Aiken Triple Crown

In March, Aiken welcomes you to the heart of the action - the races! Kick off Aiken's Triple Crown with the Aiken Trials, Spring Steeplechase, and Pacers and Polo. Not only will you get to see the races up close and personal, but you will also experience the day's thrills. From the sound of thundering hooves to cheering on your favorite horse to tailgating and stomping divots, it's a tradition you will want to start with family and friends (if you haven't already). Read on to learn more about Aiken’s Triple Crown! 

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Let Aiken, SC Steal Your Heart Away This Month

S’mores by the fireside. An overnight stay in a luxury lodge. Lavish dining. Live Music. Spa Treatments. Nightlife. Shopping. Whether you plan a “girl’s weekend” or a trip with your sweetheart, you will experience true Southern hospitality in Aiken, SC. This beautiful city will no doubt steal hearts on Valentine’s Day. We’ve compiled a list of top things to do in this city that will make this Galentine's and Valentine’s a memorable one for you! 

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Ring in 2023 in Aiken!

The end of the year is upon us and there's no better place to welcome 2023 than in charming Aiken! Whether it’s toasting to the New Year with fine dining and elegant galas, dancing to live music, waking up in a bed and breakfast, or spending time with family on New Year’s Day, Aiken has some of the best New Year's celebrations planned for you.

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The 10 Best Things to Do in Aiken at Christmas 2022

Christmas in Aiken is a memorable place to begin a holiday tradition. Aiken transforms into a winter wonderland with garlands downtown and holiday lights illuminating the city. This city has a feel of a Christmas village with holiday displays, festivals, and traditions. Aiken is listed as one of the top 10 Christmas Towns (and cities) in the Palmetto State. 

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6 Reasons Why Aiken is the Most Memorable Place to be for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and there’s no place like Aiken to begin a holiday tradition.

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Discover Hitchcock Woods From a Local’s Perspective

Discover what makes Hitchcock Woods in Aiken, SC intriguing to locals, visitors and travelers from all over! 

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Experience Autumn in Aiken, SC

There are so many ways to kick off the fall season in Aiken! Enjoy the changing of the leaves, the fall flavors to taste and a variety of fall themed events happening all over town. Aiken is the best destination to create picture-perfect autumn memories!

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Fall in Aiken

As we begin to leave summer behind, Aiken begins to see signs of fall in parks, greenways, and popular attractions. Excitement begins to fill the air as visitors and residents look forward to events. 

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Beat the Heat in Aiken

Summer is flying by! Beat the heat and take a trip to Aiken, recently named one of the South's Prettiest Towns by "Southern Living." A popular destination with its food scene, performing arts, museums, and equine activities, make plans for unforgettable experiences in the Sporting South. Check out this list of places to eat, places to stay, and things to do. 

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Plan Your Summer Getaway

Searching for that hidden gem? Visit Aiken, one of the “South’s Best Small” towns, named by Southern Living! Aiken draws in vacationers for unique dining experiences, live music, historic inns, eclectic shops, and golf. 

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Aiken in June

As summer approaches this southern city, all we can think about is enjoying the outdoors! With unique dining experiences, picturesque views, aquatic activities, live music, and equestrian sports, Aiken is the place to be! 

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Top Things to do in May

The scenery in Aiken, SC is breathtaking in the spring. There's no better time to explore this beautiful city than while azaleas and camellias are all in bloom. Come see for yourself! Aiken in May is vibrant and one of the best times of year to visit. Read on to discover more about Aiken! 

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Arts & Culture, Equestrian, and Golf

It's not only tournament week in Aiken, but this charming city is bustling with equine activities and arts & culture. You will experience outdoor dining with international cuisine and shops stocked with unique spring finds, especially the museum gift shops! The weather is perfect for an outdoor excursion, a stroll downtown, or live music in the evenings. Recently ranked in the top 10 of Southern Living’s South’s Best Small Towns 2022, it’s no surprise that Aiken made the list. 

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A Taste of Fall in Aiken

It’s almost pumpkin season! From the apple and pumpkin spice aromas in the air to the leaves changing color, Aiken is showing signs of fall. However, it isn’t fall without a fun outing to a festival or a fair - especially the food! Many of Aiken's restaurants feature fall menus. Plan a day trip or a weekend to enjoy the taste of fall in Aiken. 

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Where to Stay in Aiken

Aiken is one of the most charming cities in the south rich with history, culture, and dining and entertainment options. It's a vibrant place with an abundance of things to do. Hitchcock Woods, Hopelands Gardens, the avenue of oaks on South Boundary, Aiken Thoroughbred Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum are just a few of Aiken’s most iconic tourist attractions Click here for a list of true gems. 

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Aiken is a Photographer’s Paradise

Escape to the outdoors and unleash your creative side with photography while maintaining social distancing guidelines. Check out these 12 most photogenic places in Aiken for some inspiration.

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Holiday shopping in Magical Downtown Aiken and Unique Gift Finds

Downtown Aiken transforms into a magical Christmas town during the holidays. For picture perfect scenery and an enchanting shopping experience, Aiken is the place to be. Explore museum gift shops, art galleries, equine and specialty shops, jewelry and clothing boutiques, antique stores, a candy store, rare books and more! Check out our list of unique gifts for all your shopping needs. 

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Aiken City Limits Music Festival

Are you ready for a weekend of all things music, art and even science?

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10 Reasons Aiken is the Best Town for Celebrating Oktoberfest

When it comes to fun Oktoberfest festivals in the Southeast, Aiken takes the cake or better yet, the brat! So, dust off your passport, pull out your dirndl or lederhosen, and get your feast on for authentic German food and cold brew. That’s because downtown Aiken will be transforming into a little German village for Oktoberfest. But, that's not all! Here are 10 reasons why Aiken is the best place to celebrate Munich's famed festival in true tradition..

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ESCAPE TO AIKEN FOR A LAST MINUTE VACATION

Before school is back in session and pumpkin spice returns, enjoy the last few days of summer with a last minute trip to Aiken.

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Why Aiken is the “Coolest” Place to Vacation this Summer

July is hot, hot, hot, but a trip to Aiken offers plenty of opportunities to cool off. If you can’t make it to Aiken anytime soon, be sure you add it to your bucket list!

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Buzzing about The Market in the Alley

As summer approaches in this southern city, we think of fun and food whether it’s spending time by the pool, listening to live music or enjoying a juicy watermelon or peach. We know the perfect venue where you can enjoy all of this and more! The Market in the Alley, nestled in the heart of downtown Aiken, will soon burst with activity and flavor on Thursday nights in June. What is the buzz all about?

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AIKEN IS ALL THINGS MUSIC IN MAY!

Aiken is a haven for music-lovers!

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8 Things to Do in Aiken on a Rainy Day (or Shine!)

It seems that the South’s Best Small Town has been getting the latest of the wet weather but no worries, there are plenty of activities to stay dry in Aiken. So, get your rain boots on, brave the weather, and join us for 8 things to do in Aiken on a rainy day.

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Tasty Celebrations and Southern Hospitality - New Year’s Eve in Aiken, SC

It's countdown to say goodbye to 2018 as we welcome 2019, and there is no better place to celebrate New Year’s Eve than in charming Aiken! From elegant galas and evening dining to cocktails and live music to a lite fare and breakfast after midnight, this southern town has some of the best New Year's Eve celebrations planned for you. Raise a glass to the New Year at one of these local dining establishments nestled in the heart of Aiken with scenic views of golf courses, horses, gardens, art, downtown and more. And, bring your dancing shoes!

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Aiken is Magical

The holidays are right around the corner, and there’s no place like Aiken to celebrate magical moments. This charming town will transform into a winter wonderland filled with holiday festivals and traditions and here’s a list of magical things to do in November to get your holiday spirit on! (Blogger’s note: Be sure to check next month’s blog for December events.)

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Aiken Trolley Buskers at Aiken City Limits

Get ready for #AikenTrolley buskers at the Aiken City Limits. There will be buskers all over town along the trolley route.

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Aiken City Limits

Ready for a weekend of music? Like country? Gospel? Bluegrass? Alt? Rock? Well then c'mon to Aiken for a weekend of all things music. Not only will you discover the charm of this beautiful city, but you'll enjoy the sounds of awesome music everywhere you go. Make a weekend of it. Be sure to check here for updates!

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Why Aiken is the “Coolest” Place to Vacation this Summer

Searching for that hidden gem tucked somewhere in the South to vacation at this summer? And, beat the summer heat? We know the perfect destination! Visit the “South’s Best Small” town named by Southern Living! Charming Aiken is a historic and traditional town in South Carolina known for its authentic equestrian community, and that’s not all! Aiken draws in Summer vacationers for the dining experience, scenic trails and picturesque views, bed and breakfast Inns, eclectic shops and art boutiques, golf and horses; and the list goes on…. here are 10 reasons why Aiken is the best place to chill.

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Homegrown Hospitality

It’s all about the culture in the South, and Aiken is no different.  Doors are held open, strangers smile and greet each other on the street, and – as always – our local farmers and artisans are prepping for our Market in the Alley.  We’re all about homegrown goods served with a heaping side of southern hospitality.

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Spring Into 12 Hidden Gems in Aiken

As charming Aiken blooms into spring, the birds are singing more, the days are warmer and brighter, the grass is greener, colorful plants and flowers are popping up and butterflies are soaring...

With all that Aiken has to offer in the spring, I have the privilege to be a tourist in my own hometown. This is the perfect season to explore hidden gems in this southern town. Whether it’s outdoor dining, a breathtaking scene, a breakfast nook or a place to stay, Aiken has 12 enchanting places awaiting your visit.

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Arts and Culture in Aiken

From art gallery strolls to art festivals, performing arts to orchestra performances, and from art classes to camps, Aiken is the place to be for arts and culture. Not only is downtown Aiken lined with distinctive galleries and antique shops, but has art studios for those who wish explore their artistic ability. Being recently named as the South’s Best Town, it’s no surprise that Aiken also has a creative side!

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Iconic Places in Aiken That were Touched By Fame

Did you know that Aiken is no stranger to the rich and famous? That’s right! Celebrities like Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Minnie Pearl (discovered her persona here), Joanne Woodward, Paul Newman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Andy Williams (to name a few) all were frequent Aiken visitors. Read on for some interesting facts about celebrity visits from Hollywood icons, sports greats, and genuine royalty.

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9 Reasons why Aiken is the Best Place for Shopping in the Southeast

With the holidays here, most likely you will be tackling last minute Christmas shopping.  It’s a jolly experience if you’re in the right town, and Aiken is the place to be!

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Unique Locales for Fall Dining in Aiken, SC

I don’t know about y ’all but this fall weather is making me hungry for comfort food. After all, it is countdown to Thanksgiving! Whether it’s a tapas-style meal, French cuisine, blue pate specials, international foods… Aiken is the place to be for good eats! And, it’s not just about the cuisine, it’s the unique dining atmosphere as well.

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14 Reasons Aiken is the pet-friendliest town to spend your dog days of summer in

It is no secret that charming Aiken is the best travel location for families with furry ones.  Don’t take it from me, but even Travelocity named Aiken the pet-friendliest city in the Southeast. So, don’t leave Fido behind! Here are fourteen reasons you'll want to bring your pooch with you on your next trip to Aiken!

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11 incredible strolls in Aiken to get your daily 10,000 steps

Aiken is a charming town for Adventurous and leisurely walkers. Explore everything from Aiken’s historic winter colony mansions to beautiful parkways and breath-taking gardens. Here are 11 incredible strolls to get in your daily 10,000 steps. 

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10 Glorious Photos of Spring in Aiken

The scenery in Aiken, SC is breathtaking in the spring. There's no better time to explore this beautiful city than while redbuds, pansies, yellow jessamine, wisteria, spirea, camellias are all in bloom.  Want to see for yourself? Here are some of our favorite shots from when Aiken comes alive each April and turns into picturesque bliss! 

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Locally Made Chocolate… A Business with a Mission to Feed the Hungry…

Antebellum Chocolates began officially in 2015 by James Stefanakos. James’s mother was a director of a gourmet cooking school so James grew up knowing what good chocolate was but after he moved to the Aiken area couldn’t find any good/quality chocolate so decided to make his own. During the summer of 2015 he began selling his chocolates at the Aiken County Farmers Market, with the mission of “Buy a Bar Feed a Child” with part of the proceeds from each bar going toward Golden Harvest Food Bank’s BackPack program. 

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A Town that was built on a Love Story…

It all began with a railroad and a love story… 

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Ring in the New Year in Aiken

Celebrate New Year’s in Aiken …

Whether it’s toasting to the New Year with fine dining, spending the night out on the town or making plans on New Year’s Day, Aiken is the place I want to be!

(Fire Over Aiken photo credit: Josh Rinder)

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Top Gift FINDS to Shop for this Holiday Season

This year, you don’t have to stress about holiday shopping. That is, by shopping locally. The shops are small and quaint, offer friendly customer service, sometimes food and drinks are on hand, and holiday scents fill the air; and most of all, shopping feels like home.  I find shopping locally to be a relaxing and light hearted pleasure.     

For gift giving ideas, these local FINDS are individually unique for each person on your list– a significant other or a furry friend, a family member, a co-worker or a close friend. 

Locally owned shops are filled with items that you can’t find anywhere else, and it’s sure to become a memorable “gem” or that “most talked about gift.” Shop#aiken4aiken!

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A Taste of Aiken’s Fall

It’s officially pumpkin season! The apple spice aroma is in the air and the leaves start to reveal shades of red and amber. I love the sounds of stepping on crunched leaves to the sight of green apple fruit stands. We have once again been blessed with Autumn in Aiken.

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Savor the Summer while Looking to the Fall

It’s obvious that the signs of fall are brewing. That is, with the back to school craze, shorter days, sweaters and boots in stores, and the smell of pumpkin latte spiced coffee, but before you put up your hummingbird feeder and your southern sun-brewed tea from the patio table, slow down and seize the remainder of the summer days! Summer is not officially over until September 22. Check out some of the happenings in Aiken as the summer wraps up. You will not want to miss it! 

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How a PokéStop Helps You Stop and Smell the Roses

Lately when I come home from work, my daughter rushes out the door with her friends to play a “game”. She told me the name of the game the other night, which rolled right over my head, but my words were to her ‘please be careful’.

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A Bike, A Basket, and Tasty Trips to the Market

I have a new Saturday morning obsession! It starts with “Bonnett”, my girlie bicycle. (Yes, I’m one of those people who names things, like my bike.) My sweet baby blue road machine has a brown wicker basket attached to the handlebar, and this is a girl’s best friend for my Saturday morning adventures.

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SPRING IN AIKEN

Spring is my favorite season. Spring gives me a feeling of revival. The birds sing more, the days are warmer and brighter, the grass is greener, colorful plants and flowers are popping up, berries are in season, school is almost out, pools are opening, and butterflies are soaring. Spring in Aiken has sprung!

With all that Aiken has to offer in the spring, I have the privilege to be a tourist in my own hometown.  Whether it’s taking tours, shopping, visiting art galleries, or dining in restaurants, I’m always finding something unique and fun to do. From starting the day at sunrise until sunset to night time, Aiken is sure not to disappoint.

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Save the Date! A Centennial Picnic in the Woods and the 100th Aiken Horse Show

Join us on April 1-3 for an unforgettable caliber of equine events and a centennial picnic in the woods. This is the 100th Aiken Horse Show celebration you do not want to miss! Without Aiken’s history, we would not have this outdoor event located in a beautiful urban pine forest. It all started with a frail, little girl.

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A Mother-Daughter Date at Our Local Brasserie

Immediately, when I heard a new brasserie had opened its doors in downtown Aiken, I texted my 16 year old daughter for a mother-daughter date. She’s a picky eater so I knew we were up for a challenge. I’m a foodie at heart, so I’m not shy about trying new dishes.

Let’s take a closer look at the mother-daughter dining experience at The Bradley.

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Carriage House Inn – Aiken’s Downtown Charm

Carriage House Inn – Aiken’s Downtown Charm

Aiken’s Downtown Charm I grew up in Aiken, and I have always been charmed by the historic house nestled in the heart of downtown Aiken on Laurens. The beautiful white house has been restored into a Bed and Breakfast. The sign in front of the Inn, supported by two wrought iron posts, reads as ‘Carriage House Inn, Circa 1872’.

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An Artisan Affair

I'd like to welcome Larry and Connie Shepard to our community.  They have indeed brought a touch of class and the west coast with the opening of their new business, Artisan Market & Décor.

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Local Resident Offers Ghost Tours

Learn about Aiken's spooky history!

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Aiken Horse Park (Bruce’s Field) to Hold First Event

Equus Events presents the 2015 Aiken Fall Festival!

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SRS Museum to Open

The Savannah River Site Museum, located at 224 Laurens Street NW, will be open to the public from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, July 18th.

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Hops and Hogs

Come join the festivities on the corner of Hayne Ave. Ext and Pendleton St. in Downtown Aiken.

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2015 Aiken Bluegrass Festival

The Aiken Bluegrass Festival is May 8th-9th!

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Aiken Spring Classic Horse Show

Wednesday, April 22, begins The Finale of the Aiken Spring Classic Horse Show, which is the last week of the month-long Carolina Spring Circuit.

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Author Shi Evans Lecture and Book Signing

You are invited to meet author Shi Evans, author of Whiskey Road, on Wednesday, April 8th!

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Masters Week 2015

Masters Week 2015 is April 9th-12th.

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Aiken Is…A Place Like No Other Wins Award

Congratulations to Jamie Koelker & Associates!

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Spring 2015 Visit Aiken Magazine Now Available

Get your copy of the Spring 2015 Visit Aiken Magazine today!

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Earth Day 2015

Join us for this three-part event!

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Center for African American History, Art and Culture

Opening soon!

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4th Annual Horses and Courses

Downtown Aiken will be the place to be on Tuesday, April 7th during Masters Week! The 4th Annual Horses and Courses Event, sponsored by the City of Aiken Arts Commission, City of Aiken Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department, the Aiken Artist's Guild and the Aiken Downtown Development Association, will begin at 5:00 p.m. and last until 8:00 p.m. 

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Panera to Open in Aiken

Coming soon!

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The Little Bake Shoppe Comes to Aiken

The Little Bake Shoppe is now open in Aiken!

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Palace Malice to Receive Horse of the Year Award

Palace Malice is a two time winner of this award!

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Juilliard in Aiken 2015

Juilliard in Aiken returns March 7th-13th, 2015!

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Epona: An Equine-Inspired Boutique

Be sure to check out this brand new shop in Downtown Aiken!

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Author Jason Emerson Lecture and Book Signing - Robert Todd Lincoln, Captain of Industry

Join us at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum on Saturday, January 3rd as we welcome author Jason Emerson!

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Bruce Duchossois Remembered as Aiken Horse Park Foundation Celebrates Groundbreaking

On Saturday, November 8th, the Aiken Horse Park Foundation unveiled its capital improvement plans for the Aiken Horse Park, holding a ceremonial groundbreaking at the park. 

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2014 South Carolina Theatre Association Convention

The City of Aiken is proud to host the 2014 SCTA Convention!

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Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame to open Dogwood Stables Exhibit

Come celebrate over 30 years of equine history!

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Aiken is…

Downtown Dog Comes to Aiken

The downtown store for dogs...and the people who love them!

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Aiken’s Makin’ 2014

Come celebrate Aiken's Makin' 38th anniversary!

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Local Hotel to be featured on “Hotel Impossible”

Look for Aiken on "Hotel Impossible!"

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Chef to Host Live Cooking Demo at Farmers Market

Join us this Saturday, August 2nd for a live cooking demo at the Farmers Market. 

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2014 Hopelands Summer Concert Series Schedule

2014 Marks the Anniversary of the Hopelands Summer Concert Series

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Farmer’s Market Moves to The Alley Thursday Nights from June-August

Come join us at the Farmer's Market on Thursday nights from June-August. 

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Sprayground Opens at Citizens Park

Cool off this Summer at the sprayground!

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Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum Extended Hours During Masters Week

AVCTM will have extended hours during Masters week along with 4 additional historic tours.

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2014 Horses and Courses Art Walk

Join us in Downtown Aiken for the 3rd Annual Horses and Courses event!

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New Visit Aiken Magazine

Our spring edition of Visit Aiken Magazine is coming soon!

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Aiken to be Site of First Saratoga WarHorse Satellite Facility

            Saratoga WarHorse is pleased to announce a first satellite facility at the Equine Rescue of Aiken, to be inaugurated by founder and executive director Bob Nevins at 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 5.  Saratoga WarHorse, a non-profit organization that helps veterans suffering from the invisible, psychological wounds of war, is having continued success in changing veterans’ lives and Nevins has already proclaimed Aiken as the best place to bring these heroic veterans and the noble Thoroughbreds together.

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“Tragedy Transformation Triumph”

Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum to Celebrate Black History Month

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Juilliard in Aiken

Juilliard in Aiken returns from March 10th-March 14th.

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NEW!  Magazine Ready for Download

Download the latest version of Visit Aiken Magazine!  This magazine, published three times a year, is a real treat.  Filled with all of the great things to see and do in Aiken, we're sure you'll be eager to read it cover to cover.

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Aiken Welcomes Palmetto Doubles Invitational Pickleball Tournament

The City of Aiken proudly welcomes (and hosts) the 2013 Palmetto Doubles Invitational Pickleball Tournament to the Odell Weeks Center from August 16th - August 18th!  With over 100 players participating representing multiple states and one international country this is a first for Aiken!  

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Summer Concert Series

Nothing says summer better than enjoying a South Carolina sunset, a picnic and some live music.

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Aiken County Farmers Market..a Must Visit in Aiken

A must visit in exploring South Carolina and Aiken is the Aiken County Farmers Market!  It's a place where we're proud to say we've been connecting friends and farmers for generations!  We invite you to read more but better yet, we invite you to stop in and visit, shop and just sit awhile! 

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