Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its rich tapestry of arts and culture, offering residents and visitors a plethora of events and venues that celebrate the city’s diverse heritage. From annual festivals to esteemed galleries, Charleston’s cultural scene is both vibrant and enduring.
Annual Festivals
MOJA Arts Festival
The MOJA Arts Festival is an annual celebration of African-American and Caribbean arts and culture. Produced by the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the MOJA Planning Committee, this multi-disciplinary festival features visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre, children’s activities, traditional crafts, and local cuisine. The festival is scheduled for September 24 – October 4, 2026. Learn more.
Piccolo Spoleto Festival
Running concurrently with the internationally acclaimed Spoleto Festival USA, the Piccolo Spoleto Festival focuses on accessibility and community participation in the arts. Annually presenting over 500 performing, literary, and visual arts events, this 17-day festival transforms Charleston into an exhilarating celebration of the cultural vitality and diversity of the South Carolina Lowcountry. The 2026 festival is scheduled for May 22 – June 7. More information.
Charleston Jazz Festival
The Charleston Jazz Festival brings together world-class artists and iconic Charleston venues for a true celebration of jazz in the cultural heart of the city. The 2026 festival is scheduled for April 13 – 21, offering nine full days of spectacular jazz experiences. Details here.
Art Galleries and Museums
Gibbes Museum of Art
The Gibbes Museum of Art hosts a collection of mostly American fine art, some with a connection to Charleston and the Lowcountry, displayed within a historic Beaux-Arts style building. The museum also hosts a selection of rotating exhibitions. Visit their website.
City Gallery at Waterfront Park
Located on the harbor, the City Gallery at Waterfront Park highlights some of the state’s top visual artists in a professional gallery setting. It offers a great balance to the open-air vibe at Marion Square during festivals. Learn more.
Ongoing Cultural Events
First Friday ArtWalk
On the first Friday of every month (except January and July), the Charleston Gallery Association provides the opportunity to stroll through some of the most lively downtown neighborhoods and tour multiple galleries, meet artists, and experience the vibrant local art scene. More details.
Charleston’s commitment to the arts is evident in its year-round offerings, ensuring that the city’s cultural heartbeat remains strong and inviting for all who wish to partake.