COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina State Fair has a new youth admission policy for the 2024 of the annual event.
Sunday through Thursday remains the same as prior years: After 5 p.m., anyone under the age of 18 must be with a parent (21 or older) to enter.
But something new this year: On Friday and Saturday, all day, anyone under the age of 18 must be with a parent (21 or older) to enter.
Fair staff say they will be checking valid driver's licenses before fairgoers reach the ticket scanners during active youth police times and days. The Richland County Sheriff's Department will also be on site to assist if any issues arise.
18 or older? You might be asked to show a valid driver's license to prove your age.
No driver's license and no parent? Fair staff say you won't be able to enter during restricted periods.
The Fair also has updated their clear bag policy. It reads as follows:
- This year, all bags must be clear and not bigger in size than 12″x6″x12″.
- Bag logos can be no larger than 4.5″x3.4″ and can only be displayed on one side of a permissible clear bag.
- Medically necessary items may be approved after proper inspection.
- Diaper bags accompanied with a baby may be approved after proper inspection.
- Pre-approved exceptions may be allowed, such as for camera equipment or food allergies. See pre-approval form linked to this webpage. 24-hours notice required.
- All bags will be subject to search upon arrival and any bags that exceed the permitted size will not be allowed in.
For more information on fair safety, visit the SC State Fair website.