Often referred to as South Carolina's sweetest summer tradition, the Lexington County Peach Festival will not take place in 2026 after 65 years of indulging festival-goers from across the state and beyond.
The Gilbert Community Club voted to pause this year's event, writing in a post on Facebook and in an online message to the community that many of the festival's key organizing members will be attending the 250th anniversary celebration of the nation's founding in Washington, D.C.
What began as a small town gathering in 1958 has, over the years, evolved into a large-scale event, attracting tourists and South Carolinians alike. The festival also is recognized as one of the most successful and prestigious events of its kind in the Southeast.
Town leaders are expected to discuss alternatives at the next Gilbert Town Council meeting. That meeting is scheduled for March 9 at Town Hall, 345 Hampton St., Gilbert.