NATIONAL SOUTH CAROLINA DAY - August 31
In 2017, National Day Calendar® began celebrating each state (including National South Carolina Day) in the order they entered the union, starting the week of Independence Day and ending with Hawaii. We highlight a small part of each states’ history, foods, and the people who make up the state. Many states have their own state celebrations, and National Day Calendar’s observances do not replace them. There’s so much more to explore; we can’t help but celebrate our beautiful country even more!
NATIONAL SOUTH CAROLINA DAY
On August 31, National South Carolina Day recognizes The Palmetto State and her unique landscapes, bold personalities, and long history.
Catawbas and Cherokee were some of the first to greet Spanish and French explorers in the 16th century. Their tribes dotted the land with villages. The Englished established the first successful settlement near present-day Charleston. Named Carolina initially after King Charles I, the colony later split into North and South Carolina in 1710. Following in the footsteps of the previous colonies, South Carolina would become the eighth state to ratify the constitution.
Though South Carolina may have been more removed from some of the Revolutionary concerns than states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, it hosted some pivotal, if seemingly small, battles. They all begin with the hard-fought and devastating loss at Charles Town. What is now known as the Siege of Charleston is the largest battle ever in the state. Not even Civil War battles compare. While the British claimed the city and some 5,000 prisoners, the course was set for victories to the west at Cowpens and King’s Mountain.
Slavery and the Civil War play a significant role in South Carolina’s complex social, political, and economic profile. Yet, South Carolina reflects much of its beauty of South Carolina in its soulful music and emotive art expressing the voices of generations.
Harleston Green in Charleston established the first golf club in the United States in 1786.
With 187 miles of Atlantic coastline, South Carolina is more than ideal for a beach getaway. With idyllic oceanfront towns, historical tours, delicious seafood, and golf, everyone has a little bit of adventure.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalSouthCarolinaDay
Explore all of South Carolina’s beauty, culture, and history on August 31. Join National Day Calendar as we celebrate South Carolina’s hospitality, stunning landscapes, and dynamic people. Use #NationalSouthCarolinaDay to share on social media.
Universally known as the “Godfather of Soul,” the dynamic American singer-songwriter began his early career with gospel and R&B groups. His flamboyant style, tenacity and talent led him to chart hits. In 1965, Brown won his first Grammy Award for “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” for Best R&B Recording.

South Carolina Flavor
South Carolinians and southerners in particular like their iced tea. Finding a good sweet tea anywhere else in the country can be a challenge.
Another South Carolina feast is a Beaufort Stew. Also known as a Lowcountry Boil, this simple but flavorful dish combines shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes. Once boiled, the entire meal is served on a paper-covered table. Invite the whole family over and dive in for all the deliciousness!
Get one of the ultimate comfort foods in South Carolina. The Palmetto State specializes in baking macaroni and cheese that’s especially comforting and cheesy.
Black-eyed peas served with rice and bacon is transformed into a dish known as Hoppin’ John. In the South, Black-eyed peas are said to bring good luck when eaten on New Year’s Day.
The Southern delicacy of Pimento Cheese finds its way into high-class events or lazy afternoon picnics. It’s referred to as “Carolina caviar” and can be a garnish or a dip.
Mars Bluff Crater – Florence
Drayton Hall – Charleston County
Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve – Lancaster County
Stumphouse Tunnel & Issaqueena Falls – Walhalla