Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
The Town of Hilda is gearing up for the return of its beloved Hilda Hometown Festival on Saturday, Oct. 11—a day packed with live music, family-friendly activities, and plenty of small-town pride from 9:45 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The festival’s comeback began in 2022 when the town marked its 125th anniversary. After more than a decade without a festival, town leaders organized a celebration that was, in the words of Mayor April Hutto, “well received and well attended.” The excitement that followed convinced organizers to make it an annual tradition.
“In years past, Hilda hosted the long-running Fireman’s Fun Festival and a short-lived Gopher Festival,” Hutto said. “This was an opportunity to rebrand the festival with something that would embody the revitalized love and enthusiasm for our hometown, and hence, ‘Hilda’s Hometown Festival’ was born.”
Since then, support has continued to grow. “This year, sponsorship has grown to over 60 sponsors, and we are so humbled and grateful,” Hutto said. “This festival is made possible by these amazing sponsors, and their support is precious to us.”
The festival begins with a salute to veterans featuring the Parris Island Marine Band’s Brass Quintet and bagpiper Ryan Shaver, followed by the “Proud to Be an American” parade at 11 a.m., led by the Barnwell County Leathernecks as grand marshal. “We are very honored to have these unique musicians join us as we dedicate our opening ceremonies to honoring veterans,” Hutto said. “It will be special and heartfelt.”
After the parade, attendees can browse more than 60 vendor booths, enjoy a car cruise-in, pick up free festival swag, or sample food from a dozen vendors. The town will also host a bake sale featuring homemade treats from local bakers, and this year’s festival T-shirt will be available for purchase to support event costs.
Children will have plenty to enjoy in the Kid Zone, which opens after the parade and includes a petting zoo, bounce houses, games, crafts, educational experiences, a scavenger hunt, and more. The first 250 children can receive a free lunch, courtesy of local sponsors.
“Our goal is to remain 100 percent cost free to families that want a fun experience for their children,” Hutto said.
Entertainment will continue throughout the day with live performances from a wide range of artists, including country recording artists Robbie Cockrell and Cody Webb, The Big “B” Elvis Tribute, Big Country Richard Mizzelle, and a fire-breathing performer. The festivities will close with a street dance featuring the band Anybody’s Guess at 7 p.m.
“The entire community has embraced our festival and looks forward to it each year,” Hutto said. “While an unbelievable amount of work goes into planning and executing an event like this, we do it because we love Hilda and we love seeing people have a wonderful time.”
Hutto also expressed gratitude to those who help make the festival possible. “In addition to all sponsors and partners, I want to specifically thank our Town of Hilda Council and team, Hilda’s Volunteer Fire Department, and the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office,” she said. “Our committee works tirelessly for months praying, planning and preparing—they are the heartbeat of the festival and our town.”
The festival promises a day of music, food, and fellowship celebrating Hilda’s history and forward progress. Parade entries and car cruisers are still being accepted. For more information or to sign up, email hildashometownfestival@gmail.com or follow Hilda’s Hometown Festival on Facebook.
Bring your family, meet your neighbors, and be part of the celebration that makes Hilda feel like home.
