From reenactments and art exhibits to concerts and family fun days, Thoroughbred Country is the perfect destination to celebrate America’s milestone 250th birthday
THOROUGHBRED COUNTRY, SOUTH CAROLINA—FEBRUARY 2026—Located just east of Augusta, Georgia, and west of Columbia, South Carolina, Thoroughbred Country is home to sprawling countryside, wide-open greenspaces, and a myriad of American Revolutionary War history. During the American Revolutionary War, South Carolina emerged as a pivotal battleground in the Southern campaign. The state became a focal point for both Patriot and British forces, with fierce fighting unfolding across its towns, rivers and countryside. In fact, more than 400 battles and skirmishes were fought over the course of the war—cementing South Carolina’s central role in shaping the outcome of America’s fight for independence. As America prepares to celebrate its 250th this summer, here’s how Thoroughbred Country is planning to commemorate the milestone birthday.
March 15-22, 2026: The Allendale County 250 Committee is bringing back Revolutionary Days, a week-long celebration of South Carolina’s Revolutionary War history. The highlight of this year’s event is the South Carolina Museum’s traveling exhibit, “Resilience & Revolution: Native Peoples in 18th Century South Carolina,” which explores the strength and cultural legacy of Native communities during this pivotal era. The week will also feature live reenactments, engaging speakers and storytellers, educational programs and special community events for all ages. For more information, click here.
March 21-22, 2026: Colonial Times: Under the Crown and Trades Fair offers an immersive step back into 1780, during the American Revolution, when Charleston had fallen and rebel forces faced defeat. Visitors can explore life under British occupation in Augusta through historical reenactments, demonstrations and hands-on experiences. Activities include pottery, weaving, candle making, musket firing, blacksmithing, colonial games, dancing and more—plus treats from the Sweet Shoppe. This free event runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday. Click here for more information.
July 4, 2026: On July 4th, Living History Park in North Augusta will celebrate the nation’s birthday with a reading of the Declaration of Independence by the mayor. Visitors can tour historic park buildings and interact with reenactors who bring history to life. Guests are encouraged to dress in patriotic attire. Well behaved leashed pets are welcome to join the festivities as well. See more information here.
October 2026: For 30 years, the Living History Park has brought colonial life (1735-1785) alive with interactive demonstrations and living exhibits at A Day to Remember. Visitors can enjoy colonial games, songs, dancing and hands-on activities like pottery, weaving, candle making, butter churning, musket firing, blacksmithing and woodworking. The park also features historic tradespeople, including Indian traders, bakers, backwoodsmen, tavern keepers and more, plus the Village Mercantile and New Windsor Cabinet shop, home to the lathe used in the movie, “The Patriot.” Check back here for more on event details including exact dates and times.
November 28, 2026: Christmas in the Backcountry is a free, one-day holiday event held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving at Living History Park. This event invites visitors to experience how people in the 19th century celebrated the Christmas season. Throughout the park, historical reenactors demonstrate colonial holiday traditions and bring history to life. Children can visit Father Christmas, take photos, enjoy hot chocolate and listen to holiday stories and enjoy fun activities like making bird feeders to hang for local wildlife. This family-friendly event is a great way to kick start the holiday season. Click here for more information.
Revolutionary War Concert Series: February to May, enjoy once per month live concerts featuring many genres including Blues, Gospel, Patriotic and more. For dates, times and monthly concert details, click here.
Aiken County Historical Museum Family Fun Day Series: Join the Aiken County Historical Museum on select Saturdays to learn more about Aiken County’s history, with some focusing on the 250th anniversary. Each event offers a different theme and activity. The series runs March through November. Click here for more information.
Aiken County Revolutionary War Exhibit at the Aiken County Museum: Celebrate America’s 250th at the Aiken County Historical Museum from July 3-August 30 with Aiken County’s Revolutionary War Exhibit. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and 2 to 5 p.m., Sunday. Admission is free. Click here for more information.
Our American Dream art exhibit at the Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta: Taking place June-July 2026, this exhibit is free and open to the public. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Click here for more information.
Round out your visit to Thoroughbred Country by reliving the revolution at these revolutionary war sites located throughout the region. See a full list of sites here. Together, these sites offer insight into the military engagements, local stories and lasting legacy of the Revolutionary era in Thoroughbred Country.
Where to Stay
For a classic Southern mansion-style stay, Lookaway Inn nobly presides over the historic town center of North Augusta, just over the bridge from Augusta This classic Beaux-Arts jewel from the 1800s is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guests enjoy a sumptuous breakfast, large, elegant bedrooms, private bathrooms and landscaped courtyard and gardens. 103 W Forest Avenue, North Augusta, South Carolina; 803-426-1030.
Experience history and charm at the Carriage House Inn. Located in the heart of Thoroughbred Country, this restored 1872 property features 37 uniquely decorated accommodations from premium guest rooms to spacious king and queen suites with kitchens. Originally built for the Efron family, the property has welcomed many notable visitors over the years, including Fred Astaire. Guests love the proximity to Aiken’s dining, shopping and cultural attractions. Blending historic character with modern comforts, the Carriage House offers a distinctive and welcoming retreat for all. Carriage House Inn, 139 Laurens Street NW, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801; 803-644-5888
Stay among nature at Barnwell State Park and enjoy some of the area’s best fishing. With multiple fully furnished cabins available, guests will enjoy the comforts of home while waking up 100 yards from the park’s upper lake and just 300 yards from the park’s lower lake. Barnwell State Park’s swimming area is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Insider’s tip: don’t miss nearby Lake Edgar Brown for more fishing. This 100-acre lake offers a kayak rental system and features a fishing pier, boat ramp and is ideal for boating and waterskiing. Lake Edgar Brown is also handicapped accessible. For information on booking a cabin at Barnwell State Park, click here. Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Road, Blackville, South Carolina, 29817; 803-284-2212
Lofts on Burr is a boutique hotel in Barnwell that elevates the guest experience with a seamless blend of style and comfort. Featuring modern technology, contemporary design and thoughtfully appointed rooms, the property offers a sleek yet welcoming retreat. Its prime location puts guests within easy walking distance of local favorite restaurants, shops and attractions—making it the perfect home base for exploring the heart of Barnwell. Lofts on Burr, 22 Burr Street, Barnwell, South Carolina, 29812; 803-258-0823
Red Bluff Lodge is a full-service lodge offering year-round adventures for outdoorsmen and women eager to experience the abundant natural resources of Allendale County. Guests can enjoy guided hunts for whitetail deer, feral hogs, alligator and wild turkey, along with fishing excursions and quail hunts. The on-site gunsmith shop and shooting range provide added convenience for enthusiasts. Beyond hunting and fishing, the lodge also features kayaking, mountain biking, camping and naturalist tours for those looking to explore the great outdoors in other ways. Red Bluff Lodge, 130 Boone Trail, Allendale, South Carolina, 29810; 803-584-7363
Set on 350 wooded acres just outside Fairfax, King Creek Campground offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Guests can explore miles of hiking and horseback riding trails while enjoying seasonal flora and fauna. Spacious 60’x90’ campsites accommodate large tents or RVs, with full hook-ups, 30- and 50-amp service and a dump station available. Equestrian-friendly amenities include highlines at every site and one-stall corrals at designated horse campsites. Reservations required. King Creek Campground, 757 Cedar Knoll Road, Fairfax, South Carolina, 29827; 843-816-1636