SCC to host SummerFEST 2026 celebrating America’s 250th birthday

06/01/2026

Southeastern Community College will host its annual SummerFEST on Thursday, June 25, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. on the SCC front lawn, inviting the community to join in a summer kickoff celebration honoring America’s 250th birthday. SCC is partnering with the Columbus County Farmer’s Market to expand the event’s community atmosphere while showcasing local businesses, vendors and organizations.

“We are celebrating America’s 250th, and we’re getting everyone excited about summer,” said Dr. Chris English, SCC President. “This is your traditional American theme with the Fourth of July coming up soon afterwards. It’s going to be a great evening, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Colene Faulk, Dean of Student Services, is looking forward to the campus and community coming together to celebrate the 250th anniversary of signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776. She wants this event to foster a fun and informative environment for children to enjoy carnival games, while adults learn about upcoming educational and workforce opportunities.

“We are partnering with the Columbus County Farmer’s Market again this year, and we really want to showcase everything they have to offer,” Faulk said. “So, this event is going to have a carnival feel to it in addition to celebrating America. We’ll have an information table set up featuring everything offered this coming fall semester.”

The free, family-friendly event will feature local food trucks, inflatables, craft vendors, lawn games and free face painting for children. The evening will conclude with an outdoor showing of National Treasure, beginning at 8:30 p.m.

National Treasure follows historian and treasure hunter Ben Gates (Nicolas Cage) as he hunts for a legendary treasure hidden by America’s Founding Fathers. To keep it out of the hands of a rival, he ends up stealing the Declaration of Independence—because the next clue is hidden on the back—and races across the country solving puzzles to find the treasure first.

Prior to the movie, attendees will view the college’s newly produced commercial highlighting its academic programs, students and community impact. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the evening. The event is free and open to the public.

SCC’s chapter of Campus Crusade for Christ (CRU) will sell popcorn as a fundraiser for the club’s upcoming activities.

SCC employees and local vendors interested in participating or learning more can contact Ashley McPherson, Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Student Services, at [email protected] or 910-788-6243. Click here to complete the Vendor Registration form!