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Colorful Ferris wheel at York Summerfest against a bright blue sky, with South Carolina flags along the ride’s frame.

The event of the summer in South Carolina is almost here. For more than 40 years, the City of York has marked the end of summer with a signature Southern celebration. The long-standing Summerfest is a staple for locals and visitors spending their summer in the OED. Feel like you’re part of the community and join the fun on August 23 in the heart of Historic York. Come together to celebrate over 40 years of small-town charm and start planning your Summerfest visit today!

Things to Know About Summerfest in York, SC

A band performs on an outdoor stage at York Summerfest, with sunlight shining over the crowd and historic buildings in the background.
Enjoy the sounds of summer with live music from the Summerfest stage.

Make the most of your Summerfest day by planning with our guide to essential event information. Summerfest is a one-day festival and annual community tradition typically held on the fourth Saturday of August. The 2025 Summerfest takes place on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Remember to check weather conditions leading up to the event and prepare yourself for inclement weather and extreme heat. 

The best part about Summerfest? It’s free and for all ages! Whether you’re traveling with small children or need accessible parking, Summerfest has plenty of parking options. First, head to York Middle School or York Comprehensive High School to park your car. Then, use the complimentary shuttles that will be running every 30 minutes to and from the festival grounds. Once you enter the event, the summer fun begins.

Plan Your Day at Summerfest in York, SC

Vendor tents line Main Street during York Summerfest, with shoppers browsing under a sunny sky in downtown York, SC.
Browse small businesses on Main Street or shop local vendors at the arts and crafts fair.

Start your Summerfest day early when you sign up for the York Summerfest 5K Road Race. After you cross the finish line or finish cheering on the runners, head to Summerfest, where gates open at 10 a.m. Check out the stage schedule and grab a seat to enjoy live entertainment, featuring comedy, BMX stunt shows, and musical performances across various genres, including 80s, rock, country, hip-hop, jazz, and more. (Don’t forget to sign up for the 2025 York Summerfest Golf Tournament that tees off the festival weekend, the Friday before the event.)

Savor the flavors of summer with over 30 food vendors to choose from. Get a classic carnival snack or try a local food truck, then cool down in the air-conditioned dining tents. Stroll up and down historic streets lined with vintage automobiles and motorcycles at the Classic Car Show. Shop local artisans and makers at the arts and crafts fair or discover small businesses throughout York’s charming downtown.

Aerial view of York Summerfest showing a Ferris wheel, vendor tents, and crowds in historic downtown York, SC.
Explore the small-town charm of Historic York during Summerfest.

Find entertainment for the whole family at Summerfest. Your kids will have a summer to remember when they experience kid-friendly activities like train rides, inflatables, a climbing wall, carnival rides, and a Kidz Zone. Create lasting memories with the family and celebrate the end of summer at York’s Summerfest this Aug. 23.

Explore more annual events and festivals in the OED here!