The fall festival kicks off on the grounds of the Thomson-McDuffie Government Complex (210 Railroad Street) at 10 a.m. and will end at 5 p.m.  The free family-friendly event will feature more than 100 food, craft, jewelry and art vendors, a car show, live music, activities for children, inflatables, health & wellness services, and demonstrations from local businesses. 

“This festival has been a part of the fabric of Thomson and McDuffie County for several years,” said Debbie Jones, executive director of the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce. “It started as a Christmas event, but last year’s move to the fall was so successful, we wanted to do it again!” 

The car show will begin at 10 a.m. in the parking lot on the corner of Greenway Street and Railroad Street, while the live music begins at noon on the stage in the open field across Railroad Street from the government center. The Henry’s are up first, followed by Swing Shift at 1:15 p.m., and the Tony Howard Band at 3 p.m.

In addition to the vendors, many downtown businesses will be open for festival guests.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our long-time local residents, those new to our community and those outside of our community to see the great things Thomson has to offer,” said Jones. “We are thrilled to spotlight our downtown and the businesses and volunteers that make our community great!”

In addition, The Thomson Family Y is hosting a 5K race in the morning at 9 am before the start of the festival. To pre-register for the race, contact the Thomson Family YMCA at 706-595-5615. Registration will also be available the morning of the race near the starting line in the parking lot on Church Street behind Fernanda’s Grill & Pizzeria. 

For more information on the festival, contact the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce at 706-597-1000 or find @camelliacityfest on Facebook.