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Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago,
where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
Kaboodles of fresh strawberries are a cause for spring festivals across the state.
From the humble roots of harvest celebrations, county fairs and farmers markets, food festivals evolved into events designed to educate, entertain and even raise funds for local causes. These days, you can take your pick from small-town gatherings to multiday, ticketed extravaganzas.
If you've got an appetite for food festivals, every season is a time to celebrate the bounty of South Carolina.
Strawberries
April and May mark strawberry season in South Carolina and it's a time of excitement, as evidenced by the many festivals centered around the luscious berry. Sample strawberry goods of all kinds, purchase berries or perhaps pick your own at these and other events across the state:
Summer in South Carolina is teeming with festivals to celebrate peach season.
Peaches
South Carolina is the No. 2 producer of peaches in the US, so observances during the harvest season are in full swing during June and July. Here are a few where you can delight in some of the sweetest, juiciest peaches you'll ever savor:
Smiles and juicy South Carolina watermelons are in abundance during the Pageland festival.
Watermelons
South Carolinians call this the "smile fruit" for good reason: It's hard not to be happy when you're eating a cold, sweet wedge on a hot Southern day. Get your smile on at these two festivals:
Any time of year, you'll spot roadside markets offering bushels of sweet potatoes - a favorite in these parts for making pies, fries or just enjoying on their own. Sample and celebrate this earthy, orangey tater in all its glory at these fests:
Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago,
where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
