DORCHESTER, SOUTH CAROLINA
Experience four days of fossil hunting, live music, camping, guest speakers, educational sessions, and outdoor adventure at one of the most unique festivals in the Southeast.
What’s Up Summerville’s MegFest guide includes ticket information, schedules, camping details, FAQs, vendor information, and everything you need to plan your weekend.
WHEN
October 8-11, 2026
WHERE
128 Sandhill Road
Dorchester, SC 29437
CHECK-IN
Thursday, Oct. 8
6:00 PM
CHECK-OUT
Sunday, Oct. 11
12:00 PM
ADMISSION
Tickets $50-575 Per Adult
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Search for fossils day and night throughout the entire event weekend.
Enjoy live performances Friday and Saturday evening as the festival comes alive after dark.
Gather around the campfire with fellow fossil hunters and enjoy the community atmosphere.
Hear from experienced fossil hunters and special guests throughout the weekend.
Explore local wildlife and natural habitats during a guided educational excursion.
Learn fossil identification, techniques, and recovery methods from experienced diggers.
One of MegFest’s most unique traditions and a crowd favorite throughout the weekend.
Browse vendors, makers, and exhibitors throughout all three days of the event.
Whether you’re arriving in an RV, setting up a tent, or car camping, there’s a place for you at MegFest.
Primitive shower facilities will be available on-site throughout the event weekend.
Expand your fossil hunting adventure with discounted Lightning Site Dig opportunities available during the event.
Compare ticket tiers, camping packages, and day-pass options to find the MegFest experience that’s right for you.
See what’s happening each day, including fossil hunts, live music, guest speakers, educational sessions, and special activities.
Learn about primitive camping, RV accommodations, shower facilities, water stations, and what to bring for your stay.
Answers to common questions about tickets, camping, fossil hunting, amenities, and festival policies.
Visit Palmetto Fossil Excursions for ticket purchases, event updates, announcements, and official festival information.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZER
About Palmetto Fossil Excursions
Founded by a passion for discovery and education, Palmetto Fossil Excursions creates opportunities for people of all experience levels to explore the fascinating world of fossils, paleontology, and outdoor adventure. Their signature annual event, MegFest, brings together fossil hunting, live music, camping, educational sessions, guest speakers, and community for an unforgettable four-day experience.
Questions About MegFest?
PLAN YOUR EXPERIENCE
Explore live music, downtown events, family activities, tea experiences, shopping, and community celebrations happening throughout Sweet Tea Festival week.
MEGALODON PASS
Per Adult
ANGUSTIDEN PASS
Per Adult
MAKO PASS
Per Adult
GREAT WHITE PASS
Per Adult
MUSIC ONLY
Per Adult
PLAN YOUR VISIT
From fossil hunting and educational sessions to live music, guest speakers, and campfire gatherings, MegFest offers activities throughout the entire weekend. Here’s a quick look at what to expect each day.
THURSDAY
October 8, 2026
Arrival Day
FRIDAY
October 9, 2026
FOSSIL HUNTING BEGINS
SATURDAY
October 10, 2026
PEAK FESTIVAL DAY
SUNDAY
October 11, 2026
FINAL DAY
CAMPING & AMENITIES
Whether you’re camping on-site or visiting for the day, MegFest offers a variety of amenities designed to keep guests comfortable throughout the weekend.
Tents, campers, RVs, and car camping are all welcome throughout the MegFest weekend.
Fossil hunting activities are permitted during all hours of the weekend, giving guests plenty of opportunities to search and explore.
RV rentals can be arranged through RVShare and Outdoorsy for guests looking for additional comfort during the event.
On-site water is available for RV refills and attendee use throughout the weekend.
On-site water is available for RV refills and attendee use throughout the weekend.
The organizers have indicated that additional activities and amenities may be announced as the event approaches.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Have questions about camping, fossil hunting, tickets, amenities, or what to bring? Here are answers to some of the most common questions from MegFest attendees.
No. MegFest is an adults-only event. Attendees must be 18 or older to participate.
Yes. Tent camping, RV camping, car camping, and other overnight accommodations are welcome throughout the event weekend.
No experience is required. MegFest includes site tours, instructional sessions, guest speakers, and educational opportunities for both beginners and experienced fossil hunters.
Participants commonly search for Megalodon teeth, shark teeth, marine fossils, and other prehistoric specimens from the fossil-rich sites operated by Palmetto Fossil Excursions.
Yes. Food trucks are scheduled throughout the weekend for breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. Water is also available on-site.
Yes. A primitive shower station will be available throughout the weekend for registered guests.
Yes. RVs are welcome, and rentals can be arranged through RVShare or Outdoorsy. Water refills for RVs are available on-site.
Yes. MegFest includes scheduled nighttime fossil hunting activities, and hunting is permitted throughout the weekend.
No. Tickets are non-refundable. However, tickets may be transferred to a future guest.
Yes. Palmetto Fossil Excursions offers a 5% discount for veterans and active military members.
LOCAL VENDORS & MAKERS
Explore local farmers, bakers, makers, artisans, food vendors, and small businesses regularly featured at the Summerville Farmers Market.
