décor, lights, and festive activities at the historic rail center in Greenwood.

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    About the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism

    The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism is a cabinet agency assigned to operate and manage South Carolina's state parks, market the state as a preferred vacation destination, and provide assistance to communities to develop recreation assets. Explore the official tourism site of South Carolina and discover all the rich history, sandy beaches, and family attractions a South Carolina vacation has to offer at DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.