Noah Whitworth & Olivia Hosken
palmettoreport@gmail.com

(Rock Hill, S.C.) — The Come-See-Me Festival concluded its 10-day run of events, which brought thousands of visitors to Rock Hill for a celebration of community, culture and tradition.

The annual festival, April 16-25, featured a wide range of family-friendly activities including live music, food vendors, fireworks and a parade.

“I think it means so much to a lot of people, because it’s just something that marks the beginning of spring to them,” said Nate Mallard, chairman of the Come-See-Me Festival, who was a guest on the Palmetto Report.

It has become one of the largest and most anticipated events in the region, drawing both locals and out-of-town visitors.

“Yeah, I think the festival means a lot to a lot of people in Rock Hill,” said Nate Mallard. “It’s been around for over 60 years and we have people who grew up going to the festival.

“I was one of those people and now I’m serving as festival chair this year — so it really comes full circle,” he said.

Some of the more popular events include a Beach Bash, Tailgate Party, Frog Jump and Teddy Bear Tea Party, but Mallard said the festival offers something for everyone.

“I think it means a lot of things to different people in Rock Hill, but overall it’s something everyone in Rock Hill loves and enjoys,” Mallard said.

Local businesses and organizations also play a big role, using the event as an opportunity to connect with the community.

“It has been going on for several decades; it started as a one day event and now has become a 10 day event,” said John, a beer vendor who didn’t give his last name.

“Today’s events include our Hops at the Park, which is a celebration of different libations, primarily beers. We also have gourmet gardens which is a celebration of different foods and cultures,” John said, on the opening weekend of the event.

For many attendees, the festival has become a yearly tradition.

“Come-See-Me is a tradition in Rock Hill. I think our family has always come since the kids have been little and I think this is our fourth time running the 5k (race) together,” said Laura Lee, a Rock Hill resident.

“I think it’s a great place for anybody in Rock Hill or surrounding areas to come and hang out with neighbors or meet some new friends. There are events for everyone,” said said.

“The race was beautiful this morning, we had great weather, nice and cool and a good breeze. It’s a nice shady route. There are some tough hills going around Winthrop Lake and Sumpter Avenue, so that definitely got to some people, but I think everyone had a great time,” Lee said.

Another well-known participant in the 5K was Lucas McFadden from WRHI Radio, who is the co-host of Palmetto Mornings.

“When I’m not busy doing that job, I’m involved with Come-See-Me,” McFadden said.

“Not my best race, as I haven’t run in several months, but I didn’t care because, as you know, running is a you vs you sport, but being around family, friends and complete strangers cheering you on. That’s what it’s all about,” he said.

As the Come-See-Me Festival concludes, organizers say the event will continue to provide entertainment that boosts the local economy and showcases Rock Hill as a vibrant destination.