If you’re planning a weekend getaway filled with Celtic music, Irish culture, good food, and Southern charm, then Irish Fest Camden in Camden, South Carolina is where you want to be on Saturday, March 7, 2026!
Every March, this vibrant festival transforms Camden, South Carolina’s oldest inland city, into a celebration of Irish and Celtic heritage. From bagpipes to whiskey tastings and spirited pub nights, here’s your guide to making the most of the weekend.
🎶 Main Festival: A Day of Irish Culture
On Saturday, March 7, head to the Kershaw County Airport for the 10th Annual Irish Fest Camden:
Live Celtic music on three stages featuring bands like SYR and special international guests.
Highland Games — traditional Celtic athletic competitions.
Irish whiskey tastings, green beer, and classic festival fare.
Kids Zone with crafts and inflatables.
Irish storytelling, dancing, axe throwing, marketplace vendors, and more.
The festival is truly a family-friendly cultural celebration where Celtic heritage comes alive through food, music, sport, and shared fun.
Pub Crawl 2025
🍻 Pre-Festival Fun: Pub Nights in Camden
The weekend doesn’t wait until Saturday!
Irish Pub Night | Thursday, March 5 Kick things off at the Arts Center of Kershaw County, where the Black Box Theatre transforms into a cozy Irish pub atmosphere—with dinner, drinks, live music, and a look into traditional Irish instruments and tunes. Tickets available here.
Pub in the Pasture | Friday, March 6 Then on Friday, March 6 at Greener Pastures Brewing Co., enjoy Pub in the Pasture, an evening of Celtic sounds under the stars, multiple musical acts, and great vibes at one of Camden’s favorite breweries. Tickets available here.
🍀 Where to Stay in Camden
Camden has accommodations to suit many tastes and budgets, from trusted hotel chains to short-term rentals and a cozy B&B:
Located just south of downtown Camden, Old McCaskill Farm’s 4-bedroom Bed & Breakfast is situated over the sprawling landscape of an actual working farm. Owned and operated by the McCaskill family, classic farm life meets the historic charm of rural Camden.
Cultural DistrictRevolutionary War Visitor CenterGoodale State Park
🏙 Before & After: Explore Camden’s Charm
While you’re in town for the festival, Camden offers so much more to make your trip memorable:
🏛 Dive Into History Camden is steeped in American history. Visit the Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site, an open-air museum and colonial village where you can walk the grounds of a critical Revolutionary War site and explore historic structures.
🌿 Outdoor Adventures Just outside of town, Goodale State Park offers scenic paddling, picnicking, and nature watching—perfect for a laid-back morning or afternoon outdoors.
⛪ Historic Landmarks & Downtown Stroll through Camden’s compact Cultural District with antique shops, art galleries, and historic architecture.
🍽 Local Eats & Shops Camden’s downtown has plenty of cafes, classic American dining and upscale Southern cuisine, and boutique stores to enjoy before or after festival days—perfect for souvenir hunting or sampling local flavor.
Highland Games
🍀 Final Tips for Irish Fest Week
Dress in green! It’s the unofficial festival style.
Check out festival add-ons like the Lucky Leprechaun 5K.
Book accommodations early! Irish Fest Camden brings lots of visitors to this charming town.
Whether you’re here for the music, the culture, or just a fun Southern weekend, Irish Fest Camden promises a lively celebration and plenty of reasons to explore one of South Carolina’s most historic towns. Sláinte! 🍀
A self-guided, eat-what-you-want adventure through Camden & surrounding Kershaw County!
Whether you tackle this crawl in one ambitious day or spread it across a weekend, this lineup highlights the best local burgers in Kershaw County,from drive-in style classics to upscale (read: fancy cheese!) and Southern twists.
Vibe: Classic, no-frills, local legend What to order: Cheeseburger with fries Why start here: This is the ultimate “baseline” burger: simple, juicy, and beloved by locals. Starting here sets the tone for the crawl and gives you a true taste of a classic burger.
Pro tip: Split one burger if you’re crawling with friends. Pace is key.
Vibe: Retro, drive-in / diner energy What to order: Classic burger Why it works: Another Camden staple, but with a slightly different personality. This stop is all about nostalgia and comfort.
Pro tip: Get the pimento cheese fries and thank us later!
Vibe: Casual, bold, modern What to order: The 1/2 lb. Black & Bleu Burger with fries and slaw Why it matters: This is where the crawl shifts from classic to creative. Big flavors, fun toppings, and a menu made for sharing.
Optional break: Walk it off with a stroll around downtown Camden.
Vibe: Laid-back, social, new local favorite What to order: Smashburger + local craft beer Why it’s perfect mid-crawl: This stop isn’t about rushing — it’s about hanging out. Grab their take on a smashburger, sip something cold, and enjoy the relaxed Broad Street atmosphere.
Vibe: Upscale casual, date-night worthy What to order: The signature “SK” Burger (hello, Sam’s special sauce) with fries Why it belongs on the crawl: Sam Kendall’s shows off the elevated side of Camden’s burger scene. It’s perfect for winding into the evening.
Vibe: Southern comfort meets bistro What to order: The Pimento Burger (pimento cheese fans, take note) with sweet potato fries Why it’s a bonus: If you’re extending the crawl into a second day or exploring beyond Camden, this Elgin favorite adds a Southern twist that rounds out the experience beautifully.
Vibe: Classic Southern feel, where you’ll probably hear “Order up!” What to order: Bacon Cheeseburger basket, all the way, with fries and slaw Why it’s a must-see: Haile Street Grill, part of the Camden culinary landscape since 1928, focuses on family, flavor and hometown hospitality in everything they do. You’ll feel right at home here, and your belly will thank you!
🏁 How to Crawl Like a Pro
Share burgers whenever possible
Hydrate (seriously)
Take breaks: shopping, sightseeing, or a walk downtown helps
Turn it into a weekend instead of one long day – check out accommodations here.
🍔 Final Bite
This burger crawl proves one thing: Kershaw County punches way above its weight when it comes to burgers. From classic roadside favorites to polished plates and Southern comfort, this is a crawl that locals and visitors alike can savor, one bite at a time.
Arts, Heritage & Stories That Shaped Our Community
Black history is American history, and in Camden, it’s a story deeply rooted in faith, creativity, resilience, and culture. Each year, our community comes together to honor the contributions of African Americans through art, music, storytelling, and shared traditions. From late January through February, Camden offers meaningful opportunities to reflect, learn, and celebrate Black History Month.
Artists in the Sanctuary
Camden Second Presbyterian Church
January 25 | 3 – 5 pm **POSTPONED TO FEBRUARY 22 DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER**
Artists in the Sanctuary
Black History Month begins early in Camden with Artists in the Sanctuary, a powerful celebration of African American artists and performers. Through visual art, music, poetry, liturgical dancing and other performances, Artists in the Sanctuary sets a reflective and inspiring tone for the month ahead while honoring the role churches have long played in nurturing Black artistry.
*This event has been postponed due to the impending Winter Storm Fern – the new date will be Sunday, February 22*
“A Walk Through History – Milestones in Economics + Education: 1867 – 1927” Exhibit Opening
African American Cultural Center
January 30, 1 – 5 pm + January 31, 11am – 3:30 pm
A Walk Through History – Milestones in Economics + Education: 1867 – 1927
Discover a visual representation of historical milestones of African American citizens in Camden between 1867 and 1927 at this new and exciting exhibit housed at the African American Cultural Center. Artifacts, photos and narratives tell the story of progress in business and education in South Carolina.
Gospel Fest & Heritage Tea Tribute
Arts Center of Kershaw County
February 7 | 6 – 8 pm
The Arts Center of Kershaw County and the Multi-Cultural committee are proud to bring back Gospel Fest! Come celebrate gospel music and unity in the Arts Center’s Wood Auditorium. Gospel Fest will showcase performances by local choirs and artists and features diverse gospel styles and encourages audience participation, fostering a spirit of togetherness through music. Expect powerful vocals, joyful praise, and moments of reflection that unite audiences across generations. Tickets can be purchased here.
Black Heroes of the Revolutionary War Lectures
Historic Camden Foundation
February 14, 21 & 28 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm & 1:30 – 2:00 pm
This Historic Camden Foundation lecture explores the African American experience during the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783), examining the critical roles enslaved and free Black individuals played when they aligned with the French, British, or Patriot causes. From soldiers and sailors to laborers, guides, and spies, the lecture highlights the complex choices African Americans made in pursuit of freedom and survival. Through the stories of figures such as Crispus Attucks, Prince Whipple, Thomas Carney, Boston King, and Bonds Conway, the lectures offer a deeper, more inclusive understanding of the Revolutionary era and the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans to the nation’s founding.
“Blue, Red & Black” Lunch & Learn: African Americans and the Revolutionary War
Revolutionary War Visitor Center
February 17 | 12 – 2 pm
Revolutionary War Visitor Center
Black history is an essential part of Camden’s Revolutionary War narrative. The Revolutionary War Visitor Center’s“Blue, Red & Black” event explores the experiences and perspectives of African Americans during the Revolutionary era—both enslaved and free. Through interpretation and dialogue, this program highlights stories often left untold, offering visitors a more complete and nuanced understanding of the fight for independence and black soldiers’ place in it. Reserve your spot here.
Experience Black History Month in Camden
From sacred art and gospel music to lectures, tea traditions, and Revolutionary War storytelling, Camden’s Black History Month events invite residents and visitors alike to listen, learn, and celebrate together. We hope you’ll make plans now to attend one—or all—of these programs and experience the stories that continue to shape our community.
In Camden, history lives on—and Black History Month offers a powerful reminder of the voices and stories that helped shape it.
A Stylish Start: Coffee, Conversation & Slow Mornings
A girls’ getaway in Camden begins the way all great weekends should — unhurried, caffeinated, and full of conversation. Downtown coffee shops invite you to ease into the day before the shopping bags and cocktail glasses come out.
Settle in at Books on Broad and Coffee, where shelves of books, cozy corners, and piping hot coffee create the perfect backdrop for planning the day ahead. Just down the street, American Patriot Coffee Company offers locally roasted coffee, bold brews and a welcoming atmosphere that feels distinctly Camden. For those craving a classic Southern breakfast, Haile Street Grill delivers hearty and comforting dishes and friendly service that locals swear by. If brunch is more your speed, Eggs Up Grill keeps things casual, delicious, and satisfying to start your day.
Camden’s downtown shopping scene is equal parts charming and unexpected. Tree-lined streets and historic storefronts make window shopping feel like part of the experience.
By midday, you may want to trade shopping bags for lunch plans — and Camden doesn’t disappoint. These are the kinds of spots where you won’t want to rush the meal because the conversation is just too good.
Every Day Gourmet offers fresh, flavorful sandwiches and salads that feel both indulgent and light. The Loopy Lemon Café adds personality to the plate with Mediterranean fusion flavors and whimsical décor, making it a favorite for girls’ trips. For something unmistakably Southern, Candy’s at the Granary serves beloved classics (including legendary pimento cheese), while C.C.’s Snack Shop keeps things fun and nostalgic with burgers, fries, and hot dogs.
Evenings Done Right: Dinner, Drinks & Nightcaps
As the sun dips lower, Camden shifts into evening mode — relaxed, stylish, and full of flavor.
Dress things up at Sam Kendall’s, where elevated Southern cuisine sets the tone for a memorable night out. B.Colsondelivers a refined dining experience perfect for celebratory toasts and shared desserts. If margaritas and bold flavors are calling, Salud!Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Lounge brings the fun, while Broad & Vine offers a more intimate wine-bar atmosphere ideal for lingering over charcuterie and conversation. End the night with a laid-back nightcap at Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge, where the vibe is relaxed and the laughs come easy.
Camden Only: Experiences You Can’t Replicate Anywhere Else
What truly sets Camden apart are the moments that make you feel like a local. Between meals and shopping, there’s plenty to explore.
Walk through living history at the Historic Camden Foundation’s Colonial Village, where the grounds and structures tell the story of the area’s past. Take a scenic break at Camden Riverfront Environmental Park, perfect for photos, fresh air, and quiet conversation. Explore the Camden Cultural District, where murals, galleries, and creative spaces reflect the town’s artistic spirit. Just outside downtown, Goodale State Park offers peaceful views and canoe trails — a serene contrast to the buzz of Broad Street.
Camden’s magic is in the small things — historic yet lively, charming yet stylish, relaxed yet full of things to do. Weekends here feel slower and easier, and core memories are made between coffee refills, boutique stops, and one last glass of wine. Whether you’re celebrating, reconnecting, or just escaping routine, Camden delivers a getaway that feels uniquely personal and perfectly shareable.
If your perfect getaway includes wandering through galleries, discovering local makers, tasting your way through small-town flavors, and soaking in history and creativity at every turn, then Camden, South Carolina is ready to dazzle you. This charming city may be small, but our cultural footprint is mighty — so mighty that the South Carolina Arts Commission designated Downtown Camden as an official “Cultural District.”
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a full weekend, Camden’s arts, food, and entertainment scene gives you all the reasons to linger just a little longer.
🎭 Day 1: Art Walks, Local Eats & Nighttime Vibes
Your adventure begins in the heart of Downtown Camden, where beautifully preserved Federal and Classical Revival architecture sets the stage for an immersive cultural stroll. Keep an eye out for landmarks by famed architect Robert Mills, including the stately Bethesda Presbyterian Church, which anchors Church Street.
🖼 Galleries, Artists & Creative Corners
Start at TenEleven Galleria Mall at Broad and Rutledge, where the Camden Art Shoppes showcases work from more than 70 local artists. From workshops and classes to custom commissions, this stop is both a gallery and an experience.
Just steps away, you’ll find the Artists Attic, with 18 artists in residence, this thriving creative community has been a fixture of Camden’s arts & culture scene for more than 30 years. Continue around the corner to Rutledge Street Gallery, a contemporary gallery brimming with paintings, sculpture, pottery, handcrafted jewelry, and unique furniture pieces.
🍽 Midday Bites You’ll Dream About Later
When lunchtime rolls around, Camden doesn’t disappoint. Try:
Loopy Lemon CafeBlackmon’s Little Midget Family Drive-InCamden House of Pizza
Loopy Lemon Café – colorful, quirky, and always cooking up something new 🌈
Spend the afternoon exploring the Camden Archives & Museum, housed inside a historic Carnegie Library. Here, you can trace your family roots, uncover stories of Camden’s early settlement, and get a feel for how art, culture, and community have shaped the city over centuries. Don’t miss the Reconciliation Garden, where statues of native sons Larry Doby and Bernard Baruch invite conversation and reflection.
Camden Archives & Museum
🍔 Dinner, Drinks & Downtown After Dark
Settle in for dinner with the locals at Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill— think burgers, crispy flounder, fried onion straws, and live music most weekends.
Afterward, head to Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge, one of Downtown’s newer nightlife additions. Sip top-shelf spirits, browse the impressive cigar selection, and relax with friends. A few doors down is Salud! Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Lounge, if you’re more into bold flavors. Try one of their impressive selections of rare Tequila, Mezcal, Raicilla, Soltol and Bacarona.
📜 Day 2: Museums, Culture & a Night at the Arts Center
Camden’s culture runs deep, and day two takes you further into its creative and historic heartbeat. Start your day with breakfast at Haile Street Grill, or grab coffee and a pastry from one of our favorite coffee shops: American Patriot Coffee Company – Camden’s only coffee roaster – or Books on Broad & Coffee.
Books on Broad & CoffeeAmerican Patriot Coffee Company
National Steeplechase MuseumRevolutionary War Visitor CenterHistoric Camden Foundation
Then head to the African American Cultural Center on York Street, a powerful space filled with documents, artifacts, and stories that honor the African American experience in Camden.
🎶 A Night at the Arts
The day ends at the Arts Center of Kershaw County, the beating heart of the local arts scene. Whether it’s music, drama, dance, or an engaging exhibition, there’s always something happening here.
Sam Kendall’s – a Camden institution housed inside an 1875 building, offering steaks, seafood, salads, creative cocktails, and a stellar wine list
Greener Pastures Brewing Company – the new kid on the block, Camden’s first and only brewery is pouring up something delicious! Check out their food offerings as well, including pizzas, pretzels, spicy pimento cheese and more.
✨ Your Camden Cultural Escape Awaits
With its blending of arts, food, history, and heartfelt hospitality, Camden is a place where culture feels close, accessible, and authentic. Whether you come for a day or stay for a weekend, you’ll leave inspired — and probably already planning your return.
