Irmo Prepares for 50th Annual Okra Strut Amid Rainy Forecast

Irmo Gears Up for a Rainy, Festive Weekend with the 50th Annual Okra Strut

Welcome to Irmo! As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, the excitement is building for the much-anticipated 50th Annual Irmo Okra Strut. This year’s celebration, taking place at Moore Park on September 27 and 28, promises to be a fantastic event filled with fun activities, delicious food, and memorable entertainment. But as we prepare for this golden jubilee, it looks like Mother Nature may join in on the festivities with some heavy rainfall.

The Weather Forecast

Before we dive into all the amazing things happening at the festival, let’s talk about the weather. It looks like we’re in for a wet weekend. According to the latest forecast, we can expect periods of rain throughout the day on Friday with a high of 77°F and a 100% chance of rain—that’s right, folks, grab those umbrellas! As the day progresses, we might see heavy downpours later on, with rainfall estimates reaching 3 to 5 inches.

As the festivities kick off on Friday night, there’s a possibility of scattered thunderstorms, followed by strong winds overnight with gusts of 25 to 35 mph. Temperatures will drop to a cozy 74°F with another round of rain expected, potentially bringing in an additional inch of rainfall. While we are all for celebrating and enjoying the spirit of the Okra Strut, it’s definitely a good idea to keep an eye on the skies as the weekend unfolds.

A Look Back at the Okra Strut

The Irmo Okra Strut isn’t just any festival; it has a rich history that dates back to 1973 when the Lake Murray-Irmo Woman’s Club held a modest arts and crafts fair aimed at raising money for a new library. Fast forward 50 years, and the Okra Strut has transformed into a spectacular celebration attracting around 25,000 attendees each year! Isn’t it amazing how a small community event can grow into such a beloved tradition?

Festival Highlights

This year’s festival will kick off on Friday evening around 7:30 p.m. with performances from Simply Shania, a tribute to the incredible Shania Twain, followed by the energetic sounds of Cowboy Mouth hitting the main stage at the Prisma Health Amphitheater. It promises to be a fantastic night filled with toe-tapping tunes.

On Saturday, the action starts early with the cherished Irmo Okra Strut Parade at 9 a.m. Don’t forget, if you’re planning to attend the parade, make sure to arrive early since Saint Andrews Rd. will be closed to traffic by 8:45 a.m.. The festive spirit will continue throughout the day as visitors enjoy arts and crafts vendors, rides, amusements, and, of course, scrumptious food!

Rain or Shine, Let’s Celebrate!

No matter the weather, the 50th Annual Irmo Okra Strut is set to be an event to remember. While we might have to dodge the raindrops on Friday and Saturday, the festival’s organizers have assured attendees that the fun will go on rain or shine. Some details, like band start times, may shift due to weather conditions, but keep that spirit high and your rain gear handy!

Whether you’re a fan of live music, delicious local food, or just looking to enjoy a day filled with community fun, the Okra Strut has something for everyone. So, gather your friends and family, and let’s make this year’s celebration one for the books, even if it’s accompanied by a little rain!

Stay safe, enjoy the festival, and here’s to 50 years of the Irmo Okra Strut!