- What: 47th Annual Loris Bog-Off Festival
- When: Saturday, October 17, 2026, starting at 9 a.m.
- Where: Downtown Loris, SC
- Highlights: Chicken bog cooking contest, 200+ vendors, two stages, kids’ area, and an evening finale
What Is Chicken Bog?
Chicken bog is a classic Southern comfort dish made with chicken, rice, sausage, onion, and spices.
Every cook has a secret version.
The Bog-Off started in 1980 as a cooking contest.
It has grown into a big annual celebration that draws visitors from across the Carolinas.
The Chicken Bog Cooking Contest
The cooking competition remains the festival’s heart.
You can watch cooks put their own spin on the dish.
If you’d rather eat than cook, chicken bog is sold by festival food providers.
Come hungry and try more than one plate if you can.
More Than Just Chicken Bog
There’s plenty to see once you’ve eaten. The festival features:
- More than 200 vendors with arts, crafts, and retail booths
- Two entertainment stages with local dance groups, school choruses, and bands
- Food vendors with plenty of festival favorites
- A large children’s area
- An antique car show, which the City of Loris lists as part of the festival
The mix of local talent and local businesses gives the day a lively, welcoming feel, and it’s a great way to meet the community.
A Full Day for the Whole Family
Kids, parents, and grandparents will all find something to do.
The children’s area keeps younger visitors busy while adults browse booths, listen to live performances, and enjoy chicken bog.
If you like to run, the Loris Bog-Off “Chicken Run” 5K is scheduled for the morning of October 17.
Fireworks and a Free Concert to Close the Day
As the festival winds down, the celebration continues with a free concert and a fireworks finale. It’s a fitting end to a day built around food, music, and community.
Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive early. The festival starts at 9 a.m., and the best parking and shortest lines come early.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The festival covers several downtown blocks.
- Bring cash and a bag. Some small vendors may prefer cash, and you’ll want something to carry your finds.
- Check the schedule. The Loris Chamber of Commerce posts the latest times for the contest, stages, and evening events.
Add Loris to Your Myrtle Beach Trip
Loris offers a different side of the Grand Strand, with small-town charm, local food, and community traditions. Spend the morning at the beach, then head inland for the festival, or make it your main event for the day.
Need a home base? Browse a Myrtle Stays vacation rental, then find more to do on our Experiences page and the Myrtle Stays blog. Traveling with a group? Our 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom rentals have plenty of room for everyone.
Come Hungry, Bring the Family
If you want something different on your fall itinerary, mark your calendar for the Loris Bog-Off on October 17, 2026. Taste the bog, explore the vendors, enjoy the entertainment, and experience one of the area’s longest-running fall traditions. Learn more about the town at the City of Loris website, and call us at (843) 702-9979 if you’d like help planning your stay.
