Florence, SC, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Florence, SC is preparing for its largest event, the 21st Annual Pecan Festival, which will feature food, entertainment, and activities for all ages. Scheduled for November 1, the festival promises over 50,000 attendees and showcases local pecan delights, fun races, and community spirit. With free entry and a variety of attractions across historic downtown, it highlights the town’s proud pecan heritage and supports local businesses.
Florence, SC is gearing up to host the 21st Annual Pecan Festival on November 1, 2023, with an expected turnout of over 50,000 attendees making it the largest event of its kind in the world. This beloved community celebration highlights everything pecan-related, from food to fun-filled activities, and will take place in historic downtown Florence, spanning nine blocks.
The festival is free to enter and will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering a wide range of activities for all ages. Events include the ‘Run Like a Nut’ races, featuring both a 5k and a half marathon, drawing runners and fitness enthusiasts alike. In addition, the festival will showcase blacksmith demonstrations, a classic car show, and a sidewalk chalk decorating competition, along with various circus acts, bubble shows and a dance party for children.
The Pecan Festival has a rich history, having evolved significantly since its inception in 2003 when it started as a modest single-block event. Recognized as the official South Carolina State Pecan Festival in 2011, it now boasts over 40 entertainment acts performing across nine stages, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.
Food lovers can expect a delicious array with all vendors required to include at least one pecan item on their menu. Popular offerings include pecan cream funnel cakes, pecan pies, and savory dishes like pecan jerk chicken. Local favorites such as Elliott Moss, known for BBQ, and Buddy’s famous burgers, will be positioned near the festival grounds, providing appetites with plenty of hearty options to choose from.
Weather in early November in Florence typically averages in the mid to high 60s, creating ideal conditions for outdoor festivities. For those who are unable to attend the festival, the Pecan Trail around Florence invites visitors to explore local businesses celebrating pecans year-round. One notable venue is Young’s Premium Foods, which offers a variety of pecan products.
Additionally, the festival benefits from the hard work of nearly 200 volunteers who dedicate over 1,000 hours to organizing the event each year. This massive turnout not only enhances community spirit but also has a substantial economic impact, boosting tourism and hotel occupancy in the area.
Key Features of the Festival
- Date: November 1, 2023
- Location: Historic Downtown Florence, SC
- Expected Attendance: Over 50,000
- Festival Hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Activities: Races, food vendors, entertainment acts, children’s activities
- Food Items: Must include a pecan item, with options like pecan funnel cakes and pecan jerk chicken.
- Support: Nearly 200 volunteers contributing over 1,000 hours of service
Conclusion
The Annual Pecan Festival promises a lively celebration rich with culture, culinary delights, and community engagement. With a range of activities and entertainment, it stands as a vital event on Florence’s calendar that showcases the town’s embracing spirit toward its robust pecan heritage.
FAQ
- What time does the festival start and end?
- The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Is there an entry fee for the festival?
- No, entry to the Pecan Festival is free.
- What types of food can attendees expect at the festival?
- All food vendors must include at least one pecan item, with options like pecan pie, pecan cream funnel cakes, and pecan jerk chicken.
- Are there activities for children at the festival?
- Yes, there are circus acts, bubble shows, and a special afternoon dance party for children.
- How can the festival impact the local economy?
- The festival is expected to boost tourism and hotel occupancy, providing a significant economic impact on the area.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | November 1, 2023 |
| Location | Historic Downtown Florence, SC |
| Expected Attendance | Over 50,000 |
| Festival Hours | 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. |
| Activities | Races, food vendors, entertainment acts, children’s activities |
| Food Items | Pecan items including pies and more |
| Volunteers | 200 volunteers contribute 1,000 hours |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florence, SC to Host the SC Pecan Music and Food Festival
Florence Prepares for 2024 Wine & Food Festival
Florence Community Unites to Honor Pat Gibson-Hye Moore’s Legacy
Florence Honors the Legacy of Pat Gibson-Hye Moore
South Carolina Braces for Colder Weather After Record Heat
Florence Community Mourns Pat Gibson-Hye Moore’s Passing
Florence Community Mourns Former Councilwoman Pat Gibson-Hye Moore
Additional Resources
- Southern Living: Florence, SC Pecan Festival
- Post and Courier: SC Pecan Festival Downtown Florence
- WPDE: Nearly 50K Expected at SC Pecan Festival
- WBTW: Starship Band to Headline SC Pecan Festival
- Wikipedia: Pecan
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
