Best of…
Events
Spring Events in Greenville, SC | Family-Friendly Festivals, Markets & Outdoor Fun
🎪🍭👟 Festivals with the fam: where face paint melts, someone loses a shoe, and everyone swears the funnel cake was definitely worth it.”
🐣 Bubbles, Blooms & Bunny Trails: Spring Festivals to Love
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🔬 iMAGINE Upstate STEAM Festival
📍 Location: Main Street, Downtown Greenville, SC
🕒 When: April
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌟 Highlights:Interactive Exhibits: Engage with hands-on activities showcasing innovations in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
Live Demonstrations: Witness exciting demonstrations, including robotics, drone technology, and 3D printing, Educational Opportunities: Discover various educational and career pathways in STEAM fields, Pre-K through 12th grade.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Don't forget to check out the special activities designed specifically for children to spark their interest in STEAM subjects.
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🏴☠️ Greenville Scottish Games at Gallabrae – May
📍 Location: Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy, Greenville, SC
🎯 Highlights:
Heavy Athletics: Witness traditional Scottish competitions like caber toss and hammer throw on the Main Field all day.
Celtic Music: Live performances on the Main Stage all afternoon. . Scottish Clans: Visit clan tents to learn about Scottish heritage and genealogy. Wee Games: Kids can participate in mini versions of traditional Scottish athletic events. Craftory AND Wee Passport Office: Young attendees receive a passport to collect stamps from clan tents, redeemable for prizes. Family Respite Tent: A comfortable area for families with young children to relax
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Don't miss the Wee Scotland area for engaging children's activities, and be sure to arrive early to catch the exciting opening ceremonies and parade.
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🎨 Artisphere
📍 Location: Main Street, Downtown Greenville, SC (from Court Street to Wardlaw Street, including the Liberty Bridge and Falls Park)
🎟️ Admission: Free
🕒 When May
🌟 Festival Highlights: Artist Row: Explore works from 140 visual artists across 17 mediums. Live Performances: Enjoy a diverse lineup of music and dance performances.
Culinary Arts Café: Savor mouthwatering cuisine, wine, and craft beer from local restaurants and vendors. Art Lab: Participate in hands-on DIY art projects suitable for all ages. Street Chalk Art: 🧒 Kidsphere – Children's Activities offers a tented area where children can craft and make art.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip Artisphere is designed with families in mind. From interactive art installations in Falls Park to the engaging activities at Kidsphere, there's something for everyone.
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🐖 Hub City Hog Fest
📍 Location: Downtown Spartanburg, SC (around Morgan Square)
When: April:
🎯 Beneficiary: All proceeds support Mobile Meals of Spartanburg
🍖 Festival Highlights: 40+ Competition BBQ Teams: Witness top pitmasters compete in categories like wings, brisket, ribs, and pork butts. Live Music: Enjoy performances from 12 music acts throughout the festival. Food Vendors: Savor a variety of BBQ offerings from on-site food trucks and vendors. Craft Beer: Quench your thirst with a selection of cold craft beers available for purchase.
Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in fun activities suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family outing. Community Vendors: Explore booths from local artisans and businesses.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip Don't forget to bring cash or cards to purchase Hog Bucks for food and beverage purchases.
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🎨 Spring Into Art Festival –
📍 Location: 110 E Curtis St, Downtown Simpsonville, SC
🕒 When: May
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌟 Highlights 🎨 20+ Local Artist Vendors: Browse and shop unique creations from talented local artists, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more. 🖌️ Live Art Demonstrations: Witness artists at work and gain insight into their creative processes. 🎶 Live Music: Enjoy performances by local musicians.
🍔 Food Trucks: 🎁 Silent Auction: 🌸 Floral Displays:
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip-Bring the whole family and let the kids unleash their creativity with chalk painting and other fun activities. It's a perfect opportunity for children to engage with art in an interactive and enjoyable setting.
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🐖 Southern Roots: A BBQ Reunion
📍 Location: Trailblazer Park, 235 Trailblazer Dr, Travelers Rest, SC
🕒 When: Early April
🌟 Festival Highlights 35+ Pitmasters & Chefs: Savor over 15 unique BBQ dishes crafted by renowned chefs and pitmasters from across the Southeast. Live Music: Enjoy performances from talented musicians throughout the day, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Artisan Market: Explore a variety of local artisans and vendors offering unique crafts, foods, and goods.VIP Experience: Gain early access to the festival with exclusive offerings like an oyster roast and specialty drinks during the "Oysters + Bubbles" kickoff.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Southern Roots is a family-friendly event! Children aged 6–12 can enjoy all the food, beverages, and entertainment for just $25, while kids 5 and under attend for free. Please note that pets are not permitted, with the exception of service animals.
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🌍 Greer Goes Global International Festival
📍 Location: Greer City Park, 301 E. Poinsett Street, Greer, SC
🕒 Time: Late April
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌟 Highlights: Pride of Nations: Explore cultural booths representing countries from around the globe, offering insights into traditions, attire, and customs.
Biergarten & Global Food Boulevard, Makers Bazaar: Shop for unique, handcrafted items from local artisans and vendors. Worldwide Sports: Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances of music and dance showcasing diverse cultural expressions.Children's Activities: Participate in interactive and educational activities designed for kids to learn about global cultures.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: Bring the whole family for a day of cultural exploration and fun.
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🇮🇹 Italian American Heritage Festival –
📍 Location: Main Street, Fountain Inn, SC
🕒 When: Late April
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌟 Highlights: Authentic Italian Cuisine: Savor a variety of Italian dishes including italian dishes and don’t forget gelato. Plus more from over 17 food vendors. Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by local artists. Cultural Exhibits: Vendor Market: Family Activities: Participate in fun activities suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family outing.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip-Arrive early to enjoy the full range of activities and to ensure you get to sample the delicious Italian cuisine, as popular items may sell out.
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🎶 SpringSkunk Music Festival
📍 Location: The Skunk Farm, 4067 Jordan Rd, Greer, SC
🗓️ When: Early May
🎟️ Admission: Tickets available online and at the gate; camping passes sold separatelyI ⛺ Camping: Immerse yourself in the festival experience with on-site camping options, including tent and RV accommodations 🎪 KiddieLand: A dedicated area for children featuring activities like crafts, games, and kid-friendly performances. 🍔 Food & Craft Vendors: Savor a variety of culinary delights and browse unique handmade goods from local artisans. 🚴 DeTour de Skunk: Participate in a charity bike ride through the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with routes suitable for all skill levels.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tip: From the engaging KiddieLand activities to the relaxed atmosphere of The Skunk Farm, it's an ideal setting for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
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🎷 Mauldin Blues & Jazz Festival
📍 Location: Mauldin Cultural Center Outdoor Amphitheater, 101 E. Butler Rd, Mauldin, SC
🕒 When: Late April
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌟 Festival Highlights-join for a weekend of Blues & Jazz! This annual event features a variety of your favorite restaurants and food trucks. Sink your teeth into the tastiest food around, wash it down with cold beer and wine, and groove to some live blues and jazz bands!
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Activities-Face painting stations-Lawn games suitable for all ages
📝 Additional Information-Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating.Leashed dogs are welcome.The event will proceed rain or shine; in case of inclement weather, updates will be provided on the Mauldin Cultural Center's social media channels. Outside food and beverages, smoking/vaping, weapons, and scooters/skateboards/bikes are prohibited
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🐾 Zoo Fest – Greenville Zoo
📍 Location: Greenville Zoo, Cleveland Park, Greenville, SC
🗓️ Date: Typically held in May or June
🎟️ Admission: Event is included with zoo admission (discounts often available)
🌟 Highlights:Wild Entertainment: Live music, animal-themed games, and fun performances throughout the day.Meet the Animals AND Creative Crafts: Kids can enjoy nature-inspired crafts, face painting, and hands-on stations.Food Trucks & Treats:Eco-Fun: Conservation and wildlife stations teach kids how to help animals and the planet in fun, simple ways.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tips:Go Early: It gets busy! Arrive close to opening time for easier parking and smaller crowds. Pack Water & Sunscreen: Most activities are outside—stay cool and protected.Bring a Wagon or Stroller: The zoo’s hilly pathways can be a workout, especially for little legs. Zoo Membership Perks: Members often get early entry or discounts during Zoo Fest—worth looking into!
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🐤 Reedy River Duck Derby: Greenville’s Quirkiest Race of the Year! 🦆
📍 Location:
Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville, SC📅 Date:
Saturday, Early May
Festivities begin at 10:00 AM
The ducks drop into the river at 2:30 PM sharp!🟡 What It Is: It’s not just a race—it’s thousands of little yellow rubber ducks floating down the Reedy River, all competing to cross the finish line first!
🎉 Event Highlights: 🎶 Live music & entertainment on the main stage🍧 Food trucks and sweet treats galore🎨 Free kid zone with face painting, crafts & games🐥 Duck mascot photo ops
👨👩👧👦 Helpful Hints for Families: 👟🚼 Stroller-friendly but gets crowded, so come early for easy parking 💵 Bring cash or cards for food trucks and duck adoptions on-site
🦆 Want to race?
Adopt your duck online in advance at www.reedyriverduckderby.com or at the event!
🎉 How to Rock a Busy Festival with Kids (And Actually Have Fun):
🗺️ Make a Simple Game Plan – Pick 2–3 “must-dos” and leave room for spontaneous fun (like surprise face painting or a llama petting zoo).
🎟️ Grab a Map or Event Schedule – Circle kid-friendly stops like craft tents, live shows, and snack trucks.
🧡 Color Code the Crew – Dress your kids (and you!) in bright, matching shirts so they’re easy to spot in a crowd.
🧠 Set Expectations Early – Talk through what’s happening, what they can pick out (one treat, one toy), and when you’ll leave.
💤 Know When to Fold ‘Em – When they’re done, they’re done. Leaving on a high note = happy memories and no festival fallout.

