Every September, Augusta comes alive with color, music, incredible food, and unforgettable creativity during the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival. As one of the Southeast's premier arts festivals, this beloved annual celebration brings together visual artists, live entertainment, international cuisine, and hands-on family experiences for one incredible weekend.
Whether you're making it an annual tradition, discovering it for the first time, or simply looking for something fun to do this fall, Arts in the Heart offers countless reasons to spend the weekend exploring Augusta. From browsing hundreds of artist booths to tasting authentic dishes from around the world, you'll quickly discover why this festival has become one of the city's signature events.
For more than four decades, the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival has celebrated the creativity, culture, and community that make Augusta so unique. Produced by the Greater Augusta Arts Council, the festival began in 1982 after two local festivals joined together with a shared vision of making the arts accessible while celebrating the many cultures that call Augusta home. Today, it welcomes thousands of attendees each September for three days filled with art, music, food, and unforgettable experiences.
The Festival Features:
More than 130 artists and makers
International cuisine representing cultures from around the world
Five stages of live entertainment
Interactive Family Area
Young Artist Market
Literary programming
Street performers and live demonstrations
No matter your age or interests, there is always something new to discover.
While downtown Augusta continues to undergo exciting improvements, the 2026 Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival will temporarily take place at the Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds from September 18 through September 20, 2026. Although the location has changed for this year, attendees can expect the same award-winning festival filled with incredible artists, live performances, international food, and family fun.
Local Tip: Don't let the temporary location fool you. Everything people love about Arts in the Heart is still here, just with a little more room to explore.
One of the festival's biggest attractions is the expansive Fine Arts & Crafts Market. Artists travel from across the country to showcase handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, sculpture, textiles, woodworking, glass art, mixed media, and much more.
It is the perfect opportunity to meet artists, learn about their work, and take home something truly one of a kind while supporting independent creators.
Local Tip: Arrive early if you're hoping to purchase artwork. Many of the most popular pieces find new homes before the weekend is over.
If you've attended Arts in the Heart before, you already know one thing: come hungry.
The festival's famous Global Village is one of Augusta's favorite culinary traditions, featuring authentic dishes prepared by local cultural organizations representing countries from around the world. From savory entrees and sweet desserts to international beverages and family recipes passed down through generations, every booth tells a story through food.
Whether you're trying something completely new or revisiting an annual favorite, the Global Village is one of the best ways to experience Augusta's diverse community.
Music fills the festival from start to finish with performances happening throughout the day across multiple stages. National touring musicians perform alongside talented local artists, dance companies, theatre groups, spoken word performers, and cultural organizations, creating an experience that is constantly changing as you explore.
Beyond the scheduled performances, keep an eye out for interactive street entertainment, live art demonstrations, and surprise performances around every corner.
The interactive Family Area gives children and families the opportunity to create, play, and discover through hands-on art projects, cultural activities, puppet shows, music, storytelling, face painting, and interactive performances throughout the weekend. The popular Young Artist Market also gives young creatives the opportunity to showcase and sell their own artwork, making it one of the festival's most inspiring traditions.
Whether you're introducing little ones to the arts or simply looking for an afternoon of family fun, this area is always worth a visit.
If you're looking for even more inspiration, stop by Augusta & Co., our downtown Experience Center. Friendly local experts can help you plan your stay, recommend restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems, and point you toward experiences that match your interests.
Before you leave, be sure to pick up a FREEAugusta Experience Guide packed with local recommendations, itineraries, and seasonal inspiration. It's one of the easiest ways to discover even more things to do during your time in Augusta.
Let one of our friendly staff members assist you with your visit to Augusta. Brochures and pamphlets available for hundreds of attractions…
Every year, the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival reminds us that great communities are built through creativity, culture, and connection. Whether you're discovering a new favorite artist, enjoying live music with friends, introducing children to the arts, or tasting flavors from around the world, there's something memorable waiting around every corner.
