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.

The historic Aiken-Rhett House Museum's outdoor space shines with lights and is filled with large floral pieces.

The four-day celebration of design and preservation features speakers and designers.

Photo by Historic Charleston Foundation

Does this stretch of weather have you longing for spring? Well, it will be here before you know it, and so will the festivals + events that come along with the blossoming of a new season.

Historic Charleston Foundation’s (HCF) The Charleston Festival — formerly known as the Festival of Houses and Gardens— will run from Thursday, March 12 to Saturday, April 11. The festival aims to bring educational events to the community that spread awareness, teach history, and celebrate culture, all while benefiting the HCF.

Bright red, pink, and white roses wrap the historic wooden staircase.

Select designers will shape historic spaces into their vision for the weekend.

Photo by Historic Charleston Foundation

Charleston by Design is a key event of that festival, focusing on design and preservation, and it helps kick off the weeks-long celebration. Guests will explore historic homes with an art and interior design lens.

HCF officials say events + fundraisers are a crucial part of supporting the Foundation’s mission-driven work as it works to preserve historic structures and communities while also shaping a future that “honors and protects our people, places, culture, and community.”

Take a look at the schedule and snag your tickets.

Events
Tickets are now available to TEDxCharleston, a day of inspiration and networking.
The Family Camp Jam is hosted at Johns Island County Park and features lots of activities for family fun.
Round up your best friends + add one of these three events to your calendar to celebrate your friendships.
Stroll through illuminated pathways and glowing gardens during this after hours, nighttime event, running through Feb. 22.
There’s so much to do in the Holy City — see what we’ve experienced.
M. Dumas and Sons will host this event featuring adoptable dogs, a kissing booth, and ways to support local shelters.