Oct. 8-19, 2025

Days
Hours
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Academic Avenue Stage

ACADEMIC AVENUE STAGE

The Academic Avenue Stage is located across from the Pepsi Place stage, across from the kiddie land rides and next door to the Rosewoods Building.   

Please note that acts may change without notice or last minute.

2023

BOILED PEANUT EATING CONTEST

Academic Avenue Stage Oct. 09 5:30 p.m.

Don’t miss watching, cheering and laughing as local celebrities accept the challenge to learn who can eat the most boiled peanuts at the S.C. State Fair!  Can Lexington County Sherriff Jay Koon hold onto his 2023 first place standing? 

Dennis Lee 2_2022

Dennis Lee Band

Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 13-20

 Be sure to catch the Dennis Lee show with his talented band from Memphis, Tennessee, featuring the fabulous Stephanie Ann on fiddle. The Dennis Lee Band blends musical favorites, comedy, country music, old-time rock and roll, and patriotic numbers. A South Carolina State Fair favorite for 42 years!

Jess Kellie Adams Promo Pic

Jess Kellie Adams

Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 9-10

 Jess Kellie Adams is an emerging Nashville country artist with a powerful voice, blending classic country styling with a rock and roll edge. Having worked with legendary producer Dean Sams of Lonestar, Jess brings a unique sound to fans across the country. Her show features a mix of beloved 90s and 2000s hits and her own original music. Known for her captivating vocals and ability to connect with audiences, Jess delivers a message of following your heart, self-discovery, and chasing your dreams.

RonDiamondPhoto4

RON DIAMOND

Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 9-20

For over two decades, Ron Diamond has been captivating crowds with his blend of comedy, hypnosis and illusion.  Once again, Diamond takes the stage at the S.C. State Fair, showcasing the captivating influence of hypnosis through engaging audience participation and lighthearted humor.

Renata the Band 2

RENATA THE BAND

Academic Avenue Stage, Oct. 11-12

Hailing from Nashville, this sibling trio—Collin, Adrienne, and Benny Rolf—returns to the S.C. State Fair bringing nearly 15 years of performing experience and a unique sound to the stage. Known for their harmony-driven music and powerful vocals, RENATA THE BAND delivers an unforgettable live show that captures the energy and passion of their performances. Their tight groove and dynamic presence result from countless shows and their deep love for music. Don’t miss your chance to see this rising band that’s making waves across the country!

swiftyswine

Swifty Swine Racing and Swimming Pigs

Always a favorite! Guests will be treated to an action-packed, fast-paced, high-energy program as “Swifty” the swimming pig plunges into an 8-foot tank, and 4 piglets compete for first place in a series of high-speed races. It’s the fastest pig race around. 

Performing daily down Academic Avenue in front of Abernathy Arena 

commerford-petting-zoo

Commerford Petting Zoo

Commerford and Sons petting zoo is a family owned and operated petting zoo featuring domestic animals and hand-raised exotic animals that just love attention. The Comerford’s have been raising animals for well over 50 years. Guests are invited to get up close and meet some members of the Commerford petting zoo family! And don’t forget to wash those hands afterwards.   

Featured daily down Academic Avenue 

Simmons

Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild

The Philip Simmons Blacksmith Guild was formed exclusively for educational purposes to encourage and facilitate the training of blacksmiths. The group disseminates information about sources of material and equipment, exposes the art of blacksmithing and serves as a resource for all who are interested in the craft. Demonstrations are open to the public. Guild members participate in several events throughout the year such as Ashley on the River at Magnolia Plantation in Charleston and the Renaissance Fair in Myrtle Beach.

Appearing on Academic Avenue 

October 22 – 24 

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