Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities and events, and summer in the South can’t be bet. Sumter, South Carolina is in the heart of the midlands only 1 short hour from shopping in either Columbia or Florence and less than 2 short hours from frolicking on the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Sumter has all the charm of a small town, but all the conveniences of its larger city neighbors of Columbia and Florence. Sumter also has no shortage of things to do, people to meet and sites to see throughout the whole year.
With Memorial Day quickly approaching Sumter is busy with annual activities that will help residents and guests enjoy the summer and spend time together as a family.
Sumter Iris Festical
5/23/2008 – 5/25/2008
Swan Lake Iris Gardens
Liberty Street, Sumter SC
Home to all 8 known species of swan in the world, hundreds of Canadian Geese, and numerous other migratory and indigenous birds, Swan Lake/Iris Gardens is Sumter’s proudest feature. Created by accident and developed by love and donations, Swan Lake/Iris Gardens is in the heart of Sumter and is a small piece of serenity in the city. In May, thousands of Japanese Iris’ explode into a bloom of color and fragrance that no photograph can capture and each year Sumter hosts the Sumter Iris Festival.
Always the last weekend of May since 1940, Sumter’s Iris Festival is one of South Carolina’s oldest festivals and has been ranked among the top 20 festivals of the Southeastern region.
Admission into Swan Lake is free and entertainment such as children’s activities, music, talent shows, and other such outdoor entertainment is free to the public as well. Craft and food vendors set up booths and displays for a fun experience in outdoor shopping and refreshments.
Swan Lake has plenty of parking, shuttle service during the Iris Festival, wheelchair accessible, plenty of bathrooms, shade trees, picnic areas and a children’s playground. Come join the fun this May!
If you have any questions please contact (803) 436-2640 for more information or visit their website.
Sumter Shaw Street Fest
5/30/2008 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Main Street in downtown Sumter
Sumter is home to Shaw Air Force Base and as a salute to the dedicated men and women who serve out military, Sumter sponsors the annual Sumter Shaw Street Fest. Dubbed “Sumter’s largest street party” all residents and guests, civilian and military, are invited to the party on May 30th. The party kicks off its celebration with residents walking down Main Street to the sounds of local musical singers and bands.
The evening continues when at 6:00 p.m. when the main band takes center stage and entertains a growing crowd (each year the band is different and 2008’s band is still yet to be announced.) There is a children’s area where all activities and events are free. Children will get to see fun military displays, meet friendly characters, bounce on inflatable play areas and enjoy rides and games. Food and street vendors will fill up the street for outdoor shopping and refreshments.
Parking is in the rear of Main Street, Harvin St. and Sumter St.
Schedule of events:
5:30pm to 6:00pm – Local Entertainment in front of the Opera House
6:00pm – Opening Ceremony 6:00pm to 9:00pm
The city would like to ask that everyone bring their own chair, and please no coolers. If you have any questions please contact (803) 436-2640 for more information.
5th Annual Shrine Day Parade
5/24/2008 begins at 10:00 a.m.
West Liberty Street
Come enjoy the 5th annual Shrine Parade on Liberty Street. Bring your own chairs, and watch the entertainment and floats parade by in a serene setting in Sumter. Bring the children and the whole family!
USSSA Baseball Tournament
5/31/2008 – 6/1/2008
Dillon Park/Palmetto Park-Bobby Richardson Baseball Complex
A former second basemen in Major League Baseball (played for the NY Yankees 1955-1966), Bobby Richardson, was born in Sumter, SC and the complex at Palmetto Park was named in his honor.
What better way to commemorate the country then to enjoy or sponsor America’s favorite pastime? If you have any questions please contact (803)436-2248 for more information.
