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South Carolina Children’s Theatre: 10 Marvelous Things to Do

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

Have you heard about all the marvelous things that the South Carolina Children’s Theatre in Greenville, SC has to offer? Maybe you are excited about an upcoming theatre performance. Or, perhaps you are curious if there are theater classes and camps for your children to immerse themselves in. Spark a little magic and wonder in your child’s life with a kid-friendly play, musical, class, or camp at SCCT! You will find all the information you need about the South Carolina Children’s Theatre below in our handy guide.

Giveaway: SCCT is bringing Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse to their stage Oct 20th-Oct 29th. One lucky Kidding Around reader will win 4 FREE TICKETS to the show! Scroll down to enter. Thank you to SCCT for sponsoring this giveaway!

Golly
2023-2024 SCCT Season
Ticket GIVEAWAYS
SCCT Performance Stages
School Weekday Shows
SCCT Flex Pass
Free SCCT Performances
Pay What You Can Tickets
SCCT Classes
SCCT Workshops
SCCT Summer Camps
KABOOM Finalist
south carolina childrens museum

Theatrical Productions at the South Carolina Children’s Theatre

The South Carolina Children’s Theatre is pretty special, and its professional theatrical productions are a great way to entertain your children.  Productions are all family-oriented and designed to elicit wonder and excitement in your child (and you!)

The 2023-2024 South Carolina Children’s Theatre Season

Charlotte’s Web: Sept 22-Oct 8, 2023

Writing in Charlotte's web for Wilbur at the South Carolina Children's Museum

Lily’s Purple Plastic Purse: October 20 – October 29, 2023

Mary Poppins: November 17 – December 10, 2023

The Watsons Go to Birmingham: January 19 – February 4, 2023

D is for Dance Party: January 26 -February 4, 2023

Pinkalicious the Musical: February 23- March 10, 2023

Dragons Love Tacos: April 5 – April 21, 2023

The Spongebob Musical: April 26 – May 19, 2024

The SCCT events calendar is the best way to keep track of what’s to come.

The SCCT Performance Stages

Bell Stage

Theatre productions are detail-oriented, bursting with color and costume, and bring to life and reimagine a popular story or play. Theatre productions run by season, with each season having around 8 performances spread out over several months. Each production has multiple showings, so you can plan a date night out with your kids! Both stages are also accessible, so productions can be enjoyed by everyone.

Bell Stage performances use large set designs, costumes, puppets, and anything else needed to help bring the story from the pages of the book or script onto the stage. You can find big musicals and plays on this stage. Bell Stage productions have longer run times with intermissions. You can find run time information on the SCCT website. There are also assigned seats for Bell Stage productions, so make sure you purchase tickets early if you have large groups that want to sit together.

Younts 2nd Stage

Younts 2nd Stage performances also offer the pop, color, and costumes that the Bell Stage productions do, but performances are more intimate and held on a smaller stage. This allows performers to really engage with the audience. These productions are shorter, approximately 45 minutes to an hour long, so they are an excellent choice for younger (with shorter attention spans) audience members. Tickets for Younts Stage are also cheaper than Bell Stage productions, so that’s great on the budget! 

Performances Right For Your Family

All theatre productions at SCCT have an age range recommendation, so be sure to check to see which performance best suits your child. SCCT does recommend that most productions are for children 3 and older.

The majority of these theatre productions are held on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, with daytime and evening showings available, so they make an excellent parent/child date day!

To find out more information about the upcoming SCCT performances on both the Bell and Younts stages, head to the SCCT website.

Cat in the Hat riding
The Cat in the Hat at SCCT 2021-2022 Season

Weekday School Performances

Want to see a stage performance for a field trip? If you’re a teacher or homeschooling group, you can check out performances at SCCT through their weekday school performances on the Bell Stage and the Youths Stage. All students, teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers will need a ticket to view the performance. 

SCCT Flex Pass for Performances

Looking to save some money while also seeing all of the amazing upcoming shows at the South Carolina Children’s Theatre? The SCCT Flex Pass program offers first-priority seating, unlimited free ticket exchanges, discounts on classes, and discounts to downtown stores. There are three price points to choose from, Blue, Green, or Orange, that allow for a specific number of tickets per package.

Pay What You Can Tickets

The South Carolina Children’s Theatre offers a “Pay What You Can” ticket program for select performances of select shows throughout the year. You’ll find these performances labeled as a “Pay What You Can Performance” within each show’s schedule on the South Carolina Children’s Theatre Website.

The first Pay What You Can Performance of the 2023-2024 season was the September 24, 2023 performance of Charlotte’s Web. When you see a Pay What You Can Performance on the website, follow the directions on that link to purchase your tickets.

Free Performances at the South Carolina Children’s Theatre

One of the best things about SCCT is that they offer free performance events through their Tell-Me-a- Story Theatre and Once Upon an Orchestra programs.

Tell Me a Story Theatre is a high-energy telling of a popular children’s story or book that is engaging for younger children, think PreK to early elementary students.  The event is completely free, and is located in the Prisma Health Lobby. The performance and story reading lasts around 30 minutes, great for squirmy kids. You can check out Tell-Me-a-Story once per month.

Once Upon an Orchestra is a partnership between SCCT and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra that brings children’s literature and music together through storytelling. Your child (and you) can enjoy Once Upon an Orchestra three times per year, for free! Performances last around 30 minutes and are perfect for children age K3 through 5th grade.  You can find upcoming performances of Once Upon an Orchestra on the SCCT website.

SCCT Tulane

Theatre Classes at the SCCT

Support your child’s interest in the performing arts with classes at The South Carolina Children’s Theatre! SCCT’s Theatre Arts Conservatory offers a variety of classes for kids interested in learning about acting, drama, stage management, directing, musical theater, and so much more!

Classes use a lot of fun activities to strengthen your child’s imagination, self-expression, confidence, and self-discipline. These classes also build a foundation for theatre arts concepts. Classes build onto one another, so SCCT encourages parents to not rush their child through the classes, but to allow them to make natural progress. Classes are grouped by age, so even your budding three-year-old Broadway star can enjoy these immersive classes!

  • Ages 3-6: Children in this age range will play games, sing songs, explore characters, and engage their imagination in a low-pressure environment. Classes are typically once per week for one hour. Multiple classes are offered, with classes in theatre exploration, singing, and stage production available. 
  • Grades 1-6: Children in this age range will explore theatre training through improv activities and high-energy games. There are several classes available for this age range where they can learn about process acting, singing, musical theatre, or improvisation.
  • Grades 6-12: Classes for this age range become more technical and build on their knowledge of the performing arts. Kids can learn about process acting, singing, musical theatre, solo singing, and improvisation.
     
  • All The Colors of the Spectrum: For children in 2nd through 12th grade with developmental or processing challenges, SCCT offers All The Colors of the Spectrum! Through modified activities, children with special needs can engage in theatre arts through immersive storytelling, sketch creation, collaboration, and more.
  • Acting for Adults: SCCT offers FREE classes for adult students college age and up! Classes are for both beginner and seasoned actors to engage in the theatre arts. 

Workshops at the South Carolina Children’s Theatre

Sometimes you need a date night, or a morning out. Sometimes you even need some extra help when your kids are out for holidays. SCCT can help you out with their workshops!  

  • Workday Workshops occur during school break days when children are out of school on a random Monday or Friday for a teacher workday. These workshops engage children in group-based activities but are not usually themed.
  • Kids Night Out happens once per month, where parents can drop off their kids for a few hours. Kids Night Out is a fun night of themed activities, with theatre games followed by a movie and snack. Kids Night Out is from 6 pm to 10 pm, with pre-registration required. 
  • Saturday Morning Mania is when parents can drop off their kids for a few hours of shopping or a fancy brunch in Downtown Greenville. Saturday Morning Mania happens once per month. There are themed drama games and activities with a picnic lunch. Parents should preregister ahead of time.
SCCT Summer camp picture collage
Summer Camp at SCCT

SCCT Summer Camp

SCCT’s Summer Camps are an excellent way to keep your kids busy over the summer! Summer camps are offered for ages K3 through high school. Each camp is designed to boost confidence while having fun learning about theatre.

Parents can pre-register their kids for a variety of theme camps. Camps explore musical theatre, creative drama, improv, and more in a fun and engaging way! Camps are typically half day, with full day options available for older children by combining camps. Learn more about summer camps at The South Carolina Children’s Theatre on the SCCT website.

Have you visited the South Carolina Children’s Theatre?

2023 KABOOM Winner and Finalist: South Carolina Children’s Theatre

Did you know the South Carolina Children’s Theatre was a 2023 KABOOM Family Favorites 1st place winner for both the Family Theatre and Performing Arts and Theatre Program? SCCT was also a KABOOM finalist for Indoor Family Fun and Youth Organization! Check out all of the finalists and winners in Kidding Around’s 2023 KABOOM Awards Guide.

KABOOM finalist
Indoor Family Fun
Youth Organization
KABOOM First Place
Family Theatre & Performing Arts
Theatre Program

SCCT Ticket Giveaways

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse

Lilly likes EVERYTHING… until her new baby brother arrives, AND Mr. Slinger takes away her musical purple plastic purse! But with some help from her Grammy and BFFs, Lilly discovers that even queens must learn to share the spotlight. Based on Kevin Henkes’ beloved books, Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse will transport audiences into the colorful world of Lilly’s imagination.

Artistic Director Matt Giles: “Lilly is one of the most iconic characters in children’s literature in the past 25 years, and Kevin Kling’s adaptation of Henkes’ popular book channels all of Lilly’s spunk and pizzazz into this energetic production.”

  • Adapted by: Kevin Kling
  • Based on the books by: Kevin Henkes
  • Directed By: Mary Thalassinos
  • Run Time: 50 minutes (no intermission)
  • Age Recommendation: 4+
  • Ticket Price: $12

Show Schedule

Purchase your Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse tickets online today! Get a discount on multiple tickets with Flex Pass.

Win 4 Tickets to Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse

One lucky Kidding Around reader will win 4 FREE TICKETS to see Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse at SCCT. This giveaway runs from Sept 29th – Oct 13th , 2023, 11:59PM. Good luck!

  • Winning tickets may not be redeemed for the Oct 22, 2023, 2:00 PM show.
  • Tickets are redeemable for dates based upon seat availability. Space is limited.
  • You must be 18 or older and live in the USA to enter this giveaway.
  • You must use a valid email address to enter this giveaway.
  • One entry per person per day.
  • We will contact the winner via the email address provided within three [3] days of the giveaway ending. The winner will have three [3] days (72 hours) to respond via email. If the winner does not respond within the three [3] days (72 hours), the prize will be forfeited and another winner chosen. Directions for claiming the prize will be given via email. A valid photo ID and/or mailing address may be required.
  • For a complete list of Kidding Around Greenville SC’s giveaway policies and terms and conditions, see the Kidding Around Greenville SC policy page. By entering this giveaway, you agree to comply with Kidding Around Greenville SC’s terms and conditions.
  • If you have any issues with the giveaway not appearing, please email bethan[email protected] so we can add your entry manually.

Looking for more kid-friendly classes and activities in Greenville, SC?

The Ultimate Guide to
Kids’ Classes & Activities

Class and Activity Guide

Mom Review: Charlotte’s Web at South Carolina Children’s Theatre

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

Get ready for all the heartfelt nostalgia that comes along with seeing the South Carolina Children’s Theatre’s production of a childhood classic, Charlotte’s Web! On opening night, I was able to bring my four-year-old daughter along to watch her experience the tale of friendship between a pig and a spider for the first time. 

We giggled, shed a few tears together, and she was beaming with curiosity after the show about the story and all of the performers. This production is truly heartwarming, with amazing actors, a pleasant music selection, and a spectacular set and crew. Charlotte’s Web is running through October 8th, 2023, so grab your tickets while you still can!

Writing in Charlotte's web for Wilbur at the South Carolina Children's Museum

What to Look Forward To at Charlotte’s Web

SCCT’s adaption of Charlotte’s Web directed by Connor Vetter and adapted by Joseph Robinette, is based on the children’s classic book by E.B. White. I remember reading the book three or four times in elementary school, because, well, I guess I resonated with a nervous, anxiety-riddled piglet. This was my first time seeing it performed and it is such a great show for all ages. This is especially true if you have a kid who’s a first-timer at a play. We both were laughing at all the hilarious characters, who each had impeccable comedic timing and really embodied their character. 

If you have never read the book (which is honestly hard for me to believe) then you need to know that the story follows a pig named Wilbur (played by Vi Hix), and a weaving Spider named Charlotte (played by Jenn Januchowski), who lives in the corner of the barn and tirelessly works to save Wilbur’s butt from becoming bacon. A trio of narrators guide the story along, while a collection of hilarious barn animals and loving humans help Wilbur along the way. 

Vi Hix was hilarious, and they illuminated the stage as the naive and sweet little pig Wilbur. They were literally rolling around on the stage, running through the theatre, and had the entire audience giggling. All of the actors poured their all into this production, and you could tell by how well they worked together to make the production flow seamlessly.

Charlotte’s Web is held on the Bell Stage, so that means a spectacular set design!  The web that Charlotte has spun is a huge part of the set design, taking up almost ⅓ of the stage. My daughter was mesmerized watching Charlotte move gracefully across her web, holstered in and floating!

As the production came to an end, the entire cast assembled at center stage in song, and I was holding back tears thinking of how beautiful the message of Charlotte’s Web truly is. A message of love, kindness, and the joy of life, and how important it is to embrace it. But also the deeper meaning of how important words are and how they can impact our perception, something I regularly talk to my kids about.

Daughter and I at Charlotte's Web at the South Carolina Children's Theatre

Upcoming Show Dates for Charlotte’s Web

Charlotte’s Web runs from September 22, 2023- October 8th, 2023. All shows are Saturday and Sunday (with the exception of opening night). All of these shows have morning and mid-afternoon viewings available.

2023 – 2024 South Carolina Children’s Theatre Season

The South Carolina Children’s Theatre has an outstanding lineup for the 2023- 2024 season! Performances take place on either the Bell Stage or the Younts Stage. Tickets for each performance go on sale a few weeks before opening night. Tickets for Charlotte’s Web can be purchased on the SCCT website, or at the box office.

  • Charlotte’s Web: September 22nd – October 8th, 2023
  • Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse: October 20th – October 29th, 2023
  • Mary Poppins: November 17th – December 10th, 2023
  • The Watson’s Go to Birmingham: January 19th – February 4th, 2024
  • D is for Dance: January 26th – February 4th, 2024
  • Pinkalicious: The Musical: February 23rd – March 10th, 2024
  • Dragon’s Love Tacos: April 5th – April 21st, 2024
  • The Spongebob Music: April 26th – May 19th, 2024

Things to Know Before You Go See Charlotte’s Web

  • The best place to park is in the SCCT parking lot. If you can not find parking there, there are a couple of paid parking lots within walking distance.
  • Tickets are assigned seating for Bell Stage performances, so purchase tickets sooner rather than later if you have a large group.
  • You can purchase tickets from the The Box Office Tuesday – Friday 10 am – 2 pm or the SCCT ticketing website.
  • Charlotte’s Web is most appropriate for ages 3 and older.
  • The show runs for 75 minutes without an intermission
  • Here is your digital playbill, now go enjoy the show!
south carolina childrens theatre

Learn More About All That the South Carolina Children’s Theatre Offers in our Handy Guide, from Summer Camps to Free Performances!

Three Seasons of Pick-Your-Own at Thompson Family Farms Near Campobello, SC!

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

Upick pumpkins in the fall, Upick tulips in the spring, and Upick sunflowers in the summer, count us in! Thompson Family Farms in Landrum, SC and Campobello, SC has so many opportunities to pick your own. Picking blooming flowers and pumpkins is delightful, and Thompson Family Farms is one of the only farms near the Upstate that offers three seasons of u-pick. What a win! I adore this farm because it is well-maintained, it is run efficiently, the view of Hogback Mountain is perfect for photos with my kids, and everything we have picked has been high quality.

Golly
Pick Your Own Cut Pumpkins in September/October
U-pick Sunflowers in July
U-pick Tulips in March

For pick your own cut pumpkins, Thompson Family Farms will open to the public on Thursday, September 21, 2023, until the end of October. Enjoy the gorgeous mountain views as you head out into the fields to find the perfect pumpkin for your jack-o-lantern or pie. Field pumpkins are precut from the vine for your convenience.

*Tulip U-pick is available in mid-March 2024.
* Sunflower U-pick is available at the beginning of July 2024.

Fall is Here: Pick Your Own Pumpkins at Thompson Family Farms!

As the fall season begins, so does the time of year to head down to the pumpkin patch to pick some pumpkins for decorating your home for fall and Halloween. Thompson Family Farms will open their pick-your-own-cut pumpkin patch in September at their Campobello location. There will be over 10 varieties of pumpkin to choose from, which is more than I even knew existed! The farm will also have prepicked and organized pumpkins near the farm stand if you aren’t too keen on picking yours yourself.

While at the farm, you can enjoy a sunflower maze, a selection of fall crops, and lots of photo opportunities! So, grab your sunscreen and closed-toed shoes (it’s a little bumpy out there in the fields) and head on down to the pumpkin patch at the farm.

U-pick Pumpkins

Pumpkins will be priced by size and variety and will start at $7 per pumpkin. The farm will have a limited number of wagons to help lug your pumpkins to the car, but they do recommend bringing a wagon if you want to have one out in the fields.

Pumpkins in the field are precut from the vine to ensure that underripe pumpkins are not picked. Any pumpkin still on the vine is not ready to pick, so please do not pull on their stems!

There will also be prepicked pumpkins, Indian corn, corn stalks, and cotton stems for sale as they continue to ripen throughout the season.

Sunflower Maze and U-pick Flowers

While at the farm, be sure to head to the sunflower maze! The maze is 7 acres and is a great way to spend some time with your kids doing a scavenger hunt. You will find scavenger hunt papers at the front counter, which include clues to the educational maze.

After the maze, you can also pick sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos for an additional fee and have them wrapped in a bouquet at the front counter to take home.

Homeschool Day

On October 4th, 2023, homeschooling families are invited to take a farm tour of Thompson Family Farms from 12 pm – 4 pm! Tours start every hour, at 12 pm, 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm. Homeschool students can pick a crop souvenir and will have access to the pumpkin and u pick flower fields. Pumpkins and flowers are an additional fee.

Tickets are $8 per student ages K4- 12th grade. Reservations are not required, but groups of 10 or more should contact the farm directly.

Hours and Admission

Thompson Family Farms will be open September 21, 2023, through the end of October for u-pick pumpkins along with other seasonal items. Hours are 10 am – 7 pm, Thursdays – Saturdays. Admission is free!

Things to Know Before You Go U-Pick Pumpkins

The Thompson Family Farms pumpkin and sunflower fields are located at 13830 SC-11, Campobello, SC.

  • There is a graveled parking area right when you enter the farm to park at.
  • Be sure to bring sunscreen or a UV umbrella, the farm is mostly un-shaded.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes or boots to protect your kids and your feet from ants, sticks, etc.
  • The fields are pretty bumpy, so strollers are not recommended. We recommend bringing a carrier if you have smaller children, as the ground has dips and holes that are hard for little feet to navigate.
  • The farm does have porta potties if you need to use the restroom.
  • Bring water! It gets hot out there in the fields.
  • There are honeybees enjoying some of the flowers, so be careful when picking your flowers to avoid getting stung.
  • Pets are not allowed!

Thompson Family Farms
13820 SC-11, Campobello, SC

Pumpkin Guide to Greenville, SC, pumpkins in Greenville

Love pumpkins? We have a whole guide for that!

Kidding Around Greenville Pumpkin Guide: where to get pumpkins, where to learn about pumpkins, tasty pumpkin treats, and lots more!

Offered in July… U-pick Sunflowers at Thompson Family Farms!

Thompson Family Farms, a upick sunflower field near Greenville, SC.

See the Sunflower Fields

U-pick Sunflowers

If you love sunflowers (it is hard not to) then Thompson Family Farms has a U-pick experience for you! You can mosey through fields of gorgeous sunflowers, and even pick a few to take home.

The U-pick sunflower fields are located in Campobello, SC, right past the Greenville County line into Spartanburg County off of Highway 11. The patch is huge, and overlooks Hogback Mountain, making for spectacular views. There are also several varieties, so you can create an array of yellows and orange colors for your bouquet!

In addition to the sunflower fields, there are places for photo opportunities, a kid-sized sunflower maze, and picnic tables to enjoy the view.

The sunflower fields at Thompson Family Farms.
The sunflower fields at Thompson Family Farms
A "face in the hole" sunflower picture stand at Thompson Family Farms.

Sunflower Photo Ops: More Than Just the Flowers!

There is not much needed to get some amazing photos, but Thompson Family Farms has made for some special areas to get those Pinterest-worthy shots. There is a pallet-style photo backdrop surrounded by sunflowers, a fun “face in the hole” sunflower wall, and even some adorable bamboo bean pole teepees near the entrance that make for some adorable photos.

There are also rows and rows of blooming sunflowers to use as the backdrop of your photos. The farm is offering daytime and evening hours (on Friday and Saturday) and even has sessions available for professional photographers.

The entrance at Thompson Family Farms in Campobello, SC.
Thompson Family Farms, Campobello, SC

Hours and Pricing for U-pick Sunflowers

Thompson Family Farms will open for u-pick sunflowers on July 1st, 2023. For updates, including weather changes and sell-out date, check out the Thompson Family Farms Facebook page.

Hours: Monday – Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. They will have sunset hours on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 pm – 9 pm. The farm will be open on July 4th for their regular day hours.

Prices: Admission is $6 per person, but ages 12 and younger are free. U-pick sunflowers are $1 per stem.

Thompson Family Farms
13820 SC-11, Campobello, SC

Offered in Spring… U-pick Tulips at Thompson Family Farms

As some of the first pops of color to emerge from the ground, tulips are a welcome sign that spring is here. Fresh-picked tulips make excellent gifts, centerpieces, and decor. Plus, it is so much fun going out to a U-pick patch and selecting the flowers yourself. It’s pretty joyful.

Scenes from the tulip farm

Check out some of the beautiful scenes waiting for you at Thompson Family Farms.

Arriving at Thompson Family Farms for tulips in Landrum, SC

Located just 25 minutes from Greer, you will find Thompson Family Farms in Landrum at the base of Hogback Mountain. The Flower Patch can easily be found by following the signs off of Arledge Road. You can park in the gravel area, and head down to the tented shelter. The fields are not hard to miss, as they are busting with color from the blooms. Down at the welcome tent you will be greeted and shown baskets, buckets, and scissors to use for picking your tulips.  

The Flower Patch at Thompson Family Farms is open seasonally in March. The length of time the patch is open is depending on weather and bloom time, and the season is very short!

The Flower Patch at Thompson Family Farms, SC

U-Pick Tulips in The Flower Patch at Thompson Family Farms

Tulips are synonymous with the cool, breezy weather of early Spring. You can u-pick from 9 varieties of tulips throughout the short season. They have multiple colors, including pink, red, yellow, white, and variegated orange/red, and more.

Be sure to stay on the paths when walking through the flowers. In addition, if you cut the flower, you buy it. Be sure it is the flower you want before taking your scissors to the stem.

The Thompsons recommend cutting the flower at the length that you want, and we found cutting low on the stem to be best for us. Most importantly, make sure to not dig or stomp on the bulbs, as they will be left in the ground to bloom again next year! 

Once you have all of the tulips you would like, you can head back to the tent to have them wrapped in bouquets. If you plan to pick a large number of tulips, I recommend bringing something sturdy like a box to take them home in, so they are safe from damage. 

Tulips: Photo Opportunities at The Flower Patch

Other than the obvious photos of you and your children amongst the flowers, The Flower Patch also has two lovely photography setups on the property. If you head to the far ends of the fields you will find a red tractor set up with a rustic farm vibe of window panes and flower buckets that make for some adorable photos!

There is also a pallet-style backdrop with a chair and blooming flowers to take pictures with. The property itself is situated in a field that is surrounded by trees, so there are many opportunities to get that perfect spring picture. 

Photographers that are interested in renting the space can contact Thompson Family Farms directly through their sign-up link to book private sessions. There are a limited number of sessions available due to the short season for tulips. Private sessions occur from 5 pm until sundown.

Price of Admission and U-Pick Tulips

Admission is $5 per person for ages 12 and older. Children under 12 are free to attend. If you want to participate in u-pick, Tulips are $1 per stem. The farm does take cash, card, and Venmo.

Please follow the farm’s guidance for cutting and watch your step to ensure that the other tulips are safe for other people to enjoy their u-pick experience.

Tips to Keep Your Flowers Fresh

Sara Thompson, the owner of The Flower Patch, recommends making a fresh cut before putting your flowers in their water vase once you arrive home. You should then display your flowers out of direct sunlight. She also mentioned the fascinating fact that tulip stems continue to grow once placed in water, so they may appear to be longer after a few days in the vase. Be sure to change out your water regularly to elongate your bloom time. And most importantly, enjoy! 

Tulips at Thompson Family Farm, SC

Key Things to Know Before Visiting Thompson Family Farms

  • There are no dogs allowed at The Flower Patch.
  • There is only one porta-potty for emergencies, so be sure to take a potty break before arriving.
  • You can pack a picnic and enjoy the view. There are two picnic tables located by the creek, and plenty of grassy space to lay down a blanket. If you picnic, please pick up all trash before leaving.
  • It can be muddy in the field, so wear appropriate shoes. 
  • The farm is accessible but is bumpy because of the gravel parking lot. If you plan to bring a stroller, ones with wheels made for rough terrain are highly recommend. A soft body carrier for baby may be easier. 
  • Reservations are not required. However, you should follow the Thompson Family Farms’ Facebook for updates and information before heading to the farm.
  • The u-pick tulip fields are open in light rain but be prepared for mud in that scenario.
  • Don’t forget water, hats and sunscreen when you head out to pick sunflowers in the summer!

Thompson Family Farms
Tulip Upick at The Flower Patch
328 Arledge Road, Landrum, SC
Hours: Monday – Saturday
10 am – 5 pm

Sunflower Upick
13830 SC-11, Campobello, SC
Hours: Monday- Saturday
9 am – 2 pm
Additional evening hours:
5 pm – 9 pm on Friday and Saturday

Looking to make a day trip out of your adventure? Check out Campbells Covered Bridge located just a few miles’ drive of the Thompson Family Farms. You can also find other fabulous things to do in our discovery guide to Landrum, SC!

UPick flower farms near Greenville, SC

More U-Pick Flowers Near Greenville, SC

More Fun Things to Do in Landrum, SC

Three Seasons of Pick-Your-Own at Thompson Family Farms Near Campobello, SC!

Pick Lavender at Elf Leaf Farm: Greenville County’s Only Lavender Farm

Explore This 110 Year-Old Covered Bridge: Campbell’s Covered Bridge

Stone Soup Market & Cafe in Landrum, SC

Discover Fabulous Food and Things to Do When You Spend the Day in Landrum, SC

Piano Central Studios: The Benefits of Lifelong Music Making

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

The budding young musician in your family is sure to fall in love with music at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC. For over 40 years, Piano Central Studios has been teaching music to students of all ages in the Upstate, working to instill a lifelong love and understanding of music into their students’ hearts and minds. In fact, it’s their stated mission to nourish hearts and minds with music-making for life!

Thank you to our sponsor Theresa Case, Owner at Piano Central Studios, for writing this article alongside us!

Piano Central Studios takes a fun and engaging approach to music-making. With classes and lessons for all ages, from babies to school-aged and even adults, it’s never too late in life to learn to sing or play an instrument. Plus, there are many positive benefits to taking music lessons. Learn more about Piano Central Studios and how owner Theresa Case’s vision is fostering a love of music-making for life.

Introducing Young Children to the Joy of Music: Kindermusik for Babies to Big Kids

Shake, jingle, and rattle! Young babies and children love making music.  In fact, music-making comes very naturally and easily to them. They instinctively respond to music, making sounds and dancing around.  The way they light up when they engage in music-making is magical. 

That’s why Piano Central Studios offers Kindermusik classes for young children.  Kindermusik is an interactive music and movement program for children ages newborn to age 7 which leans into this precious, innate love of music and makes it come alive for both kids and their grown-ups. 

Kindermusik is a delightfully playful way for kids to make music while exploring various instruments and learning to use their voices. During class, you and your child will sing songs, dance, rhyme, and play instruments, all while you grow closer together through the bond of a happy, shared musical experience. 

As they make music with others, these young musicians are also benefiting from a joyful, stimulating environment enriched with a variety of creative multi-sensory music activities. Plus, everything your child learns at Kindermusik can be applied and enjoyed at home throughout the week! 

What to Expect at Kindermusik

This rich musical introduction in the early years expands as children move up through the levels of Kindermusik, until in the last levels of the program, they are actually reading and composing music, along with learning to play the glockenspiel (pre-piano), the ukulele, the dulcimer, and the recorder.

Kindermusik classes are divided into age-specific, developmentally appropriate levels, from Level 1 to Kindermusik Musicians Years 1 and 2.  These classes are low-pressure and intentionally designed to spark your child’s interest in music while giving the foundational understanding and immersive experience needed to successfully transition to music lessons and instrument mastery. 

Cognitive and Social Benefits of Kindermusik

Not only will your child love it, but music holds such an important place in your child’s development. Music has been shown to enhance cognitive development, which is critical in the years before age 5. This age range is when 90% of brain development occurs! 

There are also wonderful social-emotional benefits that come along with making music with peers and parents. Your young children will make new friends as they bang on drums and shake tambourines, all while building a strong bond with you! 

So, if you want to instill a deep, lifelong love of music in your young child, then the Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios is the perfect place to start.

Something They’ll Look Forward To: Music Lessons for Ages 6+

Group or Private Music Lessons for Kids

Piano Central Studios offers a wide range of options in music instruction, including lessons in piano, voice, band instruments, string instruments, guitar, and ukulele. Group lessons are available for beginners ages 6 to 9, or there is the option of private lessons for ages 6 and up. 

You’ll find convenient locations and a variety of scheduling options for music lessons at PCS.  Add to that great teachers, a motivating reward program, awards to earn in the Practice Space app, recitals, Performance Parties, and more, and you’ve got the kind of winning combination at PCS that’s sure to keep your child loving their lessons for years to come.

The Importance of Music for Self-Expression

As your children get older, they need a creative outlet that allows them to be creative and to express themselves. What better way than through music? Music is a unique and fulfilling outlet for self-expression, being able to sing or play an instrument is truly a gift you can give your child. 

In their music lessons at PCS, your child will develop a skill that is all their own, something special to them that will help mold the image of their “self”. They will then be able to share this piece of themselves with their peers through recitals, their school band or orchestra, and choir, if they choose. Best of all, the music skills and life skills they learn during their lessons will be something they carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Benefits of Music Lessons for Kids

There’s nothing more heart-warming than watching your child thrive and their confidence blossom as they make progress each week, grow in their ability to sing or play their instrument, or shine on stage at their recital.

In their music lessons, your child will develop self-discipline and time management skills that extend to other areas of their life, including academics and extracurricular activities.  Music lessons are also a kind of therapeutic outlet, giving your child a means to express themselves in ways words cannot.

And since mastering the skill of singing or playing an instrument takes time and perseverance, your child will also learn the value of patience and resilience, developing a positive growth mindset along the way.  The skills your child learns and the memories they make will become a cherished part of who they are and who they can become.

Never Stop Loving Music: Music Lessons for Adults

It’s never too early or too late to fall in love with music – for the first time or all over again.  You don’t have to live with the regret of quitting lessons when you were younger or always wishing you had learned to sing or play an instrument.  

And if you’re worried about how you’ll feel as an adult student, be assured that the teachers at PCS are as good with their adult students as they are with their younger students.  They’ll help you progress at your own pace, learning the music that will give the most joy and fulfillment and helping you achieve your musical goals.

As you venture into the world of scales and melodies as an adult student, you’ll find a sense of rejuvenation that only music can provide. Your music lessons become a journey of self-discovery, an exploration of your own capacities, and a reminder that growth knows no age. 

Benefits of Music Making for Adults

Not only is music an excellent hobby, but singing or playing an instrument also keeps your mind sharp, reduces stress, and enhances productivity.  As we age, we naturally tend to see a decline in cognition and variations in cortisol, but science tells us that a hobby like music can keep us healthy, happy, and sharp. 

In addition, singing or playing an instrument is a great way to unwind, relieve stress, and enjoy a creative outlet you might not have in other areas of your life or work.  If your child is in Kindermusik or taking music lessons themselves, you now have a different way to empathize, encourage, and bond with them over music.  

PCS loves helping adult students reclaim their love for music by taking music lessons and enjoying a life-changing hobby like singing or playing an instrument.

Music Right Now is Music For Life

Music for now and music for life.  This is the “why” behind all that Piano Central Studios does and hopes to accomplish for all of its students – from the babies in Kindermusik classes to their adult students in their 80’s to every age in between. 

So, whether you’re a parent who wants to kindle your child’s love of music or an adult ready to take music lessons yourself, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Piano Central Studios. The skills acquired, the memories made, and the love for music cultivated all come together to make your music lessons at PCS everything you hoped they would be and mean for you or your child.

Music lessons should be so much more than something to pass the time or check off the list.  At PCS, you’ll find that music becomes a lifelong gift that keeps giving the greatest of joy! 

Registration for Kindermusik classes or music lessons is available on the Piano Central Studios music lesson registration page.  You can get started anytime – even partway through the month!

Piano Central Studios
Greenville, SC
864.232.5010

Raising Relationships Podcast: Improving Connections with Young Children

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

If you are a parent and a podcast lover, then the Raising Relationships podcast is for you! The podcast, created by the South Carolina Infant Mental Health Association (SCIMHA), offers parents and educators extra support and guidance for building strong bonds with young children in their lives. The podcast also discusses the rise in preschool expulsion, and what parents and educators can do to reduce these numbers. Thank you to SCIMHA for sponsoring this article.

We spoke with Amaris Gibson (MA, LPC-A, IMH-E® Infant Family Specialist) who is co-host with Tiffany Stenson (Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Training Specialist) to learn more about the themes of the podcast. We also discussed why your child’s mental health and socio-emotional development is so important. The open discussion format of the podcast explores the realities and difficulties of raising and connecting with young children.

The Raising Relationships podcast artwork
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These Escape Rooms in Upstate, SC Will Have You Racing to Beat the Clock!

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

Are you looking for a fun, yet challenging escape room in Greenville, SC? With unique storylines and challenging puzzles, escape rooms have steadily been growing in popularity over the last decade. We gathered a list of escape rooms throughout the Upstate that are perfect for date nights, birthday parties, teambuilding exercises, and other group events. Time to pause that mystery podcast you’ve been listening to for hours and unlock your inner Sherlock Holmes to solve all the clues before time runs out!

This article includes:
Greenville County Escape Rooms
Spartanburg County Escape Rooms
Pickens County Escape Rooms
Anderson County Escape Rooms

Escape Artists Greenville
Escape Artists Greenville, SC

Escape Rooms: Important Things to Know

  • Before heading to the escape room venue, it is highly recommended (and sometimes required) to book your appointment ahead of time.
  • Many of the escape rooms in the Upstate have an age limit or require a parent to accompany any minor. Some rooms are not recommended for children due to the theme.
  • Please contact the escape room you wish to attend for additional rules, pricing, booking an appointment, and information about their location.

Escape Rooms in Greenville County

Escape Artists Greenville- Downtown– 209 East Stone Avenue, Greenville | 864.509.9305 
Offers 6 private escape rooms of varying levels of difficulty. Requires at least 2 players to complete (some rooms require a minimum of 4 players). Players under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, with some themes being inappropriate for younger players. Read our Kidding Around review of Escape Artists Greenville to see if Bethany beat the clock!

Best for kids: Yuletide Magic Maria took her kids to do Yuletide Magic during their Greenville Staycation.

Escape Artist Yuletide Magic

Escape Artists Greenville- Hampton Station– 1320 Hampton Avenue, Bay 11C, Greenville | 864.509.9305
Offers two 60-minute private escape rooms. Escape rooms require a minimum of 2 players, with an 8-player maximum. 

Breakout Games– 614 North Main Street, Greenville | 864.326.0190 
Offers 8 private escape rooms with varying difficulty levels. Require a minimum of 2 players to play. Open to all ages (under 14 must be accompanied by an adult).

Trapped in the Upstate– 556 Memorial Drive Extension, Suite D, Greer | 864.416.1539
Offers 6 private escape rooms that require at least 2 players. Puzzles take about 60 minutes each. The minimum age to play alone is 13. Children under 10 are welcome, but some puzzles are not appropriate for younger players due to difficulty and theme. Read our Kidding Around review of Trapped in the Upstate for more details.

Servus VR– 928 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.509.1077
Offers 11 virtual reality escape games. Games require at least 2 players, with options for 2 player, 3 player, and 4 player games. Games run for 60 minutes. 

Spartanburg County Escape Rooms

Escape Room Adventures and Virtual Reality–  1220 John B White Sr Boulevard, Spartanburg | 864.586.5086
Offers 6 escape rooms of varying levels of difficulty. Games require a minimum of 2 players. In addition, several VR escape games are available. Recommended age is 12 and older. Anyone under 18 must have a parent sign a waiver, and under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Escape Room Adventures requires an appointment.

Robert's Relic Room
Trapped in the Upstate, Greenville SC

Pickens County Escape Rooms

Seneca Escape Zones– 115- C Eagles Nest Drive, Seneca | 864.557.9663
Offers 3 escape rooms of varying levels of difficulty. A minimum of 2 players is required for each game, and each room holds up to 6 people. Puzzles are designed for ages 10 and up. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Book an escape room before attending the location. 

The Escape Quest– 277 Market Street, Seneca | 864.626.5995
Offers 4 escape rooms of varying levels of difficulty. 2 players are required for 2 of the three rooms offered. Recommended party size is 4 – 8 players. Booking ahead is highly recommended, walk-in gameplay is not guaranteed. Each escape room is approximately 60 minutes. Children are allowed as long as accompanied by an adult. 

Anderson County Escape Rooms

Electric City Escapes– 4103 Liberty Highway, Anderson | 864.328.9908
Offers 4 escape rooms with varying levels of difficulty. Three rooms are appropriate for all ages. The Mystery Parlor is PG13. The games are 60 minutes long. Booking online is recommended. 

Do you have a favorite escape room in Greenville or the Upstate?

Guide to things to do indoors, Greenville, SC

Check out our Indoor Guide for more fun things to do inside near Greenville.

The Peace Center: Broadway Performances, World-Class Musicians, and Top Tier Comedians

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

Have you enjoyed a performance at the Peace Center? Broadway productions are just one of the many events hosted at this stunning theatre in Greenville, SC. The event space regularly hosts comedians, musicians, symphony and ballet performances, and special events.

Not only that, but the Peace Center partners with several local art organizations to allow them to present their performances regularly. So, grab your tickets and enrich your life with one of the spectacular shows at the Peace Center!

The Peace Center: Broadway performances, musical acts, and comedian event space in Greenville, South Carolina.

Types of Events at the Peace Center

The Peace Center currently has three event spaces where you can catch some fabulous theatre productions and musical acts. The Peace Concert Hall usually houses the biggest productions, like Broadway performances and major musical acts. You will find more intimate performances and special events in the Gunther Theatre adjacent to the main hall.  

The Peace Center also has an outdoor performance space right on the Reedy River, the Peace Pavillion. There, you can boogie to the White Claw summer concert series and other special events. Occasionally throughout the year, you will find speakers and Peace Talk events in the Ramsaur Studio.

WICKED at the Peace Center in Greenville, SC
WICKED at the Peace Center

Peace Center Broadway Productions 2023-2024

It is pretty hard to make it to New York City to see a Broadway production, especially when you have kids. No worries, because the Peace Center hosts several Broadway performances each year, many of which are Tony Award-winning productions! 

These showings make an excellent date night or even go by yourself for some quality alone time. All of the shows are highly technical and have all the glitz, spectacular set design, and highly acclaimed actors and actresses that you would find on Broadway.

The Peace Center Broadway 2023-2024 season includes:

Performance held at the Peace Center in Greenville, SC.

Concerts, Comedians, Ballet, and More!

The Peace Center hosts some of the world’s most popular and iconic musicians and comedians throughout the year. The larger performances are usually held in the Peace Concert Hall. This event space has three levels, including the orchestra, the founder’s circle (the first piece of the balcony), and the third balcony. 

The acoustics are some of the best around, everything sounds better there because of the fabulous architectural design. Seating at the event space is comfortable, so the enjoyment is elevated. 

You can find information on the upcoming events at the Peace Center, including seating chart information, on their webpage to help you choose the best seats for your next night out.

If you are a classical music or jazz lover, then you will find some of the best symphony performances at The Gunter Theatre and the Peace Concert Hall throughout the year! They even have keynote speakers and special symphony events like Harry Potter and the Sorcerors Stone in Concert.

You can also watch spectacular ballet productions, including annual performances of The Nutcracker by the International Ballet each winter. These performances are stunning, and a wonderful way to get your children interested in performance arts.

Peace Pavilion White Claw Concert Series

Enjoy live music right on the Reedy River at the Peace Center’s White Claw Concerts at the Peace Pavilion. These outdoor concerts are pretty popular, so tickets tend to sell out quickly! 

Food purchases from The Wyche can be brought into the venue, so if you’re looking to snack and drink while you listen to excellent music, this is the place! You can also drink alcohol during the White Claw concerts, so be sure to get your 21+ wristbands at The Wyche or the box office before the show begins. 

The seats at this venue are lawn seating, so we recommend bringing blankets, chairs, or seat cushions so that you are comfortable. You can also pay a little extra for Genevieve’s Seating, where you will have access to an air-conditioned lounge, a cash bar, a balcony view of the Reedy River, and private restrooms.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • The Peace Center is highly accessible and offers various accommodations to make all of its guests comfortable, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and assistive listening. Learn more about additional Performance accessibility on the Peace Center website. 
  • Food and drink are not allowed inside the venue spaces except for the outdoor Peace Pavilion.
  • You are not allowed to take photos inside the concert halls, so keep your cell phones silent and take in the memory! 
  • Some shows are appropriate for children, but that is at the discretion of the parents. The Peace Center does recommend that children 5 and under not attend performances. 
  • Learn more about buying tickets and attending the show on the Peace Center’s information page.
The front entrance of the Peace Center in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina

Dining at Genevieve’s: Restaurant Inside the Peace Center

You can hold a table at Genevieve’s if you would like to have dinner and drinks before the event. This full-service restaurant is a great way to start your date night. The restaurant is open two hours before the event showtime. It is also open between the matinee and evening show during Broadway performances.

There are also several excellent restaurants in the area surrounding the Peace Center. You will find some of the best restaurants in our Guide to Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, including reviews and recommendations based on various criteria.  

Restaurants in Downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

Dining Downtown?

Check out our Guide to Restaurants in Downtown Greenville to make your date night perfect!

Peace Center Tickets

The only way to safely purchase Peace Center tickets for Broadway shows and musical acts is directly through the Peace Center event page or from the box office. If you would like to purchase a subscription package for the Peace Center Broadway productions, you can do that as well. The subscription gives you discounted tickets, premium seating options, and early access if you need additional tickets.

It is best to steer clear of third-party sellers to avoid annoying price hikes and the risk of receiving unusable tickets. 

Learn more about digital ticketing and seating charts on the Peace Center website.

Parking Near the Peace Center

There is free parking along Main Street and crossing side streets. Public parking garages in the area can be found in our KA Guide to Parking in Downtown Greenville. The Poinsett Garage and River Place Garage are two of the closest parking garages to the Peace Center. 

During events, there are several paid parking lots in the vicinity, including directly across the street beside Grill Marks.

Check out our Guide to Parking in Downtown Greenville to find the best places to park (many of which are free nights and weekends).

Parking near the Peace Center in Greenville, SC

Coming by 2030: AMP- The Music Project

By 2030, the Peace Center plans to expand through its AMP project. This expansion is a huge undertaking that is going to transform several buildings around the main theatre, further solidifying Greenville as an art and music epicenter of the SouthEast. 

The expansion will house the Coach Music Factory, a multi-genre music venue in addition to a listening room and lounge, The Mockingbird. The Peace Center plans to renovate several buildings in the process with the AMP vision. Keep an eye out for more information about the 2030 Vision Plan.

Peace Center
300 West Broad Street, Greenville
864.467.3000
Box office hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm

Entrance of Fluor Field, Greenville , SC

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Top Things to Do at Falls Park in Greenville, SC

Posted on by Erin Gorges | No Comments

Have you explored Falls Park? Greenville SC has one of the most gorgeous parks in the country. Falls Park on the Reedy River is the statement piece of the West End of Downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

With the Liberty Bridge as the centerpiece, grassy fields to frolic in, gardens to explore, and even some special events throughout the year, the park makes a great place to play at. Find out why Falls Park is one of the nation’s best city parks for 2023, and why we love it too! 

Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy River in Greenville, SC

What We Love To Do at Falls Park

If you are looking for something family-friendly to do in Greenville SC, Falls Park on the Reedy River is a wonderful day to spend the day. Its natural beauty has been amplified by strategic gardening and architectural planning, adding to its charm and Southern romanticism.

What used to be a grist mill has transformed into a charming area to relax and connect with our community in large part to a combined effort of Furman University, the City of Greenville, and the Carolina Foothills Garden Club. Good thing they put in so much effort because Falls Park is thriving!

Looking at the falls and Medusa Tree, at Falls Park, Greenville, SC

Take in the Sights on Liberty Bridge

The suspension bridge, plastered on postcards, magazine articles, and Greenville merchandise, is stunning. The bridge is an architectural masterpiece that offers spectacular views of the falls.

If you walk out onto the bridge, it is a great place to take photos while taking in views of the falls and downtown Greenville. Liberty Bridge is particularly beautiful at night, as the area is lit up with lights, and the downtown area is illuminated. 

Enjoy a Picnic on the Grassy Spaces

Located around Liberty Bridge is several open field areas to lay down a blanket for a picnic, play with your kids, or watch street performers and buskers on a warm afternoon. Though you may be tempted to take a dip in the river while playing in the grassy spaces, know that it is forbidden to play in the Reedy River. The river has a high level of bacteria that can make you sick!

Explore the Gardens

The Carolina Foothills Garden Club Sanctuary and Pedrick’s Garden at Falls Park are two of the most popular downtown. These gardens feature mixes of foliage, literal tons of gorgeous stonework, and are a great way to have your kids burn off some energy. We always see a lizard or two while there.

Be sure to get the obligatory photo with the Medusa tree located near the Governor’s School. Many of the gardens run along the river, so be careful not to damage the plants while exploring. There are also a number of ducks, geese, and other wildlife you will want to be sure to avoid. Never feed the ducks bread!

Lawn areas and view of the Reedy River at Falls Park, Greenville, SC.

Linky Stone Park, Greenville, SC

Explore more gardens near Greenville, SC, several of which are near Falls Park!

Special Events Held at Falls Park

Most of the popular events in Downtown Greenville spill over into the Falls Park area, but there are several regularly scheduled events that occur here.

Reedy River Duck Derby

Every spring, thousands descend upon Falls Park to watch little yellow ducks float over the falls in hopes of winning a grand prize. Don’t worry, they are little rubber ducks, but the event is so much fun! Before the ducks fall over the falls, there are tons of family-friendly activities throughout the park, including face painting, duck-related crafts, and more.

The Duck Derby in Greenville, SC

Learn More about the annual Reedy River Duck Derby at Falls Park, Greenville, SC

Upstate Shakespeare Festival

This FREE festival runs from the end of May until the end of July each year in Falls Park. Performances on held on the stage located down the stairs and to the right of Liberty Bridge on the grassy field at the TD Amphitheatre.

Shows are around 2 hours long, and showcase classic Shakespearean plays such as Macbeth, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and more! Bring a lawn chair, a picnic blanket, and maybe even a bottle of wine (21 and older with a $1 wristband) to have a perfect night out!

Moonlight Movies

Every Thursday in September and October, you can watch a free movie on the lawn of Falls Park. There are local food vendors, and alcohol is allowed if you purchase a $1 wristband. The movies are typically teen and adult-friendly and include some popular titles that you will actually enjoy watching. 

The Greenville Christmas Market at the Grand Bohemian Lodge

The annual Greenville Christmas Market is located right off the end of the Liberty Bridge on the grassy field in front of the Grand Bohemian Lodge. This outdoor market runs from late November to Early January and has gifts, treats, and more for the perfect gift. Your kids can also meet with Santa. There is also a stunning 20ft Christmas tree you can smell from the other side of the bridge.

Greenville Christmas Market scenes

The Greenville Christmas Market at the Grand Bohemian Lodge is the place to be during the holiday season!

Dining Near Falls Park

There are dozens of dining options near Falls Park, but if you’re looking for views of the park, then these restaurants and cafes will fit your criteria.

Spill the Beans

This cafe has delicious coffee, gourmet ice cream, milkshakes, and more. If you want to eat inside, they have a window view of the falls, but you can sit outside around the fountains and enjoy your sweet treat as well. 

Passerelle French Bistro

The bistro sits right off the stairs that lead down to Liberty Bridge. They offer French cuisine, indoor and outdoor seating, and the perfect date night atmosphere.

What’s your favorite thing to do at Falls Park?

Falls Park Guide to Downtown Greenville, SC.

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An Upstate Outdoor Favorite: Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville, SC

Posted on by Erin Gorges | 3 Comments

Are you looking for a place to enjoy the great outdoors in Greenville, SC? Paris Mountain State Park, located 15 minutes outside the city of Greenville off State Park Road, is a staple to the Greenville outdoorsy community. You can hike over 17 miles of trails, mountain bike the ridge, and even take a swim with the kids in Lake Placid. The park has multiple trails of varying difficulty.

Plus, Paris Mountain has family-friendly camping sites that make camping more enjoyable. Find out all of the things the only state park in Greenville has to offer in our handy guide.

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Experience the Culture of Italy at Gio’s Pastry Shop, Caffee, and Italian Grocery in Fountain Inn, SC

Posted on by Erin Gorges |

Satisfy your craving for Italian cuisine at Gio’s Pastry Shop, Caffee, and Italian Market in Fountain Inn, SC! Gio’s offers a large selection of homemade and imported Italian and Italian American goods, including homemade pastries, cookies, and cakes. Their shop also sells a multitude of Italian groceries, sandwiches, salads, and even serves fresh coffee. There is no better way to experience a culture than through food, and Gio’s will bring a little slice of Italy into your life.

Homemade Baked Goods, The Italian Way

Gio’s has one of the most diverse selections of Italian baked goods in Greenville, thanks to owner Maria Natale. Her pursuit to fulfill her customer’s cravings for Italian desserts ignited Gio’s popularity in the Fountain Inn community.  From homemade cannolis, mini cannoli cheesecakes, Italian rainbow cookies, and Sfogliatelle (Clamshell) pastries, no wonder Gio’s has quickly become a go-to bakery. They even have gluten-free options!

Gio’s also produces homemade bread that has a delicious crunchy outside encasing a soft and fluffy inside. Kidding Around’s Maria says that Gio’s bread is the closest to NYC’s Italian bread that she has found in the south. Walking into Gio’s will transport your senses straight to an Italian kitchen. Paired with the vibe of Gio’s, you will feel like you coming home to your Nonna baking in the kitchen (even if you’re not Italian).

Gio's fountain inn - Italian pastry
Sfgliatelle at Gio’s Pastry Shop

Groceries and Goods Found at Gio’s

Along with Gio’s staple pastries and baked goods, they sell a wide selection of Italian groceries and premade meals. Many of their grocery items are imported directly from Italy, so nothing gets more authentic than that. You can also purchase from a selection of premade foods, such as Pasta Fagioli and Italian Wedding Soup. They even have several varieties of fresh-made pasta and sauce to purchase for your next Italian-inspired meal. Don’t forget to grab some delicious mozzarella to top it off.

So, grab the family and go explore the culture of Italy through the pastries and meals you can find at Gio’s, without ever having to leave Greenville!

Gluten-Free options at Gio’s Pastry Shop

You can also pick up some awesome coloring books from local artist Brandi Grover at Gio’s. Try a sample of her coloring pages featuring KAG mascot, Golly.

Gio’s Pastry Shop
218 South Main Street – Unit A, Fountain Inn | 864.724.2058

Hours of Operation
Wednesday 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Thursday 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 8:30 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Closed Sunday-Tuesday

Festival alert: Don’t miss the Italian American Heritage Festival in Fountain Inn, SC!

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Experience the Culture of Italy at Gio’s Pastry Shop, Caffee, and Italian Grocery in Fountain Inn, SC

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