“S” is for State Fair. The South Carolina State Fair, formerly the State Agricultural and Mechanical Society of South Carolina was established in 1869. The society held its first fair on its fairgrounds on Elmwood Avenue. In 1903 the society purchased a one-hundred acre tract south of Columbia and held its first fair there in 1904. Until 1959 the State Fair was linked with the “Big Thursday” football classic between the University of South Carolina and Clemson University.Although best known for its annual eleven-day autumn carnival with amusement rides, exhibits, live entertainment, juried competitions, and food, the modern State Fair operates year-round. Trade shows, conventions, exhibitions, and special events are held on the fairgrounds and its six permanent buildings. The State Fair funds a scholarship program and makes contributions to nonprofit and charitable organizations throughout the state.
“S” is for State Fair
