As autumn paints South Carolina’s landscapes with vibrant hues, the Everything Outdoor Fest (EOF) gears up to transform Historic Hopkins Farm in Simpsonville into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers from November 2-3. Open from 10 AM to 6 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 5 PM on Sunday, the festival promises an immersive experience for attendees, regardless of age or ability, highlighting the state’s natural beauty and promoting outdoor wellness.
Jacqui B. McGuinness, the event’s organizer, shared her inspiration during an interview with Modern Campground, reflecting on the pandemic’s impact. “The idea of Everything Outdoor Fest came during the pandemic,” McGuinness explained, “When I started to notice the boom in the outdoor recreation industry. Everyone wanted to spend time outside walking, hiking, biking, kayaking—doing things they could do safely. The only way I felt sane was to be outside in nature.”
Historic Hopkins Farm, with its flat spaces, trails, and water features, provides the perfect setting for the festival’s diverse activities. “There is no event quite like EOF because we have so many unique clinics and experiences, along with exhibitors, live music, and food trucks,” McGuinness shared. One standout feature is the High Flying Skyhoundz Disc Dog Tournament, a crowd favorite that showcases talented canines and their skills.
Inclusivity is a core value of the festival. This year, the event incorporates adaptive sports, making outdoor activities accessible for individuals with disabilities. “We are the only event that combines both adaptive and regular sports,” McGuinness noted. She highlighted that extensive research and conversations with the adaptive community have shown strong support for this integrated approach. “They loved having adaptive sports integrated with everyone else.”
To make the event accessible for all, admission is kept at a low cost of $12. This allows attendees to spend an entire day exploring the festival’s offerings. McGuinness emphasized that the festival’s affordability aims to attract a diverse crowd.
“We are only in year 2 and don’t expect to make a profit until at least year 3 or 4. That being said, the entire event is a way of giving back to the community. I have been producing events for a living most of my career. This event is a labor of love for me and my team. We decided to keep the ticket price inexpensive so people can afford to bring their families and experience an entire day of enjoyable activities,” McGuinness told Modern Campground.
Partnerships with local organizations enhance the festival’s accessibility efforts. Prisma Health and Roger C. Peace Rehabilitation Hospital are bringing adaptive sports like golf, cycling, and yoga to the event. “We are also working with Waymaker Off-Road Wheelchairs to bring 12 wheelchairs to use at no cost for people with disabilities to be able to enjoy the event,” McGuinness shared.
“By donating tickets to various organizations that serve underserved areas, we hope to have many attendees who would never have thought to come,” McGuinness told Modern Campground.
A new highlight this year is the Hoka Trail Experience, which caters to both seasoned runners and beginners. Partnering with local retail store Run-In, Hoka will provide sample shoes for attendees to try.
Heather’s Ride, an initiative that offers off-road hand cycling experiences for individuals with lower limb challenges, further emphasizes the festival’s inclusive mission. “As part of our mission, we wanted people who have disabilities to come to experience the event. Shepherd riders will guide and follow the participants on beginner or intermediate trails,” McGuinness said.
The festival also includes family-friendly activities like the Waboba Wingman Flying Disc Game. “This is just one of the many games in the games area of the Fest,” said McGuinness. “The apparatus will be set up, and all who want to play can try it.”
Engagement extends beyond physical activities. Dick’s Sporting Goods is sponsoring a scavenger hunt, aimed at children and families. “Dicks is a big supporter of kids’ sports, and what kid doesn’t love a scavenger hunt?” McGuinness said.
Educational components also play a significant role in the festival, with the Conservation Village providing insights into South Carolina’s environment and natural resources. McGuinness highlighted that Tread Lightly, an organization that teaches responsible off-road safety, will be present to educate attendees on how to keep trails and public lands open for future generations.
Looking ahead, McGuinness envisioned the event continuing to evolve and grow, drawing more unique experiences and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
“Over time, the festival will continue to attract unique outdoor adventures and experiences, along with organizations that support it. The event is only in its second year and already has a lot of great sponsors and supporters, which allows us to bring great educational clinics, experiences, and entertainment. We have our dates for 2025, November 1-2. Save the date!” McGuinness emphasized.
As Everything Outdoor Fest grows, McGuinness also hopes to add more outdoor retail exhibitors to the mix, providing even more opportunities for attendees to engage with and experience outdoor gear. “We are hoping to add more outdoor retail exhibitors in the future,” she added.
To learn more about the upcoming Everything Outdoor Fest, visit everythingoutdoorfest.com.
Featured image by Everything Outdoor Fest
