Day Trip to Aiken

As the leaves change color, the air begins to chill, and hot cups of coffee and cider find their ways into our hands, Aiken’s charming downtown begins to feel like a scene from Gilmore Girls. Incredibly walkable and filled to the brim with boutiques, gift shops, and cafés, this cozy town just an hour outside Columbia is simply made for autumn. Come visit Aiken this autumn and experience the fall events that would make Stars Hollow proud!

Oktoberfest, September 20

At this annual festival, taste an authentic German fare to the tune of live musical performances. Traditional German outfits are never required, but always encouraged.

Scarecrow Contest, September to November

Express your creativity and start autumn artfully with Aiken’s Scarecrow Contest. Registration is September 10 to 26, with installations in October followed by a public voting period where everyone can see fun scarecrows on display throughout the town.

Fall in Love with Downtown, October 25

For this Saturday, the whole downtown turns into a fall festival, complete with cider stalls and pop-up stands selling in-season produce. Bring the kids and have some family fun riding the trolley and doing the Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt. Stick around to watch all the dogs in the Howl-o-Ween Parade at 4 p.m.

Holiday Open House, November 13

On this night, Aiken’s downtown shops and restaurants are open after-hours so you can get a head start on the holidays! Browse unique finds and check off your gift list early this year. 

Visit downtownaiken.com to learn more about Aiken’s downtown shops and events!

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