Ready to feel like a kid again? Good news — your chance is just around the corner with the return of the South Carolina State Fair Wed., Oct. 12-Sun., Oct. 23.

This year’s theme, “To the Fair and Beyond,” celebrates the experiences, traditions + impact the SC State Fair creates for not only 12 days each October, but also year-round + beyond.

Take a peek behind the circus tent with 10 things you need to know about the 153rd SC State Fair:

🎡 It’s the state’s largest event.

Yep, that’s right. Each year, approximately 500,000 visitors attend from across the region.

🎡 There will be 90+ food vendors.

Expect your classic fair favorites like elephant ears + foot-long corn dogs — plus new, mouthwatering treats like deep-fried moon pies that will put you over the moon.

🎡 There will be 60+ rides.

From sky-high thrillers to family-friendly fun rides, there’s really something for everyone.

🎡 Plenty of entertainment options.

Enjoy a variety of entertainment attractions, including live bands, acts, exhibits, animal races + more. Pro tip: Villa*Nova will be rocking out as this year’s opening band.

🎡 You can visit the moon like never before.

Okay, maybe it’s a large six-meter spherical glowing moon on display as part of the Museum of the Moon traveling exhibition presented by South Carolina ETV.

🎡 17,000+ competitive exhibits.

Check out a showcase of South Carolina’s best in art, crafts + agriculture.

🎡Sensory-Friendly Morning.

The lights and sounds will be a little lower from 10 a.m.-noon on Thursday, Oct. 13, when the fair hosts its first-ever Sensory-Friendly Morning.

🎡 The SC State Fair is a nonprofit.

The fair provides $300,000+ in scholarships each year to South Carolina students.

🎡 It’s an important contributor to the local economy.

The fair makes a $45.5 million annual economic impact.*

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