The City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department proudly presents the 2009 North Charleston Arts Festival, May 1-May 9.  The fabulous nine day celebration of the arts draws over 30,000 visitors each year.  Exciting entertainment is provided by over forty national, regional, and local professional performers, ethnic and cultural groups, and community groups.  Individual Events begin on Friday, May 1, and continue through Saturday, May 9.  Concerts, theater and dance performances, children’s programs, literary events, and multi-cultural block parties are just some of the offerings during the Festival Week.  The Performing Arts Center and the Charleston Area Convention Center host the Main Event Weekend, Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3. Features include the eighth annual SC Palmetto Hands Juried Fine Craft Exhibition, the Lowcountry Gem & Mineral Show, music, theater, and dance performances, exhibitions of fine art, photography, and youth art, free children’s art activities and performances, Arts & Craft vendors and a Festival Food Court.  The Grand Finale at Riverfront Park will present a variety of concerts and activities, as well as a fantastic fireworks display in celebration of what is sure to be a successful 2009 Arts Festival.