Piccolo Spoleto 2021 won’t be anything like you’re used to experiencing. Blame the pandemic. But the annual festival will still offer a wide variety of art experiences, says Scott Watson, director of the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs, which produces the annual event that draws thousands to the city.
“Everything is free this year so come out and enjoy it,” he says. “It’s not going to look like past years and it’s going to be different, but it’s still going to be a whole lot of fun.”
While this year’s show will include many “pop-up” events announced at the last moment for neighborhoods around the Holy City, here are five things you can count on to make memories that will last for years to come:
Piccolo Spoleto Juried Art Exhibition
Piccolo Spoleto 2021 will host its annual Juried Art Exhibition from May 28 to June 13 to highlight the recent work of artists across South Carolina. Dontre Major, a Charleston artist who has exhibited in past Piccolo juried shows, will serve as this year’s juror. Guests are requested to reserve free tickets in advance by visiting: citygalleryatwaterfrontpark.com.
Opens May 28. Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Charleston City Gallery, 34 Prioleau St., Downtown.
Piccolo Spoleto Outdoor Art Exhibition
Marion Square will again be transformed into an open-air art market, featuring works by some of the finest local artists in Charleston. Free to all, guests will be allowed to walk through and check out artists’ tents, observing art of many styles. There will be displays by more 60 artists who will also be selling their work. If you’re looking for some good values, interesting conversations with artists and a relaxing atmosphere on a spring day, this is the place to visit.
Opens May 28. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays through Sundays. Marion Square, 329 Meeting St. Downtown.
Piccolo Spoleto Craft Show
The annual craft show will take place over two weekends. Baskets, centerpieces, jewelry, clothing and more will be on display and for sale from some of the most innovative and creative craft artists in and around Charleston. You’ll find the perfect treat for yourself or a special gift for a friend of loved one in this diverse, exciting craft display.
Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 28 and May 29; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 30. On the second weekend, the show will have similar times. Wragg Square,
342 Meeting St. Downtown.
Charleston Fanfare at Cannon Park
Gracie & Lacy, a familiar and talented Charleston vocal and dance duo, will be on hand to help kickoff the 2021 Piccolo Spoleto Festival with a show at Cannon Park on May 28. Joined by the Charleston Symphony brass and more, Gracie & Lacy will bring their classic flavor to audiences in this free mini-concert.
May 28, 6 p.m. Cannon Park, 131 Rutledge Ave. Downtown.
Wragg Square Musical Program
Audiences will be able to enjoy live music by local classical artists at Wragg Square on May 30. Free to all as part of Piccolo Spoleto 2021, guests are welcome to come hang out and enjoy some relaxing afternoon musical fare.
May 30, noon. Wragg Square, 342 Meeting St. Downtown.
Stay cool. Support City Paper. City Paper has been bringing the best news, food, arts, music and event coverage to the Holy City since 1997. Support our continued efforts to highlight the best of Charleston with a one-time donation or become a member of the City Paper Club.