3. Irmo Okra Strut

The Buzz -- This unique festival started out back in the 1970s as a fundraiser for a new town library. Over the years, it has grown and grown, and today attracts more than 50,000 visitors. Okra does indeed feature prominently (if you’ve never tried it, this is a great opportunity), but along with the fried green pods you can sample a wide range of other tasty Southern tidbits. Besides entertainment, scheduled non-stop all weekend, you can enjoy browsing craft booths, touring a petting zoo, catching the parade and taking a whirl on a ride or two.