NORTH CHARLESTON — Puppet shows, kalimba music, a block party and dance performances await. At the North Charleston Arts Fest, there really is “something for everyone,” as the tagline of this five-day festival says.
For the 43rd year, parks, libraries and businesses across North Charleston will transform into venues for the dozens of free arts events that will make up the festival, running April 29-May 3.
“Our mission as a department with the city is to make the arts accessible to not just our residents, but to visitors also,” said Ann Simmons, deputy director of the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department, which produces the festival.
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This accessibility is reflected in free admission to all events, as well as the 17 venues, which are spread out and offer free parking.
The festival features principal offerings, guaranteed each year, and events submitted through an open application process. Returning patrons may remember the Opening Celebration and Art Reception, World Dance Showcase, Arty Block Party, Exhibition Encore, African American Fiber Art Exhibition and National Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition.
Other annual competitions, held in Exhibit Hall C of the Charleston Area Convention Center, include the Judged Fine Art and Photography Competitions and Exhibitions, the South Carolina Palmetto Hands Juried Fine Craft Competition and Exhibition and the Tri-County Youth Art and High School Sculpture Competitions and Exhibitions.
The South Carolina Palmetto Hands Juried Fine Craft Competition and Exhibition selects South Carolina artists via a pre-jury process to showcase their work in this annual exhibition.
Colour of Music also announced it will return for its fourth year at the North Charleston Arts Fest. On April 30, a performance by the Colour of Music Festival Octet will be held at the Eternal Father of the Sea Chapel, 1097 Navy Way.
