How to Experience the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour in the Olde English District
The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is the largest free farm and art tour in the United States—and one of the most immersive ways to connect with the state’s rich agricultural roots and thriving creative scene. Held each spring and early summer, this self-guided adventure invites visitors to explore working farms, meet local artisans, enjoy live music, taste homegrown flavors, and connect with South Carolina’s agricultural scene.
This year, four counties in the Olde English District—Chester, Kershaw, Lancaster, and York—are rolling out the welcome wagon. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned tour-goer, we’ve got a few tips to help you make the most of this tradition.
1. Know the When and Where
The tour is organized by county, with each one taking center stage on its own weekend:
- Lancaster County – May 3, 2025
- Kershaw County – May 31, 2025
- York County – June 7 & 8, 2025
- Chester County – June 28 & 29, 2025
Each weekend offers a unique experience—different farms to explore, artisans to meet, and local traditions to enjoy. Whether you hit just one county or make a tour of the whole region, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
2. Visit Working Farms with a Creative Twist
The beauty of this tour lies in the blend of farm life and art. You might find yourself petting goats while browsing handwoven baskets or chatting with a beekeeper as a local bluegrass band plays in the background. From heritage livestock and heirloom vegetables to educational exhibits and historic barns, the farms on this tour offer more than just a glimpse into rural living—they let you experience it firsthand.
3. Watch Artists at Work—and Shop Local
At each stop, you’ll encounter a variety of local makers showcasing everything from pottery to painting. Many artisans offer live demonstrations so you can see how raw materials are transformed into beautiful, functional art. It’s a great opportunity to pick up meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts—and to support the people who pour their hearts into their craft.
4. Savor the Local Flavor
Food is at the heart of any good Southern getaway, and the Ag + Art Tour doesn’t disappoint. Depending on the site, you may find local jams and jellies, baked goods, produce stands, or even full-on food trucks serving up regional specialties. Some farms also host chef-led demos or tastings that highlight how fresh, local ingredients can shine.
5. Make a Day (or Weekend) of It
To get the most out of your Ag + Art Tour experience, give yourself plenty of time to wander. Start early, plan a general route with help from the tour’s interactive map, and don’t be afraid to stray from your itinerary.
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a cooler for your market finds are highly recommended. If you’re traveling from outside the region, consider turning your visit into a weekend getaway—many towns in the Olde English District offer charming inns, scenic spots, and historic attractions to round out your trip.
