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

Walk and Talk Charleston: Ironwork in Charleston 3.14.24
9:30 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.

Architectural Splendor Tour 3.14.24
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.

Church Street Tour 3.14.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Often called "the most romantic street in America," Church Street is a visible record of Charleston's history from Colonial dwellings to Georgian gardens and historic churches. 

Charleston by Design Opening Night Party 3.14.24
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Historic Charleston Foundation is thrilled to present our much-anticipated event, the Opening Night Party for Charleston by Design, debuting the Designer Vignettes with a promise to redefine aesthetics and ignite inspiration.

Walk and Talk Charleston: Churches, Steeples, & Graveyards 3.15.24
9:30 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.

Designer Vignettes at the Aiken Rhett House 3.15.24
10:00 am - 11:30 am

For one weekend only, Historic Charleston Foundation is honored to present unique, site-specific designer vignettes at the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. The preserved-as-found historic property is a canvas and our invited designers will transform the spaces into captivating original designs.

Design in Mind I: Amy Astley with Thomas Jayne and William Cullum 3.15.24
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Thomas Jayne and William Cullum: Amy Astley, Editor-in-Chief of Architectural Digest, moderates a discussion with Thomas Jayne, interior design master and author, and South Carolina-native, William Cullum, senior designer at Jayne Design Studio.

Design in Mind Lecture II - Veere Grenney 3.15.24
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

London-based international interior designer and decorator, Veere Grenney, joins us for our second Design in Mind lecture. Known for his timeless, classically elegant interiors and sophisticated, cohesive style, Grenney will share the inspiration behind some of his favorite projects and design ethics.

Glorious Gardens I 3.15.24
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.

Charleston by Design Home Tour 3.15.24
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. 

Jill Hooper Figure Drawing Classs 3.16.24
9:00 am - 11:00 am

Under the instruction of master artist, Jill Hooper, this exclusive figure drawing workshop will feature a live nude model to explore various drawing techniques. Artists of all levels are encouraged to explore the art of figure drawing. All materials will be provided for this workshop.

Walk and Talk Charleston: The Long 18th Century 3.16.24
9:30 am - 11:30 am

Travel back in time on this walking tour through “the long 18th century,” exploring the era of explosive growth and rapid change in Charleston’s rich history. Join an exclusive tour with Walk and Talk Charleston to explore the evolution of architectural styles throughout the city’s history.

Design in Mind Lecture III - Kate and Ben Towill 3.16.24
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Kate and Ben Towill, founders of Basic Projects, a lifestyle-driven design and development company based in Charleston, share their story and success with projects including Post House and Basic Kitchen.

Design in Mind Lecture IV - Gil Schafer and Rita Konig 3.16.24
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Sit down with award-winning architect and leading expert on contemporary classical architecture, Gil Schafer, and renowned London-based designer and writer, Rita Konig, to learn about their inspiration, process, and collaboration.

Creators Corridor: Past, Present and Future 3.16.24
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Join Charleston by Design’s curated group of local makers and designers for an exclusive event highlighting the development of the Historic Navy Yard District.

Bubbles and Blooms 3.16.24
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

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

Vignettes and Mimosas 3.17.24
9:00 am - 10:00 am

Enjoy a morning of strolling through beautiful designer vignettes at the historic Aiken Rhett House. On the last day of the exhibit, guests will experience the Designer Vignettes in the exquisite morning light while sipping on a mimosa and enjoying light bites. 

Church Street Tour II 3.17.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Often called "the most romantic street in America," Church Street is a visible record of Charleston's history from Colonial dwellings to Georgian gardens and historic churches. Each Street Tour is self-guided from property to property.

Jill Hooper Exhibit Walk and Talk 3.17.24
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Join Jill Hooper for a tour and explanation of her exhibition, “Windows into Another World,” on display in the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. She will describe her creative process and inspiration for her body of work. Guests may also enjoy a glass of wine during the tour.

Morning History Walk 3.18.24
9:15 am - 11:30 am

Led by Charleston's most experienced and licensed tour guides, these two-hour walking tours of the Old & Historic District provide the perfect background for the afternoon house and garden tours. No private sites or interiors are included on these walking tours.

Expert Lecture at the American Theater: Dr. Bernard Powers 3.18.24
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

The Civil War and emancipation transformed the South in dramatic ways. However, unlike popular perceptions, the end of slavery wasn’t immediate. The new world of freedom was at once exhilarating and daunting, threatening and appealing. This swirling vortex of uncertainty was the foundation of a new South. 

Sweetgrass Basket Weaving Workshop 3.18.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Under the skilled guidance of expert artisan Sarah Edwards-Hammond, immerse yourself in the Gullah Geechee tradition of sweetgrass basket making that has been woven into the fabric of Charleston's history for generations. No experience necessary and all supplies are included. 

Calligraphy Workshop 3.19.24
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Unleash your inner artist at our calligraphy workshop! In this hands-on experience, delve into the timeless art of beautiful handwriting. Love Letter Gray Calligraphy will guide you through the delicate strokes and graceful flourishes that define this ancient craft. All supplies are included, space is limited. 

Themed Walking Tour: The Armorer of Denmark Vesey's Rebellion 3.19.24
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

The Denmark Vesey rebellion and the subsequent trial of co-conspirators has been a subject of study for historians for quite some time. Tom Russell, often a footnote in the histories of the rebellion, was considered the “armorer of the rebellion.” This unique  tour will explore Vesey and Russell's relationship.

Cocktail Bandits Workshop 3.19.24
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Elevate your mixology skills with Charleston-based mixologists, the Cocktail Bandits. Johnny and Taneka will explore the history behind some of our favorite spirits while you savor your own cocktails. This event promises an evening of delicious discoveries and new trivia for impressing your friends.

Expert Lecture at the American Theater: Aldous Bertram 3.20.24
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Art historian and artist, Aldous Bertram, has long been captivated by chinoiserie, the term for Western art and design inspired by a largely invented vision of China. Marco Polo’s sensational account of his visit to the exotic East in the 13th century sparked a fascination with China that continues today. 

Charlotte Street Tour I 3.20.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Impressive 19th century villas were the nucleus of this neighborhood, inhabited by wealthy Charlesotnians seeking suburban residences. Numerous charming Victorian dwellings were added in the late 1800s. ach Street Tour is self-guided from property to property.

Sunset Harbor History Boat Tour 3.20.24
6:15 pm - 7:45 pm

Embark on a captivating boat tour that promises not only a breathtaking sunset but also a journey through the pages of colonial and revolutionary history. Guests will cruise by historic landmarks like Fort Sumter while learning from our expert historians.

Garden Splendor Tour on 3.21.24
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Architectural Splendor and Garden Splendor Tours provide guests with a more intimate experience and smaller tour groups led by an expert guides and historians. In this once-in-a-lifetime experience, guests will tour four select properties south of Broad Street in the Old and Historic Districts on the peninsula. 

South Battery Street Tour I 3.21.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

South Battery Street is home to some postbellum era mansions including 20th century waterfront homes that overlook White Point Gardens and Charleston Harbor. At each location, our volunteer docents are available from room to room to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Music Series: The Plantation Singers at Dock Street Theatre 3.21.24
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.

Lecture on Location: Antiques with Andy Slotin 3.22.24
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

A descendant of expert appraisers, Andy Slotin is the co-owner and manager of George C. Birlant & Co. Antiques. Learn more about the British influence on Charleston furniture alongside the priceless antiques at Andy's 101 year-old antiques shop located in historic Charleston.

Lecture on Location: Lost Charleston with Grahame Long 3.22.24
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Charleston’s communities have continuously put forth concerted efforts to preserve the city’s historic merit. Join author and historian, Leigh Handal, for a look at "Lost Charleston" going back all the way to the dawn of photography in the 1860s, Leigh will discuss the treasures lost and the secrets left behind.

Photography Walkabout 3.23.24
9:00 am - 11:00 am

Step into the timeless charm of Charleston on a captivating photography walkabout that promises to unlock a treasure trove of Instagram-worthy spots for photography lovers. Meander through cobblestone streets, view historic architecture, and discover the perfect blend of history and aesthetics. 

Charlotte Street Tour II 3.23.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Impressive 19th century villas were the nucleus of this neighborhood, inhabited by wealthy Charlesotnians seeking suburban residences. Numerous charming Victorian dwellings were added in the late 1800s. ach Street Tour is self-guided from property to property.

South Battery Street Tour II 3.24.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

South Battery Street is home to some postbellum era mansions, including 20th century waterfront homes that overlook White Point Gardens and Charleston Harbor. At each location, our volunteer docents are available from room to room to speak more about the home's history, architecture and design.

Jill Hooper and Ann Witheridge - En Plein Air Painting Workshop 3.25.24
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join artist Jill Hooper and renowned English artist Ann Witheridge of London Fine Art Studios for an En Plein Air workshop in the backlot of the Aiken Rhett House Museum. Materials and easels included.

Expert Lecture at the American Theater: Margot Shaw, Tara Guerard, Olivia Brock, & Heather Barrie 3.25.24
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Join Margot Shaw, Editor in Chief of FLOWER, Tara Guerard, owner of Soiree and event planner, Heather Barrie of Gathering Events, and Olivia Brock, preservation designer, for a lively conversation about bringing the patinated voice and style of historic Charleston into today’s decorating.

Jill Hooper Exhibit Walk and Talk with Penelope Michalik 3.25.24
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Join Jill Hooper accompanied by British poet and barrister, Penelope Michalik, for a tour of her exhibition, “Windows into Another World,” and a poetry reading related to the work. Guests may also enjoy a glass of wine during the tour.

Container Gardening Workshop 3.26.24
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Discover the joys of container gardening in this engaging demonstration. The expert team will guide you through the essentials; from discussing container options to selecting the right plants for your "micro-climate." Learn valuable tips on plant selection, watering, fertilization and maintenance.

Anson Street Tour I 3.26.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Although North of Broad, Anson Street's antebellum houses boast Regency and Greek Revival details and were built in the years between the Great Fire of 1838 and the outbreak of the Civil War. Each Street Tour is self-guided from property to property. 

Colonial Cocktails: Rum and Madeira 3.26.24
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Join us for a night of colonial mixology! HCF and Mount Gay Rum are partnering up to teach guests about unusual cocktails from Charleston’s past. Mixology experts will dive deeper into the connection between Charleston and Barbados and the origins of the rum trade dating back to the 17th century. 

Expert Lecture at the American Theater: Glen Gardner 3.27.24
11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Charleston-based landscape architect, Glen Gardner, brings his popular program to the historic American Theater. The go-to designer for historic gardenscapes in the Lowcountry, Glen will explore some past works and the inspiration behind each design. 

Garden Splendor Tour II 3.28.24
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Expert horticulturalists, and passionate historians, and experts are located at each magnificent property to present guests with a more detailed look into the stunning architectural features and landscape designs. 

Anson Street Tour II 3.28.24
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Although North of Broad, Anson Street's antebellum houses boast Regency and Greek Revival details and were built in the years between the Great Fire of 1838 and the outbreak of the Civil War. Each Street Tour is self-guided from property to property.

Music Series: Adia Victoria at The Riviera 3.28.24
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Southern blues rocker, Adia Victoria is a daughter of the South; a born and bred South Carolinian. On her first two albums, Victoria explored the conflicts of the American South and the troubling resonance of its past through her unique voice and raw storytelling ability. 

Lecture on Location: Beekeeping with Brian Fahey 3.29.24
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Charleston’s beautiful gardens are nothing without its natural pollinators. Board Director of the Charleston Area Beekeepers Association and SC Journeyman beekeeper, Brian Fahey, will discuss honey bee management in the United States from the colonial period to date. 

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.