Archive for the ‘Guides’ Category

Top Kids Salons: Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards Winners)

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Are you looking for the best kids salons in Greenville, SC? Whether you’re looking for a great kids hair cut, or a mani/pedi for your mini me, a great kids salon can get the job done. Our readers voted on their favorite kids salons near Greenville, SC and here’s what they said!

Best Kids Salons in Greenville, SC

2026 Kaboom Awards Winners

Best Kids Salon in Greenville, SC

1st Place: Pigtails & Crewcuts: Haircuts for Kids – Greenville – Augusta Road, SC

Finalists:

Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids

At Pigtails & Crewcuts, we believe every haircut should be fun, stress-free, and something your child actually looks forward to—and that same great experience extends to the whole family. Proudly owned and operated by the same amazing, hands-on team, our three Upstate South Carolina locations—Greenville Augusta Road, Greenville Five Forks, and Anderson—deliver a consistent, high-quality experience you can trust every visit.

We specialize in kids’ haircuts, from first haircuts (complete with keepsake packages!) to stylish cuts for toddlers, big kids, and teens. We also offer adult haircuts, so parents can get a fresh cut without the hassle of childcare—kids can play and relax in our fun, welcoming space while you enjoy a moment for yourself.

Our salons are designed just for kids, with playful chairs, a dedicated play area, and a friendly team that knows how to make even the most nervous child feel comfortable. It’s all about creating a positive, memorable experience—so your child leaves smiling, and you feel like a hero for making it happen.

Visit us to book your appointment:

Greenville Augusta Road: https://pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/greenville-sc-augusta-road/

Five Forks: https://pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/greenville-sc-five-forks/

Anderson: https://pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/anderson-sc/

Come see why families across the Upstate choose Pigtails & Crewcuts!


KABOOM Awards Guide

2025 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Pigtails & Crewcuts

Finalist: Snip-its Haircuts for Kids

2024 KABOOM Awards

1st Place: Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids

Finalists:

  • Pigtails & Crewcuts: Haircuts for Kids – Greenville – Augusta Road, SC
  • Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids
  • Snip-its Haircuts for Kids
  • The Princess Palace

{2026} Homeschool Days near Greenville, SC

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Looking for a fun homeschool day event near Greenville, SC to attend this school year? We have a list of local and regional places that offer Homeschool Days including farms, zoos, and amusement parks. Part of the fun of homeschooling is all the field trips my kids and I take. We try to go out as often as possible to any number of places that give a hands-on, visual, and educational experience and always have a lot of fun. 

There are so many fantastic places in our area Upstate SC area that offer Homeschool Days specifically for homeschooling families. I put them together here to help all of us homeschoolers have some options for extending learning beyond the home environment. 

You may also find our Homeschool Guide to Greenville, SC, Field Trip Guide, and Homeschool Discounts stories helpful as you plan out your year. Also, check out these Educational Things to Do Near Greenville, SC.

Petting a horse at Eden Farms

Local Upstate, SC Homeschool Days

Clemson’s Science Outreach Center

Homeschool days: 2026 – January 28th, February 17th, March 11th, April 14th, May 13th,
Time: 9:30 am – Noon
Cost: $23/student; ages 8-12
Clemson Science Website
Clemson University Science Outreach Center, G-26 and G-30 Jordan Hall, Clemson | culsoc@clemson.edu

Greenville Zoo

Homeschool days: Friday, March 20th and Wednesday, May 1st
Time: 10 am – 3 pm
Cost: $8/person
Info: Space is limited and you must reserve ahead of time
Greenville Zoo website
150 Cleveland Park Drive, Greenville

South Carolina Botanical Gardens

Homeschool days: February 19th & 20th,  March 19th & 20th, April 15th & 16th, May 14th & 15th
Time: Sessions run either 10-11:30 am or 1-2:30 pm; see link below for exact times and dates
Cost: $8/child
Info: Ages 5+, one adult per household, must register two days in advance
SC Botantical Gardens website 
150 Discovery Lane, Clemson | 864.656.0203

Takeoff Mini Golf & the Military History Museum

Homeschool day: Usually select dates in September and October
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Cost: $11.50/ages 13+, $9.50/ages 4-12
More info: Homeschool day includes one round of golf at Takeoff Mini Golf, one STEM project where kids get build their own mini golf hole, and one educational session at Takeoff Mini Golf (~30 minutes) with an aviation and mini golf themed discussion.
Tickets
28 Airport Road Extension, Greenville

Climb@BlueRidge

Homeschool days: Second and fourth Monday of every month
Time: 2- 4 pm
Cost: $12/climber, which includes harness rental
Climb@Blueridge Homeschool Event
301 Bulls Road, Taylors | 864.895.1416

Roller Sports

Homeschool days: Skate for $4/a person every third Friday from 1-3 pm September-May.
Time: 1-3 pm
Cost: $4/person
Roller Sports Website
328 W. Main Street, Taylors | 864.268.7397

Roller Time Family Skate Center – Easley

Homeschool Days: February 5th & 18th, March 5th& 25th, April 16th & 29th, May 7th & 20th
Time: Noon-2 pm
Cost: $6
Roller Time Family Skate Center Website
719 Ross Avenue, Easley

Big Air Greenville

Mid-Day Madness days: Every Wednesday and Thursday when Greenville County Schools are in session
Time: 1- 3 pm
Cost: $18/person ($3 Big Air grip socks required)
Big Air Greenville Website

Upcountry History Museum

Homeschool days: January 23rd, February 27th, March 27th, May 22nd
Time: 1:30 pm
Cost: $14/adult, $11/elementary, middle, and high school student, $9/age 3+, free/kids 2 and under. If you are a museum member, adults are free and students are $7/each.des the homeschool days are designed for before booking.

540 Buncombe Street, Greenville
Upcountry History Museum

Stewart Farms

Stewart Farms in Enoree offers a pumpkin patch, hayrides, a honeybee observatory, storytelling, and corn maize during their fall homeschool day. 

Homeschool day: Fall 2026
Time: 9 am – 1 pm
Cost: Maize-only field trip is $6/person, Pumpkin patch trip is $10/person. A combo ticket is $14/person.
More info: No reservations are needed. See their Stewart Farms website for details. These days are not for homeschool co-op field trips, only for homeschool families.

600 Highway 92, Enoree, SC
Stewart Farms

Thompson Family Farms

Farm tour, fall crop souvenir and access to the pumpkin patch and flower field. There is also a scavenger hunt.

Homeschool day: Usually October
Time: Tours start every hour on the hour (10am, 11am, 12pm)
Cost: $8/student

13830 SC-11, Campobello, SC
Thompson Family Farm

Hunter Farms

Come out to the farm to enjoy the corn maze, hayrides, pumpkins, and other games and activities.

Homeschool day: TBA for 2026
Time: 10 am – 2 pm
Cost: $10/person

2401 Jameson Road, Easley, SC
Hunter Farms

Hot Wheels Skating Center

Homeschool days: Every Wednesday in the fall
Time and Cost: Noon-2 pm ($5) and 3-6 pm ($6)

Hot Wheels Skating Center
2345 S. Pine Street, Spartanburg


Homeschool Guide

Everything you wanted to know about homeschooling in the Upstate.

Greenville’s Premier Homeschooling Guide

Homeschool Events Calendar

Date/Time Event
January 5, 2026
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Half Day Art Camp
at TR Makers Co., Travelers Rest SC
January 12, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
🆓
January 15, 2026
2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Little Shepherds Class
at Whispering Pines Farm, Seneca SC
January 19, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
February 9, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
February 12, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Valentines Bash
at Belleview Meadows Event Barn, Fountain Inn SC
February 13, 2026
1:45 pm - 3:00 pm
Homeschool Art Class- February
at The Painted Palmetto Art Studio, Spartanburg SC
🆓
February 18, 2026
3:45 pm - 4:30 pm
STEM Studies
at Pelham Road (F. W. Symmes) Library, Greenville SC
February 19, 2026
10:00 am - 2:30 pm
SC Botanical Garden's Homeschool Days
at Clemson Botanical Gardens, Clemson SC
February 20, 2026
10:00 am - 2:30 pm
SC Botanical Garden's Homeschool Days
at Clemson Botanical Gardens, Clemson SC
February 23, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
🆓
February 23, 2026
3:45 pm - 4:30 pm
Teen Game Time
at Blue Ridge Library Branch, Greer SC
🆓
February 24, 2026
3:45 pm - 4:30 pm
Science Station
at Hughes Main Library, Greenville SC
🆓
February 27, 2026
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Teen STEM
at Travelers Rest Library Branch, Travelers Rest SC
🆓
February 27, 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Homeschool Friday's
at Anderson County Museum, Anderson SC
March 9, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
🆓
March 13, 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Homeschool Friday's
at Anderson County Museum, Anderson SC
March 17, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Jocassee Wild Child-Outdoor Lab Experience
at Devils Fork State Park, Salem SC
March 19, 2026
10:00 am - 2:30 pm
SC Botanical Garden's Homeschool Days
at Clemson Botanical Gardens, Clemson SC
March 20, 2026
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Days
at The Greenville Zoo, Greenville SC
March 20, 2026
10:00 am - 2:30 pm
SC Botanical Garden's Homeschool Days
at Clemson Botanical Gardens, Clemson SC
March 20, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Jocassee Wild Child-Outdoor Lab Experience
at Devils Fork State Park, Salem SC
March 23, 2026
10:00 am - 12:45 pm
Walnut Grove Homeschool Day (Ages 3+)
at Walnut Grove Plantation, Roebuck SC
March 23, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
🆓
March 25, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
YMCA of Greenville's Youth Opportunities & Connection Fair
at Caine Halter Family YMCA, Greenville SC
🆓
March 27, 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Homeschool Friday's
at Anderson County Museum, Anderson SC
April 6, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Jocassee Wild Child-Outdoor Lab Experience
at Devils Fork State Park, Salem SC
🆓
April 10, 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Homeschool Friday's
at Anderson County Museum, Anderson SC
April 13, 2026
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Homeschool Climb
at Climb at Blue Ridge, Taylors SC
April 15, 2026
10:00 am - 2:30 pm
SC Botanical Garden's Homeschool Days
at Clemson Botanical Gardens, Clemson SC

Regional Homeschool Days

South Carolina State Museum

Homeschool days: All days they are open
Time: Regular hours of the museum
Cost: Free general admission for homeschool families, which includes one adult (the primary educator) and their children. Discounted admission to the 4D theater and planetarium is $3/person.
SC State Museum Homeschool

301 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC | 803.898.4990

Zip ‘N Slip Snow Tubing

Homeschool day: January 28th & February 18th
Time: Two hour sessions are at 10 am, Noon and 2 pm. They limit the number of people on the hill to 100 tubers so please make reservations online.
Cost: Tickets will be $20/person for two hours of tubing (cost is usually $45). Children aged 3-5 are free with paid adult. Save time at the check-in window by printing out the waiver on the website.

10725 US-23, Mars Hill, NC 
Zip ‘N Slip Snow Tubing Park

Appalachian Ski

Homeschool days: Winter 2026
Cost: $40/per person for skiing, $45/per person for snowboarding; $16/per person for lessons

940 Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, NC | 828.295.7828
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Kidding Around Review

Eudora Wildlife Safari

Homeschool days: They are offering free admission in January every Saturday and Sunday to homeschool families that show proof of homeschooling with their association card. They will get their vehicle in free up to six people per car.
Time: Saturday 9 am – 4 pm, Sundays Noon-4 pm
Cost: Free

219 Salem Lane, Salley, SC | 803.564.5358
Eudora Farms
Kidding Around Review

Bee City Zoo

Homeschool days: February 26th and 27th, 2026
Time: 9 am – 5 pm
Cost: $7/person; must provide proof of homeschooling
Bee City Zoo

1066 Holly Ridge Ln, Cottageville, SC | 843.835.5912

Riverbanks Zoo

Homeschool days: Homeschool Mondays are for homeschool families with kids ages 2-5 with an adult and homeschool classes are available for kids ages 5-9 on select dates. See website link for full calendar.
Time: Classes are 75-90 minutes long
Cost: $36/child for session (3 classes) for Riverbanks Zoo members (non-members will pay this cost plus the cost of admission); Family Workshops are $25/family up to six people.
Riverbanks Zoo Homeschool

500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC | 803.602.0803

Charlotte Motor Speedway

Designed for students in 1st through 8th grade. Kids will get a day of STEAM learning plus a ride around the track.

Homeschool days: February 5th and May 6th
Time: 9:30 am – 1 pm
Cost: $21/student; students can bring their own lunch or purchase two slices of pizza and a drink for $5
STEAM Homeschool Days

ZMAX Dragway, 6570 Bruton Smith Boulevard, Concord, NC

Beech Mountain

Homeschool days: Monday-Friday non-holidays during the 2025-26 season
Time: During open hours
Cost: Tickets are $50/skier/snowboarder which includes, lift ticket and equipment rental; $20/skier/snowboarder for beginner group lesson (optional) and $30/skier/snowboarder who has their own equipment. Riders/skiers must be 8 years old+. Please plan to tip the instructor. 
More info: Must register three days ahead of time. More info here.
Distance from Greenville: 2 hours and 45 minutes

1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC

Chimney Rock Park

Homeschool days: March 11th, May 20th,  September 23rd, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 3 pm
Cost: Homeschool days are $14/adult, no charge for adult Annual Passholder Adult; $16/youth (ages 5-15) admission and programs, $10 Youth Annual Passholder
More info: Register here Chimney Rock Homeschool Days.
Distance from Greenville: 1 hour

431 Main Street, Chimney Rock, NC
Chimney Rock Homeschool Days

Dollywood 

The theme park and waterpark offers discounted admission prices and 20% off standard rooms at the Dollywood DreamMore Resort for homeschool families during the dates below. 

Homeschool days: TBA
Cost: $41/ticket for kids in grades K-12 and $51/ticket for each accompanying adult. Dollywood Splash Country rates are $37/ticket.
More info: To obtain the tickets, you need to call (888) 428-6789 at least 72 hours ahead of your visit. These tickets are not available at the gate. Here’s our story on Dollywood homeschool dates.
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours

2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN
Dollywood Website

The Lost Sea Adventure

Visit massive underground caverns and take a boat ride in an underground lake.

Homeschool days: Every Monday, August through May except holidays
Cost: $14/student and $24/adult
Distance from Greenville: 3.5 hours
The Lost Sea Adventure | Kidding Around Greenville Review

140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN | 423.337.6616

Beyond the Lens

This is such a fun place to visit and explore. They have all kinds of old school games plus each room has a different theme – one is Bigfoot, another is optical illusions, another is Presidential. It’s so fun!

Homeschool days: Closed for renovations
Time: Closed for renovations
Cost: Techno Combo (Beyond The Lens & Flyride): Child Techno-Tainment Combo : $13.99, Adult Techno-Tainment Combo: $13.99; Child Beyond The Lens ONLY: $6.99, Adult Beyond The Lens ONLY: $6.99; Child Flyride ONLY: $7.99, Adult Flyride ONLY: $7.99 (The child must be at least 32 Inches to ride on Flyride)
More info: Upon arrival, let the front desk know you are homeschoolers looking for the homeschool rate. Please bring either the Letter of Intent or Association Registration.
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours
Beyond the Lens website

Beyond the Lens fun!

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

In addition to the Homeschool Days below, a walk-up rate of $10.99/child and $19.99/teaching adult any day is applicable if you show proof of homeschooling.

Homeschool days: February 18th, March 18th, April 15th, May 20th
Time: 12:30 pm; labs are at 2 pm on some dates and are an additional $12/person and kids must be nine years old.
Cost: $15/grades K-8th, $15/adults, $6/ages 2-5; walk-up homeschool rates just to the aquarium are $10.99/student and $20/teaching parent
More info: Reservations must be made 72 hours in advance.
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours
Ripley’s Aquarium Website

88 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN

The shark tank at Ripley's Aquarium in Tennessee

Alcatraz East Crime Museum

A 25,000 sq feet museum, Alcatraz has more than 100 interactive exhibits. Guests will learn about the justice system, forensic science, and lots of other interesting things about crime and criminal history.

Homeschool days: January & February 2026 weekdays when school is in session
Time: Monday-Friday 10 am – 3 pm
Cost: $12/person or $10/person in groups of 10 or more
More info: Note that this rate is just during weekdays when school is in session; not available on holidays
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours
Alcatraz website

Georgia Aquarium 

Topics include everything from sustainability and conservation to what it’s like working in an aquarium to how technology is used in ocean exploration. 

Homeschool days: Every second Tuesday of the month September – March
Time: 9 am – 1 pm
Cost: $17/student and $32/adult; parking is $20.
More info: Tickets must be reserved in advance online here: ticketing Georgia Aquarium.
Distance from Greenville: 2.5 hours
Georgia Aquarium

225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 

Wonderworks

Explore more than 100 exhibits and interactive experiences, like rock climbing, bubble making, a ropes course, and tons more. Both locations closest to Greenville in Pigeon Forge, TN and Myrtle Beach, SC offer these homeschool days and rates.

Homeschool Days: January and February 2026 when school is in session, Monday-Friday from open till 3 pm.
Cost: $14/person or $12/person if you are with a group of more than 10 people
More info: Must show proof of homeschooling. See Wonderworks online for more info.
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours to Pigeon Forge and 4 hours to Myrtle Beach

1313 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC
100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN
Wonderworks

Titanic Museum

Homeschool days: Every day
Cost: $14/person
More info: Homeschool info
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours

2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN

MagiQuest Pigeon Forge

Homeschool days: Likely August 2026
Cost: $10/person
More info: Admission includes 18 holes of Pirate Golf, Odyssey Mirror Maze, 60 minute game of MagiQuest with Loaner Wands; must present proof of homeschooling; register here
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours

2491 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 

Great Wolf Lodge – Atlanta & Concord

Homeschool days: Concord – Feb. 23-27 (Code: 2602SVHS), Mar. 15-20 (Code: 2603SVHS); Atlanta – Mar. 1-6 (Code: 2603SVHS), Apr. 26 – May 1 (Code: 2604SVHS)
Additional info: A flyer will be available at check-in with exclusive attractions and retail discounts.
Join this Facebook group for helpful deals on GWL homeschool days

Wilderness at the Smokies

Enjoy the largest indoor waterpark in Tennessee at this resort in the Smokies. Read our Wilderness at the Smokies review

Homeschool Days: 2026 homeschool days are:

  • January 25-29
  • February 8-12 & 22-26
  • April 19-23 & 26-30
  • May 03-07 & 10-14

Cost: As low as $134/night
More info: Use the code HOMESC to book online or via phone
Distance from Greenville: 3 hours
1424 Old Knoxville Hwy, Sevierville, TN
Wilderness at the Smokies

Biltmore

Homeschool Days at the Biltmore include storytelling, learning about artifacts and what it was like to live and work at the estate in the early 1900s. 

Homeschool days:  They usually have one in September, October, and November
Times: There are two 90 minute sessions, morning and afternoon, to choose from: 10:00am – 12:00pm and 1:30pm – 3:30pm.
Topics: TBD
Cost: You must have a ticket to do one of these programs and cost is TBD. If you have an annual pass, you don’t need to pay for an adult ticket if you don’t want to participate but you will be charged for student tickets.
More info: To register, call 866-851-4661. Kids need to be at least five years old to participate and the sessions are geared towards K-6th grade.

1 Lodge Street, Asheville
Biltmore Education

Biltmore event

Make These “You Rock” Valentines

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Need an idea for school Valentines this year? The time-honored tradition of handing out small cards with a little candy, stickers, pencils or other small trinkets to the class is one school children look forward to year after year. Who doesn’t like receiving nearly 2 dozen little presents and notes? If you’re looking for something a little different this year, check out these homemade “You Rock” Valentines.

(more…)

Your Southern Winter Storm Checklist: What Families Recommend

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Southern Winter Storm Checklist

When a southern winter storm is headed to our area our local community knows how to prepare. We asked local families what’s on their storm prep list—and they delivered a ton of helpful advice.

Why Prepare Anyway?

Southern storms, as we have all learned the hard way over the last couple of years, can be unpredictable. Winter storms are no exception. No matter how long you’ve lived in the south, by now you’ve likely noticed we don’t get a whole lot of actual winter weather. And, as such, we don’t really have the tools to deal with it. Does the county even have a snow plow? Probably. Maybe 1 or 2.

The other part about winter storms in the south, is that being southern, we do retain some of our warmer air. And sometimes when moisture comes along and that warmer air and cold air mix in the right way, we get a little ugly baby called freezing rain. Falling through the layer of cold air so quickly it stays liquid, the freezing rain then becomes solid ice on contact with a surface- your car, sidewalk, driveway, power line or tree limb. Ice is HEAVY. And that, dear winter southerners is a how freezing rain causes power outages. Sometimes a lot of them, and sometimes for many days.

So, yes. Prepare. You’re not overreacting. What’s the worst thing that happens? You buy a few extra bags of cheese puffs?

Trader Joes Cheese Puffs

So, yes. Prepare. You’re not overreacting. What’s the worst thing that happens? You buy a few extra bags of cheese puffs?

Why? Cheese puffs have a way of convincing you everything’s going to be fine, even if the wind sounds like a haunted flute.

Your Southern Winterstorm Checklist

Here’s a clear, family-friendly checklist to help you get ready before the snow and ice arrive. We’ve split it into two parts: things to do now and things to gather or check before the power goes out.

✅ Things To Do Before the Storm

These are the action steps locals recommend tackling before the snow hits.

  • Fill up your car gas tanks and extra gas cans
  • Test your generator and read the manual
  • Place your generator at least 20 feet from any windows or doors
  • Cover the generator from snow and ice (but never run it with the cover on)
  • Detach outdoor hoses and cover spigots
  • Fill bathtubs, sinks, and large containers with water for washing and flushing
  • Do all laundry while you still have power
  • Pre-cook meats like chicken or ground beef
  • Make freezer meals (chili, baked ziti, etc.) that are easy to reheat
  • Charge all phones, tablets, battery banks, and rechargeable lanterns
  • Download movies, shows, audiobooks, and offline games
  • Set up one warm room where the whole family can sleep
  • Plan meals that can be cooked on a grill, fire, or Blackstone
  • Fill propane tanks for your grill or outdoor heater
  • Pack a go-bag with clothes, toiletries, and documents in case of emergency
  • Cover outside stairs or your car with a tarp or blanket to prevent ice
  • Stock coolers with ice if you’ll need cold food storage
  • Locate your T-key and know how to shut off water at the meter in case of frozen pipes
  • Shower before the storm while you have hot water

🧺 Things To Buy (Have on Hand)

These are the supplies Greenville families say help most during a winter storm—especially if the power goes out for a while.

Warmth and lighting

  • Hand warmers
  • Firewood and kindling
  • Propane for your grill or heater
  • Extra blankets and sleeping bags
  • Thermal wear, cozy socks, and layered clothing
  • Battery-powered lanterns and flashlights
  • Extra batteries (all sizes)
  • Solar lanterns or rechargeable LED bulbs
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Candles and matches or lighters

Food and water

  • Bottled water for drinking
  • Non-perishable snacks and shelf-stable meals
  • Paper plates, cups, napkins, and utensils
  • Ice for coolers
  • Caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas)
  • Ibuprofen or other essentials
  • Manual can opener
  • Grill-safe cookware like cast iron or Dutch ovens
  • Pet food
  • Cheese puffs

Safety and extras

  • Generator and long extension cords. Follow the manual.
  • Generator cover (remember: don’t run it while covered)
  • T-key to shut off water
  • Spigot covers (or a towel)
  • Sand, pool salt, or ice melt
  • First aid kit
  • Board games, puzzles, books, or card games
  • Tent or fort blankets to make a cozy indoor camp
  • Milk jug lantern trick: flashlight plus jug of water makes a great room light
  • Fill Prescriptions

Final Tips from the Community

  • Don’t wait until the last minute. Grocery stores and gas stations get hit hard.
  • Use your generator safely. Always keep it far from doors and windows, and never run it inside a garage.
  • Meal prep now. Having ready-to-heat meals makes a big difference when you’re low on power or energy.
  • Download media before the internet goes out. Audiobooks are especially popular.

Have a tip we missed? Drop it in the comments or message us on social media! We’re all about neighbors helping neighbors here in the Upstate.

Stay warm, stay safe, and take care of your people.

Meals for power outages

Struggling to come up with things to feed the family when the power is out?
Check out our list of of Meals for Power Outages, complete with a shopping list.

Things to Do This Month in Spartanburg, SC

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Are you looking for things to do in Spartanburg, SC? These are the events happening in Spartanburg now. Find events in Spartanburg this weekend, or plan things to do all month long.

These Spartanburg events are listed by date. Simply click on each event for more information.


Events calendar

Things to do Spartanburg, SC

If you’re looking for more things to do, head to our Giant List of Things to Do in Spartanburg, SC.

What’s Happening in Spartanburg, SC this month?

Date/Time Event
🆓
June 25, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City of Spartanburg- Music on Main
at Morgan Square, Spartanburg SC
June 26, 2026
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Spartanburg History Lunch & Learn (Ages 13+)
at Chapman Cultural Center, Spartanburg SC
June 26, 2026
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Hub City Spartanburgers- K-Pop Night
at Fifth Third Park, Spartanburg SC
🆓
June 26, 2026
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Summer Night Concerts in Woodruff
at McKinney Park, Woodruff SC
June 27, 2026
10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Downtown Spartanburg Walking Tour
at Denny’s Plaza, Spartanburg SC
June 27, 2026
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Night Swim at Shipwreck Cove
at Shipwreck Cove, Duncan SC
🆓
July 1, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
STEM Storytime (Ages 2-5)
at Spartanburg Science Center, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 2, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City of Spartanburg- Music on Main
at Morgan Square, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 3, 2026
12:00 am - 11:45 pm
View Church Fireworks Spectacular (Time TBD)
at View Church, Boiling Springs SC
July 3, 2026
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Summer Fun Fridays! Craft Workshops at The Painted Palmetto
at The Painted Palmetto Art Studio, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 4, 2026
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fretwell Market
at Fretwell Market, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 4, 2026
2:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Red, White, & Boom
at Downtown Spartanburg, Spartanburg SC
July 8, 2026
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Magic: The Gathering (All Ages)
at Rockers Brewing Co, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 9, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City of Spartanburg- Music on Main
at Morgan Square, Spartanburg SC
July 10, 2026
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Summer Fun Fridays! Craft Workshops at The Painted Palmetto
at The Painted Palmetto Art Studio, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 11, 2026
11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Second Saturdays at the Seay House
at Seay House, Spartanburg SC
July 12, 2026
1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Makeover Day Spartanburg
at Dr. T.K. Gregg Community Center, Spartanburg SC
July 12, 2026
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Hub City Spartanburgers- Princesses at the Park
at Fifth Third Park, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 15, 2026
10:00 am
Park Hop Playdate
at Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park, Boiling Springs SC
🆓
July 15, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
STEM Storytime (Ages 2-5)
at Spartanburg Science Center, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 16, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City of Spartanburg- Music on Main
at Morgan Square, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 23, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City of Spartanburg- Music on Main
at Morgan Square, Spartanburg SC
July 24, 2026
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Summer Fun Fridays! Craft Workshops at The Painted Palmetto
at The Painted Palmetto Art Studio, Spartanburg SC
July 24, 2026
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Spartanburg History Lunch & Learn (Ages 13+)
at Chapman Cultural Center, Spartanburg SC
July 25, 2026
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
KuBoo Basket Weaving at Croft State Park
at Croft State Park, Spartanburg SC
July 25, 2026
10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Downtown Spartanburg Walking Tour
at Denny’s Plaza, Spartanburg SC
July 28, 2026
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Hub City Spartanburgers- Baseball is for Everyone Night
at Fifth Third Park, Spartanburg SC
🆓
July 30, 2026
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
City of Spartanburg- Music on Main
at Morgan Square, Spartanburg SC
July 31, 2026
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Summer Fun Fridays! Craft Workshop at The Painted Palmetto
at The Painted Palmetto Art Studio, Spartanburg SC
July 31, 2026
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Hub City Spartanburgers- Christmas in July
at Fifth Third Park, Spartanburg SC

Fill Up Your Weekends With Things to Do in Spartanburg

Free (and Cheap) Things to Do in Spartanburg, SC: There are lots of things to do, even if you’re on a tight budget.

Top 9 Parks and Playgrounds in Spartanburg, SC: These are some of our favorite parks and playgrounds in the Spartanburg area!

10 Fun Things to Do in Downtown Spartanburg: These downtown places are the perfect way to spend the day!

Grab a bite to eat at these local Spartanburg area restaurants.

What event are you planning to attend in Spartanburg this month?

6 Stress-Busting Date Ideas in Greenville, SC

Posted on |

Want a date and stress-busting activity all at the same time?
Sometimes we need physical ways to get out pent-up frustration and stress. And doing that with our significant other could be fun. Here are some Greenville date ideas that are great for busting stress and relieving frustration.

Stress-busting date nights in Greenville, SC

Numerous studies point to pent up anger, stress, and frustration leading to physical problems like depression, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, insomnia, and aches and pains in joints. For me, exercise is a huge help in dealing with stress, but I also like more enjoyable physical activities. I’ve done everything in this list except for the last one!

I think these would be awesome date night activities as well since you can bond with your significant other while smashing a car or throwing a few punches at a bag. If you want more normal date night activities, we do have a big list of date night ideas in Greenville, SC!

Mad Smash

You can quite literally smash up a car or take swings at glass, plates, or anything else that can be destroyed with a bat or golf club. It feels really, really good to do this. Mad Smash is by appointment only.

250 Mill Street, 2nd Floor, Taylors

Axe Throwing

Grabbing an axe and chucking it at a target is a fantastic stress reliever. Craft Axe Throwing and Group Therapy are local places where you can do just that.

Kickboxing

While kickboxing is an awesome workout, it’s also a great way to release frustration. Mad about work? Punch that bag. Stressed about your kids and school? Kick the bag. Just irritated in general? Let. It. Out. For kickboxing here in Greenville, try 9Round. They have multiple locations around town.

Spinning

Spinning is basically biking except on a stationary bike that you can adjust to different levels to make your ride harder or easier. These bikes aren’t from the 80s. They’re slick, durable, and deliver a great sweat session. Bring your partner, water, a towel, and get spinning. You’ll feel awesome afterwards (if you can stand up). CycleBar® offers spinning lessons here in town.

307 East McBee Ave, Suite B, Greenville

Jump Around

While you’re not necessarily hitting things or trying to seriously tire out your body, you’ll definitely have the opportunity to feel like a carefree kid at a trampoline park. It makes for a fun date, jumping around, doing flips or swinging off a trapeze bar if you’re really adventurous.
Here’s a list of trampoline parks in Greenville.

Sky Diving

This is the only thing on this list I haven’t done personally. And I won’t. But one of our writers who has gone skydiving suggested it. I imagine it’s because when you’re about to jump out of a perfectly good airplane by your own free will, you are literally thinking of nothing else and just letting the adrenaline take over. Good luck.

Skydive Carolina
1903 King Air Drive, Chester, SC

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

Find lots of great date night ideas! We have a really big Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC.

Would you do any of these stress-busting activities with your date?

The Premier Guide to Things to Do in Greer, SC: Downtown Fun, Tasty Food, & More

Posted on | 4 Comments

Looking for things to do in Greer, SC? Greer, SC is the perfect place to live and play! Straddled between Spartanburg and Greenville, residents of Greer have the best of both counties right at their fingertips, plus all the things Greer has to offer! Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this city has a great downtown area, plus loads of unique restaurants, parks, and things to do.

Greer, SC Things to Do

In this article, we’re taking you through Downtown Greer and beyond to show you why Greer, South Carolina is an amazing place to be!

You can explore Greer and walk beneath the glowing lights on Trade Street, grab some ice cream and stroll through Greer City Park in the heart of Downtown Greer, visit the surrounding area to enjoy some disc golf at local parks like Kids Planet, or travel north to enjoy some gorgeous views of the foothills. There are so many things to do in Greer, SC!

Greer tube man

Looking for more places to spend the day with your family? Here’s our list of Day Trip Towns, just a short drive from the Upstate.

Things To Do In Downtown Greer, SC

If you are looking for someplace to go to enjoy the outdoors, there is no shortage of them in Greer.  From downtown parks to lakes with mountain views, Greer has them all.

Toads on Trade Scavenger Hunt

While you spend the day downtown, keep your eyes on the ground. A family of 16 Toads are waiting for you to find them on (and near) Trade Street as part of the Toads on Trade activity. Information about the free Toads on Trade scavenger hunt activity can be found online.

Greer City Park in Greer, South Carolina
Greer City Park

Greer City Park

301 East Poinsett Street
Located in the heart of Downtown Greer, this park hosts numerous free events throughout the year. Families can enjoy time on the playground or a stroll around the lake any time of the year.

  • Greer Farmers Market
    Various mornings and evenings throughout the year! The summer series is from May through October, with a winter market throughout the colder months. You’ll find 35+ local vendors, offering everything from fresh local produce to handmade jewelry.
  • Food Truck Rollout
    Many Fridays from 5 pm-8 pm (March – October)
    Throughout the year, the city invites local food trucks out to the park for food, tailgating, games, and music.
  • Moonlight Movies
    Thursdays from 6 pm – 11 pm, during warmer months. (June – August)
    This free, family-friendly movie includes pre-show fun with free inflatables, crafts, games with prizes, and dancing. The movie starts at dusk in the park amphitheater, and seating is first-come, first-serve.
Moonlight Movies in Downtown Greer, SC
  • Greer Goes Global: An International Festival
    Annually in April, the city comes together to represent 40+ different cultures and countries. Experience the food, crafts, and culture of the people of the Upstate. The Festival is FREE and open to the public.
  • Greer Arts and Eats Festival
    This FREE annual festival includes live music, kids’ activities, food vendors, local artisans, and more.
  • Christmas in Greer
    Enjoying all of the events around Christmas in Greer is magical. From the tree lighting ceremony that involves a story read by Santa to the Christmas parade, nothing beats the small-town charm during the holidays.

An Evening in Greer City Park

Shop and browse stores in Downtown Greer:

You can find more shopping through the Greer Station guide.

Archery at the Upstate Renaissance Faire in Greer, South Carolina
Greer Renaissance Faire

Greer Heritage Museum

106 S Main Street, Greer
Free museum telling the historical story of the city. Check out their amazing Greer Ghost Tours hosted throughout the month of October!

More Fun in the Greater Greer Area

Barnyard Flea Market

2000 South 101 Highway
The Barnyard Flea Market is only open on weekends, offers free parking at an easy-to-find location, has wide aisles for strollers, and hundreds of vendors. Plus, you can grab some really yummy tacos inside!  

BMW Zentrum

1400 Highway 101 South
Visitors will learn about the history of BMW and view examples of BMW’s vehicles throughout the car maker’s history. Guided plant tours are available for visitors 12 and up.

Pelham Mill Park

2770 East Phillips Road
This truly unique park is a fun place to explore. The ruins of what was once a cotton mill provide visitors with a history lesson in a beautiful setting, along with a dog park if you have your four-legged friends in tow. 

Lake Robinson

2544 Mays Bridge Road
Lake Robinson offers beautiful views of the North Greenville mountains, perfect for a quiet afternoon on the lake.  There are shelters to rent, sidewalks to roam, boats to watch and even a fishing dock.

Lake Robinson

Century Park: Kids Planet and Disc Golf

3605 Brushy Creek Road
Century Park in Greer offers visitors an 18-hole disc golf course that weaves in and out of trees and over a stream. Century Park also has an amazing imaginative playground with zip lines, picnic areas, and other facilities.

Trapped in the Upstate

556 Memorial Drive Extension, Suite D, Greer
If you’re looking for an indoor adventure, then head to Trapped in the Upstate. The only escape room in Greer, SC has multiple rooms to explore and attempt to beat the clock. Check out Kidding Around review of Trapped in the Upstate to see what to expect.

Where To Eat In Greer, SC

There are so many great restaurants in Greer, SC that we actually have a full guide just to dining out in Greer, SC. With all the things to do in Greer, SC, eating excellent food is absolutely one of them!

So, if you’re looking for all your best options, start there. However, here are a few favorites.

Downtown Greer Restaurants

Cartwright Food Hall

Providing options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a tap room with beer and wine, Cartwright Food Hall is Greer’s newest restaurant establishment. You’ll find a multitude of local eateries all in one spot, which means everyone can find something they want to eat.

Breakfast in Downtown

Barista Alley: Coffee Shop with breakfast options like crepes and muffins
Flying Fox Coffee: Coffee shop with relaxed vibes
Cafe on Trade: Delicious breakfast menu
The Bleu Porch Kitchen & Market: Cute restaurant, perfect for lunch dates

Lunch or Dinner in Downtown

If you have room left for dessert, don’t miss Abbott’s Frozen Custard.

If you’re cool driving just a tiny bit further, Scandi Tiny Coffee Shop is a great place to grab coffee!

Where to Park in Downtown Greer, SC

The addition of so many attractive things to the downtown area raises the question of where people will park? Downtown Greer has lots of parking options; you just need to know where to go. Parking is always free downtown, and below is a list of places to safely park, in addition to the streetside parallel parking available on Trade Street and Poinsett Street.

There is also a large parking garage beside the Hampton Inn.

Where to Stay in Greer, SC

This section contains a STAY22 Affiliate link. KA earns when you book through this link.

Hampton Inn in Downtown

Hampton Inn Greer is Downtown Greer’s brand-new hotel. It’s located on Main Street in Greer making it an easy walk to all the shops and restaurants on historic Trade Street, as well as Greer City Park.

Seasonal Fun

No matter the season, there’s something special going on in Greer.

Christmas in downtown Greer
This annual holiday celebration offers visitors free activities for kids and the lighting of the Greer Christmas tree.

Buck and Ann’s Strawberry Patch
139 Pearson Road, Greer | 864.879.461
This small berry patch is located just off of I85 and is a popular stop with Kidding Around readers.

Buck and Anns strawberry patch in Greer, SC

Fisher’s Orchard
650 Fisher Road
Nothing says summer like a fresh juicy peach! Pick your own, or have somebody else do the work for you.

Albino Skunk Festival
The SkunkFarm, 4067 Jordan Road in Greer
Love music and outdoor festivals? You’ll definitely want to check out the Albino Skunk Festival in the fall or spring. Read our full review of the Albino Skunk Festival in Greer!

What’s Happening this Weekend in Greer, SC?

Date/Time Event
June 23, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stories & Adventures
at Edward R Driggers City Of Greer Center for the Arts, Greer SC
June 27, 2026
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Greer Freedom Blast
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
June 28, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Plant Swap - Pollinator Week
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
June 30, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stories & Adventures
at Edward R Driggers City Of Greer Center for the Arts, Greer SC
July 7, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stories & Adventures
at Edward R Driggers City Of Greer Center for the Arts, Greer SC
🆓
July 9, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Moonlight Movies
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
July 11, 2026
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Foothills Philharmonic Summer Pops Concert
at Edward R. Driggers City of Greer Center for the Arts, Greer SC
🆓
July 12, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Health Day
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
July 14, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stories & Adventures
at Edward R Driggers City Of Greer Center for the Arts, Greer SC
July 17, 2026
4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
2026 Upstate Homeschool Expo
at Greer City Hall, Greer SC
🆓
July 19, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market Peach Cookoff
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
July 23, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Moonlight Movies
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
July 26, 2026
12:00 am
Greer Farmers Market - Watermelon Day & Plant Swap
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 2, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - National Farmers Market Week 
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 6, 2026
10:00 am
Park Hop Playdate
at Kids Planet at Century Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 6, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Moonlight Movies
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 9, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Back to School 
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 16, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Clean Water Appreciation
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 23, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Community Resources
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
August 30, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Plant Swap
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
September 6, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Sports
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
September 13, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Mushroom Celebration
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
September 20, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Paint in the Park: "En Plein Air"
at Greer City Park, Greer SC
🆓
October 4, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Greer Farmers Market - Pumpkin Party
at Greer City Park, Greer SC

The Best of Greer

Looking for more? Here’s what’s new in Greer, or just some of our favorites that you should definitely not miss!

Greer, South Carolina, United States of America

No Electricity? Meals & Food For Power Outages

Posted on |

Preparing for the storm and wondering what meals you can cook with no electricity? If the power goes out, what is there to eat? Maybe you’re wondering about creative nonperishable foods for power outages that your family will actually eat.

With storms approaching and a possible power outage, thinking ahead about meals to make if you have no electricity can be a smart move amidst grabbing the obligatory bread and milk from the grocery stores. Today we’re making storm prep easier with several no-power-meal ideas.

Meals for power outages

Our readers are awesome. We asked them for ideas on what to make if we end up losing power due to a storm. They answered with a lot of creative suggestions.

We’re answering:

  • What meals can I cook without power?
  • What food should I buy before a storm?
  • What can I feed my family if the power is out?
  • And, we have a handy food for power outage grocery list!

Food For Power Outage: How to Feed Your Family With No Electricity

What meals can you make with no power? Use these foods for power outage ideas the next time a storm is headed your way.

Use the grill

If you have a gas or charcoal grill, fire it up and have a cookout. Hamburgers, chicken, vegetables, even cut up potatoes with a little olive oil and salt can all be put on the grill when you have no electricity in your house. So be sure to grab extra charcoal and gas if you are running low.

Charcuterie boards 

Get fancy and put together a Charcuterie board since nothing on it needs to be cooked and it’s prettier than a sandwich.

Tuna/egg/chicken salads

Make these ahead of time so all you need to do is get some bread and break out your premade tuna, egg, or chicken salad. I made some hard-boiled eggs just to have on hand for protein snacks but they could easily be used in an egg salad as well.

Chips and salsa

So simple but oh-so-good.

Sandwiches

Several readers suggested peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or cold cuts you already have in your fridge. Or get fancy and make a wrap.

Overnight oats

I make this when I go camping because I’m not awesome at starting fires. All you do is put oatmeal into a container, add milk and honey and leave overnight. Eat it the next morning. No need to heat anything up. I also add dried cherries (or whatever fruit I have on hand) and a little cinnamon.

How to make coffee with no power
Making coffee during a power outage

Don’t forget the cold-brew coffee

When I was writing this story and came across this suggestion, I stopped what I was doing and made the cold brew coffee (coffee grounds and water inside a glass container and stick in fridge) because I don’t want headaches in the midst of no electricity. Excellent suggestion, readers!

  • If you rely on a coffee grinder to grind coffee beans, grind some now and store in an airtight container to use later.
  • You can also make hot coffee if you can boil water on a gas stove, camp stove, fire or grill. Steep your ground coffee with the hot water and either use a french press or pour through a coffee filter to remove the grounds.
Power Outage: meals to cook with no power in a dutch oven

Make a campfire and use a Dutch oven for soups and stews

One reader suggested using a Dutch oven to cook over a campfire (tip: use the lint from your dryer or egg cartons to help start the fire). This is a good idea – just be sure to make a safe fire, using a stone ring (you can bricks or other bigger stones) and then put whatever you want to cook in your Dutch oven and put it over the fire. Here are some ideas on things to cook inside a Dutch oven.

Want it to be super simple? Keep a couple of cans of soup on hand and just pour them into the Dutch oven. When it’s hot, you’re good to go. You can also use a camp coffee percolator without the percolator parts to hold the soup while it heats up.

Use your camping stove

All of you who go camping, this is your moment. If you have a camping stove that runs on gas or a little backpacking camping stove, don’t forget about it if you lose electricity. You could pretty much cook anything on it. I personally love making rice and beans for camping so I’d probably go with that, especially since it’s easy and filling. But you could make pancakes, eggs, soups, bacon – the options are endless.

Use a camp stove during a power outage
Camp stove

No fuss, grab and go

Keep some healthy non-perishable items on hand like: protein bars, apple sauce pouches, jerky or meat sticks, peanut butter cracker packs, raisins, and trail mix.

You can do a lot without a fridge: nonrefrigerated meals

If you’re without power for a long time, you’ll specifically want things that don’t need a fridge and freezer. You can make most of the items in this list with non-refrigerated items. Ideas include sealed cured meats, single-serving aseptic milk boxes (the kind you’d put in a child’s lunch box), cereal, applesauce pouches, raisins, canned soup, and canned tuna.

Pro Tip: Buy smaller jars of salsa, pickles, etc so your family can finish them in one meal eliminating the need for a fridge to safely store leftovers once they’ve been opened.

Grocery List: Food for Power Outage

Are you getting ready to head to the grocery store to stock up on essentials before bad weather and a potential outage? Below is a convenient grocery list of items that will help you make the meals above.

Remember, if you purchase small jars or even little packets of condiments you’ll have less waste if you are in a lengthy outage with no refrigeration.

Shopping list for power outage
  • Canned soup
  • Canned beans
  • Minute rice
  • Sliced ham, cheese, or any other meats/cheeses you’d want on a sandwich
  • Tortilla chips
  • Salsa
  • Peanut butter & jelly/honey
  • Bananas and fruit you like
  • Milk – regular, almond, coconut or oat
  • Oatmeal
  • Olives
  • Bread or tortilla wraps
  • Canned chili
  • Hamburger meat and buns
  • Hot dogs and buns, also look for things like summer sausage
  • Ketchup
  • Chicken for the grill and chicken salad
  • Eggs
  • Tuna
  • Mayo
  • Yogurt
  • Coffee, ground
  • Charcoal
  • Salami or chorizo
  • Pickles
  • Protein bars or granola bars
  • Jerky or meat sticks
  • Raisins, apple sauce pouches
  • Fruit cups
  • Trail mix and dried fruit
  • Aseptic milk boxes- single serving
  • Banana bread or muffins

Winter Storm Additions

Preparing for a winter storm? Here are a few extra things to have on hand:

  • Handwarmers
  • Hot Cocoa, Coffee, Tea
  • Check to be sure you have gas or charcoal for your grill, and firewood if you can plan to use a fireplace as a source of heat. If you plan to use a camp stove, make sure to pick up a few canisters of fuel.
  • This is also a good time to check the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector. Alternative heating like gas fireplaces often are not vented.

Get the full checklist to help you Prepare for a Southern Winter Storm. We made it from helpful reader tips.

What would you add to this list?

Go Sledding: sled alternatives

No Sled? Get that trash can lid ready! Here are the objects that work instead! (And the ones that don’t….)
Southern Sledding: Sled Alternatives


Cooking without electricity Pin

The Ultimate Date Night Guide: Date Night Ideas in Greenville, SC

Posted on |

If you need date night ideas, Greenville, SC has some of the most fun and romantic options!

Guide to Date Night in Greenville, SC

Whether you’re planning a date night for a special day or just want to go out for an evening away from the kids, Kidding Around can help with some great date ideas & reader recommendations.

Kaboom awards

Best Date Ideas: Who Has KABOOM?

The KABOOM Awards are Kidding Around’s annual best of contest. Readers say these are the TOP 5 Date Ideas in Greenville, SC

Top Romantic Dates in Greenville, SC

Looking for something romantic to do for your next date in Greenville? We collected ideas and thoughts from our readers and came up with 14+ perfect romantic date options in Greenville for you!

Stress Busting Dates in Greenville

Sometimes we need some physical ways to get out pent-up frustration and stress, right? And maybe doing that with our significant other could be fun. This list of stress-busting dates in Greenville has some ideas for working out some of that stress and frustration together.

Epic Dates Within Two Hours of Greenville

Planning an outing for a special occasion? These unique date ideas are all within two hours of Greenville, so you can get a babysitter for the day or ask Grandma to come over and spend the day with the kids and head out on an adventure with your date. Our suggestions include spotting blue ghost fireflies, a brewery tour, places to kayak, and a lot more!

Inexpensive Dates in Greenville

Dating on a budget? We know it can be a challenge. So we’ve rounded up these Greenville free and inexpensive things to do that make a great date night.

Dates Nights With a Baby in Greenville

Sometimes when you have a little baby, you need to bring them along on your date night. Maybe the baby doesn’t take a bottle well, or maybe you’d just rather not leave your little one with a sitter. Regardless of the reason these Greenville date ideas will work splendidly with a baby along.

Greenville, SC at night

Restaurants in Greenville for Date Night

Restaurants are a traditional date night choice. We have some interesting ideas for you from locally sourced restaurants to places with live music, and even a gourmet culinary tour.

Greenville Activities That Make the Perfect Date

Want to plan a date night (or afternoon) around more than a meal? Here are some great options for things to do that make the perfect date.

Salsa at Sunset in downtown Greenville, South Carolina

Overnight Dates Near Greenville

The Old Soul Treehouse

Old Soul Treehouse: This treehouse on Lake Greenwood in Waterloo, SC is completely stunning and the perfect place for a romantic getaway!

Watch! Our visit to Old Soul Treehouse

Planning a weekend away from the house with your significant other? There are some great Bed and Breakfasts Near Greenville that might be just what you are looking for!

Or maybe you want to plan a trip to nearby Asheville, NC, in which case you should check out our Visitor’s Guide to Asheville, NC. You’ll find ideas for things to do and great restaurants.

Seasonal Date Night Ideas: Greenville, SC

No matter the season, there’s something interesting going on in Greenville. The same is true for date night ideas. Check out these lists of date night things to do when you’re looking for something unique.

Day Trip!

Want more date night ideas? Plan a day trip!

Gibson Mill outdoor seating

Check out these unique date ideas in Columbia SC.

Or, one of these awesome date ideas in Charlotte, NC.

Top Family Specialists in Greenville, SC (KABOOM Awards

Posted on |

Looking for a quick list of the best family specialists in Greenville, SC? We asked our readers to vote on their top picks in our annual KABOOM Awards contest. Here’s what they chose as the best family specialists in Greenville, SC!

Best Family Specialist in Greenville, SC

Best Family Specialist

1st Place: Elevate Audiology – Hearing and Tinnitus Center

Finalists:

Shriners Children’s Greenville


At Elevate Audiology – Hearing & Tinnitus Center, we specialize in helping patients understand and improve the way they hear and process sound. Our team of Doctors of Audiology—Dr. Alexandra Tarvin, Dr. Katelyn Ooms, and Dr. Khori Cioli—provides expert, compassionate care in a welcoming environment where your concerns are truly heard.

We offer comprehensive audiology services including hearing evaluations, hearing aids, tinnitus care, and treatment for sound sensitivity disorders like misophonia and hyperacusis. What also sets us apart is our expertise in Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)—a condition where the ears “hear,” but the brain struggles to make sense of what’s being heard. APD can look like inattention or behavioral challenges, but it often shows up as: -Difficulty following directions -Trouble understanding speech in noisy settings -Reading or spelling struggles -Losing focus during conversations

At Elevate Audiology, we provide thorough auditory processing evaluations and evidence-based treatment programs, with both in-office and virtual therapy options for children (ages 7+) and adults. Unlike typical clinics, we spend more time with our patients, creating personalized solutions that fit their lives. When you choose Elevate, you’re not just improving your hearing—you’re gaining a partner for lifelong listening success.

Want to learn more? Grab your free APD Guide here.

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