Know before you go: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

Whether you’re planning a wild weekend of wildlife interaction or a quiet evening admiring fine art, The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition has something for everybody.

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Prepare for a wild weekend across five downtown venues.

Photo by @sewe

Charleston, things are about to get wild — the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, better known as SEWE, returns Friday, Feb. 14, through Sunday, Feb. 16. The annual event features artists, craftsmen, collectors, sporting enthusiasts, and the community coming together to celebrate the great outdoors.

Did you know? SEWE is a nonprofit that aims to increase tourism + boost local economies, all while raising awareness and educating folks about wildlife and the outdoors. The nonprofit achieves that goal through 90+ events, 300 exhibitions, and over 80 artists on display at five venues across downtown.

Locations

  • Marion Square
  • Charleston Marriott
  • Charleston Gaillard Center
  • The Charleston Place
  • Brittlebank Park

Parking
Pro tip: Plan ahead and pick a public garage for parking, as finding street or residential parking may be difficult with thousands of guests in town for the weekend.

There is limited to no parking at Brittlebank Park on Friday. Parking near the area will be available on Saturday and Sunday for $5.

SEWE shuttle
A complimentary SEWE shuttle will be available for ticket and badge holders. SEWE attendees also can hop on the CARTA shuttles, which follow similar routes. Note: Leashed dogs are welcome at all outdoor venues, but are not allowed on SEWE shuttles.

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Watch pups compete in water jumping competitions.

Photo provided by Obviouslee Marketing

Events

There are so many ways to get involved at SEWE, and several of those options are free.

Marion Square — tickets are not required to experience the event at this venue.

  • Fresh on the Menu chef demonstrations
  • The Center for Birds of Prey flight demonstrations
  • The Purina Pro Plan Flying Disc Dog Demos
  • NMMF Dolphin Doctor Hands-On Workshop Experience

Check out the full schedule of events and VIP packages.

SEWE Birds of Prey

You’ll want to keep an eye to the sky when the Birds of Prey demonstrations are happening.

Photo courtesy of SEWE

Art

SEWE curates a collection of fine art from wildlife painters and sculptors.

Ray Brown was announced as the featured artist for the 2025 exposition. Brown is known for his charcoal pieces and strives to convey profound depth and emotion through textures and thoughtful compositions.

Exhibitors

Artisans, craftsmen, and makers from across the country will gather in the Holy City to show off their talents. Explore hundreds of options you’ll have to explore.

More SEWE fun

You’ll want to also keep an eye out for local businesses getting in on the SEWE fun, like M. Dumas and Sons’ Puppies in the Window + Marsh & Magnolia x Chelsea Goer.

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