South Carolina State Fair Kicks Off With Safety First and Fun

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – The South Carolina State Fair returns Wednesday at noon, celebrating its 156th year with the theme “Harvesting Happiness.” Preparations at the Columbia fairgrounds included the setup of rides and vendor booths, alongside safety inspections to ensure all attractions are ready for visitors.

Nancy Smith, general manager of the South Carolina State Fair, expressed her excitement for opening day. “I really love seeing the opening day of the fair when folks are waiting at the gates to come in,” Smith said. “It’s a real sense of satisfaction that you’re bringing something to South Carolina; they only get 12 days a year.” This year’s fair features 50 rides, all undergoing a comprehensive safety inspection process.

Lynda Franc, the corporate marketing director for North America, confirmed that inspections are conducted daily. “We have our daily inspections with our ride operators,” Franc said. “We also have ride supervisors, a third-party safety inspector, an employed safety inspector on staff, and of course, the state.”

The Richland County Sheriff’s Department will be on-site to assist with fair security, addressing common concerns like children getting separated from their parents. Cpl. John Ferrell with the RCSD Emergency Management Unit advised, “If you become separated from your child, find the nearest deputy. We’ll put it out over the radio and take the child to our lost child section to reunite them with their parents.”

Organizers are anticipating hundreds of thousands of visitors, with safety measures crucial to this year’s fair experience. “This theme fits not only with our agricultural roots but with what the fair means to a lot of people,” Smith added. “It’s tradition, it’s family, it’s fun, it’s education, and it’s agriculture.” Visitors should be aware that a clear bag policy is in effect this year, with exceptions for diaper bags and medical equipment.