While the calendar may have turned to January, one of Manning’s most anticipated traditions is offering residents a final chance to linger in the warmth of the season as Soups, Stews, and Sweets returns to Historic North Brooks Street later this month.
Hosted by the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce, the annual tasting event is set for Thursday, Jan. 22, from 6 to 8 p.m., bringing comfort foods, music and community fellowship to downtown Manning during the heart of winter.
Though held after the holidays, the event has become a familiar way for the community to ease out of the season — pairing hearty soups, sweet treats and a festive atmosphere with a slower, cozier winter evening.
“We’re keeping all the things people love — delicious soups, stews, and sweets, and the festive holiday atmosphere along Brooks Street,” said Sadie Serio, Clarendon County’s director of tourism. “New this year, we’re adding snow machines and music to make the event even more fun. We’ve also moved to digital tickets, which makes check-in quicker and helps us save some trees.”
This year’s event will feature nine tasting stops along Brooks Street, with offerings ranging from warm, savory meals to decadent desserts. Beer and wine will be available at select locations.
Organizers are also welcoming a new participant to the lineup.
“We’re excited to welcome a new restaurant, Simply Southern BBQ — you will love their savory Red Chicken Stew and Cherry Pineapple Cake,” Serio said.
Several crowd favorites from past years are also returning, including Chick-fil-A with its popular chicken tortilla soup and Premier Spirits, which will once again offer a seasonal holiday punch.
Serio said the continued enthusiasm for Soups, Stews, and Sweets reflects the event’s growing role as a gathering point for the community during the winter months.
“It’s wonderful to see the community come together year after year,” she said. “The excitement around Soups, Stews, and Sweets really shows how much people love celebrating the holidays in Manning with friends and neighbors.”
As in years past, the event depends on the generosity of sponsors and homeowners who open their porches and properties to host tasting stations along Brooks Street.
“Sponsors and homeowners are the heart of this event,” Serio said. “Their generosity, whether opening their porches or supporting us financially, makes Soups, Stews, and Sweets possible. Without them, we couldn’t create this festive experience for the whole community.”
Proceeds from the event benefit the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization that supports local businesses and community initiatives throughout the year.
“The Chamber is a nonprofit, and events like this help us support local businesses year-round,” Serio said. “Proceeds allow us to invest in marketing, community programs, and other events that strengthen Manning and Clarendon County’s business community.”
For Serio, the most rewarding part of organizing the event is watching the community gather in a familiar place during the quieter stretch of winter.
“The best part is seeing everyone come together and have a great time with friends, family, and neighbors right here in Manning,” she said. “It’s exciting to watch a new Clarendon County tradition continue to grow each year.”
For those attending for the first time, Serio said the atmosphere is exactly what people are craving this time of year.
“Festive, cozy, and full of holiday cheer,” she said.
Check-in and parking for Soups, Stews, and Sweets will be at Weldon Auditorium, located at 7 Maple St. Organizers ask attendees to select “Other” at checkout when purchasing tickets online to avoid additional ticketing fees.
A limited number of soup and stew sponsorships remain available for $250, which includes four tickets to the event. Tickets are limited, and organizers encourage the public to purchase early.
For ticket assistance or sponsorship information, contact the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce at 803-435-4405 or visit the office at 19 North Brooks St.
