What’s Going On This September in Polk County?

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in community spirit or enjoy a hands-on learning weekend, Polk County’s September calendar does not disappoint. Here’s a curated line-up featuring events in Saluda, nearby Tryon and Mill Spring, plus other standout activities around the county.

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Saluda & Neighboring Town Highlights

1. Top of the Grade Concert – “The Wilder Flower”

• Date: Friday, September 12
• Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Description: An enchanting evening of live music atop the scenic amphitheater in Saluda. Bring your lawn chair, a picnic, and enjoy the melodious local sounds under the stars. saluda.com

2. Prepper Camp 2025

• Dates: Friday–Sunday, September 26–28
• Location: 460 Orchard Lake Road, Saluda, NC
• Description: A unique, immersive 3-day experience in self-reliance, homesteading, preparedness, and off-grid living. Expect hands-on workshops, demonstrations, contests, music, movies, and a shopping mall filled with gear—great for clients with an adventurous spirit. PrepperCamp

3. Weekly Yoga at Fence

• When: Fridays in September (e.g., Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26) at 9:30 AM
• Description: A free community yoga session led by Rhonda Giles, fostered by the Polk County Community Foundation. A soothing way to start your weekend! Explore Tryon

4. Free Wine Tasting at Tryon Bottle

• When: Fridays, September 12 & 19, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Description: Wind down with great local wines in Tryon—just a short drive away from Saluda. Explore Tryon

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Polk County Community Events

5. 11th Annual Walk/Remembrance

• Date: Saturday, September 20
• Description: A free, heartfelt community gathering focused on overcoming mental health stigma. polkschools.orgFacebook

6. Community Benefit Concert at Polk County Middle School

• Date: Saturday, September 27, starting at 10:00 AM
• Location: Mill Spring
• Description: A fun-filled family event featuring food trucks, live music, bounce houses, a fashion show, a car showcase, vendors, and more—great for clients and families. First Peak of the Blue Ridge+1

7. Pop-Up Pantry Fundraiser at The Saluda Inn

• What: The Second Annual “Evening at The Saluda Inn” — a special fundraiser supporting the Saluda Pop-Up Pantry.
• When: Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Where: The Saluda Inn, offering a refined and intimate venue to gather in support of a meaningful cause.
• Featuring: Live music performed by Aaron Burdett and Friends, making for an unforgettable evening of community, charity, and culture.

8. Saluda Strong Community Picnic at McCreery Park

• Name: Saluda Strong Community Picnic
• When: Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Where: McCreery Park, downtown Saluda
• What to Expect:
  A heartwarming evening of fellowship and camaraderie—neighbors gathering in the great outdoors to celebrate saluda’s spirit and solidarity

Saluda Restaurant & Venue Spotlight

The Purple Onion

• When: Every Thursday & Saturday night
• What to Expect: A delightful mix of outdoor and indoor dining, complemented by live music spanning jazz, blues, folk, and rock. It’s a great spot for an intimate dinner with entertainment.
  https://purpleonionsaluda.com

Green River Eddy’s Tap Room & Grill

• When: Fri–Sat: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Sunday: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM throughout September
• September Highlights:
  • Sept 6 (Sat): The BBC Trio (7–10 PM)
  • Sept 12 (Fri): Steel Creek Band – a high-energy cover band playing favorites from the ’50s to today
  • Sept 13 (Sat): Carolina Players – old-school southern rock & R&B
  • Sept 14 (Sun): Jay Brown Solo – Americana one-man-band with harmonica and originals
  • Sept 19 (Fri): Bruised Rhino – a psychedelic, Americana-blues-soul fusion jam band
  • Sept 20 (Sat): Cross Eyed Betty – acoustic Americana with electric violin and harmonies
  • Sept 21 (Sun): The Baggage Brothers – bluegrass-infused storytelling
  • Sept 26 (Fri): Crimson Moon – classic rock to ’90s dance favorites
  • Sept 27 (Sat): Swamp Rabbit Bluegrass – improv-driven acoustic energy
  • Sept 28 (Sun): JC Tokes Trio – Retro-Americana, country, blues, rockabilly