North Charleston Arts Festival
May 4 - 12, 2012
Main Event - May 5 & 6
2012 Festival Art Design - "My Muse" by Elena Barna (acrylic)
The North Charleston Arts Festival is an annual nine-day event highlighting national, regional, and local artists and performers in the areas of dance, theater, music, film media, and visual & literary arts. The event, now in its 30th year, draws over 30,000 residents and visitors annually. The Main Event, held the first weekend in May at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center and Charleston Area Convention Center, offers free admission and parking to over 40 performances on four themed stages; General Audience, Cultural Heritage, Youth Entertainment, and Bands. Other Main Event activities include judged art and photography shows, the SC Palmetto Hands Fine Craft Exhibition, a gem & mineral show, an antique show, children's activities, art and craft booths, and a food court. The Arts Festival continues with 50 events throughout the week at various locations. An array of free and ticketed events include concerts, street dances, theatre presentations, film screening, an art walk, workshops and demonstrations, children’s activities, a National Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition, and much more. The festival concludes with the Grand Finale at North Charleston Riverfront Park featuring performances, children's activities, and fireworks over the Cooper River.