PICKENS — After years of sitting plain and gray, the concrete planters along Main Street in downtown Pickens have finally received a much-needed makeover just in time for this week’s 41st annual Azalea Festival.

Thanks to the leadership of Councilman Ray Wilson and his wife Stephanie, the planters were recently painted and adorned with vibrant flowers by the dedicated members of the Pickens Garden Club.

But the beautification doesn’t stop there next up, talented students from the Pickens High School Art Department will be adding their artistic touch by painting beautiful, original artwork on each planter.   This exciting collaboration is a testament to Community spirit and creative pride, making downtown Pickens more colorful and welcoming than ever before.

The Pickens Garden Club is a small group of amateur gardeners that promote the love of gardening through service. Service projects include maintaining the rose garden at Hagood Mauldin House, sponsoring campers at Camp Wildwood, participating in the annual Scouting for Food drive benefiting Gleaning House, and Village Branch Library Advocates. Pickens Garden Club is funded by selling plants at the Pickens Azalea Festival. PGC will celebrate our 100 year Centennial in 2026.