The Charleston Festival (Formerly The Charleston Festival of House and Gardens)

Themed Walking Tour: Ironwork 3.13.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Join an exclusive walking tour with Walk and Talk Charleston to marvel at the detailed ironwork of the Holy City. Wander streets lined with masterworks of the medium, admiring the delicate filigree patterns, ornate twists, and rich details that characterize pieces dating to the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

Opening Night Party 3.13.24
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

The fabulous Opening Night Party kicks off the Charleston by Design weekend. Enjoy creative cocktails and light bites at the stunning preserved-as-found1820s historic Aiken-Rhett House, replete with live music, while honoring Charleston's unparalleled historic spaces.

Themed Walking Tour: Churches and Steeples 3.14.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

On this walking tour, visit iconic churches such as St. Philip's, St. Michael's and the French Huguenot Church to learn about their roles in Charleston’s architectural and social history. We’ll also explore historic graveyards where ornate grave markers tell tales of the past residents who shaped the city.

Design in Mind Lecture I: Ellie Cullman 03.14.25
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Hear from Ellie Cullum, co-founder of Cullman & Kravis, who is a renowned interior designer celebrated for her timeless interior designs that seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary styles.

Design in Mind Lecture II: Ben Pentreath and Peter Pennoyer 03.14.25
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

The 2023 and 2024 Richard R. Driehaus Prize winners, respectively, celebrated architects Ben Pentreath and Peter Pennoyer will speak together to candidly share stories of their designs and careers.

Tour: Beyond the Garden Gates 03.14.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Perfect for passionate gardeners, these tours focus on gardens and the landscape architecture of historic Charleston. Self-paced between properties, each garden includes docents to guide you through the property.

Charleston by Design Home Tour 3.14.24
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Explore some of Charleston's most exquisite private homes in this intimate and exclusive designer-interpreted tour. This self-paced walking tour will include expert designers at each elect location to answer questions and show you the details that take the designs to the next level. 

The Art of Dining 03.14.25
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Join us for The Art of Dining, an evening hosted by DOYLE's Senior Vice President and Antiques Roadshow appraiser, Reid Dunavant. Reid will explore the fascinating world of early 1800s dining, sharing insights into table settings, dining manners, and etiquette of the time. Experience the era firsthand with small bites and an authentic punch inspired by historic recipes.

Themed Walking Tour: The Living Museum 03.15.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Explore the living museum that is Charleston’s marvelously preserved historic district on a walking tour that navigates the evolution of the city’s famed architecture. We’ll examine how Charleston became a powerful and affluent colonial city, its roles in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, how stylistic and practical influences from other cultures were adapted into local architecture, and how the ebbs and flows of wealth are recorded in its built environment, visible to those who know how to look.

Design in Mind Lecture III: Bobby McAlpine 03.15.25
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Join us in welcoming Bobby McAlpine, renowned architect, interior designer, and author celebrated for his poetic approach to traditional architecture and interiors, blending timeless elegance with modern sensibilities.

Design in Mind Lecture IV: Dara Caponigro, Tim Whealon, Martyn Bullard 03.15.25
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

To conclude the lecture series, join us for an engaging conversation moderated by Dara Caponigro, the creative director of Schumacher and former editor-in-chief of Veranda, and panelists Tim Whealon, a NY-based interior designer known for his expertise in art and antiques, and Martyn Bullard, an award-winning interior designer and television personality celebrated for his eclectic, glamorous designs and work with high-profile clients. Together, they will offer an engaging discussion on design, style, and the evolution of interiors.

ACBA + Christian Sottile Tour 3.15.24
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Renowned architect Christian Sottile will share insights on the Courier Square project, developed with Greystar and the American College of the Building Arts, emphasizing its Charleston-inspired design. After his talk, ACBA professors will guide a tour of the college studios.

A Morning with Mottahedeh 03.16.25
9:00 am - 11:00 am

Join us in the beautifully restored Nathaniel Russell House Museum while Mottahedeh sets the breakfast table. Expert docents will be on hand to offer additional details of the ca.1808 mansion highlighting its architectural features, cultural history, and the ongoing archaeological work in the Kitchen House.

Valerie Perry: Mothers, Mavericks, and Mavens 03.17.25
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Throughout its 350 year history, courageous and innovative women have helped shape the history of Charleston. Hear their stories as told by Valerie Perry, HCF's Assistant Director of Museums.

Morning History Walk 03.17.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Stroll through the Old & Historic District on a two-hour walking tour led by Charleston’s most experienced, licensed guides. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

Workshop: Calligraphy 03.18.25
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Learn the basics of the beautiful and romantic art of calligraphy with Cacky Bastian of Love Letter Gray. This lost art will take you back in time exploring the principles of pen and ink. No experience necessary, materials provided.

Workshop: Sweet Grass Basket Making 03.18.25
1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Immerse yourself in the Gullah Geechee tradition of sweetgrass basket making. Under the skilled guidance of artisan Sarah Edwards-Hammond, this hands-on workshop teaches the art of coiling sweetgrass into intricate baskets as you discover the symbolism within each design. Supplies included. 

Morning History Walk 3.19.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Stroll through the Old & Historic District on a two-hour walking tour led by Charleston’s most experienced, licensed guides. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

USC Moving Images 03.19.25
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

USC will present rare footage of Charleston (c. 1920-1970), highlighting the development of its film collections, preservation challenges, and global impact. Highlights include the 1926 Ashley River Bridge opening, a celebrity visit to the old Citadel, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s visit.

Tour: South Battery 03.19.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

South Battery Street is home to a variety of mansions from late 19th century Colonial Revival to early 20th century waterfront homes that overlook White Point Gardens and the harbor.

Architectural Splendor: Tour of Showcase Houses 03.20.25
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Architectural Splendor and Garden Splendor tours offer exclusive and intimate tours of the most magnificent properties on the peninsula, with expert guides for a more elevated experience.

Tour: Rutledge Avenue 03.20.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

By the turn of the 19th century, planters and well-to-do merchants were building grand residencies in this suburban area. Along Rutledge Avenue there are some of the finest examples of Federal, Regency, Greek Revival and early Victorian architecture in the city.

Music Series: Kanika Moore 03.20.25
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Kanika Moore is a dynamic vocalist known for blending elements of rock, funk, jazz, and soul as the frontwoman of Doom Flamingo, a Charleston-based synth-wave rock band. In a new music project just for The Charleston Festival, join us for a jazzy side of Kanika’s powerful vocals at the historic Riviera.

Morning History Walk 03.21.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Stroll through the Old & Historic District on a two-hour walking tour led by Charleston’s most experienced, licensed guides. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

Karl Beck Smith: Painting Old Charleston 03.21.25
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Karl Beckwith Smith will discuss his decades long career as a muralist and decorative painter, working in Charleston from 1992 to 2024. Karl’s colorful career has given him the opportunity to work for incredible private clients in houses downtown, wonderful institutions on the Peninsula and historic plantations around the Lowcountry. He will talk about and illustrate his process, context, and results.

Tour: Beyond the Garden Gates 3.21.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Perfect for passionate gardeners, these tours focus on gardens and the landscape architecture of historic Charleston. Self-paced between properties, each garden includes docents to guide you through the property.

Lecture on Location: Marvelous Murals with Karl Beckwith Smith 03.21.25
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Mural artist Karl Beckwith Smith guides guests around the neighborhoods South of Broad to showcase some of his hand painted murals in private homes. Karl will discuss his process with each unique interior or mural. This tour pairs well with his Food for Thought Lecture in the morning on the same day.

Workshop: Sunrise Photo Walkabout 03.22.25
6:00 am - 8:00 am

Join Charleston photographer Kim Graham on this sunrise photography walkabout. Step into the timeless charm of Charleston while Kim shows you some of her favorite early morning spots. This walkabout offers a chance to frame the spirit of the past and the beauty of the present through any lens. 

Tour: South Battery 03.22.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

South Battery Street is home to a variety of mansions from late 19th century Colonial Revival to early 20th century waterfront homes that overlook White Point Gardens and the harbor.

Bubbles and Blooms 03.22.25
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Step into the romantic Nathaniel Russell House Garden at our "Blooms & Bubbles" cocktail event, where we blend the sophistication of prosecco with the beauty of the formal gardens at 51 Meeting Street. Enjoy live music, light bites and bubbly libations while exploring the 1808 mansion. 

Lecture on Location: Behind the Scenes of Middleton Place 03.23.25
10:15 am - 2:00 pm

Historic Charleston Foundation’s Director of Museums, Tracey Todd, will host an intimate behind the scenes tour of Middleton Place National Historic Landmark.

Tour: Rutledge Ave 03.23.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

By the turn of the 19th century, planters and well-to-do merchants were building grand residencies in this suburban area. Along Rutledge Avenue there are some of the finest examples of Federal, Regency, Greek Revival and early Victorian architecture in the city.

Music Series: Jazz at the Emeline 03.23.25
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

New this year, we are excited to announce Anne Caldwell of the Magnolia Singers and Roger Bellow will delight guests with an hour of jazz standards in the breezy courtyard of the Emeline. 

Morning History Walk 03.24.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Stroll through the Old & Historic District on a two-hour walking tour led by Charleston’s most experienced, licensed guides. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

Natasha Boyd: Indigo Girl 03.24.25
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Back by popular demand, internationally award-winning author, Natasha Boyd, will share the astounding accomplishments of Eliza Lucas Pinckney, who as a teenaged girl developed one of South Carolina’s most lucrative cash crops. So influential was Eliza in early America, President George Washington served as a pallbearer at her funeral. Boyd’s novel, The Indigo Girl, is based on historical documents, including Eliza's letters.

Workshop: Quilting with Rick 03.25.25
10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Join experienced and passionate quilter Rick Sanchez to learn the art of hand stitching and quilting an Antique Block. Rick will guide the class through the process of creating their own quilt square. No experience necessary and supplies included.

Workshop: Sweet Grass Basket Making 03.25.25
1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Immerse yourself in the Gullah Geechee tradition of sweetgrass basket making. Under the skilled guidance of artisan Sarah Edwards-Hammond, this hands-on workshop teaches the art of coiling sweetgrass into intricate baskets as you discover the symbolism within each design. Supplies included. No experience needed.

Workshop: Colonial Cocktails - Rum + Madeira 03.25.25
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Enjoy a sip of Colonial mixology courtesy of a partnership between Historic Charleston Foundation and Mount Gay Rum. Learn about the connection between Barbados and Charleston and the origins of the rum trade, dating back to the 17th century. This class offers light bites and three cocktail samples.

Morning History Walk 03.26.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Stroll through the Old & Historic District on a two-hour walking tour led by Charleston’s most experienced, licensed guides. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

The Journey of Mottahedeh 03.26.25
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

President of Mottahedeh, Wendy Kvalheim, will talk about the development of the porcelain industry and how East meets West. Wendy will talk about its journey to the contemporary dinner table, a place of beauty and culture.

Tour: Tradd Street 03.26.25
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Said to be named after the first child of European descent born in Charles Town, this street and neighborhood contain a fascinating collection of early 18th-century houses.

Sunset Harbor History Boat Tour 03.26.25
6:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Add to your festival experience and embark on a captivating boat tour! Guests will explore Charleston’s Harbor by boat while our expert historian narrates a time in Charleston’s history when the city was a crucible of American independence. Light bites and a cash bar will be available on board.

Themed Walking Tour: The Living Museum 03.27.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Explore the living museum that is Charleston’s marvelously preserved historic district on a walking tour that navigates the evolution of the city’s famed architecture. We’ll examine how Charleston became a powerful and affluent colonial city, its roles in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, how stylistic and practical influences from other cultures were adapted into local architecture, and how the ebbs and flows of wealth are recorded in its built environment, visible to those who know how to look.

Architectural Splendor: Tour of Showcase Houses 03.27.25
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Architectural Splendor and Garden Splendor tours offer exclusive and intimate tours of the most magnificent properties on the peninsula, with expert guides for a more elevated experience.

Tour: King St 03.27.25
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Untouched by the great fires that ravaged Charleston, this neighborhood boasts architecture from early Georgian to late Victorian, from modest artisans’ houses to grand townhouses. 

Music Series: Charlton Singleton & the Honeycomb Jazz Orchestra 03.27.25
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

A native of Awendaw, SC, Charlton Singleton is the founding member of the Grammy award-winning ensemble, Ranky Tanky, a quintet that interprets the sounds of Gullah from the Lowcountry. In 2017 Ranky Tanky reached the top of the Billboard charts with their self-titled album followed by a Grammy Award for “Best Regional Roots Album” in 2019. As a performer, Charlton leads his own ensembles that vary in size and style. For the 2025 Festival, Charlton is back "home" in the Holy City with his Honeycomb Jazz Orchestra.

Morning History Walk 03.28.25
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Stroll through the Old & Historic District on a two-hour walking tour led by Charleston’s most experienced, licensed guides. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

Architectural Splendor: Tour of Showcase Houses 03.28.25
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Architectural Splendor and Garden Splendor tours offer exclusive and intimate tours of the most magnificent properties on the peninsula, with expert guides for a more elevated experience.

Music Series: Under the Magnolias 03.28.25
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Known for their gift of historic storytelling through song, The Magnolia Singers will perform a collection of Gullah music and spirituals under the beautiful magnolia trees of the Aiken-Rhett House’s hallowed grounds.

Food for Thought: Harlan Greene 4.1.24
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Historian Harlan Greene digs deep and uncovers a wealth of knowledge about Charleston's LGBTQ past and present in his acclaimed work, The Real Rainbow Row. Greene will dive deeper with guests to discuss the history of LGBTQ life in Charleston and the Lowcountry from pre-settlement to today.

Food for Thought: Harlan Greene 4.1.24
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Historian Harlan Greene digs deep and uncovers a wealth of knowledge about Charleston's LGBTQ past and present in his acclaimed work, The Real Rainbow Row. Greene will dive deeper with guests to discuss the history of LGBTQ life in Charleston and the Lowcountry from pre-settlement to today.

Food for Thought: Louisa Pringle Cameron 4.3.24
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Join Charleston native and noted author, Louisa Pringle Cameron, for a look at the history of Charleston gardens. Be inspired by the extensive knowledge and collection of photographs in this lecture, evoking the beauty of Charleston’s gardens, past and present. 

East Bay Street Tour I 4.3.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Along East Bay Street, colorful 18th century dwellings intermingle with grand antebellum mansions. Panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor along the High Battery further enhance the area. At each location, volunteer docents are available  to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Art in the Garden with Christine Lashley 4.3.24
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Wander through the lush garden at the Nathaniel Russell House Museum adorned with original works of art by Christine Lashley. Hosted by The Principle Gallery, Art in the Garden with Christine Lashley will be an opportunity to meet the artist, view her original work, and explore the house museum.

Garden Splendor Tour III 4.4.24
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Select properties on the Architectural and Garden Splendor Tours are private homes and we are very fortunate that each homeowner supports the Foundation by opening up their homes for the Festival. 

Tradd Street Tour I 4.4.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Said to be named after the first child of European descent born in Charles Town, this street and neighborhood contain a fascinating collection of some of the earliest homes in the city. Each Street Tour is self-guided from property to property.

Music Series: The Plantation Singers at Circular Congregational Church 4.4.24
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

The Plantation Singers, one of the Southeast's most acclaimed a cappella groups, will bring the rich and energetic performances of Gullah spirituals to The Charleston Festival.

Food for Thought: Charleston Horse Power with Chrstina Butler 4.5.24
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Celebrated historian and author, Christina Butler, joins us for an illustrated lecture outlining her latest book, Charleston Horse Power: Equine Culture in the Palmetto City. Dr. Butler will dive into her research of the history of working horses in the city. 

Glorious Gardens II 4.5.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Discover the extraordinary treasures of Charleston’s gardens and landscape designs on the elevated Garden Splendor Tours. Guests will enjoy walks through lush, secret oases where meticulously manicured gardens frame picturesque fountains. 

East Bay Street Tour II 4.6.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Along East Bay Street, colorful 18th century dwellings  intermingle with grand antebellum mansions. Panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor along the High Battery further enhance the area. At each location, our volunteer docents are available to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Tradd Street Tour II 4.7.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Said to be named after the first child of European descent born in Charles Town, this street and neighborhood contain a fascinating collection of some of the earliest homes in the city. Each Street Tour is self-guided from property to property, and our volunteer docents are available to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Lecture on Location: Gravestones with Grahame Long 4.8.24
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Perhaps the saddest of all cultural decorations, grave markers remain the most permanent reminders of a person’s death. Numerous in Charleston, each work of art continues to preserve the narratives of bygone eras and the individuals who shaped them through inscriptions and symbols. 

Rutledge Ave Tour I 4.9.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

By the turn of the 19th century, planters and well-to-do merchants were building grand residencies in this suburban area. Along Rutledge Avenue there are some of the finest examples of Federal, Regency, Greek Revival and early Victorian architecture in the city. 

Lecture on Location: Behind the Scenes of Historic Preservation with Justin Schwebler 4.10.24
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Go behind-the-scenes of the Aiken-Rhett House Museum and dive deeper into the latest preservation efforts with Justin Schwebler, HCF Properties Manager, and steward of this historic house. Dating to the 1820s, several projects are underway to protect one of Charleston's greatest architectural treasures.

Broad Street Tour I 4.10.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Broad Street is one of the most recognizable streets in Charleston. Landmark civic buildings mingle with charming, sometimes diminutive, early homes in this part of Charleston's historic neighborhoods. At each location, docents are available to speak more about the home's history and architecture.

Archietectural Splendor Tour II 4.11.24
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Magnificent architectural treasures and their incredible decorative arts and furnishings by leading local experts during this once-in-a-lifetime tour. Guests will gather in a small intimate groups to visit four select properties in the Old and Historic Districts.

Architectural Splendor Tour III 4.11.24
1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Magnificent architectural treasures and their incredible decorative arts and furnishings by leading local experts during this once-in-a-lifetime tour. Guests will gather in a small intimate groups to visit four select properties in the Old and Historic Districts. 

Rutledge Avenue Tour II 4.11.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

By the turn of the 19th century, planters and well-to-do merchants were building grand residencies in this suburban area. Along Rutledge Avenue there are some of the finest examples of Federal, Regency, Greek Revival and early Victorian architecture in the city. Volunteer docents are available to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Charleton Singleton and the Beehive Jazz Orchestra 4.11.24
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

A native of Awendaw, SC, Charlton Singleton is the founding member of the Grammy award-winning ensemble, Ranky Tanky, a quintet that interprets the sounds of Gullah from the Lowcountry. For the 2024 Festival, Charleton is back "home" in the Holy City with an eight-piece ensemble. 

Food for Thought: The Invention of Wings with Valerie Perry and Lee Ann Bain 4.12.24
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

The Invention of Wings was inspired by real-life abolitionists Sarah and Angelina Grimké. Valerie Perry will describe how she assisted author Sue Monk Kidd in her research. Lee Ann Bain will discuss how she separated fact from fiction to develop The Original Grimké Sisters Tour with Carol Ezell- Gilson.

Glorious Gardens III 4.12.24
2:00 am - 5:00 pm

Discover the extraordinary treasures of Charleston’s gardens and landscape designs on the elevated Garden Splendor Tours. Guests will enjoy walks through lush, secret oases where meticulously manicured gardens frame picturesque fountains. Admire the timeless beauty of centuries-old oak trees and delicate Spanish moss canopies.

Private Studio Tour with Jill Hooper 4.12.24
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Join Jill Hooper on an intimate tour of her Charleston studio and home.

Broad Street Tour II 4.13.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Broad Street is one of the most recognizable streets in Charleston. Landmark civic buildings mingle with charming, sometimes diminutive, early homes in this part of Charleston's historic neighborhoods. Our volunteer docents are available to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Coffee and Tour at the Russell House 4.14.24
9:00 am - 11:00 am

Relax in the formal garden of the Nathaniel Russell House Museum with a morning coffee and light breakfast bites before touring the beautifully restored Nathaniel Russell House Museum. Expert docents will guide guests on an intimate tour of the ca.1808 mansion.