The South Carolina State Fair returned to the fairgrounds in Columbia, South Carolina, on Oct. 9, 2024, offering a variety of amusement rides, local vendors, food and entertainment. This year’s fair theme was “46 reasons to celebrate,” highlighting the 46 counties of South Carolina and welcoming visitors from around the region to mark the start of the fall season. The fair, which started in 1869, awards scholarships to college students across the state each year as part of its mission to support education. The fair will continue through Oct. 20, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.