4 Can’t Miss Events Near Manning

Finding events near Manning to fill your upcoming itinerary isn’t hard to do. Whether your plans include driving past a Christmas light display, celebrating local history, signing up for a fishing tournament, or partaking in a thrilling marathon race, the attractions and activities to choose from are broad and diverse. Here’s a list of popular events to check out in and around Manning this coming year.

1. Florence Festival of Lights (Florence)

December is meant for Christmas lights and visits with Santa, and you’ll find both at this season’s Florence Festival of Lights. Set along Hoffmeyer Place, guests will drive along a designated course dotted with fantastical light displays encompassing more than 150 installments and covering themes such as Santa’s helpers and Disney characters.

You can also take the kids to Santa’s Village where they can snap photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, write Christmas letters, and enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate or apple cider. All events will take place over three weekends beginning on Dec. 7 until Dec. 22, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

2. The American Heritage Festival (Lake City)

Graham’s Historic Farm holds plenty of historic significance in the town of Lake City. In fact, the farm dates back to 1738 and once served as a food supplier and Patriot campsite during the American Revolutionary War. Still residing with the Graham family, the farm is now home to the annual American Heritage Festival, which commemorates the War through battle reenactments, cannon demonstrations, musket firing shows, and military vehicle displays.

Additional amenities include an evening drum circle and light show, guest speaker presentations, hatchet throwing contests, live entertainment, and a variety of festival fare. Events for next year’s festival will take place from Feb. 2–3 with tickets available for purchase online.

3. Striped Bass Festival (Manning)

Celebrating its 40th annual run across Courthouse Square, the Striped Bass Festival in Manning is a true fisher’s delight and occurs every April amid the gorgeous springtime blooms native to Clarendon County. Activities include a morning parade, carnival rides, children’s games, arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, local school art viewing, and an open-team fishing tournament. Plus, you’ll join the community in celebrating the Striped Bass Festival Queens, ranging from all age groups, as they ride among a set of elegantly adorned parade floats.

4. The Great Inflatable Race (Sumter)

Have you ever thought of running a marathon lined with giant inflatable obstacles? Likely not! But the Great Inflatable Race hosted at the YMCA of Sumter gives you the perfect chance to start. This event, held on April 27 and open to all ages, spans 1.5 to 3.1 miles (5K) along a route boasting up to 10 inflatables where you and the family can climb, jump, and bounce your way past the Castle of Doom, Ball Pit, and Volcano Escape.

Purchasing a VIP ticket unlocks even more adventure, allowing you unlimited access to the Inflatable Village and its attractions such as the Gladiator Joust, Bungee Run, and DINOmite Bouncy House. Sign me up!

If you’re searching for fun activities for the whole gang to enjoy this coming year, these top four suggestions offer a nice starting point for local residents.

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