SCETV’s digital series Our Town returns June 11 with new season exploring communities across South Carolina

June 11, 2026

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) invites viewers to discover the people, places and stories that make communities across the Palmetto State unique with the return of its digital series Our Town. Season 5 premieres June 11 and continues SCETV’s tradition of storytelling by showcasing the local flavor, history and culture found throughout South Carolina.

New episodes of Our Town will premiere on the SCETV websiteSCETV and PBS apps, the SCETV Facebook page and YouTube channel, taking viewers on a journey through communities large and small while highlighting the residents, landmarks and traditions that define them.

Since its debut, Our Town has celebrated the distinctive character of South Carolina communities through the voices of local residents. The series offers an authentic look at the places people call home, revealing the stories, history and community spirit that make each town special.

Season 5 features visits to Cayce, Hilton Head, Lancaster, Stateburg, Beaufort, Woodruff and Pelzer, with additional episodes and broadcast specials scheduled throughout the season. The season showcases a mix of first-time destinations and returning communities, offering fresh perspectives on the places that help define South Carolina.

The season premiere explores Cayce: a historic railroad town located just across the Congaree River from Columbia. Known for its blend of small-town charm and urban convenience, Cayce offers visitors and residents a rich history, abundant natural beauty and a growing arts scene. Through colorful murals, public art installations and community events, the city continues to celebrate local creativity while attracting those seeking an authentic and vibrant place to live, work and explore.

Viewers will also visit Hilton Head, a destination renowned for its world-class golf courses, beautiful beaches and celebrated Lowcountry cuisine. The episode explores the history and character behind the island community, revealing what has inspired generations of residents and visitors to put down roots or return home.

Later in the season, viewers will travel to Lancaster, a community whose roots trace back to the mid-1700s when English and Scots-Irish settlers arrived from Lancaster, England. Known as the “Red Rose City,” Lancaster played a role in both Revolutionary and Civil War history and takes its nickname from the traditional coat of arms associated with the House of Lancaster. Once considered a “Garden of Eden” by Native American tribes including the Cherokee, Catawba and Waxhaw, the city today combines its historic character with a thriving arts scene, distinctive shopping destinations and locally owned restaurants that continue to attract visitors from across the region.

Previous seasons of Our Town have featured communities including Union, Little River, Hartsville, Waxhaw, Chester and Lyman, as well as Seneca, Cowpens, Pendleton, Greer, Manning, Lake City, Travelers Rest, Cheraw and Edgefield. All previous episodes are available to stream on the SCETV website.

QUOTES

“Storytelling has long been at the heart of SCETV’s service to South Carolina, and Our Town continues that tradition by sharing authentic stories from communities across the Palmetto State. By showcasing the people, history and traditions that make each town unique, the series helps viewers discover new places, deepen their connection to their communities and celebrate the rich heritage that defines South Carolina.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell

“Season 5 continues our mission of sharing stories that connect South Carolinians to the places and people around them. Whether viewers are discovering a town for the first time or revisiting a familiar community, these episodes offer an engaging look at what makes each location unique.” –SCETV Senior Director of Audio and Digital Operations Tabitha Safdi

“Our Town gives residents an opportunity to share the pride they have in their communities while introducing viewers to destinations they may not have explored before. Each episode captures the character, history and personality that help define these towns and the people who call them home.” –SCETV Director of Digital Ty Moody

FAST FACTS

  • South Carolina ETV’s digital series Our Town returns for its fifth season on June 11.
  • Season 5 will feature communities including Cayce, Hilton Head, Lancaster, Stateburg, Beaufort, Woodruff and Pelzer.
  • New episodes will stream on the SCETV websiteSCETV and PBS apps, the SCETV Facebook page and YouTube channel.
  • The season premiere highlights Cayce, a historic railroad town known for its natural beauty, growing arts scene and strong sense of community.
  • Previous seasons of Our Town are available to stream on the SCETV website.

About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state’s public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Kitchen Curious with Vivian Howard, Reel South and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.