Aiken, South Carolina, August 14, 2025
Aiken, South Carolina — Upcoming Festivals for 2025
Below is a curated list of festivals and major community events scheduled in Aiken for 2025. Each entry includes dates, locations, and available details to help you plan attendance. Event details may change; contact organizers directly when possible for the most current information.
Aiken’s Makin’
- Date: September 5–6, 2025
- Location: Downtown Aiken, South Carolina
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A long-running arts and crafts festival that turns downtown into a marketplace of handmade goods by more than 150 regional artisans. Expect ceramics, woodcrafts, textiles, glass art, Southern food vendors, and family-friendly live entertainment. This is an excellent event for shoppers seeking unique handcrafted gifts and for visitors who enjoy local arts culture.
Southern Strings Fest
- Date: October 3–4, 2025
- Location: Bruce’s Field, Aiken, South Carolina
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A two-day music festival featuring a mix of Americana and jam-grass artists and a variety of supporting acts. The festival supports youth and community programs through a foundation that benefits local initiatives. Festival amenities typically include food and beverage vendors and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Western Carolina State Fair
- Date: October 10–19, 2025
- Location: Aiken Fairgrounds, Aiken, South Carolina
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A traditional regional fair featuring commercial and craft exhibitors, agricultural displays including antique tractors, local food booths, and entertainment across multiple stages. The fair offers activities for all ages and runs over multiple days. Admission: Typically ranges from $6 to $25 depending on age and day.
Unity Golf Tournament
- Date: October 17, 2025
- Location: Cedar Creek Golf Club, 2555 Club Dr, Aiken, SC 29803
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A community golf event welcoming players of various skill levels for a day on a scenic course. The tournament is associated with a local community program and focuses on friendly competition and community engagement. Participants should confirm registration details and tee times with event coordinators.
Shoutfest Unityfest
- Date: October 18, 2025
- Location: Generations Park, 700 Mack Henry Holland Drive, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A celebration of gospel music and faith-based community fellowship featuring a lineup of gospel artists and praise dance performances. The event typically includes food vendors and activities suitable for families.
Aiken Steeplechase
- Date: October 25, 2025
- Location: Aiken, South Carolina (event grounds vary year to year)
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A premier equestrian event drawing large crowds for steeplechase racing, tailgating, and social festivities. The event is known for its vibrant race-day atmosphere, traditional attire, and community gatherings. Attendance can exceed 30,000 spectators on race day.
Aiken Christmas Craft Show
- Date: December 5–6, 2025
- Location: Odell Weeks Activities Center, Aiken, South Carolina
- Phone / Contact: Not listed
- Details: A seasonal craft show featuring fine art, handcrafted goods, and food booths. Ideal for holiday shopping and finding one-of-a-kind gifts. The event atmosphere is festive and geared toward shoppers and families looking for seasonal offerings.
Quick Planning Tips
- Check dates and locations closely before traveling as venues and schedules can change.
- Expect varying admission policies — some events have general admission while others may sell tickets or have VIP options.
- Parking and accessibility details vary by event; arrive early for high-attendance events such as the Steeplechase and large music festivals.
- Bring cash and card options as vendor payment methods differ across festivals.
FAQ
How can I confirm current event details and parking?
Event organizers are the best source for up-to-date schedules, parking instructions, and accessibility information. Contact the event directly when contact information is available or check community event listings for updates.
Are these events family-friendly?
Most events listed are family-friendly, with activities and entertainment suitable for a range of ages. Specific programming for children varies by event.
Is advance ticket purchase recommended?
For music festivals, the steeplechase, and some fair days, advance tickets or reservations are often recommended to guarantee entry and avoid lines.
What should I bring to outdoor festivals?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, water, and seating if permitted. Check event rules for prohibited items and pet policies.
Key Features Comparison Table
| Event | Dates (2025) | Location | Admission | Family-Friendly | Contact / Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aiken’s Makin’ | September 5–6 | Downtown Aiken | Varies by vendor and activity | Yes | Not listed |
| Southern Strings Fest | October 3–4 | Bruce’s Field | Paid festival admission (varies) | Yes | Not listed |
| Western Carolina State Fair | October 10–19 | Aiken Fairgrounds | $6–$25 (typical range) | Yes | Not listed |
| Unity Golf Tournament | October 17 | Cedar Creek Golf Club | Registration required (fees may apply) | Generally adult-focused | Not listed |
| Shoutfest Unityfest | October 18 | Generations Park | Typically free or ticketed depending on programming | Yes | Not listed |
| Aiken Steeplechase | October 25 | Aiken area racegrounds | Varies by seating and ticket type | Yes (family-friendly areas available) | Not listed |
| Aiken Christmas Craft Show | December 5–6 | Odell Weeks Activities Center | Often a small admission or free entry | Yes | Not listed |
