Culture

What you can expect at the 42nd annual North Charleston Arts Fest

The North Charleston Arts Fest is a free five-day celebration that will include performances, activities, and exhibits at a variety of venues throughout the city.

April 21, 2025 • 
Callie Putnam
Visitors browse a vibrant indoor art exhibit showcasing mixed media, sculptures, and colorful wall hangings. People of various ages engage with the artwork, some admiring stained glass, fiber art, or abstract pieces. Sculptures of animals and intricate textures create a lively, creative atmosphere within a spacious, well-lit venue.

The North Charleston Arts Fest began in 1982.

Photo provided by City of North Charleston

Art you ready? The 42nd annual North Charleston Arts Fest returns Wednesday, April 30, and runs until Sunday, May 4. This five-day event celebrates arts + culture, featuring music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and literature. Pro tip: All events have free entry.

Here’s a peek at three events you can look forward to:

Opening Celebration | Wednesday, April 30 | 6-8 p.m. | Charleston Area Convention Center | Start the festival with a celebration complete with food, music, and hundreds of pieces of artwork.

World Dance Showcase | Saturday, May 3 | 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. | Park Circle Community Building | Experience a display of dances representing cultures from around the world. Pro tip: Roe Roe’s and Kona Ice will be serving treats.

Arts Fest Arty Block Party | Saturday, May 3 | 5-8:30 p.m. | East Montague Avenue (between Jenkins and Virginia Avenues) | Shop local vendors while enjoying live music.

The fun doesn’t stop there; explore the full calendar of events.

More from CHStoday
Miles of Cooper River Bridge Run history
The Cooper River Bridge Run is an annual race that draws tens of thousands of visitors to town for one of the largest 10K races in the US.
March 24, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
An image of Drs. Drew Brannon, Cory Shaffer, and Milt Lowder from AMPLOS.
BizBrief
4 Charleston podcasts to level up your business game
Maximize your commute with these reader and editor picks for Charleston podcasts from local leaders.
March 23, 2026
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
Modern urban street scene with a large building featuring tall windows on the left. People walk along the sidewalk. Trees line the sunny street on the right.
What if... You designed Charleston’s next major improvement project
Plot twist — you’re in charge, we want to know what improvement projects you’d plan for the Holy City.
March 19, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
Chef with a tattooed arm in a white shirt and brown apron, holding mushrooms in a kitchen. The setting combines warmth and professionalism.
Restaurants
Try This: A cooking class in the Zero George kitchen
Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or just want to try something new, the cooking class at Zero George is highly recommended.
March 18, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
cooper-river-bridge-run-970x545
Play
Upcoming races to prepare for in the Charleston area
Charleston has a packed list of races to get prepared for throughout the year
March 17, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
A marching band in traditional Scottish kilts and black vests plays bagpipes in a lively outdoor parade. Spectators line the street, enjoying the performance.
The history of Charleston’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade
Did you know? The first St. Patrick’s Day parade took place in Charleston more than 200 years ago.
March 12, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
A lively sports bar filled with people watching a game, drinking, and socializing. The long wooden bar is lined with patrons, some wearing baseball caps and team gear, while bartenders serve drinks. The atmosphere is energetic, with a packed crowd and industrial-style lighting hanging from the ceiling. A "PURE" sign is visible in the background, adding to the rustic sports bar vibe.
Sports
Where to watch the NCAA Basketball Tournament in Charleston
From wings and beer to big-screen thrills, here’s where to watch the NCAA Basketball Tournament in the Holy City.
March 12, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
The historic Aiken-Rhett House Museum's outdoor space shines with lights and is filled with large floral pieces.
Events
Charleston by Design: an event focused on art + history
Join the annual event, Charleston by Design, to explore history through the lens of art and design.
March 11, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
A man and woman smiling, standing close together in front of a gazebo decorated with garland. Trees and a waterfront view are visible in the background.
Q+A with Oscar from One Beautiful Question
CHStoday had the chance to chat with Oscar from One Beautiful Question about what inspires him and his work.
March 10, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam
An aerial shot of Credit One Stadium
Events
15+ Charleston concerts to put on your calendar in 2025
From award-wining country artists to chart-topping bands, there’s no shortage of concerts to enjoy live music in the Holy City this year — use this guide to find your next concert.
March 10, 2026
 · 
Callie Putnam