2016 North Charleston Arts Fest

The City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department proudly presents the 2016 North Charleston Arts Fest. This annual nine-day event highlights national, regional and local artists and performers in the areas of dance, theater, music, film media, and visual and literary arts.

For over 30 years, the festival has made quality arts programming affordable and accessible to the widest spectrum of the public, attracting over 30,000 residents and visitors from throughout the Southeast and beyond to experience nearly 100 free and modestly priced performances, workshops, exhibitions and activities in a variety of venues, including libraries, community centers, schools, civic auditoriums and parks. Named a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society, the event has matured into one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the state of South Carolina. The premiere weekend, scheduled this year for Saturday, April 30, and Sunday, May 1, at the Charleston Area Convention Center, offers free admission and parking to over 40 performances on four stages.

Other premiere weekend activities include judged art and photography shows, the S.C. Palmetto Hands Juried Fine Craft Exhibit, a gem and mineral show, an antique show, children's activities, art and craft booths, and a food courtyard. The Arts Fest continues with over 60 events and exhibitions throughout the week at various locations. An array of free and ticketed offerings include street dances, concerts, theater presentations, film screenings, an art walk, children’s programs, workshops and demonstrations, a National Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition, and much more. The festival concludes with the grand finale at North Charleston Riverfront Park, featuring performances by professional groups and tri-county schools, children's activities, a food truck rodeo and fireworks over the Cooper River. Visit www.NorthCharlestonArtsFest.com for full details.