Aiken, SC, August 14, 2025
Aiken, South Carolina — Weekend Events Roundup
Explore a variety of events happening in Aiken, South Carolina this weekend. Below is a concise listicle covering dates, locations, contact details, and highlights for each activity so you can plan your visit.
1. Aiken Summerfest I & II
- Date: August 14–17, 2025
- Location: Highfields Event Center, 118 Gaston Rd, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (803) 649-3505
- Details: A USEF National A Rated Level 3 Jumper equestrian competition. Event is free and open to the public, featuring top-level jumping in a family-friendly atmosphere.
2. Stable View Farm: Too Hot to Trot II Dressage
- Date: August 15–17, 2025
- Location: Stable View Farm, 117 Stable Dr, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (484) 356-3173
- Details: Official qualifying dressage competition for the 2025 GAIG/USDF Regional Championships. Expect skilled riders and formal dressage rings; suitable for spectators who enjoy equestrian sport.
3. Aiken Music Fest
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Location: Highfields Event Center, 118 Gaston Rd, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (803) 649-3505
- Details: Live music event featuring local performers and a touring headliner. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs; food vendors will be on site. Evening concert atmosphere.
4. Aiken Horsepower Association Monthly Cruise-In
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Location: Next to Petco and Popshelf on Fabian Drive, Aiken, SC
- Phone: (803) 646-8950
- Details: Monthly car meet showcasing everything from fully restored classics to project cars. All rides welcome; a great opportunity for enthusiasts to connect and compare vehicles.
5. Aiken Farmers Market
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Location: 115 Williamsburg St SE, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (803) 293-2214
- Details: Historic farmers market offering fresh produce, baked goods, local meats and cheeses. Open from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Ideal for morning shopping and supporting local vendors.
6. Aiken Center for the Arts — Summer Art Exhibition
- Date: August 16–17, 2025
- Location: 122 Laurens St SW, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (803) 641-9094
- Details: Gallery show featuring works by summer art camp students, adult students, members, and faculty. Gallery hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday.
7. DuPont Planetarium Shows
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Location: 471 University Pkwy, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (803) 641-3654
- Details: Family-friendly planetarium shows including Magic Tree House: Space Mission and Backyard Wilderness. Showtimes at 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
8. Test-N-Tune / Grudge Racing at Carolina Dragway
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Location: 302 Dragstrip Rd, Aiken, SC 29803
- Phone: (803) 471-2285
- Details: Nighttime drag racing at the venue known as The House of Hook. Gates open at 6:30 PM. Spectator admission is $20; children 12 and under free. Expect loud engines and competitive runs.
9. Live Jazz at The Willcox
- Date: August 16, 2025
- Location: 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801
- Phone: (803) 648-1898
- Details: Evening jazz performance by 4 Cats in the Doghouse. Performance starts at 7:00 PM. Ideal for listeners who enjoy intimate live jazz settings.
10. Aiken State Park Activities
- Date: August 16–17, 2025
- Location: 1145 State Park Rd, Windsor, SC 29856
- Phone: (803) 649-2857
- Details: Outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and canoeing. Park hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Bring water, sun protection, and equipment as needed for activities.
Please note: Event details can change. Contact the listed phone numbers or the venue directly for the latest information before attending.
FAQ
How can I confirm event times and admission?
Call the phone number listed for each event or contact the venue directly to confirm schedules, ticketing, parking, and any last-minute changes.
Are events family-friendly?
Many events noted here are family-friendly, including the equestrian competitions, planetarium shows, farmers market, and park activities. Check individual event details for age guidance.
Is parking available at these venues?
Most venues provide parking; availability varies by event and expected attendance. Arrive early for high-attendance events like Summerfest and Music Fest to secure parking.
What should I bring to outdoor events?
Bring lawn chairs or blankets for music events, sun protection, water, and any necessary outdoor gear for park activities. For markets, bring reusable bags for purchases.
Are pets allowed?
Pet policies differ by venue. Outdoor parks often allow leashed pets, while indoor venues and food vendor areas may restrict animals. Confirm with each venue ahead of time.
Event Summary Table — Quick Reference
| Event | Date | Location | Phone | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aiken Summerfest I & II | Aug 14–17, 2025 | Highfields Event Center | (803) 649-3505 | USEF Level 3 jumpers; free admission; family-friendly |
| Too Hot to Trot II Dressage | Aug 15–17, 2025 | Stable View Farm | (484) 356-3173 | GAIG/USDF Regional qualifier; dressage competition |
| Aiken Music Fest | Aug 16, 2025 | Highfields Event Center | (803) 649-3505 | Local acts plus headliner; food vendors; bring chairs |
| Aiken Horsepower Cruise-In | Aug 16, 2025 | Fabian Drive (near Petco & Popshelf) | (803) 646-8950 | Classic and project vehicles; open to all rides |
| Aiken Farmers Market | Aug 16, 2025 | 115 Williamsburg St SE | (803) 293-2214 | Fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses; 7:30–11:30 AM |
| Aiken Center for the Arts Exhibition | Aug 16–17, 2025 | 122 Laurens St SW | (803) 641-9094 | Student and faculty artwork; Sat and Sun gallery hours |
| DuPont Planetarium Shows | Aug 16, 2025 | 471 University Pkwy | (803) 641-3654 | Family shows at 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM |
| Carolina Dragway Test-N-Tune | Aug 16, 2025 | 302 Dragstrip Rd | (803) 471-2285 | Gates 6:30 PM; spectators $20; kids 12 & under free |
| Live Jazz at The Willcox | Aug 16, 2025 | 100 Colleton Ave SW | (803) 648-1898 | Performance starts at 7:00 PM; evening jazz set |
| Aiken State Park | Aug 16–17, 2025 | 1145 State Park Rd, Windsor | (803) 649-2857 | Hiking, fishing, canoeing; park hours 9:00 AM–6:00 PM |
Plan accordingly, double-check event contacts, and enjoy your weekend in Aiken.
