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.
🍻 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:
🏨 Comfortable Hotels
• Hampton Inn Camden: A popular choice with complimentary breakfast and modern amenities.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Camden: Stylish suites and extra space for families or groups.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Camden‑I-20: Reliable chain hotel with free breakfast and convenient access to local attractions.
• Comfort Inn & Suites Camden: More budget-friendly options near downtown.
🏠 Short-term Rentals
🛌 Bed & Breakfast
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.
🏙 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.
🍀 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! 🍀