Visiting South Carolina Upcountry, Lakes and Rivers

Upcountry and central South Carolina is gifted with majestic mountains, alive with tumultuous rapids, scenic water falls and serene lakes. An outdoor paradise it is the perfect place for a day trip, family vacation or thrilling adventure. Charming towns like Greenville, who's main street was named one of America's 10 greatest streets, greet visitors with the best of southern hospitality.

Spring blooms with a wealth of activities and events. One of the nation's top arts and crafts festivals is held the beginning of March in Columbia. The Craftsmen's Spring Classic Arts and Crafts Festival features original handcrafted work from over 300 local and regional artists. Exhibitors wares include a broad range of art to fit all tastes and budgets.

Rock Hill north of Columbia off of Interstate 77 is holding the 15th annual Patchwork Tales Storytelling Festival mid March. A unique event featuring performances by well known storytellers, concerts and work shops. York County Library sponsors the festival which is free and families are welcome.

South near the Georgia border, Aiken Spring Steeplechase will be held the third week of March. Steeple chasing is an exciting mix of flat track type racing with the addition of jumping combined in timed competitions. Races vary in length between two and four miles in length with various height rails set on the track. A thrilling event for horse enthusiasts.

Columbia hosts the Palmetto Sportsmen's Classic at the end of March. This is the largest wildlife show in the Carolina's geared for the entire family. There will be activities scheduled throughout the show for adults and children including archery presentations in addition to animal displays and information on hunting, fishing, and conservation.

Not to be missed is the Governor's Frog Jump Festival in Springfield. Held the first week in April it is complete with a parade, carnival, music and a fireworks finale. It's not just about frogs either as past events have included cow drop competitions and a champion egg striker.

Upland, the coming of spring has been celebrated at the Pendleton Spring Jubilee since 1978. The 2010 festival is the first of April and marks the beginning of tourist season for the region. This is a weekend of entertainment, arts, crafts, antiques, and bike rides through towns filled with unique shops and restaurants.

You can see the world in a 'staycation' in Columbia at the Columbia International Festival. More than 60 countries will be represented at the National exhibits and International Bazaar where costumes, artifacts and curious will be displayed. Taste your way through the International Food Court featuring food from all over the globe. Enjoy the art and culture of the world at an International Fashion Show and the cultural entertainment.

The only thing better than a drive through the Carolina Upland is seeing it from the basket of a hot-air balloon. The Freedom Weekend aloft the last weekend in May in Simpsonville where more than 80 hot-air balloons will launch in the early morning peace amidst the magnificent scenery. In its 29th year the festival has grown to include music stages, family fun and games, amusement rides, challenges, Frisbee dog competitions and terrific food.