Iris Festival FAQs

No. The entire Swan Lake Iris Garden grounds is reserved for Iris Festival-approved vendors only. Open solicitation is not allowed at any time during the festival.

The Sumter Iris Festival hosts over 200 vendors each year, offering a diverse selection of goods and experiences. Vendors include artists, crafters, gardeners, and candle makers, along with a variety of food vendors. The festival also features games, rides, and other unique attractions, ensuring something for everyone to enjoy.

Yes! The Sumter Master Gardeners will host their annual iris sale during the festival. This is the only time of year that they are for sale at the gardens. Supplies are limited, so come early for the best selection.

The Japanese Iris beds are located at the water’s edge on both the north and south sides of the gardens.

No. Swan Lake Iris Gardens is a bird sanctuary; therefore, pets are strictly prohibited. Please note that this does not apply to ADA-approved service animals.

We are sorry, but RVs cannot be brought into the garden parking areas. They may be parked at the Sumter County Civic Center. Limited hookups are available but they must be pre-planned and scheduled through the American Legion Post 15 (call 803-236-0569).

The main parking area is located across from the Heath Pavilion on Garden Street (located at 165 Garden Street). Overflow and bus parking is available at the Sumter County Civic Center at 700 West Liberty Street - shuttle buses will run all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday from the Civic Center to Swan Lake. (Map Coming Soon.)

There is no charge for general admission and parking is free on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. However, vendors are required to have pre-approval to sell anything and they do charge for thier products.

The 2025 Iris Festival will kick off the evening of Thursday, May 15, with the opening ceremony and The Taste at the Gardens event. Admission is free, and entertainment and food will continue until 9 PM. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, but coolers are not allowed. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

The full-day festival will start Friday, May 16, 2025, and run through Sunday, May 18, 2025. All vendors and activities are open Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and parking and admission are free.