26-04-2025
The city of Walterboro celebrates the 50th annual Rice Festival
COLLENTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)–The 50th annual Colleton County rice festival is happening in downtown Walterboro. The weeklong event is expected to bring in thousands of people from across the Lowcountry to enjoy food and fun.
The festival's core takes place Friday and Saturday, and attendees told News 2 they feel the energy and excitement of the family-friendly event.
'I love how people get together to learn more about each other and have that interaction between each other and enjoy everyone's company and spirit,' said Rene Sime, a visitor.
Nearly 20,000 visitors will stroll down South Memorial Avenue and visit the hundreds of vendors by the end of Sunday, eating delicious food, browsing jewelry and clothing, riding attractions, and even enjoying face painting.
Officials added raffles and lounge areas for all ages to enjoy this year. One vendor told News 2 that it had always been her dream to share special treats with her community.
'I always wanted to come out. I came out last year not as a vendor, but I always wanted to come here to be a vendor, so I'm thankful I got the opportunity to come out this year,' said Shakema Simmons,' owner of Kema Cookies and Creations LLC.
Along with the many vendors that count on visitors to invest in their businesses at the festival. One local high school band says support from the festival is vital because every dollar received from the event goes towards the students who may not be able to participate in activities because of financial hardships.
'We're raising funds to help fund the high school band throughout the year, specifically for the marching season for winter and garden season that we just finished. These funds all go back to the kids to help them with the yearly expenses,' said Shelby Padgett, affiliate with the Colleton County High School Band of Blue.
News 2 reached out to the board of the Rice Festival to comment on what they hope attendees take from the event, and they gave us a statement saying
'We take pride in our community, and we do this to bring everyone together. And to shine a positive light on Walterboro, we want to ensure we can bring family and friends together to celebrate in a fun, safe atmosphere.'
The festival is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. this weekend, and on Saturday, attendees will enjoy a parade and fireworks show. People of all ages are welcome to attend.
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