With its rich history, exciting activities and cosmopolitan flair, Aiken offers something for everyone. With equestrian sports, year-round recreational sports, history, the arts, shopping, hiking, fishing and a host of other ventures available, there is something that appeals to every interest. For more information on the exciting events scheduled in Aiken this year, visit the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the City of Aiken. 

Aiken's Makin'

An annual display of juried arts and crafts from Aiken County and the Southeastern states. The festival also includes food vendors, baked goods, and entertainment.

When: Friday, September 10 from 9 am to 6 pm. Saturday, September 11 from 9 am to 5 pm

Where: In the parkways of Park Avenue from Chesterfield to Union Streets in Historic Downtown Aiken

Phone: (803) 649-2221

Web Site: www.aikenchamber.net

Celebrate Aiken! Transportation Parade and Aiken Railroad Depot Ribbon Cutting

The Parade begins at the corner of Barnwell Ave. and Laurens St. and will continue south on Laurens St. to Park Ave. The participants will turn left at Park Ave. and continue all the way to Union St. The Aiken Railroad Depot and Visitor’s Center is located at the corner of Union St. and Park Ave. The participants in the parade will be led to a specific spot where their mode of transportation will be on display throughout the afternoon. The ribbon cutting will take place after the parade. There will be food vendors, musical entertainment, tours of the new Depot and more!

When: Saturday, September 18

Time: Parade begins at 10 am with Ribbon Cutting to follow. Celebration to continue until 4 pm

Web Site: www.celebrateaiken.com

A Taste of Downtown Aiken

Come and enjoy Downtown Aiken's finest restaurants by strolling from one to the other in search of the most delectable tastes.

When: Tuesday, September 21

Time: 5 pm – 7:30 pm

Phone: (803) 649-2221

Web Site: www.downtownaiken.com

Festival of the Woods

The Festival of the Woods is a new annual event to celebrate the wide range of pedestrian uses of the Hitchcock Woods, and to provide education on the history and resources of the Woods. A ticketed dinner event being held again on a Friday evening, followed by family activities for Friends of the Woods member households on Saturday.

When: Friday, September 24 for ticketed dinner. Saturday, September 24 for Festival of the Woods

Where: Hitchcock Woods

Phone: (803) 642-0528

St. Mary’s Chocolate Festival

The annual chocolate festival at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church draws in chocolate lovers of all ages. The festival is a fundraiser for the school associated with the church, and offers food, entertainment, vendors and a pet drive. Chocolate, games, rides for the whole family.

When: Saturday, October 2 at 10:00 am

Where: St. Mary's School on 118 York Street

Phone: (803) 649-2071