Weather and Festivities Set the Scene in Aiken
Aiken, get ready for a delightful mix of weather and holiday cheer as we dive into what’s happening around town this week! This morning, brace yourself for some scattered thunderstorms that might swing in with a bit of gusto. These storms could bring along strong gusty winds, so whether you’re heading out for a morning jog or running errands, keep your umbrella handy! The high is expected to hover around a comfortable 70°F, with winds from the west-southwest blowing at 10 to 20 mph. With a 70% chance of rain, it’s definitely one of those “better safe than sorry” days.
After the storms pass, expect a partly cloudy afternoon with temperatures dipping to a chillier 40°F in the evening. The winds will switch up a bit, swinging from the north-northwest at a gentle 5 to 10 mph. So, if you’re planning to enjoy any of the local events, a light jacket might be in order!
Community Events Overflowing with Holiday Spirit
This Thursday, November 28, there’s more than just food on the agenda! Join in for the Thanksgiving Dinner served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Wagener. The best part? The meal is completely free, and you don’t even need to bring a thing! If you want to reserve a table, just give them a call at 803-564-5661.
After you’ve indulged in a hearty meal, get ready for some fun at the 13th annual Turkey Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run at Citizens Park. Registration is $15 for the fun run, $20 for the non-chip timed 5K, and $25 for the chip timed 5K. Heads up though—prices take a jump by $5 if you register after today! The races kick off bright and early at 8 a.m., and proceeds help support the local Toys for Tots initiative. For more info or to register, just hop over to runsignup.com.
Jazz, Crafts, and More
Looking for some smooth tunes? Swing by The Willcox tonight from 7 to 9 p.m. to catch 4 Cats in the Doghouse playing some jazzy numbers. If you’re in the mood for crafts, don’t miss the Christmas Crafts at the Farmers Market this Saturday, November 30, between 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.. It’s the perfect way to find unique gifts from local artisans, so bring your holiday shopping list!
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, consider checking out the Clays for Conservation event hosted by the Aiken Land Conservancy at the Palmetto Shooting Complex in Edgefield this Saturday. They’re offering beginner instruction as well as competitive divisions for seasoned shooters. Tickets range between $75-$150, and everything’s included from lunch to ammo—a great deal for a fun day outdoors.
Kickoff to Christmas and Unique Gatherings
As we roll into December, the holiday spirit intensifies! Join the fun in Johnston on Monday, December 2, for a community-wide Christmas Holiday kickoff from 5:30 to 7 p.m.. The mayor will be lighting the town tree at 6 p.m., alongside reading The Christmas Story—so bring the family and soak in the festive atmosphere.
There’s also a jam-packed week of meetings, music nights, and holiday crafts leading up to Christmas, including a delightful Christmas concert at South Aiken Baptist Church on December 3 and the 54th Christmas Craft Show on December 6 and 7, offering everything from holiday décor to handmade goodies.
So Aiken, whether you’re taking part in a fun run, enjoying a meal with friends, or shopping for unique crafts, there won’t be a shortage of activities to get you into the holiday spirit!
