Walhalla Fire Relief: How You Can Help the Businesses Affected by the Downtown Fire
September 17, 2026 | Walhalla, South Carolina
How You Can Help the Businesses Affected by the Walhalla Fire
On September 17, 2026, a devastating fire swept through historic downtown Walhalla, South Carolina, destroying multiple buildings and leaving local business owners facing the difficult task of rebuilding their livelihoods.
The fire affected restaurants, shops, and gathering places that have been part of the Walhalla community for years.
After sharing our aerial drone footage of the fire’s aftermath, we were overwhelmed by the response from people throughout Oconee County and beyond. So many of you have asked the same question:
“How can we help the businesses affected by the Walhalla fire?”
As a Seneca-based business, Palmetto Media Company considers Walhalla our neighboring community. We created this resource to connect people who want to help with the local business owners who need support.
Below, you’ll find information about the businesses affected by the downtown Walhalla fire, available GoFundMe campaigns and donation options, recovery updates, and ways you can help.
We will continue updating this page as additional information becomes available.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the business owners, employees, families, and everyone affected by this devastating fire.
Carolina Pizza Company
Carolina Pizza Company was among the local businesses destroyed in the September 17 downtown Walhalla fire.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, pizza, and the familiar Sasquatch statue standing outside, the restaurant was a gathering place for local families and visitors.
In a heartfelt message shared on the restaurant’s Facebook page, the owner thanked the customers and families who supported Carolina Pizza Company throughout the years.
The owner expressed the heartbreak of losing the restaurant and shared that they are still trying to determine how to rebuild and move forward.
Despite the extensive destruction, the restaurant’s familiar Sasquatch statue remained standing outside the building, with visible charring from the fire.
How to Help Carolina Pizza Company
A community-organized fundraiser has been established through SupportNow to assist Carolina Pizza Company and its employees.
The fundraiser identifies Travis Storey as the beneficiary and Lauren Gerni as the organizer.
This campaign was organized by a community member. It has not been independently confirmed as an official fundraiser endorsed by Carolina Pizza Company.
Middle of Main Antiques
Middle of Main Antiques & Gem Mine was among the longtime downtown Walhalla businesses destroyed in the September 17 fire.
The business was known for its collection of antiques, collectibles, gems, and unique merchandise, making it a familiar destination for local residents and visitors exploring downtown Walhalla.
The fire destroyed the business’s location and its contents, leaving the owners facing the difficult task of recovering from the loss and determining how to move forward.
How to Help Middle of Main Antiques
A dedicated GoFundMe campaign titled “Support Middle of Main Antiques After the Fire” has been established to assist with recovery.
The campaign was shared through the business’s Facebook page.
Donations will help support the family as they recover from the loss of their business and work toward rebuilding their livelihood.
Follow Middle of Main Antiques on Social Media
Visit the business’s Facebook page for recovery updates, fundraising information, and announcements about its future plans.
Alexander's Coffeehouse & Cafe
Alexander’s Coffeehouse & Cafe was another local business affected by the devastating September 17 fire in downtown Walhalla.
The loss of the cafe has affected the family behind the business and the employees who depended on it for their livelihoods.
A dedicated fundraising campaign has been established to help the family recover and work toward reopening.
How to Help Alexander's Coffeehouse & Cafe
The GoFundMe campaign, “Help Re-build Alexander’s Cafe,” was organized by Anexys Correa.
The fundraiser describes the loss of the family’s business premises and the impact on employees who are unable to work while the cafe remains closed.
Donations are intended to help the family rebuild and work toward reopening the business.
Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant
& Tienda Mundo Hispano
Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant and Tienda y Taqueria Mundo Hispano were both affected by the September 17 downtown Walhalla fire.
The two businesses share the same owners, who are now working to rebuild after losing their business locations in the fire.
In messages shared on both businesses’ Facebook pages, the owners expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from the Walhalla community.
They also announced that they are exploring potential new locations in Walhalla and hope to reopen soon.
The owners explained that they must start over from scratch and that the road to recovery will not be easy.
How to Help Los Arcos & Tienda Mundo Hispano
The owners have established a shared Zelle donation account for anyone who would like to contribute to the recovery and reopening of both businesses.
To donate, open Zelle through your banking app, select Send, and enter the email address below.
elugo@schcc.org
Follow Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant on Social Media
Follow the restaurant’s Facebook Page for updates on its search for a new location, reopening plans, and ways to support its recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Downtown Walhalla Fire
When did the downtown Walhalla fire happen?
The fire occurred on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Emergency crews responded at approximately 3:30 a.m. to a fire along East Main Street in downtown Walhalla, South Carolina
Where did the Walhalla fire occur?
The fire affected a section of downtown Walhalla along East Main Street, also known as Highway 28, in Oconee County, South Carolina. The affected area included businesses between Catherine and Tugaloo streets.
How many businesses were destroyed in the Walhalla fire?
Local reporting cited Walhalla Mayor Tim Hall as saying seven buildings were destroyed, leaving six business owners without their workplaces. The number of buildings, storefronts, and individual business owners should not be treated as interchangeable.
Which businesses were affected by the Walhalla fire?
Businesses identified in local news coverage include Carolina Pizza Company, Middle of Main Antiques & Gem Mine, Alexander’s Coffeehouse & Cafe, Taqueria Los Arcos, and Tienda y Taqueria Mundo Hispano. Additional affected businesses will be added as their information is confirmed.
What caused the Walhalla fire?
The cause of the September 17 fire has not been publicly confirmed in the reporting reviewed for this page. Investigators are working to determine its origin and cause. This section will be updated when an official determination is released.
Were there any injuries in the Walhalla fire?
No injuries were reported in the initial coverage of the downtown fire.
How can I donate to businesses affected by the Walhalla fire?
You can contribute through the fundraising campaigns linked on this page, including the Walhalla Fire Recovery for Local Businesses community fundraiser and the dedicated Alexander’s Cafe rebuilding campaign. Review the organizer and beneficiary details before donating.
Is there a GoFundMe for the Walhalla fire victims?
Yes. A community GoFundMe campaign has been established to help multiple businesses affected by the downtown Walhalla fire. Individual fundraising campaigns may also be available for specific businesses. You can find the currently identified campaigns in the donation section above.
Where can I watch drone footage of the Walhalla fire?
There are several videos throughout the internet and was covered my multiple news outlets. Palmetto Media Company captured original aerial drone footage of the September 17, 2026, downtown Walhalla fire aftermath later that afternoon. Click here to view that video