Because of downtown construction projects, Arts in the Heart of Augusta will return to the place where it all began more than 40 years ago.
Scheduled for Sept. 20-22, the festival will move a few streets over to a space encompassing parts of Greene and Telfair streets, the Old Medical College, old Richmond Academy and its parade grounds, the Municipal Building parking lot and the Linda Beazley Room, according to a March 14 new release.
“We are excited to return to our roots. Knowing we had to move off Broad Street to accommodate the TIA projects, we searched the city for a suitable replacement. Securing the whole Municipal Building campus and the historic buildings and parade ground across the street could not have been a better fit. We are looking forward to our new digs as we expand the festival to fill our new space,” said Brenda Durant, Greater Augusta Arts Council executive director.
With more 100,000 attendees, the festival has grown to become an iconic representation of arts in Georgia. More than 150 juried fine arts and crafts artists are expected this year.
Menia Chester is the festival’s chairperson for 2024.
“I’m excited about guiding the festival forward in its new location and presenting some very exciting and diverse performers this year,” Chester said.
The five stages will include nonstop entertainment from hip hop to jazz to rock, highlighting Augusta as a music city.
Thanks to a grant from Destination Augusta, the festival will feature nationally renowned performers on the Global Stage and the Jazz Stage. Acts will be announced as they are secured. Music has grown to be a dynamic part of Arts in the Heart and that will be especially true this year, the release said.
Advanced purchase of festival badges will begin online in July.
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That’s where it started out. ..Telfair around the courthouse, etc.