Wedding & Event Venue Near Kingstree, SC.

Columbia, S.C. – The countdown is on for the return of the 154th South Carolina State Fair and discount admission and ride tickets are officially on sale. Buying tickets in advance offers significant savings of up to 50%. Tickets can be purchased now through Oct. 10 at a participating Circle K location or at SCStateFair.org.

“The South Carolina State Fair embodies the spirit of our state, and we can’t wait to see everyone come together in October to enjoy rides, food, competitions, agriculture and the wonderful experiences that make our fair so special,” says S.C. State Fair General Manager Nancy Smith. “This year we have a record-breaking number of new foods and drinks, as well as two world-class traveling exhibitions.”

Meet Me at the Rocket

The official theme of this year’s fair is “Meet Me at the Rocket,” a nod to the beloved tradition of gathering friends and families at the iconic S.C. State Fairgrounds. The S.C. State Fair, which will run Oct. 11-22, stands as a testament to the vibrancy of South Carolina, and for more than 150 years, has served as a cherished platform for creating unforgettable memories. As the state’s largest event, the S.C. State Fair captures the essence of South Carolina through a 12-day showcase of exhibits, competitions, foods, rides, entertainment and more.

2023 S.C. State Fair Highlights

Record-breaking number of new foods and drinks

Whether you’re an adventurous foodie seeking unique combinations or someone who craves the comfort of fair classics, this year’s S.C. State Fair selection of 13 new food and drink options will offer something for everyone and all taste buds to enjoy.

“We’ve curated a remarkable selection of new and enticing food options that celebrate both tradition and innovation,” says Smith. “From the nostalgic delight of Fried Twinkies on a Stick to the bold adventure of Dill Pickle Pizza, every vendor represents a fusion of tastes and cultures that make our fair so diverse in flavor.”

Below is a list of what’s new to this year’s fair. Learn more at scstatefair.org/foodmap.

1. Billy G’s Carolina BBQ

2. Donut Dog

3. Fried Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

4. Fried Twinkies on a Stick

5. Fried S’mores on a Stick

6. Mexican Street Corn Sundae

7. Wisconsin Cheese Curds

8. Pumpkin Spice Funnel Cake

9. Mighty Mango Tea

10. Dill Pickle Pizza

11. Sweet Potatoes

12. Watermelon Arnold Palmer

13. Oliver Gospel Mission Coffee

World-class traveling exhibitions to be on display

From live music to stilt walkers and the free daily CIRCUS at the Fair, entertainment will be around every corner, including two mesmerizing traveling exhibitions: Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition and Remembering Our Fallen.

“This year we are proud to present two amazing, yet very different exhibitions,” says Smith. “In addition to honoring those who lost their lives to the Global War on Terror in the Remembering Our Fallen exhibition, we are thrilled to be the first-ever fair in the world to bring the Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition to its fairgrounds.”

• Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition

Be immersed into the life of the world’s most beloved Princess at the Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition, a walkthrough documentary capturing some of the most iconic and intimate moments in Royal Family history. Embark on a journey through Princess Diana’s life from a perspective you’ve never heard before – hers. For the first time in his 60-year-career, Princess Diana’s favorite Official Royal Photographer and trusted companion, Anwar Hussein, shares the untold stories of Royal life and the Princess that we could not take our eyes off.

Accredited by the Royal Family, Anwar and his two sons, Samir and Zak, make up the longest-standing family of Official Royal Photographers, having collectively spent more than four decades working side by side with the iconic Princess and her family. Anwar, in particular, changed the way we see the Royal Family by taking casual photographs that captured the subjects’ lives and emotions.

Named one of the “Top 12 Immersive Experiences Around the World You Need to Visit” by CNN, the exhibit has sold out in Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Washington, and Puerto Rico. Since launching in 2021, it has become a fan-favorite event, being featured in People Magazine, Variety, Access Hollywood, as well as the LA Times, and has accumulated a 4.9 out of 5-star guest rating.

Learn more at www.scstatefair.org/attractions/princess-diana-exhibition/

• Remembering Our Fallen

Discover this traveling tribute to our military fallen from the Global War on Terror, Remembering Our Fallen, a photographic war memorial showcases 34 tribute towers, honoring not only those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also those who served in combat zones and succumbed to invisible wounds. Additionally, a tribute tower has been included to pay homage to our brave military personnel who tragically lost their lives in stateside or non-combat training accidents. Join us in honoring their service and sacrifice at the profound memorial. Learn more at https://www.scstatefair.org/attractions/remembering-our-fallen/.

How to buy discount tickets

Discount admission tickets are $10 per person ($15-$20 during the fair) and discount ride vouchers are $30 per person ($38-$40 during the fair). Exchange a ride voucher for a Pay-One-Price wristband to enjoy unlimited rides. Visit a participating Circle K location or SCStateFair.org to purchase discount tickets now through Tuesday, Oct. 10. Additionally, for the first time ever, Pay-One-Price vouchers can be used to enjoy unlimited rides for any of the nearly 70 rides, including the 150-foot “Celebration Wheel”.

The S.C. State Fair will take place October 11-22, 2023. Learn more at SCStateFair.org.

About the South Carolina State Fair

The South Carolina State Fair, a self-supporting 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, was organized in 1869 and is dedicated to preserving and promoting South Carolina’s agricultural roots while supporting statewide education. In addition to the 12-day South Carolina State Fair, the charitable organization manages annual football parking, is a popular event venue and hosts Carolina Lights — Columbia’s downtown drive-through light show. The South Carolina State Fair has awarded nearly $5 million in scholarships since 1997.More information can be found at SCStateFair.org.

Tamaya Miller’s book, “I Think My Teacher Is A Witch” follows the main character Nala’s life journeys. Nala loves going to school. Her favorite subject is science. But there’s just one problem. She believes her science teacher is a witch. Nala finds all kinds of clues to which she considers Ms. Butterworth is hiding her true identity. Though Ms. Butterworth denies it, Nala still believes her teacher is a witch.

Tamaya Miller is the daughter of Terence and Parris Miller. She’s a native of Williamsburg County and a graduate of Kingstree Senior High School. She is currently the co-director at Millers’ Learn N’ Play Daycare along with her sister (director) Myeisa Miller. “I’ve always had a passion for writing since I was a child. For some time, I grew away from my talent. My love for working with children at Millers’ Learn N’ Play Daycare inspired me to become a children’s author.” “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (Peter 1 4:10).

Check out Tamaya’s first children’s book on Amazon, “I Think My Teacher Is A Witch.” Grab your copy just in time for Halloween.

Self-Guided Tour on Oct. 29 to Include Historic Sites from the Revolutionary Era

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is pleased to announce its 2023 Fall Tour, this year showcasing a variety of historically significant sites in Kingstree, S.C. The self-guided tour takes place on Sunday, Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During this self-guided, self-paced tour, guests will explore Kingstree, where Scots-Irish and Huguenot settlers cultivated indigo and accessed the Black River, and which served as a backdrop of American Revolution Campaigns headed by Brigadier General Francis Marion. Sites include:

Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, The Williamsburgh Historical Museum, Thorntree House, The African American Archives of Williamsburg, C. Williams Rush Museum of African-American Arts & Culture, The Scott-Atkinson House, and an eighteenth century cabin constructed completely of cypress. Docents will be available at each site to answer questions and speak with guests. Tickets include a delicious lunch catered by Browns Bar-B-Que.

Participants can retrieve tickets, a map, and parking information at will call on the day of the event outside of the Williamsburgh Historical Museum. Tickets for SCHS members are $75 per person, $140 per couple; for non-members, tickets are $85 per person, $160 per couple. Tickets are nonrefundable as the tour will happen rain or shine.

Also, on the evening before the Fall Tour, Saturday, Oct. 28 at 5:30 p.m., guests are invited for An Evening in Lake City, S.C. During this special event, the SCHS will be hosting a talk by Dr. Scott Kaufman from Francis Marion University titled, “Francis Marion: Hollywood or History.” Following the lecture, there will be a hosted dinner at The Stables at the Inn at the Crossroads. Tickets for this event are $20 to attend the lecture only. For the lecture and dinner, tickets for SCHS members are $75 per person; for non-members, tickets are $85 per person.

For more information about the 2023 Fall Tour or to purchase tickets, please visit www.schistory.org/event/fall-tour-2023 or contact Hannah Mooney at hannah.mooney@schsonline.org or (843) 723-3225, ext. 111.

ABOUT THE SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

Founded in 1855 and headquartered in Charleston, S.C., the South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is the state’s oldest historical society and its largest private repository of documents, books, manuscripts, and maps about South Carolina history. The SCHS is a non-profit organization with the mission to expand, preserve and make accessible its invaluable collection, and to encourage interest and pride in the rich historical legacy of South Carolina. The SCHS headquarters, the Fireproof Building, underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation and now serves as The South Carolina Historical Society Museum. For more information, please visit schistory.org.

According to the city officals, a new train station is planned for Kingstree. In a recent city council meeting, City Manager Richard Treme stated that Amtrak had announced they were planning to build a new Kingstree station on the east side of the track from its current location, between Family Dollar and the tracks.

“The new station would comply with new ADA standards and be better equipped to serve customers with disabilities,” says Treme. The new station will have a larger waiting room, and accomodations will make it easier for people to get on and off the train.

“The city is working very closely with Amtrak and I feel that at this time it is 100% going to happen,” Treme said. Amtrak is not happy with the current ramp and accessibility situation at the station. Treme said he has seen prelimnary designs. In an email, Amtrak Senior Public Relations Manager Kimberly Woods said, Amtrak is finalizing plans to upgrade and improve the Kingstree station, but did not elaborate. She said she would provide more information when details of the project are finalized.

The Amtrak Station is important for the town of Kingstree. People depend on the service for business and leisure travel. The hour-and-a-half trip to the closest airport via Charleston or Myrtle Beach, make the local train depot a more cost efficient and convenient trip for riders headed south to Georgia and Florida, or north up to DC, Maryland, and New York.

In an August interview with The News, Woods said, “Amtrak is the only intercity passenger transportation service in many communities that lack intercity bus and airline service.”

Originally built by the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad in 1909, the train runs passenger service up and down the eastern states from New York to Miami. Amtrak’s Palmetto and Silver Meteor lines provide service to Kingstree. Silver Meteor is a part of their long-distance network. According to 2022 fiscal year numbers, approximately 5,300 use the train annually. The passenger trains that run through Kingstree provide the only rail service at nearly half of the stations in the Amtrak system and are the only Amtrak trains in 23 of the 46 states in the network.

Don’t look for the building to begin any time soon. The station is clearly still in the planning process. Treme says Amtrak is still working on the property and figuring out some flood zone issues. Updates will be provided when they become available.

Self-Guided Tour on Oct. 29 to Include Historic Sites from the Revolutionary Era

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is pleased to announce its 2023 Fall Tour, this year showcasing a variety of historically significant sites in Kingstree, S.C. The self-guided tour takes place on Sunday, Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During this self-guided, self-paced tour, guests will explore Kingstree, where Scots-Irish and Huguenot settlers cultivated indigo and accessed the Black River, and which served as a backdrop of American Revolution Campaigns headed by Brigadier General Francis Marion. Sites include:

Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, The Williamsburgh Historical Museum, Thorntree House, The African American Archives of Williamsburg, C. Williams Rush Museum of African-American Arts & Culture, The Scott-Atkinson House, and an eighteenth century cabin constructed completely of cypress. Docents will be available at each site to answer questions and speak with guests. Tickets include a delicious lunch catered by Browns Bar-B-Que.

Participants can retrieve tickets, a map, and parking information at will call on the day of the event outside of the Williamsburgh Historical Museum. Tickets for SCHS members are $75 per person, $140 per couple; for non-members, tickets are $85 per person, $160 per couple. Tickets are nonrefundable as the tour will happen rain or shine.

Also, on the evening before the Fall Tour, Saturday, Oct. 28 at 5:30 p.m., guests are invited for An Evening in Lake City, S.C. During this special event, the SCHS will be hosting a talk by Dr. Scott Kaufman from Francis Marion University titled, “Francis Marion: Hollywood or History.” Following the lecture, there will be a hosted dinner at The Stables at the Inn at the Crossroads. Tickets for this event are $20 to attend the lecture only. For the lecture and dinner, tickets for SCHS members are $75 per person; for non-members, tickets are $85 per person.

For more information about the 2023 Fall Tour or to purchase tickets, please visit www.schistory.org/event/fall-tour-2023 or contact Hannah Mooney at hannah.mooney@schsonline.org or (843) 723-3225, ext. 111.

ABOUT THE SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

Founded in 1855 and headquartered in Charleston, S.C., the South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is the state’s oldest historical society and its largest private repository of documents, books, manuscripts, and maps about South Carolina history. The SCHS is a non-profit organization with the mission to expand, preserve and make accessible its invaluable collection, and to encourage interest and pride in the rich historical legacy of South Carolina. The SCHS headquarters, the Fireproof Building, underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation and now serves as The South Carolina Historical Society Museum. For more information, please visit schistory.org.

On Tuesday, October 31, Senator Ronnie Sabb and Representative Roger Kirby stood before a anticipatory crowd at the Kingstree Recreation Center to present Kingstree Mayor Darren Tisdale with a check of $500,000 to begin construction on the first travel baseball field for the city.

Sports tourism is a booming business and will pour millions of dollars into the local economy of Kingstree. The average family spends $700-$1,000 a month on youth sports in America. Families stay at hotels, eat and drink at local restaurants, get gas, and shop in the towns where they play.

The Sports Events and Tourism Association reports there was a $39.7 billion direct spending impact from amateur and youth sports tourism in 2021, which generated a total economic impact of $91.8 billion. 635,000 jobs were created from the growing industry. 179 million sports tourism travelers resulted in $12.9 billion in tax revenue for the local economies.

Kingstree offers a host of chain and locally owned restaurants, but when it comes to accommodations, is the city ready for sports tourism?

The City of North Myrtle Beach is home to nine baseball/softball fields, eight multipurpose fields, and two gymnasiums, which are used for the city’s recreational sports as well as sports tourism events. The City of North Myrtle Beach sports tourism economic impact for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 was over $30 million, reports Paige Hess, Athletic and Sports Tourism Supervisor for the City of North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department.

She says the world class sports facilities are only one piece of the puzzle for successful sports tourism efforts. Teams and families need accommodations near the facilities, and nearby food and entertainment options. Travel ball is time consuming, but families need options outside of the fields and courts to keep teams coming back for tournaments. “Having support from all facets within the city for sports tourism events fosters an environment for success that extends to the whole community,” says Hess.

Kingstree Town Manager Richard Treme admits the motel situation in Kingstree is not good. “We hope the travel ball field will create enough business for someone to put a first-class hotel here. If they think money can be generated, they will invest,” says Treme. “But it’s what comes first, the chicken or the egg?”

Between the Quality Inn, Deluxe Inn and Heller House Bed and Breakfast, Kingstree has 80 hotel rooms available. The two hotels in town are barely reaching 2.5 stars on Hotels.com. There are only a handful of alternative accommodations via sites like Air B&B. For tourists who are used to playing in towns like Spartanburg, Greenville, Charlotte and Myrtle Beach, Kingstree, lags far behind.

Treme says at first, people will simply have to stay in Manning or Lake City.

“When that happens, they buy gas, food and make other purchases in those towns. This creates revenue ‘leakage’ in Williamsburg,” says Gilleon Frieson, Executive Director of Williamsburg County Economic Development Board. “In addition, the extra traveling is less accommodating for travelers and does not make for the best experience. We need those accommodations to be here to sustain these projects, provide a great tourist experience, and generate revenue for our locals.”

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“Economic, business, workforce, and community development are all inextricably connected, and they must be initiated simultaneously in order to achieve sustainable results. With the plans for a new travel ball field and new state park in Kingstree, there needs to be plans for additional temporary lodging,” says Frieson

Spartanburg County Parks and OneSpartanburg has been developing sports tourism for over a decade. Spartanburg’s Tyger River Park and Upward Start Center have become top sports destinations for youth and amateur athletics. There are facilities for baseball/softball, basketball, volleyball, disc golf, swimming, cycling, track and field/cross country, and golf. Spartanburg hosts over 170 sporting events a year, which generates an estimated $20-25 million in direct visitor spending.

“These visitors are staying overnight in our hotels, experiencing our county’s attractions, dining in our restaurants, and utilizing our local services/businesses. This economic impact creates jobs for our citizens and requires our partners in tourism to reorder essential supplies, gas, food, etc. that creates a trickle-down effect felt throughout,” says John Mark Freeze, Vice President of Sports Development for OneSpartanburg, Inc.

David Vehaun, City Manager for Rock Hill, says they have felt a $90 million economic impact from sports tourism. Rock Hill currently has basketball courts, soccer fields, softball fields and is in the planning phases of new travel ball facility with travel baseball ball fields.

“The key is not the money spent to build these facilities, it’s the money spent to keep it up. If you are going to put it in, you have to maintain it.” One week a year is set aside with no tournaments for major upkeep and maintenance projects such as redoing floors.

“That’s just an example of one thing we do to make sure our facilities stay in great shape,” says Vehaun.

Planning for Kingstree’s travel ball fields started almost a decade ago and took the cooperation of city, county and state and officials.

“A man came up and told me we need to build a travel ball field and told me why it’s important,” said Tisdale. “He said to call Myrtle Beach, Florence, and ask them how much travel ball will bring in. He said, ‘Mayor, put your youth first. Keep them ahead of the ball game, and they’ll bring what you need.’”

Hybrid Engineering Firm out of Irmo has completed the engineering work for Kingstree’s travel ball field. There are existing canteen and restroom facilities at the Recreation Center.

"We have to start somewhere. It’s something to build on,” says Treme. The town is currently acquiring additional funds needed to complete the project. Treme expects work to begin on the field in the next couple of months.