Fall Fever in the Old 96 District

The chill in the air is real. Fall is here and with it comes festivals, hayrides and pumpkin picking in charming Southern farms and towns in South Carolina’s Old 96 District.

Although the Old 96 District – Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens and McCormick Counties – is host to historical sites, state parks, breweries, wineries and restaurants year-round, the area’s fall festivities add extra spice to this season. 

Stay overnight in a charming bed and breakfast. Pitch a tent at a campground or consider a cabin at Hickory Knob State Resort Park. Old 96 District’s proximity to cities within the Carolinas makes a day trip also possible.

Start planning your fall getaway to the Old 96 District today:

Kick off the fall season at Stewart Farms in Enoree, Laurens County. Explore SC Corn MAiZE, a Reba McEntire-themed corn maze, during the day and the family-friendly Big Boo maze at night. Pick pumpkins and gourds, visit barn animals, take a daytime or nighttime wagon ride on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from now through Oct. 29. 

Celebrate the 21st anniversary of Squealin’ on the Square – a Kansas City BBQ Society sanctioned cook-off – on Oct. 6 and 7 in downtown Laurens. Taste various styles of BBQ, visit vendors, food trucks and local businesses. 

Unwind at Fall Farm Nights at Hickory Hill Milk Farm in Edgefield. On Tuesday evenings – Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24 – weave through the corn maze, bump around the farm on a wagon ride and listen to live music. Each week features a different musical act from acoustic to bluegrass and country. 

Wander through Maxwell Farms Corn Maze on Oct. 12 through Oct. 14 and support nonprofit Connie Maxwell’s Children’s Ministries in Greenwood. The event features wagon rides, a petting zoo and pumpkin picking. Local band, “Deadwood Drive,” opens for Grammy-nominated “Appalachian Road Show” on Oct. 14. 

Saddle up for the Hogs and Hens Festival in Abbeville’s downtown square on Oct. 20 and 21. Shop early for holiday gifts at the craft vendors, visit local businesses and feast on what locals call the best BBQ this side of the Mississippi. Stop at Sweet Street – this year’s newest addition to the festival – for food vendors specializing in desserts and treats on Washington Street. 

Pro tips: 

• Bring cash for purchases. Some farms and vendors only accept cash and checks.
• Check which events and farms require reservations and tickets.
• Confirm pet policies before bringing the family dog to the farm and festivals.