SC peach festival, a tradition for more than 65 years, is canceled. Here’s why
The 2026 Lexington County Peach Festival has been canceled, after organizers say they won’t have the personnel available this summer to pull off the event.
“We understand this news may be disappointing, especially after 65 years of bringing this beloved tradition to life,” members of the Gilbert Community Club wrote on the peach festival’s website. “The Lexington County Peach Festival has always been more than just an event; it’s a reflection of our community’s spirit, generosity, and commitment to one another.”
The community club, a nonprofit that hosts the one-day festival, voted to call off the event this year, a decision the group said was not made lightly.
“The Peach Festival requires tremendous coordination, planning, and countless volunteer hours from our Club members – from organizing vendors and selling ice cream and concessions, to managing event logistics,” the group wrote. “This year, several of our members will be attending the 250th anniversary celebration of our nation’s founding in Washington, D.C. – a once-in-a-lifetime milestone. Without these individuals available to contribute to the festival’s operations, we cannot ensure the quality experience our community has come to expect and deserves.”
A cherished summer tradition for over 65 years, the festival began in 1958 in the small town of Gilbert, when it had a population of less than 200 people that came alive during the summer, in time for harvesting, packing and shipping local peaches.
It’s an independently-funded event featuring a parade, carnival rides, a car show, pageants, live music, food vendors and one of the biggest Independence Day fireworks show in the Midlands. Proceeds went towards maintaining the clubʼs six-acre park, provide financial scholarships to local students and supporting other community civic organizations.
Gilbert remains a small town of little more than 600 residents. Few peach farms remain operating in the Midlands. But the Lexington County Peach Festival is still recognized as one of the most successful and prestigious events of its kind in the southeastern United States, drawing thousands of attendees each year.
“While we will pause the festival in 2026, our commitment to you remains the same,” organizers wrote. “The Gilbert Community Club’s mission has always been to promote the welfare of our community and make the greater Gilbert community a better place in which to live.”
The Gilbert Community Club is exploring other ways to bring the community together throughout the year.
“We are deeply grateful for your support, volunteering, and joy you’ve shared with us at the Peach Festival,” the club wrote. “Your presence, enthusiasm, and community pride make Gilbert special.”
This story was originally published February 17, 2026 at 12:25 PM.
