An original painting of the Ancient Irmese General Store, created by Irmo native and artist Sean Madden, will be up for auction at the Irmo International Festival on April 26. The live auction will take place at 12:20 p.m. on the Prisma Stage in Moore Park, located at 7473 Church Street. Smaller prints of the artwork will also be available for purchase.
For those who want a closer look before the event, the painting will be displayed at Irmo Town Hall throughout April.
The Ancient Irmese General Store once stood at 7249 St. Andrews Rd., where Fully Promoted is today. In 1973, radio host Gene McKay sparked curiosity about the store, humorously speculating about an “Ancient Irmese” tribe that farmed okra. His joke inspired the community to fry and sell okra as a fundraiser for a new library, leading to the creation of the Irmo Okra Strut, which will celebrate its 50th event on September 27, 2025.
Celebrate Culture and Community at the Irmo International Festival
The Irmo International Festival is free to attend, with free parking and activities for all ages.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, and will feature:
Live music and stage entertainment
An International Car Show
Food from around the world
Over 60 vendors, including Henna painting and a Fortune Teller
A large Kids Zone with free activities like face painting, balloon art, bouncy houses, and yard games
A lively parade at 1 p.m.
Join the fun and celebrate Irmo’s rich history and diversity! Learn more at www.irmoscinternationalfestival.com.
