The 51st Annual Hopelands Gardens Concert Series Returns This Spring
The 51st Annual Hopelands Gardens Concert Series Returns This SpringMark your calendars now for the return of our favorite annual concert series in Hopelands Gardens this spring and summer! The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department presents the 51st Annual Hopelands Gardens Concert Series, bringing live performances by local artists on the performing arts stage at the beautiful Hopelands Gardens every Monday evening in April, May, and June. The series kicks off on April 7 at 6:30 PM and continues through June 30. This family-friendly event is free to attend, and guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. Picnics are welcome, but alcohol is strictly prohibited.
While you are there, be sure to explore the beauty of the Hopelands Gardens. Take time to wander along the pathways shaded by 100-year live oaks, visit the Reflection pool, and get lost in the Labyrinth. Hopelands Gardens is also home to the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can learn all about the history of Aiken’s racing champions (Open Tues-Sun). There is so much to see and do, come experience it for yourself this spring!
2025 Hopelands Gardens Concert Series Schedule
Here is the 2025 Hopelands Gardens Concert Series performance lineup, with dates and performers subject to change:
April 7th, 2025, at 6:30pm: The Lady & The Gents
The Lady & The Gents is described as a classic and classy R&B and Smooth Jazz Band with the ability to collectively and creatively resurrect classic oldies (but goodies) and breathe new life into them by pairing them with yet another classic to create “musical masterpieces (mash-ups)” that leaves audiences wanting more. The community has voted them Augusta’s Best R&B and Jazz Band 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.
April 14th, 2025, a 6:30pm: SwingStation, Sponsored by Women of Woodside
Established in 1990, Swingsation, is an 15-piece big band with vocals performing music from the 30′s and 40′s up to today. Swingsation has performed throughout the CSRA at civic events and private parties.
April 21st, 2025, at 6:30pm: Whiskey Business Band, Sponsored by Suzy Haslup & Kathryn Siders, Meybohm Real Estate
Whiskey Business is the 2024 “Aiken County Battle at the Alley” champion and consists of six musicians from all parts of the US, and one from England. They play a diverse set, featuring rock, pop, jazz and blues. Come join us and get ready to dance the night away!
April 28th, 2025, at 6:30pm: Experiment & I-20 Horns, Sponsored by Cumberland Village
The Experiment and the I-20 Horns are a group of 7 Musicians from the Aiken, North Augusta and Augusta area. The group consists of 2 trumpets, tenor sax, trombone, guitar bass guitar and drums. The diverse backgrounds of all the performers allow the group to play all genres of music for all occasions.
May 5th, 2025, at 7:00pm: Heart & Soul: Sponsored by Security Federal
Heart & Soul is made up of seven local musicians who perform together each year for the Aiken Women’s Heart Board benefit at the USCA Etheredge Center. In addition, they often perform for local parties, festivals and weddings throughout the community.
May 12th, 2025, at 7:00pm: The Aiken Concert Band, Sponsored by Aiken Performing Arts
The Aiken Concert Band is a non-profit organization created to promote musical entertainment and enjoyment to the citizens of Aiken and the Central Savannah River Area. The band is presently composed of over 70 talented musicians from the Aiken area. The band is currently under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Mr. Todd Jenkins.
May 19th, 2025, at 7:00pm: The SureFires, Sponsored by The Willcox
The SureFires “Jaycie & Brooke” was formed after the two gals happily got hired together as back-up singers for the popular “Goin’ South” (A Tribute To Southern Music) and has headlined shows at notable places like The Miller Theater, The Riverfront Amphitheater & Lexington Icehouse to name a few. Once they saw the response to them joining forces as a harmonious female duo, they knew they had something special. They are thrilled to perform their acoustic stylings of popular songs (and maybe a couple of originals in between)!
May 26th, 2025, at 7:00pm: Aiken Civic Ballet, Sponsored by The Friends of Hopelands and Rye Patch
Founded by Carl Crosby, the company has been in existence for over 54 years. Under the Artistic Direction of Laura Jones, the company produces original ballets and contemporary dance works. The Aiken Civic Ballet is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.
June 2nd, 2025, at 7:00pm: Keely & Megan, Sponsored by Butterfly Monarch Club
Keely Jean Rhodes, a Grammy Award-winning vocalist and assistant professor of music, and Dr. Megan Rich, head of piano studies, perform as a duo. Both are accomplished musicians and professors at USC Aiken, with Dr. Rich also being affiliated with the Frances Clark Center and the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy. This unique concert is sure to be an inspiring musical collaboration.
June 9th, 2025, at 7:00pm: Aiken Brass Band, Sponsored by Armstrong Air. And South Carolina Air Distributors
The Aiken Brass is made up of six members and has been performing for over 20 years at church services, weddings, festivals, and parties.
June 16th, 2025, at 7:00pm: Josh Martin Band, Sponsored by Pass Heating and Cooling and Armstrong Air
An eclectic group that is skilled in several genres. All of the members have played across the U.S. from Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club, cruise ships, Vegas, Memphis and Nashville.
June 23rd, 2025, at 7:00pm: Chris Ndeti, Sponsored by Overflow Foundation
Chris Ndeti is a dynamic and versatile female acoustic rock/soul performer. She currently performs local venues around the Aiken and Augusta area. This year’s ensemble includes fellow artists James Heath, Mike West and Dave Mercer. They have all played together in various combinations for the last ten years
June 30th, 2025, at 7:00pm: Parris Island Marine Band, Sponsored by Friends of Hopelands and Rye Patch
The Parris Island Marine Band has been a part of the Hopelands Concert Series for over 30 years, performing patriotic staples like John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” This crowd favorite completes the series on a high note.
In the event of inclement weather, any performances will be moved indoors to Odell Weeks Center (Gym 2) at 1700 Whiskey Road. Event parking is available at the Green Boundary Club (780 Whiskey Road), with handicap parking offered at Rye Patch (100 Berrie Road)and Hopelands Gardens (135 Dupree Place).
For more information, call (803) 642-7600 and press 3, visit HopelandsConcertSeries.com, or check out the City of Aiken Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Facebook page.
About Hopelands Gardens
Wrapped behind a wavy brick wall, under a canopy of ancient oaks, deodar cedars and magnolias, is Hopelands Gardens. Opened in 1970 as a public garden, this 14-acre estate was gifted to the City of Aiken by Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin. Throughout the gardens is a network of walking paths shaded by 100-year-old live oaks, beautifully maintained gardens, sparkling ponds, water features, and great places to have a picnic or simply sit a spell and enjoy nature.
It is believed that Mrs. Iselin herself planted the deodar cedars and live oaks which still grace Hopelands Gardens today. The curves of the paths and the garden’s borders lead visitors throughout a wonderful variety of experiences sure to please people of all ages.
The gardens are open to the public from 10 a.m. to sunset. Here is an interactive map that shows all of the must-see landmarks in Hopelands Gardens.
Please Join Aikenhorserealty at the Hopelands Gardens Concert Series This Spring!
Come enjoy a Monday afternoon outdoors in beautiful Hopelands Gardens this spring. Please join us for the April 21st concert featuring Whiskey Business Band, sponsored by Suzy Haslup and Kathryn Siders of Aikenhorserealty. It will be a highlight of the spring season in Aiken, SC. We can’t wait to see you there!
Are you thinking about relocating to Aiken, SC? Be sure to sign up for email updates to be notified of new listings as soon as they hit the market. Check out our blog for more recommendations about things to see and do in Aiken, SC.
Windsor Trace is a special place. The riding trails are majestic. The pine forest feels like a cathedral. The trails are wide and flat. No roots or rocks. On my favorite trail there is a fox squirrel. Always in the same area. It doesn’t run away but watches me ride by. I always say hello. Riding through the aisles of pines you are surrounded by nature’s beauty. It’s an awesome feeling.
This year there will also be live entertainment provided on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage at 7:00 p.m. Spectators should bring a blanket or use the natural amphitheater seating to enjoy the shows. The 33rd Annual Christmas in Hopelands will take place December 14-23 from 6 – 9:30 p.m. Admission is free. 
Spring polo is back, and there’s no better way to enjoy a Sunday afternoon in Aiken, SC. The first Sunday match of Aiken Polo Club’s spring season will kick off April 28th at 2 p.m. Enjoy a wonderful day of horses, friends, fashion, and food. Whether you mingle beneath the pavilion or tailgate beside the field, this is bound to be your new Sunday afternoon tradition. Please visit the 
New Bridge Country Club is another fabulous venue hosting 8-goal polo matches this spring. The 
Pickleball and pizza: could there be a better combination? Come out to beautiful Virginia Acres Park every first Friday of the month for this free event hosted by the Southern Pickleball Academy. Between the City’s 14 pickleball courts, there is plenty of room for everyone to play. No sign-ups are needed and all levels of play are welcome. There will be extra paddles available for those wanting to learn, as well as volunteer instructors. Pizza is ordered based on the number of players. The pizza is free but donations are accepted.
Don your best Derby day attire, grab a Mint Julep, and come celebrate the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby at Bruce’s Field! Party in style in the VIP tent, enjoy specialty cocktails, watch the $50k Chesterfield Cup GP, then place your bets for the greatest 2 mins in sports. The party begins at 4 p.m. with the Chesterfield Cup GP. The KY Derby Race Post Time is approximately 6:45 p.m. 
Spring is in full bloom in Aiken, SC, and there is no better way to experience the beauty of the season than at the 
Shop local and support small businesses! The Aiken County Farmers Market has some of the tastiest fruits and vegetables in town. Stock up on fresh produce, delicious baked goods, meat, honey, or dairy products. Take your time browsing the handmade crafts or pick up a bouquet of spring flowers to brighten up your home. The market is open year-round every Tuesday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Are you thinking about relocating to Aiken, SC? We’d love to welcome you to the South’s Best Small Town! If you’re considering a move to the area, contact Suzy Haslup today. 
The Aiken Center for the Arts’ Aiken Antique Show is celebrating its 24th year. This fantastic annual 3-day event features the best antique dealers from around the region! Come, experience, and celebrate one of the Southeast’s most distinctive events. The show and sale will feature vintage pieces for gardens as well as high quality antique furniture, paintings, lighting, jewelry and rugs. The show and sale will be held from 10 – 6 on February 2nd and 3rd, and from 11 – 4 on February 4th. Tickets are $20 per person for the duration of the show.
One of the great things about living in Aiken is that there is always something blooming – even in winter! The mild climate provides the ideal habitat for flowering camellias this time of year. Come see the colorful blooms for yourself at Cold Creek Nurseries for a day devoted to Camellias. This free, family-friendly event features live music by The Gavin Reilly Band, Hometown Grounds Coffee truck, and complimentary food samples from the Market. Don’t miss the highlight of the event – Sharon Stillwell’s Camellia Seminar starting at 11 am. Learn the essentials about Camellias, Sasanquas, and hybrids, including planting, pruning, and addressing disease or insect issues. 
Come out to Bruce’s Field for Tuesdays in the Park! Tuesday schooling days provide an excellent opportunity for riders to prepare for all of their upcoming competitions in world-class arenas. Tuesdays in the Park occur weekly from January 9 to March 12 from 7:45 a.m. – 4 p.m. (please note there is no Tuesday schooling on February 27th). The event is free and open to the public.
Incorporating four hunts and social events every evening, Hunt Week is an annual festival of foxhunting held during February. Hunt Week 2024 is scheduled for February 7 to February 13. The annual Hunt Ball, gourmet breakfasts, tailgates and cocktail parties all contribute to a festive celebration of horse and hound. Guests come from as far as Canada, New England, Florida and numerous points west. The hunts are all in thousands of acres of beautiful countryside. There is ample room for everyone and a place for every horse and rider in one of our three fields. First, Second and Hill toppers.
Mark your calendar for Breeze Days at the Aiken Training Track! Come join us at the Clockers’ Stand to watch the young Thoroughbreds learn to become racehorses. The early morning scene at the Aiken Training Track is not to be missed! Young horses, often coming onto the track in groups of 2 or 3, train with enthusiasm, while trainers watch closely and time their work. Breeze Days begin at 7:30 AM, held by the Aiken Training Track and The City of Aiken. Mark your calendars now; this is one event you won’t want to miss!
Put on your dancing shoes and come celebrate Valentine’s Day with Joye in Aiken! At this “JOYEful Valentine” Swing Dance Party, you’ll be able to enjoy:
Thousands of spectators travel to Aiken each year to see soldiers and living historians recreate one of the last Confederate victories of the war: 
This annual weekend event has been awarded the SC Parks, Recreation, and Tourism’s Governor’s award for Best South Carolina Event. In addition, The Battle was also awarded the Dr. James Butler National Award for being the nation’s Best Living History Program. In addition, Reenactment Guide selected the Battle of Aiken as one of the top 10 Reenactments in America. 
Take a step back in time and hear, see, smell, and feel the thunder of cannons, muskets, and horses! Tour through numerous stations to interact and learn about Civil War music and dance, Uniforms, Confederate and Union Camps, Artillery Batteries, Saber Demonstrations, Cavalry Camps, 1861 Women’s Fashions, Blacksmithing, and other 19th Century Crafts. Spectators can tour an authentic 19th-century log cabin as well as a recreated one-room schoolhouse, jail, and country store. The highlight of the festival is the weekend’s three dramatic recreated battles. Watch as soldiers recreate the Battle that saved the Town of Aiken! This is a family-friendly event and tickets range between $5-$15 at the gate. Admission for children aged 5 and under is free.
You don’t need to travel all the way to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. The Aiken Downtown Development Association is bringing Bourbon Street back to Downtown Aiken this February for the 6th annual Mardi Gras festival! Head to Newberry Street to enjoy live music, creole cuisine, authentic craft and Abita Beer, a second line Parade, and live music from Soda City Brass Band. Admission is free!
Here are the Best Upcoming
