Augusta Gets Artsy!
Nothing says a Friday well-spent like the sound of music thrumming through the streets, the smell of jerk chicken drifting through the air, and the gentle breeze of the Savannah River. Sound like a dream? Think again!
The Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival is officially on, and this isn’t just any old fall festival! From September 19–21, downtown Augusta is turning into a giant block party, complete with crafts, live music, and global eats. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or just looking for a good time, this is your weekend to dive in, wander, and let the city surprise you at every corner.
Start with the art! More than 150 juried fine arts and crafts artists set up shop, so whether you’re on the hunt for a bold painting, handmade jewelry, or something small to gift later, take a lap before you buy—you’ll thank yourself when you circle back and snag that piece you couldn’t stop thinking about!
Next up: the stages. This year, Augusta will be rocking with Grammy-winning band Soul Asylum, along with Leon and the Peoples, Niki Haris, Elliot Holden, and more. The festival’s full slate of local performers will keep the music rolling from afternoon into night. Pro tip: grab a drink, claim a shady spot near the Common, and let the soundtrack set the pace for your evening. And if you’re not into music, don’t worry—there are plenty of more performances to keep you entertained, including Piccadilly Puppets and Comedian Kerwin Claiborne.
If you’ve got kids in tow, make the Family Area your basecamp. There are hands-on activities, live painting, and plenty of space for them to burn energy while you catch your breath. There’s even a Young Artists Market where kiddos can sell their work alongside seasoned artists. It’s a fun way to learn about the value of hard work and the importance of arts and culture.
But let’s be honest—most of us plan our route around the Global Food Village. With 19 authentic cuisine booths serving up bites from China, Greece, Lebanon, and beyond, the move is to go with friends and share plates. From Jerk chicken and Thai noodles to baklava and Colombian arepas, this festival is a truly global culinary tour—no passport needed!
Festival hours are Friday 5–9 PM, Saturday 11 AM–9 PM, and Sunday 11 AM–6 PM. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the gate, and kids 10 and under are free. Rain or shine, this is one of those weekends where downtown belongs to the crowd—so grab your people, bring your appetite, and make a plan to wander!
Discover more ways to get artsy in Augusta and beyond at www.gbj.com/arts-entertainment!
