Free outdoor concerts return to Downtown Camden on select Thursdays in April and May, featuring live music, local favorites, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The beloved Blankets & Bands free concert series returns to Town Green this spring, bringing live music, community, and warm evenings to Downtown Camden. Performances will take place on Thursdays, April 9 and 23, and May 7 and 21, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs, gather with friends and family, and enjoy an evening of live entertainment in the heart of Camden. Pack a picnic or grab takeout from one of Camden’s local restaurants and make it a night.
The series kicks off on Thursday, April 9, with the smooth sounds of The Esquires, offering a mix of timeless favorites that are sure to get the crowd grooving.
On April 23, Blankets & Bands welcomes Phil James & the Fast Lane to the stage for the first time, delivering high-energy 90s hits filled with fun and nostalgia.
Thursday, May 7 features Nigel Grant & Friends, bringing a lively mix of funk and feel-good tunes to keep the energy high.
The spring series wraps up on Thursday, May 21, with long-time local favorite Landslide, known for their signature blend of smooth classic rock.
Each concert will feature a student or young musician as the opening act, with the headlining band beginning at 6:30 p.m. Beer and wine are permitted on Town Green during concert hours. Glass containers are not allowed.
In the event of inclement weather, updates and cancellations will be shared on the City’s website and official social media channels.
Blankets & Bands is a partnership between the Downtown Camden Cultural District and the Arts Center of Kershaw County, offering free, live music to the community each spring and fall.
Camden City Council Member William Wilkes has been elected Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority, placing Camden in a key leadership role in advancing regional transportation and connectivity.
Wilkes, who was elected to Camden City Council in November 2024, is the first Chairman of the Board from Kershaw County since the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority was established in 1978. He will lead the regional authority in its efforts to enhance transportation services, improve accessibility, and strengthen connections between communities across the Santee Wateree region.
The Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority coordinates public transportation resources and works to expand mobility options for residents, supporting workforce access, healthcare connectivity, and regional economic development.
“I’m grateful for the confidence of my colleagues and look forward to working together,” Wilkes said. “Transportation is one of the clearest ways we expand opportunity. It connects people to jobs, healthcare, and the services they rely on every day. We are focused on making this organization stronger, more reliable, and better equipped to serve our communities across the region.”
As Chairman, Wilkes will work with regional partners, local governments, and stakeholders to guide strategic planning efforts and strengthen transportation infrastructure and services.
The SWRTA Board of Directors consists of members appointed by participating counties, municipalities, and other authorized appointing entities.
This milestone reflects the City of Camden’s continued commitment to regional partnerships that enhance quality of life for residents both locally and across the broader region.
For more information about the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority, including services, routes, and meeting details, visit www.swrta.com.
Council honors Johnny Deal for 15 years of service, advances infrastructure projects, updates golf cart regulations, and prepares for upcoming community events.
More than 15 years of service and thousands of hours supporting responsible growth in Camden led to special recognition for Johnny Deal, whose longstanding role on the City’s Planning Commission has helped shape Camden’s development.
Often described as both an ambassador and advocate for Camden, Deal was honored by City Council for his dedication, leadership, and consistent commitment to a role that rarely seeks the spotlight but plays a critical part in guiding the City’s future. His service, which began in 2011, was recognized with a certificate of appreciation acknowledging his lasting impact on the community.
William Browning shared plans for the Horse & Hound Expo, which draws thousands of visitors, is returning to Camden September 25–26, featuring dock diving dogs, spaniel demonstrations, canine agility, gun dog showcases, and equestrian events including hunter jumpers, polo, and dressage.
With continued support from hospitality and accommodations tax funding, organizers are expanding marketing efforts to attract more visitors, while reducing ticket prices to $10 for adults and offering free admission for young children.
Proceeds from the event support the Camden Hunt Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving more than 1,500 acres of historic hunt country and natural habitat just outside the City.
Modernizing how residents interact with utility services continues to be a major focus for the City, as Director of Utilities and Public Works Jack Thornsberry provided an update on the ongoing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project. Nearly 4,000 of the City’s 7,411 water meters have been installed, keeping the project on track for completion by late May. Installation of more than 12,000 electric meters is expected to begin in late April or early May, with full implementation anticipated by early fall.
Once complete, the system will provide real-time data, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the overall customer experience. City Manager Matt DeWitt noted the project will significantly transform how residents interact with the City’s electric utility system. Mayor Vincent Sheheen also emphasized that the City has not raised electricity rates this year. Thornsberry also shared that utility providers are expected to begin removing outdated power poles later this year following completion of ongoing fiber and service transfers, with a required waiting period before removal can begin.
Considerable progress is also being made on multiple infrastructure projects funded through the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program, representing a total investment of approximately $11.8 million. Work includes water main replacements across several key corridors, construction of a new 500,000-gallon elevated water tank, and development of a booster pump station, with approximately $5.8 million in work already completed.
These improvements address aging infrastructure while also preparing the City for future growth. The new water tank, located near the Kershaw County School District office, will help maintain consistent system pressure and support long-term development, while the booster pump station will improve water quality and reliability in areas that have experienced increased growth in recent years.
Council approved several items as part of the consent agenda, including temporary alcohol permits for upcoming downtown events such as CUP FEST and the 24 Hours of Lemons Downtown Block Party, along with a resolution directing the Planning Commission to conduct a required study related to potential impact fees.
Expanded access and increased safety measures are part of updated regulations for golf cart operation within City limits, which received final approval. Golf carts may now operate from daylight hours through 11:00 p.m., extending the previous timeframe to better accommodate residents. The ordinance also requires all golf carts to be equipped with properly functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals, and increases fines for certain violations to $250 to reinforce safe operation.
Council also approved first reading of an ordinance, amending provisions related to the Historic Landmarks Commission, establishing staggered terms and aligning the commission’s structure with other City boards and commissions.
The meeting concluded with a moment of reflection as Council recognized the passing of Ms. Betty Nelson Stewart, a dedicated community leader and longtime United Way supporter. Council members shared her lasting impact and the countless lives she touched through her service to the Camden community. The meeting was adjourned in her honor.
More information about the City of Camden is available at www.experiencecamdensc.com.
CAMDEN, S.C. (March 12, 2026) — Camden Police Chief Jack Rushing has graduated from the South Carolina Executive Institute, a statewide leadership development program designed to prepare senior public sector leaders to address complex challenges facing their organizations and communities.
The South Carolina Executive Institute is a comprehensive seven-month leadership program hosted by the South Carolina Department of Administration. The program brings together senior leaders from across state and local government for six intensive sessions focused on leadership development, strategic problem solving, and collaboration among public service professionals throughout South Carolina.
“I want to congratulate our Police Chief, Jack Rushing, on his graduation from the South Carolina Executive Institute,” said City Manager Matt DeWitt. “This program represents the very best in leadership development, and Chief Rushing’s commitment to continuing education reflects the professionalism and dedication he brings to serving our community each day. The City of Camden is proud of his accomplishment, and we are fortunate to have a leader who continually works to grow and better serve our residents.”
Chief Rushing’s completion of the program reflects his continued commitment to professional growth and to leading the Camden Police Department with excellence, accountability, and service to the Camden community.
This Call for Artists is modeled after the South Carolina Arts Commission’s standards and the City of Camden’s recently established Public Art Committee guidelines.
Request for Proposals (RFP): “More Than a Revolution” Mural at Gallery 537 The Camden Public Art Committee invites individual artists and artist teams to submit proposals for a mural at Gallery 537, located at 537 East DeKalb Street in the Downtown Camden Cultural District.
I. Project Description Location: Exterior wall facing west bound traffic on East DeKalb Street/U.S. Hwy 1, approaching the intersection of Broad Street/U.S. Hwy 521. Theme: “More Than a Revolution” A visual narrative blending the heritage and history of Camden, SC along with the strong artistic and cultural contributions of the community, with a highlight on music, particularly incorporating piano keys. Size: Approximately 32’ long x 20′ high. Project Fee: $7,000 – $10,000 (inclusive of surface prep, materials, and anti-graffiti coating).
II. Artist Eligibility Open to all professional artists 18+. Local Preference: Preference may be given to artists residing in Kershaw County, South Carolina or those with a demonstrated connection to the community.
III. Submission Requirements All applicants must submit a digital portfolio (PDF or via web link) containing: Letter of Intent: Specify your artistic vision for this blending of Camden’s history and cultural landscape. Annotated Portfolio: 3-5 images of previous large-scale public work. Concept Sketch: A preliminary visual draft of your proposed design. Itemized Budget: Breakdown of artist fees, materials, travel, and installation. Project Timeline: Phased approach for design, feedback, and execution.
IV. Selection Criteria Proposals will be evaluated by the Camden Public Art Committee based on: • Artistic Excellence: Strength of vision and technical skill (40%). • Thematic Relevance: Connection to Camden’s identity (35%). • Feasibility: Durability of materials and realistic timeline (25%).
V. Key Dates • RFP Issued: March 9, 2026 • Submission Deadline: April 8, 2026, 5:00 PM EST • Finalist Interviews: April 15, 2026 • Project Awarded: April 30, 2026 • Target Completion: September 30, 2026
CAMDEN, S.C. — Imagine downtown Camden on a warm evening. Families stroll down Broad Street after dinner. Children laugh at community events their parents once attended. Traditions are passed down. Memories are made. And the next generation chooses to call Camden home.
That kind of community takes intention.
The City of Camden will receive a rebate through its participation in the nonprofit CarolinaBUY, a cooperative purchasing program that allows public agencies to save time and money while remaining compliant with state purchasing requirements.
City Manager Matt DeWitt enrolled Camden in the program to strengthen operational efficiency while creating opportunities for reinvestment. As the City advances necessary infrastructure projects, including the AMI initiative, participation in the nonprofit CarolinaBUY allows a portion of those expenses to return to the community.
The City will direct these funds into local events and shared experiences that build civic pride and strengthen community culture.
“Our participation in the CarolinaBUY program allows everyday purchases to create meaningful reinvestment right here at home,” DeWitt said. “These shared traditions matter. They help ensure the next generation not only values where they came from but chooses to come home and build their future right here.”
CarolinaBUY serves as the dedicated lead agency of AEPA, the Association of Educational Purchasing Agencies, in North and South Carolina. Through nationally solicited contracts, the program provides competitive pricing, compliance, and access to a broad range of vetted vendors.
Kat Spadacenta, Community Development Coordinator for the City, said the reinvestment strengthens efforts to build lasting traditions.
“The City has made investments in recent years to enhance the holiday season in Camden, earning a reputation as one of the best places to celebrate Christmas,” Spadacenta said. “We hope residents and visitors alike will create special memories here during the holidays. We are working to restore some of that nostalgia from years ago, from additional lighting in our downtown commercial district to snowy evenings at the tree, inviting families to celebrate being together in a unique and meaningful way.”
Those efforts also play a key role in shaping how Camden is experienced year-round by residents and visitors alike.
“Events and traditions are more than celebrations. They are powerful drivers of community identity and economic impact,” said Jenny Parrish, Director of Tourism. “When we invest in experiences that bring people together, we create reasons for visitors to return and for residents to stay engaged. Cooperative purchasing allows us to be good stewards of public dollars while enhancing the very things that make Camden special.”
By leveraging cooperative purchasing, Camden is strengthening fiscal responsibility while investing in the experiences that define community life.
Pictured from left to right: Assistant City Manager Caitlin Young; City Manager Matt DeWitt; Outreach Ambassador for CarolinaBUY Ann-Marie Schell; Director of Tourism Jenny Parrish; and Community Development Coordinator Kat Spadacenta.
