Explore family friendly events, theatres, galleries, concerts, nightlife, things to do, and more in the Greenville, SC and Upstate areas.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Thursday, December 4, 2025
Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures
Dec 4 2025 – Jan 4 2026 all-day
Biltmore Estate

Biltmore’s next exhibition is an unforgettable exploration of the culture of ancient Egypt, the time of Tutankhamun, the search for and thrilling discovery of his tomb, and the treasures found within.

The event hailed as the world’s most complete Tutankhamun exhibition becomes all the more fascinating in its Biltmore presentation—this is the only experience that reveals the historical connections between the monumental discovery and the Vanderbilt-Cecil family.

This once-in-a-lifetime exhibition premieres March 21 in Amherst at Deerpark®. Reserve your admission tickets and special admission-inclusive overnight packages today.

Friday, December 5, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 5 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Annual Holiday Fair
Dec 5 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Greenville Convention Center

Join us at the Greenville Convention Center for the Annual Holiday Fair!

For 55 years, the Holiday Fair has been a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Last year, we made history by combining the Holiday Fair with Kringle Village, creating Greenville’s largest holiday event in partnership with the Rotary Club of Greenville. This year, we are excited to continue our relationship with Holiday Fair 2025, benefiting Rotary Club of Greenville.

Don’t miss the magic! ✨

Show Hours:

Thursday, December 4, 2025 ………….. 10-6
Friday, December 5, 2025………………… 10-7
Saturday, December 6, 2025…………… 10-7
Sunday, December 7, 2025……………… 11-6

Parking ……………………………………………….$10.00

The fun continues with the new Sunday Hours, there’s even more holiday magic to enjoy!

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 5 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 6, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 6 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Annual Holiday Fair
Dec 6 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Greenville Convention Center

Join us at the Greenville Convention Center for the Annual Holiday Fair!

For 55 years, the Holiday Fair has been a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Last year, we made history by combining the Holiday Fair with Kringle Village, creating Greenville’s largest holiday event in partnership with the Rotary Club of Greenville. This year, we are excited to continue our relationship with Holiday Fair 2025, benefiting Rotary Club of Greenville.

Don’t miss the magic! ✨

Show Hours:

Thursday, December 4, 2025 ………….. 10-6
Friday, December 5, 2025………………… 10-7
Saturday, December 6, 2025…………… 10-7
Sunday, December 7, 2025……………… 11-6

Parking ……………………………………………….$10.00

The fun continues with the new Sunday Hours, there’s even more holiday magic to enjoy!

Santa in the Garden
Dec 6 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Hatcher Gardens and Woodland Preserve

Santa Claus is coming to Hatcher Garden!

Santa is taking a break from his busy schedule at the workshop and he is bringing Mrs. Claus with him to Spartanburg for a brief visit. Meet them both at the Gazebo on December 6 (St. Nicholas Day), whisper your wish list, and get your picture taken with the Jolly Old Elf! A couple of Santa’s Elves will also be on hand to help you decorate a Christmas cookie to enjoy at the Jess Taylor Pavilion!

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 6 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, December 7, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 7 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Annual Holiday Fair
Dec 7 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Greenville Convention Center

Join us at the Greenville Convention Center for the Annual Holiday Fair!

For 55 years, the Holiday Fair has been a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Last year, we made history by combining the Holiday Fair with Kringle Village, creating Greenville’s largest holiday event in partnership with the Rotary Club of Greenville. This year, we are excited to continue our relationship with Holiday Fair 2025, benefiting Rotary Club of Greenville.

Don’t miss the magic! ✨

Show Hours:

Thursday, December 4, 2025 ………….. 10-6
Friday, December 5, 2025………………… 10-7
Saturday, December 6, 2025…………… 10-7
Sunday, December 7, 2025……………… 11-6

Parking ……………………………………………….$10.00

The fun continues with the new Sunday Hours, there’s even more holiday magic to enjoy!

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 7 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Monday, December 8, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 8 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 9 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 9 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 10 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 10 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 11, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 11 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 11 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Friday, December 12, 2025
Trolls: A Field Study
Dec 12 @ 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
NC Arboretum

Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Only cost is the parking fee. No other admission fees.

 

War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes
Dec 12 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upcountry History Museum

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026

“I want to pay tribute to the soldiers who served with great sacrifice by creating the sculptural allegory of wounded warrior dogs who were the soldier’s best friend and companion in battle.”
– artist, James Mellick

Since the American Revolutionary War, military working dogs have served with all branches of the United States Armed Forces. First used as pack animals, working dogs have expanded their military roles to include scouting, policing, detection, and combat. U.S. military dogs officially began serving in WWII, following the formation of the Dogs for Defense, Inc. coalition. Today, hundreds of dogs serve with U.S. military forces around the globe assisting with dangerous missions on today’s modern battlefields.

The Upcountry History Museum will spotlight and honor the important role of these four-legged warriors when it hosts War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes. The exhibition combines life-size sculptures designed by Ohio master craftsman James Mellick with combat art and objects on loan from the collections of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the United States Coast Guard, and the Naval History & Heritage Command.

The project features eight Wounded Warrior and two Canine War Dog sculptures, bringing attention to the history, service and heroism of military working dogs. The collection represents Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois who served in WWII, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

One of the sculptures honors Lucca, a Marine Corps war dog. Lucca conducted more than 400 missions during two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. One of those missions cost Lucca her leg and severe burns but there were no human casualties under her watch. When she retired, Lucca’s handler adopted her.

Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:  1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.