Discover the best events, festivals, pumpkin patches, and mountain apple orchards in and around Columbia and Lexington, South Carolina. From the iconic State Fair to breathtaking Blue Ridge orchards, your perfect fall season starts right here.
Major Fall Festivals & Fairs
The SC Midlands comes alive every autumn with some of the Southeast's most beloved community gatherings. Whether you're looking for carnival thrills, artisan crafts, or simply a reason to get outside and soak in the crisp fall air, there's a festival for every taste and family. Mark your calendars — these events fill up fast!
Sep 19
Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture
Sep 25–26
Irmo Okra Strut
Oct 3
Cayce Fall Fest
Oct 9–11
Midlands Plant & Flower Festival
Oct 15–25
SC State Fair
South Carolina State Fair
The undisputed highlight of fall in the Midlands, the SC State Fair is a beloved tradition that draws visitors from across the entire state. For ten electrifying days, the fairgrounds transform into a world of midway rides, agricultural exhibitions, live entertainment, and legendary fair food — all enjoyed in the crisp autumn air.
🎡 Carnival Rides
Major attractions and classic midway thrills for all ages.
🎤 Live Shows
Headline stage performances throughout the entire run.
🐄 Agriculture
Animals, crafts, and proud exhibitors from across SC.
🍗 Fair Food
Iconic, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable eats.
More Local Fall Festivals
Beyond the State Fair, the Midlands is packed with charming community events that celebrate the season in style. These neighborhood gatherings are free, family-friendly, and full of local flavor — the perfect way to meet your community and make fall memories that last.
Midlands Plant & Flower Festival
Oct 9–11 · SC State Farmers Market, West Columbia
Kick off your fall decorating at this vibrant outdoor market — the area's largest selection of seasonal plants, pumpkins, and handcrafted décor. Free parking and admission make it an easy, affordable outing for the whole family.
Irmo Okra Strut
Sep 25–26 · Moore Park, Irmo
A beloved local tradition celebrating community heritage with a Saturday morning parade, amusement rides, artisan crafts, and plenty of great food. Festival grounds admission is completely free — just bring your appetite and your neighbors.
Cayce Fall Fest
Oct 3 · Granby Gardens Park, Cayce
A relaxed and welcoming neighborhood gathering set among the trees as the leaves begin to turn. Enjoy live music, local food and drink vendors, and a dedicated children's area — all completely free to attend.
Live Music & Cultural Events
Fall in the Midlands isn't just about the harvest — it's a full season of culture, music, and history. From free Thursday night concerts under the stars to a powerful celebration of Black history and heritage, these events add depth and richness to your autumn calendar. Best of all, they're both free to attend.
Icehouse Live Fall Concert Series
Every Thursday at 6:30 PM starting August 27th, 2026 at Icehouse Amphitheater in Lexington. Enjoy regional favorites like Band of Oz, Tokyo Joe, Prettier Than Matt, and Civil Remedy under the open sky. Free admission — just bring your lawn chair!
Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture
Saturday, September 19th, 2026 · 11 AM – 6 PM at the Mann-Simons Site, Columbia. Hosted by Historic Columbia, this vibrant day-long celebration features live music, artist demonstrations, marketplace vendors, a Kids Zone, and fantastic food — all in a stunning historic setting. Free admission.
Pumpkin Patches & Fall Farm Fun
No fall season is complete without a trip to a working farm. Clinton Sease Farm in Lexington is the Midlands' go-to destination for traditional autumn agritourism — the kind of place where golden-hour photos are practically guaranteed and kids come home with mud on their boots and smiles on their faces.
Corn Maze
Get lost (in the best way) in a sprawling, twisting corn maze that's fun for the whole family and makes for unforgettable fall memories.
Pumpkin Patch
Wander through rows of perfectly ripened pumpkins and pick out the one that will headline your front porch all season long.
Hayrides
Hop on a classic hayride and take in the beautiful fall landscape of Lexington County — a perfect activity for couples and kids alike.
Sunflower Fields
Stroll through stunning sunflower fields that serve as the ultimate backdrop for your fall photo sessions and golden-hour portraits.
Apple Picking Day Trips: Upstate SC & Western NC
While the immediate Midlands area doesn't have U-pick orchards, the stunning farms of Upstate South Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina are a cherished Midlands tradition. Just 2–3 hours away, these orchards offer a breathtaking change of scenery, cool mountain air, and a full day of fall magic. Pack a cooler and make a weekend of it!
Orchards Featured
From York, SC to Flat Rock, NC
Drive from Columbia
To the nearest Upstate orchards
Acres at Chattooga Belle
One of the largest working farms in the region
Generation at Justus
Family-owned orchard in Hendersonville, NC
The Ultimate Fall 2026 Guide to the SC Midlands & Beyond