Enjoy Small-Town Festivals

Fall is prime-time festival season here in the Old 96 District—especially for barbecue lovers! Check out Squealin' on the Square in Laurens, SC October 4-5, 2024 to enjoy the barbecue cook-off, as well as a variety of sweet treats and local vendors. Then, head to Abbeville, SC October 18-19, 2024 for the 11th annual Hogs and Hens Festival—with live music, crafts, and tons of family fun!

Cozy Up with a New Book

If you love books, you won't want to miss this hidden gem on your next roadtrip through South Carolina's Old 96 District! Located in Willington, SC, the Willington History Center & Bookshop has four entire buildings of books for you to browse, and most at extremely discounted prices! There is also a free museum next door with town history and local art for visitors to enjoy. Watch our 30-second video on the Willington Bookshop here.

Margie Blalock has always talked to those in the ether. The resident of Ninety Six never shared the spirits she witnessed because kids either didn’t believe her or made fun of her psychic abilities. When she became an adult, and perhaps due to the proliferation of ghost tales on TV and in literature, Margie embraced her talents and began writing what would become eight books on the paranormal. With her Hourglass Tours, Margie introduces visitors to the cities of the Old 96 District and shares everything from history and shopping to spirits who may bump up in the night.

One of her favorite places to explore—and showcase to others—is the historic city of Abbeville. Read the full story by Cheré Coen today!

Read the story here.

Finding souvenirs is a fun travel activity, but it’s not always easy to distinguish one kitschy trinket from another. Instead, find a meaningful souvenir that feels unique to the Old 96 District—something you can proudly use or savor every day.

Explore the five counties that make up South Carolina's Old 96 District with Alyssa Nelson, a Charlotte-based author behind the weekend travel blog, Wayward.

Read the story here.

What is the Old 96 District?

Old 96 District is one of eleven tourism regions across South Carolina, nestled in the Upper Western part of the state. Our region covers the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick, home to amazing outdoor adventures, a haven for history buffs, and a foodie's paradise. Come see our miles and miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails, or paddle board across one of our pristine freshwater lakes. Come visit our communities that are steeped in small town charm and southern hospitality.