🌸 Spring is finally here, and if you’re looking for a getaway that blends outdoor adventure, unbridled history, and small-town charm, Camden is your perfect Spring destination. As South Carolina’s oldest inland city, we’ve curated a bucket list that will keep the kids entertained, the history buffs happy, and the nature lovers inspired.
How many can you check off?
Revolutionary War Visitor CenterMarket Day
Shop Local at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center’s Market Day
🛍️ Kick off your spring shopping on Saturday, March 14 at the 6th annual Market Day at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center. This event brings together the best local vendors, artisans, and food trucks right in the heart of our historic district. It’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir and support local makers.
Carolina Cup 2025 📷: David Jensen
Experience The Carolina Cup
🏇 Nothing says spring in Camden like the thunder of hooves! The Carolina Cup is a South Carolina tradition unlike any other. Whether you’re there for the world-class steeplechase racing, the elaborate tailgate spreads, or the iconic spring fashion (hats encouraged!), it’s the crown jewel of our spring season.
🎶 Pro Tip: Don’t miss CupFest! Get the party started early at our inaugural downtown kickoff celebration featuring live music on two stages, a classic car cruise-in, food and drink specials from our downtown retailers, a Kids Zone and puppy petting party, and plenty of community spirit to get everyone hyped for race day.
Goodale State Park 📷: Olde English District
Paddle Through Goodale State Park
🛶 Trade the traditional lake day for a fairytale experience at Goodale State Park. Rent a kayak or canoe and follow the 3-mile water trail through a Civil War-era mill pond. You’ll drift under towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss on what is widely considered one of the most scenic canoe routes in the Southeast.
📷: Old McCaskill’s Farm
Sheep Shearing Day at Old McCaskill’s Farm
🐑 For a true farm-to-fashion experience, head over to Old McCaskill’s FarmforSheep Shearing Day. Watch professional shearers at work, see border collie demonstrations, and let the kids enjoy hayrides and bluegrass music. It’s a hands-on look at Camden’s agricultural roots that the whole family will love.
Celebrate the Season at the Farmers Market Spring Fling
🌻 Fresh produce, plants and flowers, and locally made goods of all kinds await at the Kershaw County Farmers Market Spring Fling. This event officially kicks off the market season with a face-painting booth, a photo booth for your four-legged friend (for a donation), and Sarah Dippity and her big festival bubbles!. Grab your goodies and enjoy Spring Fling vibes as you browse the booths under the warm Carolina sun.
Stand Where History Was Made
⚔️ Visit the Revolutionary War Visitor Center before heading across the parking lot to the Historic Camden Foundation’s Colonial Village. Explore the Kershaw-Cornwallis House, the redoubt and envision the pivotal battles that turned the tide of the war right here in our backyard. At the Camden Burials site across Broad Street, pay your respects to the as-yet-unidentified Revolutionary War soldiers who were laid to rest in 2023 after being discovered at the Battle of Camden site in 2022. Can’t get enough? Head down to the Battle of Camden site, just 8 miles outside of Camden, and check out the revamped interpretive signage.
Take a Tour of Goat Daddy’s Farm
🐢 Calling all animal lovers! Get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals, including goats, kangaroos, tortoises, potbelly pigs, snakes, alpacas, emus, a porcupine, camel, and so much more at Goat Daddy’s Farm in Elgin. Group tours are (most) Saturdays and Sundays and require tickets, which can be found here.
🦴 Did you know the Boykin Spaniel is the South Carolina State Dog and was first bred right here in the greater Camden area? Challenge yourself, your friends or the kids to a scavenger hunt through the Camden Cultural District to find all 12 bronze Boykin Spaniel statues hidden around town.
Sweet Treat: Stop by Books on Broad for a coffee and a pastry while you browse the shelves. Or, pop in to off the beaten path Mad Batter Bakery to peruse their delicious selection of cupcakes and mini loaves.
As you check items off your Camden Spring Bucket List, share your photos with us using #ExperienceCamdenSC or tag us @ExperienceCamdenSC for a chance to be featured on our page!
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! 🍀
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.
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.
Camden, South Carolina shines bright in December with festive markets, concerts, parades, special shopping nights, and charming small-town traditions. Whether you’re planning a weekend visit or looking for something fun every week, here’s your guide to all holiday happenings across Camden & Kershaw County. Browse the many holiday events and plan your trip to experience Camden’s holiday magic this month! 🎄
Nov 26 – Dec 31 | Riverfront Park Take an evening stroll through glowing Christmas displays designed by local businesses, nonprofits, and community groups.
🎄Tacky Christmas Sweater Bingo
Dec 3 | Broad & Vine Wine Bar Wear your favorite tacky Christmas sweater and play bingo while enjoying festive holiday drinks!
Dec 4 | 6 – 6:30 PM | Broad Street Park Kick off the Christmas season with the official tree lighting, magical holiday snow in the park, carols from local students, and music from the community band.
Dec 5, 12 & 19 | Downtown Camden Merchants stay open late with festive window decorations, snow, hot chocolate, Santa & Mrs. Claus, and extended shopping hours. Perfect for last-minute gifts. **December 5 moved to the Tree Lighting on December 4 due to weather**
Dec 5 – 14 | 11 AM – 6 PM The Holiday Market returns with a unique opportunity to support regional artists and find the perfect holiday gift for someone special. Featuring the creations of artists from across the southeast, the market offers everything from pottery, to prints, to woodworking.
Dec 6 | 10 AM – 5 PM | Old McCaskill’s Farm Rustic charm meets Christmas shopping with handmade items, baked goods, décor, and local vendors — all on a historic working farm. FREE Admission.
Old McCaskill Farm
🎅Santa at the Airport
Dec 6 | 10 AM – 2 PM | Woodward Field Santa arrives by air at 10 am.
Dec 6 | 10 AM | Elgin The parade will commence at 10 am at the corner of Bowen St and Main St in Elgin and travel to Potter Community Park on Green Hill Rd. The Festival will start immediately following the parade.
Dec 6 | 11 AM | McCaa’s Tavern @ Historic Camden Foundation Join us in McCaa’s Tavern to learn a new craft and make three beautiful colonial ornaments to take home and put on your tree. Tickets available here. Ages 8+.
Dec 9 | 6:30 – 8:30 PM | Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge Come out and create a beautiful 15-inch wooden tray, all supplies provided. This would be great for a holiday display or a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift for friends or family. Tickets $30, ages 21+.
Dec 9 | 7:30 – 10:30 PM | Arts Center of Kershaw County This immersive theatre experience is inspired by the wit and wonder of Charles Dickens. A murder has interrupted the holiday celebration, and guests become part of the unfolding story. Admission includes light hors d’oeuvres and two beverages!
Dec 12 | 7:30 – 10:30 PM | Arts Center of Kershaw County The Pack is back for a festive celebration full of charm, cheer, and holiday spirit, putting a fresh spin on holiday classics everyone loves.
Dec 13 | 9 AM – 2 PM | 906 Broad St Come join us at the Kershaw County Farmers’ Market after the Christmas parade for local handcrafted gifts, home made goodies, food trucks, decorations and so much more. Santa will be there!
Dec 13 | 10 AM | Downtown Camden A beloved tradition featuring marching bands, dancers, classic cars and fire trucks, floats, local organizations, and Santa himself.
Dec 13 | 12 – 4 PM | Downtown Camden Follow the trail and taste all the cookies, then vote for your favorite. You can get your picture with Santa and best of all, cookies!
Dec 13 | 3 – 9 PM | CamdenArchives & Museum Experience a delightful evening exploring beautifully decorated homes. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you stroll through the historic district adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. This event is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season with friends and family.
Dec 13 | 6:30 PM | Lugoff Kershaw County’s only nighttime Christmas parade! A beloved and festive tradition featuring marching bands, dancers, floats, local organizations, and Santa himself.
Dec 14 | 3 – 5 PM | Riverfront Park Enjoy the Kershaw County Tinsel Trail, this time with your furry friend! Meet local pet partners, join our pet costume contest, and more.
Dec 17 | Broad & Vine Wine Bar Get in the holiday spirit with and test your knowledge with Christmas Trivia. Enjoy festive holiday drinks and self-pour wine, small plates and desserts.
Dec 18 | 7 – 9 PM | The Little Theater Get in the holiday spirit with Carolina Country Christmas! Enjoy a night of original songs and Christmas classics from South Carolina’s own Mariah Faith, Elliot Poston, and Taylor Richardson.
Dec 18 | 7:30 PM | Historic Camden Foundation Join us in McCaa’s Tavern to learn a new craft and embroider a festive holiday card to take home. Tickets available here. Ages 12+
Dec 19 | 5:30 – 8:30 PM | Historic Camden Foundation Join us in a procession from City Hall to Historic Camden for a family-friendly evening of holiday fun. Step back into an old-fashioned holiday with candlelight, historic demonstrations, warm drinks, and beautiful colonial-era décor.
Dec 21 | 2 – 4 PM | Boykin The world’s most unique Christmas Parade draws thousands of spectators to the tiny hamlet of Boykin to enjoy a country Christmas and see what means of transportation Santa will find! You just never know what to expect at the Boykin Christmas Parade!
🏨 WHERE TO STAY
Whether you’re planning a festive weekend or visiting for a special event, these hotels are convenient, modern and just minutes from downtown:
