When the late-summer heat begins to give way to crisp autumn breeze 🍂 in South Carolina’s oldest inland city, Camden undergoes a magical transformation. Long known as the “Steeplechase Capital of the World,” our cultural canvas has expanded with two signature experiences that you may not have heard of yet. Each celebrating a milestone anniversary, the Camden Horse & Hound Expo 🐶🐎 and the Southern Gothic Festival 🐦⬛🕯️showcase the town’s rich equestrian heritage as well as its atmospheric, story-filled past.
Camden Horse & Hound Expo
Denim & Diamonds GalaThe Expo 📸 Perry McLeodDock Dogs
Dates:September 25-27, 2026
Location:Dale Thiel Showgrounds, Springdale Race Course, Historic Kirkwood Polo Field
Celebrating Camden’s deep-rooted connection to equestrian sports and working canine traditions, the fifth annual Camden Horse & Hound Expo is a premier gathering for animal lovers, sporting enthusiasts, and families alike.
The Denim & Diamonds Gala: 💎 Guests are invited to wear semi-formal attire or elevated denim, with stylish footwear and celebratory hats and other headwear warmly welcomed.
The Expo – Live Demonstrations: 🐕Watch world-class handlers showcase foxhounds, Boykin Spaniels, Alpha Retrievers, and the always entertaining Dock Dogs alongside an equine showcase, vaulting performances and foxhunting horse exhibitions.
The Center Corral: 🏰 Kids can enjoy games and live entertainment, while parents stroll through vendor tents featuring handmade leather goods, equestrian apparel, custom dog gear, and equine art.
Polo 101: 🏇🏼 Trade the sidelines for the field. This is your opportunity to experience the excitement of polo from the inside. Learn the fundamentals of the sport on foot, while you enjoy food trucks and entertainment at this family-friendly event.
Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or simply appreciate the beauty of working canines, this expo captures the heart of Carolina horse country.
Southern Gothic Festival
Live Music DowntownAuthor DiscussionsWorld Premiere of Shock
Dates:October 9-10, 2026
Location:Downtown Camden, Historic Camden, Revolutionary War Visitor Center, Arts Center of Kershaw County
As Halloween approaches, Camden embraces the mysterious and hauntingly beautiful side of Southern literature and lore with the Southern Gothic Festival. Experience two immersive days of literature, folklore, true crime, horror and music, exploring the strange and unsettling stories of the South.
Atmospheric Performances: 🎻 Enjoy live acoustics, theatrical readings, and haunting musical performances as dusk falls over downtown.
Author Panels & Literary Readings: 📖 Meet prominent Southern Gothic and dark fiction authors for keynotes, book signings, and panel discussions on local ghost lore and storytelling traditions.
World Premiere: 🎭 Experience the world premiere of Shock, the story of two young cousins growing up in small town South Carolina in a world of rural poverty, religious mania, mental illness, and infidelity, all told with a heavy dose of humor.
Lantern-lit Ghost Tours: 🔦 Stroll through the campus of Historic Camden Foundation for a lesson about its historically haunted grounds.
While You’re Here
B. ColsonPink StableGreener Pastures Brewing Co.
Between festival events, treat yourself to Camden’s thriving culinary scene, art galleries, and unique local boutiques:
Sam Kendall’s (1043 Broad St): 🍔 Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, this local favorite offers refined American dining with exceptional steaks, fresh seafood, and crafted cocktails.
Victoria Susan Wearable Art (411 Rutledge St): 👚 A vibrant stop for handcrafted garments, artistic apparel, and distinct accessories you won’t find anywhere else.
B. Colson(1105 Broad St): 🥩 Perfect for a cozy, upscale dinner after a day at the festival, featuring fine cuts of meat and an extensive bourbon collection.
Artists Attic(930 Broad St): Curious creations and treasures, alongside eclectic artwork and handmade creations from multiple artists and genres.
Broad & Vine (1025 Broad St): 🍷 An upscale wine bar featuring a 32-bottle cruvinet system and small plates to share.
Pink Stable (1032 Broad St): 👗 A boutique offering chic Southern women’s fashion, accessories, and gifts—perfect for pulling together an autumn festival outfit.
Rutledge Street Gallery (508 Rutledge St): 🖼️ A premier contemporary fine art gallery showcasing a vibrant collection of original fine art from local and regional artists, sculpture, handcrafted furniture, pottery, rugs, and fine jewelry.
Whether you are drawn by the majestic stride of a foxhunter at the Horse & Hound Expo or the mysterious charm of the Southern Gothic Festival, Camden offers an unforgettable autumn escape. 🍂
There’s a particular kind of magic to autumn in Camden ✨. The humidity finally breaks, the horse farms start looking like postcards, and the smell of food trucks fills the air. In the early fall months, our little corner of the Midlands hosts everything from coin shows to horse and hound festivals 🐎 to farm days and a Gothic literary weekend 🦇. We’ve corralled the best festivals to experience in September and October (and maybe a peek at November 👀), and paired them with some other places you can’t miss on your trip into town.
September in Camden eases you into fall with one-of-a-kind weekends to enjoy. 🔥
Pirate FestHorse & Hound Expo 📸: Perry McLeodFire Fest
September Events 🍂
Historic Camden Foundation’s Pirate Fest (Sept 17–19) 🏴☠️ — Avast, ye landlubbers! Historic Camden trades its Revolutionary War roots for the High Seas during Pirate Fest. A mid-September favorite, this immersive weekend features living-history encampments, black powder weapon demonstrations, tavern tunes, pirate battles, and interactive games for kids. It’s an ideal outing for families and history lovers alike.
Camden Coin Show Fall Spectacular (Sept 18–19) 🪙 — One of the premier numismatic gatherings in the state, the Camden Coin Show brings together dozens of regional dealers and hundreds of collectors. Whether you are a seasoned coin collector, looking for gold and silver, or just curious about historic paper currency, this event offers free admission, hourly prize giveaways, and educational gifts for kids.
Camden Horse & Hound Weekend (Sept 25–27) 🐶🐴 — Camden is South Carolina’s equestrian capital, and nothing celebrates that legacy quite like the Horse & Hound Expo. Held at the historic Springdale Race Course, this family-favorite weekend features live horsemanship demonstrations, trick riding, canine agility shows, regional artisan vendors, and food trucks. The Denim & Diamonds Gala on Friday brings a little sparkle to the weekend, and Camden Polo Club‘s free “Explore Polo Day” on Sunday gives spectators a chance to trade the sideline for the field.
Austin Outlaw’s Memorial Championship Rodeo (Sept 25-26) 🐎🤠 — If you prefer boots and dust over high-seas plunder, head out for this late-September rodeo showdown. Featuring two nights of barrel racing, roping, and bull riding, this 10th annual action-packed event highlights raw athletic talent and classic Southern rodeo culture. Food trucks and rodeo vendors up the vibe to a mini-festival out in the sticks.
Fire Fest (Sept 26) 🚒 — Thirty years running, this family-friendly favorite brings live burns, antique fire trucks and safety demos to the Camden City Arena. You will also find vendors, food trucks, classic cars, a huge Kid Zone, team challenges, and more. Kicking off Fire Prevention Month in October, Fire Fest is a beloved local tradition hosted by the Camden Fire Department.
October is arguably Camden’s most atmospheric month — cooler evenings, pumpkin everything, and a genuinely eerie literary festival that leans into our Southern Gothic roots.
Southern Gothic FestivalFall Family Farm DayBoo Fest
October Events 🎃
Southern Gothic Festival (Oct 9–10) 🐦⬛🕯️ — A signature Camden experience: two immersive days celebrating Southern literature, folklore, history and music, with writers and historians from around the region. Expect spooky ghost walks, eerie folklore panels, author talks on Southern literature, live dark-Americana music, and local artisan markets. It is the ultimate fall event for fans of local history, haunts, and storytelling.
Old McCaskill’s FallFamily Day (Oct 10) 🐑 — Experience “A Day in the Life” at this working farm. Get lost in the Pumpkin Patch, catch a hay ride, and try your hand at the grist mill. Look for farm demonstrations, a working blacksmith, and entertainment from a bluegrass band. Indulge in the farm’s famous egg rolls and grab some goodies to take home.
Boo Fest & Chili Cook Off (Oct 31) 🌶️👻— The last Saturday of October is when the grub and ghouls collide. Approximately 30 teams hoping to be crowned winner descend on Town Green for the United Way’s annual chili cook off, while merchants in Downtown Camden and Dusty Bend decorate and disseminate all the Halloween fare. You will want to bring the kids in costume, and make sure you skip breakfast.
And if all this leaves you wanting more, watch for another blog dedicated to Camden’s “Revolutionary November“. We will have all the details for each weekend, filled with history and horses.
Camden’s free “Blankets & Bands” concert series returns to Town Green beginning Thursday, September 10. Grab your blanket or lawn chair, gather your friends and family, and enjoy an evening of live music outdoors in Downtown Camden.
The fall series kicks off with Hannah E & The Lynches River Boys, local favorites bringing classic country covers and original tunes to the stage. Pack a picnic or pick up takeout from one of Downtown Camden’s local restaurants and make an evening of it.
On September 24, Blankets & Bands welcomes Raw Deal to the stage for the first time. Hailing from Lancaster, this band brings plenty of Southern grit and ’90s attitude, with a versatile mix of rock and country for all ages.
The Sunrise Jazz Ensemble comes to Camden on Thursday, October 8. Led by acclaimed saxophonist Ken Cheeks and featuring guest vocalist Crystal Felder, this legendary group will fill Town Green with smooth jazz and groovy funk tunes.
Closing out the fall series on Thursday, October 22, Jennifer & The Charles Project will bring a crowd-pleasing mix of blues, soul and a little rock and roll. Featuring rock-solid bass and drums, Robert Charles’s stellar guitar work and Jennifer Erickson’s signature vocals, this is one performance sure to get the crowd moving.
All concerts will be held on Thursdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m., weather permitting. A student or young musician will open each concert, followed by the headlining band at 6:30 p.m.
Beer and wine are permitted on Town Green during concert hours. Glass containers are not allowed. If a concert is canceled due to weather, notifications will be posted on the City’s website and social media channels.
Blankets & Bands is a partnership between the Downtown Camden Cultural District and the Arts Center of Kershaw County, bringing free live music to the community each spring and fall.
South Carolina’s oldest inland city might be famous for its historic revolutionary roots and steeplechase heritage, but when Thursday evening rolls around, we trade that in for big basslines and acoustic jams. Whether you’re looking to catch a solo set while sipping a beverage, catch a lawn concert under the stars, or groove to the band alongside friends and neighbors, Camden offers a vibrant weekend music lineup all fifty-two of the year.
Here is your weekend playbook for catching live tunes around town.
The Anchors: Local Favorites Featuring Local Talent
🍸 Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill Where: 1044 Broad St, Downtown Camden The Vibe: Casual, lively, a classic local hangout, daily food and drink specials. Steeplechase is known as the place “where all the locals meet” and is often full at peak lunch and dinner hours. Settle in for acoustic acts Thursday evenings and livelier sets on Fridays.
🌮 La Fiesta Where: 29 East DeKalb St, Camden The Vibe: Family friendly, traditional Mexican, classic margaritas. A Friday night staple, featuring local rock and country bands on the patio. Arrive early to ensure you get a seat.
🍷 Broad & Vine Where: Broad St, Downtown Camden The Vibe: Intimate, stylish, curated wine, and tapas. If you prefer smooth acoustic jams paired with a glass of Pinot Noir and tapas over heavy amps and beer, this sophisticated spot hosts local solo artists and acoustic duos most Fridays, creating an ideal setting for a date night or a relaxed catch-up with friends.
🍺 Greener Pastures Brewing Co. Where: 826 Broad St, Downtown Camden The Vibe: High energy, local craft beer, brick-oven pizza, and great patio space. Greener Pastures is a favorite spot for weekend music, hosting local bands in their “pasture”. Grab a house brew, order a wood-fired pizza, and settle in on the outdoor patio for a lively Friday or Saturday night performance.
Pro Tip: Park Once, Walk Everywhere: Downtown Broad Street is extremely walkable. Park near the Kershaw County Farmers Market (906 Broad St) or Town Green (1015 Market St), and you can easily walk between venues, dinner spots, and bars.
Community Stages & Cultural Hubs
🎭 The Arts Center of Kershaw County Where: 810 Lyttleton St, Downtown Camden The Vibe: Diverse genres, indoor/outdoor performances, and community theater. The Arts Center is the cultural heartbeat of Kershaw County, playing host to big band showcases, chamber music, and much more throughout the year. Check their event calendar ahead of time for ticketed shows, theater performances, and indoor auditorium concerts.
🌳 Blankets & Bands on Town Green Where: 1015 Market St, Downtown Camden The Vibe: Family-friendly lawn concert, picnic style. During the active concert seasons (spring and fall), Camden’s Town Green hosts Blankets & Bands, a free outdoor series bringing regional classic rock, country, and soul acts to the lawn. Throw a folding chair or blanket in your trunk, pack a picnic, and enjoy an evening under the stars on select Thursdays.
🎷 Gallery 537 Where: 537 East DeKalb St The Vibe: Relaxed jazz lounge, upscale beer/wine selection, diverse genres. Step into a mood at this art gallery meets intimate music lounge, featuring local and regional blues and jazz acts, and sometimes even a little rock or country. The gallery hosts mini music festival throughout the year, with two to four days of melodies to enjoy.
Just Outside of Town
🚤 Beaver’s Den at Beaver Creek Where: 3482 John G. Richards Rd, Lake Wateree The Vibe: Lake life, casual dining, and dockside jams. Downtown isn’t the only place to find live music. Head up to road to Lake Wateree to find karaoke almost every Thursday, casual acoustic sets on Fridays and outdoor performances on Saturdays (Sundays too on certain weekends).
🏍️A&B Bar & Grill Where: 96 Hwy 601 South, Lugoff The Vibe: Casual and friendly, pub style menu, with dart boards and pool tables. Just over the bridge in Lugoff, you will find solo acts playing during their Thursday bike nights in the warmer months, and more live music on Saturdays.
🎱 Eagle’s Nest Where: 108 Fairleaf Circle, Camden The Vibe: Lively local hangout, with outdoor stage and seating. Newly remodeled, this small “neighborhood” bar hosts solo acts to full bands almost every week during the warm weather months.
Pro Tip: Check Local Socials: Venue schedules can change quickly due to weather. Double-check Facebook or Instagram pages before heading out.
Summer in Camden, SC has a specific kind of magic. The morning air carries the scent of sweet tea and fresh produce, the afternoons call for a serious cold treat, and our historic streets are buzzing with energy. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or rolling into town for a weekend visit, this season is packed with unique ways to experience South Carolina’s oldest inland city.
Here’s a handful of summer adventures to get you started! 👌
Books on Broad & Coffee
Hunt for Waldo All Across Camden
If you love a good challenge (or have kiddos who need to burn off some energy), you’re in luck! Thanks to the folks at Books on Broad and Coffee, the beloved Find Waldo Local scavenger hunt is back. Throughout July, everyone’s favorite red-and-white striped world traveler is hiding in 25 local businesses around town. You can pick up a stamp card at Books on Broad, track him down as you wander the shops, and work your way toward a grand celebration party.
Off The Hook Seafood Market
Cool Off with Artisanal Gelato at Off the Hook Seafood Market
After a morning of walking around, you’re gonna want something sweet and refreshing. While Off the Hook Seafood Market is our absolute go-to for the freshest catch, wild-caught shrimp, and local seafood, their hidden summer superpower is their authentic Italian, locally-made gelato. Creamy, perfectly chilled, and exploding with flavor, grabbing a scoop here is a total insider secret for surviving a hot South Carolina afternoon. 🍦
Camden Golf Studio
Take a Swing at the New Camden Golf Studio
Want to work on your golf game without breaking a sweat in the humidity? Head over to 1020 Broad Street and check out the newly opened Camden Golf Studio. 🏌️♂️
This premium, climate-controlled indoor simulator lets you play some of the world’s most iconic courses right from the heart of downtown. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer analyzing your swing data or a complete beginner looking for a fun, cool afternoon out with friends, it is a brilliant addition to Camden’s entertainment scene.
Kershaw County Farmers Market
Shop Fresh and Local at the Kershaw County Farmers Market
Saturday mornings are sacred around here, and that means waking up early to head over to the Kershaw County Farmers Market. There’s nothing quite like browsing the stalls under the warm morning sun. It’s the best place to stock up on locally, juicy summer peaches 🍑, fresh-picked heirloom tomatoes 🍅, artisanal baked goods, and handmade crafts. Plus, it’s a great spot to grab a bite from a local food truck and chat with the farmers and makers who make our community so special. 🧺
Track Down America’s 250th Boykin Spaniel Statues
Camden is famous for the Boykin Spaniel Invasion—a permanent scavenger hunt featuring 12 adorable, miniature bronze puppy statues, modeled by the great-granddaughter of the breed’s founder. 🐶
But this summer, the hunt has an epic twist. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, these little bronze pups are getting decked out in patriotic style. Grab a clue brochure from the Camden Archives and Museum and see if you can spot all of South Carolina’s favorite state dogs showing off their historic pride! 🌟
Vintage Collections
Hunt for Treasure Along Camden’s Antique Street
With ten independently owned antique stores, Camden’s Antique Street is a premier destination for collectors, history buffs, and treasure hunters alike. Stay cool while you spend hours browsing an eclectic array of goods, ranging from rare 18th-century furniture and vintage estate jewelry to Civil War-era memorabilia and mid-century collectibles. Chat with our local “stuff-ologists”, who can help you find something specific or something that’s just fun!
Where Is Your Next Adventure? 🤔
Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or you call Camden home, there’s always something fun and unique here to help fill those lazy days of summer. Let us know about your favorite spots and don’t forget to tag us in your weekend photos using #ExperienceCamdenSC!
