(Story courtesy Salvation Army of Augusta)
NORTH AUGUSTA — A longtime community tradition is returning in 2026 with live music, a new 5K and a new purpose. Border Bash will take place Friday, Nov. 20, and Saturday, Nov. 21, with proceeds from the weekend benefiting The Salvation Army of Augusta.
For three decades, Border Bash brought Georgia and South Carolina fans together to celebrate one of college football’s great rivalries. The event marked its 30th year in 2023, but following changes to the football schedule and the absence of the Georgia-South Carolina matchup in 2024 and 2025, the Border Bash Foundation made the difficult decision to bring the longstanding tradition to an end.
Now, with Georgia and South Carolina once again scheduled to play in 2026 and 2027, Border Bash is returning with a new location, new events and new ways for the community to participate.
“We know how much Border Bash has meant to this community over the years, and we are thrilled to bring it back,” said Joe Stevenson, Events Consultant for The Salvation Army of Augusta. “This year’s event will celebrate everything people have always loved about Border Bash—the music, school spirit and friendly rivalry—while also giving our community an opportunity to support the important work of The Salvation Army of Augusta.”
Border Bash weekend will begin Friday, November 20, with a free concert at the Sharon Jones Amphitheater in North Augusta. Live music will begin at 6 p.m. with Voice of Harold featuring Mark Bryan of Hootie & the Blowfish, and Black Dawg.
Bryan, guitarist and founding member of Hootie & the Blowfish, is a longtime South Carolina Gamecock and will take the Border Bash stage for a special performance paying tribute to legendary Athens-based band R.E.M. The combination brings a fitting Georgia-South Carolina connection to a night centered on one of college football’s most spirited rivalries.
“I’m excited to be part of Border Bash and to have the opportunity to play some great music while supporting such an important cause in The Salvation Army of Augusta,” said Bryan. “And anytime you bring Georgia and South Carolina fans together, you know there’s going to be some friendly rivalry. It should make for a really fun night.”
Friday’s concert will also mark the official kickoff of The Salvation Army of Augusta’s Red Kettle season, beginning with the ceremonial first donation of the 2026 campaign. Special Georgia and South Carolina Red Kettles will invite fans to support their favorite team while raising funds for The Salvation Army.
“We are honored to be part of the return of a tradition that has brought our community together for so many years,” said Maj. Jonathan Raymer, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Augusta. “The ceremonial first donation represents the beginning of a season of generosity that makes our work possible throughout the year. Whether you cheer for Georgia or South Carolina, Border Bash gives all of us an opportunity to come together and bring hope to our neighbors in need.”
Border Bash is also partnering with Southbound Smokehouse, where VIP packages for Friday’s concert will be available for purchase. An Angel Tree will be set up inside the restaurant, allowing guests to adopt local children and help provide gifts for them during the Christmas season. VIP packages and registration for the Border Dash 5K will go on sale Monday, September 14. Additional purchasing and registration details will be announced soon.
The celebration will continue Saturday, Nov. 21, with the inaugural Border Dash 5K on the North Augusta Greenway. The race will begin at 8 a.m.
During registration, runners can choose to represent Georgia, South Carolina or another school as they compete for their team before Saturday’s football game. Awards will recognize overall and age-group winners, as well as the top finishers representing Georgia and South Carolina.
Proceeds from Border Bash weekend will support The Salvation Army of Augusta and its year-round work serving individuals and families in need. This includes the Center of Hope, which provides emergency shelter, daily meals, case management and other supportive services to people experiencing homelessness.
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