Arts Festival Main Event
The North Charleston Performing Arts Center & Charleston Area Convention Center Complex host the Main Event Weekend on Saturday, May 1 (10am-4pm) and Sunday, May 2 (2pm-5pm). FREE PARKING and FREE ADMISSION! Bring the whole family to enjoy over 40 stage performances on 4 separate stages!
MAIN EVENT PERFORMANCE STAGES
Performing Arts Center (PAC) Auditorium Stage - General
The PAC Auditorium Stage hosts a mesmerizing array of performances including theatre, classical and contemporary dance, and music.
Performing Arts Center (PAC) Lobby Stage - Cultural Heritage
National and local cultural groups will entertain will vibrant performances on the PAC Lobby Stage. Russian, Indian, Scottish, Native American, and African are just a few of the heritages represented on this energetic stage.
Food Courtyard Stage - Bands
The Festival Food Court, located in the outdoor area between the N. Charleston Coliseum and the Charleston Area Convention Center, provides patrons a variety of delicious selections during the North Charleston Arts Festival Main Event. The Food Courtyard Stage creates a wonderful outdoor setting for having lunch while listening to some great bands performs. Tables, chairs, and umbrellas are provided for patrons to enjoy music with their meal.
Exhibit Hall Stage - Youth
A variety of entertaining performers will delight audiences young and old throughout the weekend. Look for magicians, storytellers, puppet shows, music for kids, and variety acts like daring jugglers that will inspire, amuse, and amaze you.
Roving Entertainment
Roving entertainers wander throughout the Charleston Area Convention Center Complex interacting with Main Event visitors of all ages.
MAIN EVENT PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND
Creation Stations
Many opportunities exist for children to be artists and create at a variety of Creation Stations, which feature fun projects with local artists including the City’s Artist-in-Residence, Robert Maniscalco. Creation Station projects include painting, origami, batik, and sweet grass basket weaving. Box City, facilitated by area city planners, is a favorite for children to test out their architectural dreams. These activities are offered throughout the Main Event Weekend.
Art and Craft Vendors
Individual artists, fine craft artists, artisans, and art and craft guilds will have items on display and available for sale during the Main Event Weekend. Save your Mother’s Day shopping for this weekend and find the perfect gift! What could be better than a handcrafted item or original art? The selection is vast and full of variety; costs vary by item and vendor.
Lowcountry Gem and Mineral Show
The Lowcountry Gem & Mineral Society’s annual show and sale is an additional feature every year that draws hundreds of visitors and jewelry enthusiasts. The show will take place in the Exhibit Hall of the Charleston Area Convention Center Complex.