Camden, South Carolina
🎯 How to Experience 3 Major Fall Events Happening in Camden, SC this October

🎯 How to Experience 3 Major Fall Events Happening in Camden, SC this October

by | Oct 3, 2025 | Tourism Blog

Horse & Hound Expo

If you’re looking for how best to craft an unforgettable weekend in Camden, SC, grab a snack and your coffee, this is gonna be a long one! October 9 – 12 is shaping up to be packed for events that folks of all ages can enjoy! The big highlights are the Camden Jazz Festival, the Southern Gothic Festival and the Camden Horse & Hound Expo.

Here’s a quick look at how these three events overlap in Camden on the same weekend in October:

Camden Jazz Fesitval | October 9 – 11, 2025

Southern Gothic Festival | October 10 – 11, 2025

Camden Horse & Hound Expo | October 10 – 12, 2025

📆 Itinerary: How to experience them all in one weekend

If you’re interested in experiencing all three spectacular events, we’ve put together a suggested play-by-play to help make the most of your time.

Thursday, October 9 – Arrive & Get Settled

Camden Jazz Festival

Late Afternoon / Early Evening

  • Arrive in Camden, check into your hotel or short-term rental.
  • Grab a relaxed dinner downtown — Camden has cozy Southern spots and local restaurants. Or, venture a little farther out to experience a unique and serene dining experience at Mill Pond Steakhouse, where the views rival the flavors.
  • Jazz Festival Opening Night: The festival begins the evening of the 9th at Gallery 537, a vibrant arts hub in the heart of downtown Camden. Plan to arrive early enough to catch one of the opening sets.

Friday, October 10 — Big Weekend Kickoff

Daytime

Southern Gothic Festival

Evening

  • Jazz Festival Night 2: The festival continues at Gallery 537. Expect soulful sounds, cool vibes and unforgettable memories.
  • Southern Gothic Night 1:
    • Folklore & Legends Lantern Tour: From 7 – 8 pm, step into the shadows of Camden’s storied past with this guided lantern tour through Historic Camden Foundation’s haunted grounds. You’ll hear chilling tales of ghosts and ghoulish stories passe down through generations of Southern folklore.
    • Spooky Street Concert: From 7:00 – 9:30 pm, there is a haunting street concert on Rutledge Street to open the festival proper. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy special menus and festival discounts at participating downtown businesses.
  • Wind down with night cap at Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge or Broad & Vine or a quiet stroll through downtown Camden, perhaps with a ghost-lit walk or haunted-history reflection in mind (since you’ll be in Gothic mode anyway).

Saturday, October 11 — The Big Overlap Day

This is your “all-in” day — plan early, move efficiently, and pace yourself.

Morning

  • Horse & Hound Expo opens at 9:00 AM at Springdale Racecourse, home of the legendary Carolina and Colonial Cup Steeplechase Races. Expect a full day of programming across the grounds, featuring live demos, family-friendly activities and expert presentations. Explore the lively vendor marketplace featuring tack, gun dog gear, handmade goods and apparel, and more.

Midday

  • Around lunchtime (11 am – 5 pm), carve out a break to head back toward downtown Camden and stop by the Revolutionary War Visitor Center to catch a Southern Gothic panel, author talk, or book signing. The Saturday schedule includes panels, readings, and possibly ghost or folklore-themed sessions.
  • The Jazz Festival’s The Finale on the Town Green kicks off at 3 pm. Kids are free, so bring the whole family if you’re looking to enjoy some smooth or upbeat jazz, depending on the artist.

Evening

  • Southern Gothic evening events — the After Party will begin at 7 pm at Greener Pastures Brewing Company, featuring Backline performing a gothic-bluegrass set. Enjoy drink specials at the brewery and surrounding participating downtown businesses. Bring your Southern Gothic Festival Passport and you could receive a free festival tote bag. Prefer to keep the spookiness going? Head back down to Historic Camden Foundation for a Haunts & Spirits Tour from 7:00 – 8:30 pm to immerse yourself in Camden’s haunted past.
  • The Jazz Festival’s The Finale on the Town Green: the Jazz Festival’s final day runs from 3 pm until 10 pm. Wind down a fun-filled Saturday with the rhythm and melody of The Delegation Quartet, RAPHA and The Dick Goodwin Band. Kids are free.

Sunday, October 12 — Wind Down with Polo & Reflection or Seek Thrills

Horse & Hound Expo
  • Start your morning with a leisurely brunch at B.Colson in Camden, reflect on the weekend’s highlights, or revisit a favorite spot downtown.
  • From 11:30 am until 4 pm, head out to the Camden Charity Polo Cup, typically beginning at 1:00 PM. Enjoy the match, the halftime “divot stomp,” and the genteel atmosphere of polo at the Camden Polo Field. Proceeds go to benefit the mission of Hickory Top Farm.
  • Have a need for speed? Head out to Carolina Motorsports Park, the road racing center of the Carolinas, and hop in a go-kart. Kart rentals are open to the public from 12 – 5 pm on Sunday, October 12.
  • All the spookiness got you in the Halloween spirit a little early? Take the kids over to Trick or Treat in the haunted Colonial Village at Historic Camden Foundation. The event runs from 4 – 7 pm and will feature a nature trail scavenger hunt, games, stories and hay rides. There will be live music in McCaa’s Tavern by Jim Graddick & Michael “Covey” Covington and admission is free! Food & Drinks available for purchase.
  • Depart Camden at your leisure, perhaps with a lingering stop at a local café or a final stroll through historic streets.

🚗 Logistics & Tips for Making It Work

Here are tips to make this ambitious weekend smoother:

Tickets & Entry

  • Southern Gothic: Most panels and talks are free and first-come, first-served. The Ghost Tours are ticketed and tend to sell out—reserve early.
  • Horse & Hound:
    • Denim & Diamonds Gala (Friday evening, October 10): ~$150 per ticket.
    • Expo (Saturday, October 11): General admission ~$25, children 12 & under free.
    • Polo Match (Sunday, October 11): general admission ~$30, tailgate and hospitality packages also available.
  • Jazz Festival: Thursday and Friday tickets are $25 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres by local favorite Every Day Gourmet. Seating inside Gallery 537 is limited, so purchase your tickets early. Saturday tickets at Town Green are $15 for adults and kids are free.

What to Pack / Wear

  • Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be moving between venues, downtown streets, and Expo grounds).
  • Layers — October can be warm by day, cool at night.
  • A small backpack or tote for carrying water, snacks, and any books or festival swag.
  • A lawn chair or blanket for attending outdoor events.
  • A camera or smartphone for capturing moments.

✍ Final Thoughts & Recommendations

If your goal is to experience all three events in one weekend, here’s what I’d recommend as a mindset:

  • Prioritize quality over quantity: It’s better to fully enjoy a few flagship panels or performances than to frantically race from one to the next.
  • Be flexible: Allow room for spontaneity — maybe a book signing runs late, or you overhear a local musician downtown and stop in.
  • Plan early: Reserve the Ghost Tours or ticketed performances in advance. Know your routes between venues.
  • Recharge between events: A quiet pause over coffee or an early evening stroll can help you reset for the next session.
  • Embrace the experience: One weekend like this is a sensory overload — the flicker of Gothic tales, the clip-clop of hoofbeats, the saxophone’s murmur. Let yourself slip into the rhythm.
☕ 3 Must-Try Local Coffee Shops to Fuel Your Day in Camden, SC

☕ 3 Must-Try Local Coffee Shops to Fuel Your Day in Camden, SC

by | Sep 18, 2025 | Tourism Blog

Camden, South Carolina is full of charm, and our coffee scene is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a locally roasted brew, a cozy reading spot, or a friendly neighborhood café, these three coffee shops need to be on your list.

American Patriot Coffee Company 🦅

📍 1012 Broad Street, Camden, SC

Camden’s only roastery, APC takes coffee seriously. Beans are roasted in-house each week, ensuring peak freshness and bold flavor. Pair your drink with a pastry, fresh salad or sandwich made right in their kitchen, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere created by the trio of sisters behind another local favorite, Three Sisters Essentials, who purchased APC at the beginning of 2025. With historical themes like the Revolutionary Roast, Patriot Blend, Powder Keg and Minute Man Roast, you may even be inspired to explore some of Camden’s historic offerings.

American Patriot Coffee

Books on Broad & Coffee 📚

📍 944 Broad Street, Camden, SC

This independent bookstore and café offers a calm, inviting space to sip a latte or cappuccino while browsing the shelves. Along with coffee, you’ll find smoothies, bagels, and baked goods — the perfect fuel for a morning of exploring downtown Camden. Once you’ve filled up, head out to peruse the many shops on Antique Street, stop in to chat with the artists and creators in the Cultural District or simply boost the local economy with a little retail therapy. This fall, be sure to check out their new seasonal menu, featuring the caramel apple and pumpkin spice flavors you know and love.

Books on Broad

Not A Corner Cafe 🌿

📍 1003 Church Street, Camden, SC

A true neighborhood gem, Not A Corner Café is known for its seasonal lattes and sweet treats. With friendly staff and a cozy setting, it’s a great spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment midday. If you want to stretch your legs and take your cup o’ joe to-go, head to one of Camden’s museums to pass the time and learn something new about the area.

Your Coffee Crawl Itinerary 🗺️

  • Start strong at American Patriot Coffee Company for the freshest roast.
  • Slow down at Books on Broad & Coffee with a good book in hand.
  • Finish sweet at Not A Corner Cafe with a seasonal latte and muffin.

How to Experience Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Farm Day

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Tourism Blog

When the air turns crisp, leaves start changing colors, and pumpkins make their appearance at local farms, there’s one event in the Camden area of South Carolina you definitely won’t want to miss: Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Farm Day. A blend of farm life, fall fun, and southern charm, this is your chance to let the whole family get their hands dirty and soak up harvest-season memories.

Just 10 minutes outside of Camden in Rembert, Old McCaskill’s Farm is hosting its annual Fall Family Farm Day on October 4, 2025, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Now in its 16th year, this fall-tastic event continues to grow, while keeping its working-farm authenticity and southern hospitality.

What to Expect: Activities + Experiences

The Fall Family Farm Day offers something for everyone:

  • 🎃 Pumpkin Patch: Pick your own pumpkin or just wander among the vines.
  • 🐎 Hayrides & Horseback Rides: These classic farm rides are always a hit!
  • 🪵 Farm Demonstrations: See how a working farm operates, including blacksmith, woodworker, sawmill & gristmill demonstrations.
  • 🪕 Live Entertainment: Enjoy the sounds of the season, with Bluegrass music providing the perfect soundtrack to your family’s farm day.
  • 🍔 Great Food & Local Fare: Traditional fall treats and farm-style offerings to indulge in.
  • 🐑 Activities for All Ages: Games, inflatables, barrel trains, animal encounters, and more.

What Makes It Special?

Before you think this is your typical “fall festival,” remember that Old McCaskill’s is still a working farm. You’ll see real farm operations and demonstrations you won’t find in a standard fall festival. And, with plenty of activities on offer, this event appeals to families in all stages – those with little ones who love animals and exploring new things, and those who’s older kids (and adults!) enjoy craftsmanship, music, and farm history. What’s more? You’ll be majorly supporting local – local farmers, artisans, craft and food vendors and entertainment. So, if you’ve been waiting for your sign to fully lean into the fall vibe — pumpkins, hayrides and crisp air — consider this your official invitation.

Tips for Attending

To make the most of the day, here are some helpful hints:

  • 🎟️ Skip the Line – Buy your tickets in advance and avoid waiting in line at the gate.
  • ⏰ Arrive Early — Parking areas and access points become more crowded as the day goes on. Getting there early gives you breathing room for the more popular activities.
  • 🧥 Wear Appropriate Clothes — Think comfy shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting a little dusty, and be sure to layer (it may start cool and warm up).
  • 💵 Bring Cash — Some food and artisan vendors may be cash-only.
  • 🪑 Bring a Chair or Blanket — For enjoying music, watching demos, or resting between activities.

Here’s how we would spend our time at the Fall Family Farm Day:

  • 10:00 am – Arrive, grab a quick snack from one of the local vendors, explore the pumpkin patch and snag a gorgeous pumpkin before it gets too crowded.
  • 11:00 am – Enjoy a hayride followed by a live blacksmith or sawmill demonstration.
  • 12:30 pm – Lunch from another local vendor & take a little break. Let the kids check out the inflatables or the barrel train while you enjoy a craft beer, glass of wine or mocktail.
  • 2:00 pm – Squeeze in a horseback ride or farm tour, then find a shady spot to relax and enjoy some live bluegrass music.
  • 3:30 pm – Wrap up your best day ever with one last loop, revisiting your favorite spots and ensuring you have enough pumpkins (is there such a thing?) and any purchases before you head home.

Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Day is more than just a fall festival; it’s a chance to throw it back to simpler times, enjoy hands-on experiences, and embrace the magic of the fall season in a warm and welcoming setting. Whether this is your first visit or a long-standing family tradition, expect laughter, fall aromas, friendly faces and cute animals, and memories that will last long past pumpkin spice season. Get your tickets today!

EXPLORE MORE

If you’re not ready to call it a day just yet, head back over to Camden and explore Broad Street for all your cultural, art and retail needs. Crawl the Cultural District, discover boutique shopping at its finest, or unearth some unique vintage finds at one of our many antique shops. Once you’ve met your shopping quota, you’ll probably need to quench your thirst. Grab a beer at Greener Pastures Brewing, Camden’s first and only brewery and the newest watering hole on the block, or Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill if you’re looking to watch a game. Prefer wine or spirits? Broad & Vine Wine Bar has over 30 bottles for you to sample at their unique self-pour system, and offers charcuterie boards and dessert as well. Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge is your go-to for elevated cocktails and top-notch cigars.

Famished from your day of fall fun? Check out B.Colson, Camden’s polished casual eatery serving steaks, seafood and an impressive selection of bourbons. Salud Mexican Kitchen serves upscale Mexican food and a seemingly endless list of spirits and Sam Kendall’s is your go-to Camden favorite for traditional American cuisine where everyone knows everyone. If you’re looking for a place to stay the night before heading home, we’ve got you covered. Rest your bones one of our locally-owned hotels or cozy up in a home away from home short-term rental. Wherever you choose to lay your head, Camden’s southern hospitality will be there to make sure your stay is nothing short of charming.