Experience the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival

Every fall, Augusta’s downtown streets burst into color, flavor, and sound during the award-winning Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival. This immersive, family-friendly event brings together artists, performers, food vendors, and cultural communities from around the globe—right here in the heart of Georgia. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or already exploring things to do in Augusta, this signature festival is the perfect reason to fall in love with the Feel Good City.

Fun Fact: The Arts in the Heart has been voted the best festival in the Southeast! 

What is the Arts in the Heart Festival?

Now in its 40+ year history, the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival is one of Augusta’s most anticipated cultural celebrations. Hosted each September, this multi-day event transforms downtown Augusta into an international hub of creativity, community, and culinary delight. Attendees can expect over 100 visual artists showcasing handcrafted goods, more than 20 international food booths representing global cultures, and five stages filled with live music, dance, spoken word, and street performers. More than just an art festival, Arts in the Heart is a vibrant celebration of Augusta’s diverse community and its commitment to the arts.

What to Expect

• Global Village: Sample authentic dishes from around the world, from Jamaican jerk chicken and Indian curries to Greek baklava and Filipino lumpia. This international food court is run by local cultural nonprofits and is a highlight for many returning visitors.

• Fine Arts & Crafts Market: Browse and shop high-quality handcrafted items, including pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, textiles, and woodwork from juried artists across the country.

• Live Entertainment: Catch nonstop performances on five separate stages including jazz, soul, dance troupes, theatre acts, and interactive children’s shows.

• Family-Friendly Activities: Bring the kids to the Family Area, which features art activities, puppet shows, and engaging performances tailored for younger audiences.

• Downtown Augusta Vibes: Enjoy the festival atmosphere against the backdrop of downtown Augusta, with its walkable blocks, charming shops, and local restaurants.

Top Must-do Experiences At The Arts In The Heart Festival

Unless you successfully clone yourself, it will be tough to see and do everything that Arts in the Heart 2025 has to offer. Here are our top must-do experiences!

• Catch Live Music. From Grammy-winning Soul Asylum to R&B sensation Niki Haris and reggae icons Leon & The Peoples, this year’s magnificent music lineup is better than ever. 
• Laugh. Whether it’s chuckling at comedian Kerwin Claiborne’s one-liners or enjoying Atlanta’s Piccadilly Puppets with your kids, Arts in the Heart 2025 won’t leave you short on laughter.
• Learn at the Literary Lounge. Head to the Literary Lounge for author talks, book readings and more!
• Enjoy Street Art and Performances. From puppets and painters to pipes, drums and LARPing (live action role playing), you’ll revel in the steady stream of authentic, abundant street art and entertainment. 
• Support Young Artists. Last, but certainly not least, grab your wallet and head to the Young Artists Market. There, artists between the ages of 6 and 18 will be selling their arts and crafts creations! Don’t miss the chance to (Van) Gogh and support the Picassos of tomorrow.

Know Before You Go

The 2025 edition of Arts in the Heart will take place at the Augusta Common in downtown Augusta from September 19 to 21!

Admission badges can be purchased online or at many area locations, including Sacred Heart Cultural Center, Augusta & Co., and Ubora Coffee Roasters in both Augusta and Evans. Badges provide admission for the entire weekend and are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. VIP badges, which include admission to the VIP Tent and the VIP Party, are available online, and children 10 and under get in for FREE!

Festival entrances are located along Broad Street and the Augusta Common. Parking is available in nearby decks and public lots, and several hotels, such as the Augusta Marriott and Extended Stay America, offer Arts in the Heart specials! Plan ahead by exploring our Places To Stay and Plan Your Visit resources.

Make Augusta & Co. Your First Stop

Before you dive into the festival, swing by Augusta & Co., our downtown experience center and visitor shop. You’ll find festival tickets, locally made goods, exclusive Augusta merch and friendly faces ready to offer insider tips for your trip. While you’re there, pick up a FREE Experience Guide to explore more of what makes Augusta unforgettable.

Plan Your Arts-Filled Getaway

If you’re searching for a festival that combines creativity, cuisine and community in one vibrant downtown setting, look no further than the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, this unforgettable celebration of culture and connection is the preeminent arts festival in the South for good reason, and a grand gateway to Augusta’s year-round arts scene. 

While you’re here, make time to visit the host of art galleries in Augusta, including Westobou and CANDL. Browse the collections at the Morris Museum of Art. Catch the Augusta Symphony at the historic Miller Theater. Take a walking tour of must-see murals, or amble along the Augusta Sculpture Trail. Augusta’s art attractions are endless.