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
From panel discussions to a night market, the month-long series honors Asian American and Pacific Islander identity, culture, and creativity across Charleston.
From rooftop parties to giant outdoor screens, here are three festive spots to break out your best Derby attire and catch “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”
Don’t miss the 17th annual Chef’s Potluck that celebrates local flavor with top chefs, farm-fresh bites, family fun, and a chance to support Charleston’s local food system.
Teachers can join the fun from May 5 to 9 with free events, relaxation, trivia, and a grand finale to honor educators during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Join the festivities for Independent Bookstore Day on April 26 with raffles, readings, discounts, and special events at local indie bookshops across the Lowcountry.
Add a pop of color and fresh new pillows to your home with colorful and chic patterns from Sewing Down South’s new summer collection.