Summer is just beginning and so is the fun in South Carolina! If you’re ready to welcome 2021 into full swing, there are so many events around Lake Keowee that will get you celebrating the season in unforgettable ways. The following events are the can’t-miss opportunities for you to make this summer the best one yet.
Independence Fest in Walhalla
Normally a one-day celebration, Walhalla’s Independence Eve is a full-blown festival this year. From now until July 4, this charming southern town has some of the most kid-friendly events around Lake Keowee. Enjoy carnival rides, food vendors, and music every day, plus visit Main Street beforehand to shop, eat, and play to your heart’s content. The brilliant downtown fireworks display begins at 9:15 on Saturday. You won’t want to miss it.
Independence Celebration in Seneca
The cozy town of Seneca offers another fantastic chance to enjoy activities for the entire family while celebrating America. If you’ve spent the morning out on Lake Keowee, you can finish the day out with even more fun at Gignilliat Field for Seneca’s annual Independence Day celebration. Festivities begin at 2 p.m. and it’s filled with free family fun, including live music featuring The Tams, incredible food and drink options, games for the kids, and more. Seneca puts on an award-willing fireworks show, which starts at sunset. Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy the show in comfort!
TD Saturday Market
One of the favorite events around Lake Keowee is Greenville’s TD Saturday Market. Each Saturday from May through October, you’ll discover how two blocks of downtown Greenville are converted into a farmers’ market. Shop for fresh, locally sourced produce, handcrafted pastas and cheeses, crafts, and baked goods from more than 70 different vendors. Enjoy live local music and cooking demonstrations, too. The market is held from 8 a.m. to noon.
Sounds of Summer Music Series in Fountain Inn
Fountain Inn, one of the communities found in the outskirts of Greenville, offers great opportunities for music lovers to kick back and enjoy summer. Every Friday through August 27, a new band performs at Commerce Park at 110 Depot St. in Fountain Inn. This event takes place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. and is a great chance to discover a new favorite artist.
Jazz on the Alley Series
Jazz lovers, this series is especially for you. Every Thursday evening through October, enjoy live jazz music from 7 to 9 p.m. Stroll down Ram Cat Alley for Jazz on the Alley, which features a party atmosphere unlike any other. Dance, mingle, or just pause for a listen as incredible musicians liven up the night.
Fishing Clinic at South Cove County Park
Are you or the kids ready to start trying your hand at fishing? This is one of the events at Lake Keowee you’ll want to check out! On Saturday, August 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at South Cove County Park in Seneca, this free family finishing clinic provides you with an introduction to fishing. Learn to tie fishing knots, rig a rod and reel, cast, and maybe even start a new, life-long passion. Kids ages 4 through adults are welcome!
Greenville Heritage Main Street Fridays Presented by Pepsi
Now through September 25 at NOMA Square in Greenville are Heritage Main Street Fridays Presented by Pepsi, where you’ll stay entertained with some of the best musical entertainment in the area. This free weekly music series, which opens at 5:30 p.m., presents two bands, one at 5:50 p.m. and the second at 7:40 p.m. Bring your own comfortable chair because NOMA Square chairs fill up fast. It’s a fun way to spend your Friday evenings.
Run2Overcome 5k & 10k
One of the most positive events around Lake Keowee is Run2Overcome, a 5K, 10K, and children’s fun run. The run is a benefit for the Julie Valentine Center, a nonprofit organization that provides free, confidential services for sexual assault and child abuse survivors and their families. The event takes place Saturday, August 7 starting at 7:30 a.m. at 150 Cleveland Park Drive in Greenville. Do good for your community while also doing good for your heart. You can register for the event, which offers both in-person and virtual running options, here.
