Many are surprised to learn that Augusta, although rooted in southern history, has a fantastic diverse and global scene. Thanks to the city’s military base, the booming healthcare industry, great educational offerings and Cyber Security Center, people from around the world have come to join and live in the community, making Augusta a global melting pot. To celebrate this and the many cultures represented throughout the city, Augusta is proud to announce that after a two-year hiatus due to COVID, the highly anticipated Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival is returning for the 40^th year Friday, September 16^th through, Sunday, September 18^th. The festival, which is presented by the Greater Augusta Arts Council, celebrates Augusta’s diversity and culture through the display of art and delicious cuisine from over 20 countries worldwide. With a large fine art and crafts market, a global village full of international fare and five stages with constant live entertainment, it is no wonder that over 80,000 people attend this festival each year.

Since its founding in 1981, this highly anticipated award-winning festival, voted best festival in the southeast, has continued to garner more and more attention at both the local and regional level each year. With activities and performances suitable for children and adults, there is truly something for guests of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy. A true feast for the senses, guests can choose to spend the weekend exploring the best of Augusta art while tasting a delectable variety of food from all over the world in a vibrant setting amongst foodies of all types. New for 2022, Augusta is proud to announce that the Arts in the Heart festival will expand another city block! The festival will now encompass the Augusta Common and the 600, 700, 800 and 900 blocks of Broad Street. As one of Augusta’s largest festivals each year, this is an event that visitors will not want to miss.

The Fine Arts and Crafts Market displays works from more than 150 artists, both local and nationwide, allowing festivalgoers to interact with the talented craftsmen. The Global Village, a popular component of the festival each year, provides visitors the opportunity to sample a wide range of different types of authentic international food, all prepared by 19 local ethnic associations. The five entertainment stages at the festival will provide nonstop performances including a Community Stage for local talent, a Global Stage for large, international acts, a Family Stage, a Jazz Stage, and a new Soul Suite Stage featuring poetry, acoustic sounds and more! This year, enjoy the finals of the Press Play singer-songwriter contest Friday Night on Global Stage. The Swanee Quintet, known for touring with and opening for Mr. James Brown, will be closing the Global Stage Sunday evening with an unforgettable, soulful performance.

The large and interactive Family Area and the Young Artists Markets return this year as well! The festival offers young artists the exciting opportunity to kick-start their artistic careers and present their work to the community in the Young Artists Market. This market is set aside just for them in the Family Area, which is full of interactive festivities. Reaching over 3,000 families each year, this area is loaded with scavenger hunts, street performers and craft activities offered by local businesses and organizations.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to enjoy every moment of the festival as well as all the other unique experiences Augusta, Ga. has to offer. From history, museums, public art, one-of-a-kind dining experiences, family adventures and outdoor excursions, Augusta has so much more to explore while in town for the festival. Build the perfect weekend getaway with Destination Augusta’s new Trip Builder feature, allowing guests to create and plan their own individual itineraries in this eclectic city.

Augusta is home to a number of hotels located right in the heart of the action. https://artsintheheartofaugusta.com/festival-lodging/

• Holiday Inn Express Augusta Downtown

• Hyatt House Augusta

• The Partridge Inn

Advance badges for the festival are on sale now! For more information visit https://artsintheheartofaugusta.com