Aiken, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The Western Carolina State Fair is being held at the Aiken Fairgrounds, featuring rides, food, and attractions until October 19. This annual event includes special promotions like ‘We Care Wednesday’ and a ‘Tuesday ride special.’ The fair is a community staple, showcasing local talents and supporting charitable causes, with attractions ranging from acrobatic dog performances to a motorcycle stunt show.
Aiken
The Western Carolina State Fair is currently taking place at the Aiken Fairgrounds from October 10 to October 19, 2025. This annual event offers a plethora of attractions, making it a highlight in the community’s calendar.
Gates open at 5 p.m. on weekdays and at noon on weekends. The fair adjusts its closing times based on weather conditions and crowd sizes, with the last gate admission available at 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and at 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. General admission costs $10, while children aged 5 and under enjoy free entry. A popular Mega Pass is available for $30, which includes gate admission and an unlimited ride band, though it must be purchased online before October 10.
Special promotions include a Tuesday ride special where unlimited ride bands are available for $15, with gate admission sold separately. The event features a charitable aspect known as “We Care Wednesday”, allowing attendees to earn free gate admission by donating 10 nonperishable food items. On Thursday and Friday, the fair offers free entry during specific hours from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., although no rides will operate during these times.
The fair is not just about rides and food; it also hosts over 170 sailors who are participating in the 71st Halloween Regatta at Clarks Hill Lake. Attendees can indulge in popular fair foods like turkey legs and fried Oreos, while also enjoying various attractions, which include a motorcycle stunt show and acrobatic dog performances.
Notable guests present at the fair include Lt. Gov. Pam Evette and various representatives from the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office. The fair, which has served as a community staple since 1968, was initially launched by local Jaycees to support charitable initiatives within the community.
All rides and games at the fair are provided by Florida-based Reithoffer Shows. Major sponsors for this year’s event include Shoemaker Ag Land, Bridgestone, and EquipmentShare. In addition to rides and games, attendees can explore displays featuring political, religious, and business organizations, as well as local arts and crafts. The fair is located at 561 May Royal Drive, just north of Aiken’s city limit.
Children’s safety protocols are strict, stating that individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 25 years or older. Additionally, the fair promotes local artistic talents by recognizing achievements in arts and crafts and horticulture through a “best of” honorees list.
Key Features of the Western Carolina State Fair
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | October 10-19, 2025 |
| Location | Aiken Fairgrounds, 561 May Royal Drive, Aiken |
| Gate Opening Hours | 5 p.m. (Weekdays), Noon (Weekends) |
| General Admission | $10 (Children 5 and under: Free) |
| Mega Pass Cost | $30 (Includes Unlimited Ride Band) |
| Ride Specials | $15 Unlimited Ride Band on Tuesday |
| We Care Wednesday | Free Gate Admission with Donation of 10 Nonperishable Food Items |
| Free Entry Hours | Thursday & Friday (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) |
| Sailing Event Participants | Over 170 sailors at 71st Halloween Regatta |
FAQ
When is the Western Carolina State Fair taking place?
The Western Carolina State Fair is currently ongoing at the Aiken Fairgrounds from October 10 to October 19, 2025.
What are the gate opening hours for the fair?
Gates open at 5 p.m. on weekdays, while on weekends, they open at noon.
What is the cost of general admission?
General gate admission is $10, and children 5 and under get free entry.
What special promotions are available during the fair?
Tuesday features a $15 ride special, and “We Care Wednesday” allows visitors to earn free gate admission by donating 10 nonperishable food items.
Where is the fair located?
The fair is located at 561 May Royal Drive, just north of Aiken’s city limit.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Western Carolina State Fair Draws Crowds
- Wikipedia: Fair (event)
- Post and Courier: Western Carolina State Fair News
- Google Search: Western Carolina State Fair
- WFXG: Western Carolina State Fair Returns
- Google Scholar: Western Carolina State Fair
- Augusta Chronicle: Aiken County Fair Season
- Encyclopedia Britannica: County Fairs
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken 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 Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
