Inspired by the magic of live music.
Day on the Hay was born from decades of experience — and a deep belief that live music has the power to pull people closer together.
How it started
Day on the Hay was inspired by Bill Graham's legendary Day on the Green concerts — events Jim Heslin experienced firsthand in the mid-1980s while serving in the U.S. Army, stationed in Monterey, CA. He attended as many as he could, watching from the front-of-house console position, and the spirit of those magical days never left him. After the Army, Jim used his college fund to study audio engineering, chasing the thing he'd witnessed up close: the way live music pulls people toward each other.
Day on the Hay is his way of creating that same feeling in Aiken, SC — and his hope is that one day the concept is picked up by countless others who want to share the joy of a shared moment. Every dollar raised through donations and sponsorships goes straight to local Aiken County charities we believe in.
Our mission
To bring people together through the power of live music — and to turn a great night out into lasting good for the Aiken community.
Free for everyone
Admission, food, and beverages are always free. We believe a great community event shouldn't have a price tag.
Local first
We spotlight local Aiken artists, source food from local vendors, and direct every donation dollar to local charities.
Radical generosity
100% of net proceeds from donations and sponsorships go directly to charitable organizations serving Aiken, SC.
Rooted in Aiken. Built for Aiken.
Where horses, history, and heart come together.
Who we support
Day on the Hay will direct proceeds to organizations doing meaningful work right here in Aiken County. Beneficiaries will be announced once distributions begin.
Every event supports Aiken County.
100% of net proceeds go to the organizations listed above.
Be part of something good.
Show up, enjoy the music, and know that your presence — and your generosity — makes a real difference in Aiken.