Since 1962, the Come-See-Me Festival has served as Rock Hill, SC’s salute to spring. What began as a weekend event has grown into a ten-day celebration with almost 80 different events and activities. As the festival has grown, Come-See-Me has become a major part of Rock Hill’s history.
The festival was started by C.H. “Icky” Albright. Mr. Albright was a former mayor of Rock Hill as well as a state senator. He wanted a way for the community to showcase its beautiful gardens during the spring. Come-See-Me was a fun reason for Rock Hill residents to invite their friends and relatives to visit. It was also a way to encourage tourism. Today, Mr. Albright’s dream has been fully realized. Attendance tops 120,000 each year and attracts participants from across the United States and around the world.
Another major player in Come-See-Me’s founding and growth was Vernon Grant. Mr. Grant was a nationally recognized illustrator who lived in Rock Hill. Perhaps best known for creating the Kellogg’s® characters Snap, Crackle, and Pop®, Mr. Grant created the festival’s mascot, Glen the Frog®. Each year, a new festival logo is created using one of Mr. Grant’s 30 original drawings of Glen. The colors and design may change, but Glen remains the heart of Rock Hill’s most beloved festival.
Of course, a festival of this size isn’t possible without the generous support of our many sponsors. We’re especially grateful for our official festival sponsors, the City of Rock Hill, Rock Hill Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Carolinas HealthCare System, Williams & Fudge, and Comporium. In addition to our sponsors, our volunteers are one of our biggest assets. Each year, hundreds of people from throughout Rock Hill and York County come together to welcome visitors to our area. Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the community, too. Sign up online for one of our many opportunities.
Subscribe to our blog to get all the latest information about the 2017 Come-See-Me Festival. The 2017 festival runs from April 20-29. Make plans to join us for this festival full of fun!