The 2025 Piccolo Spoleto Festival launches this Friday, May 23, bringing 17 days and nights of admission-free and affordably priced performances, exhibitions, and community celebrations to the Holy City. The festival runs through Sunday, June 8.
Founded in 1979 by the City of Charleston’s Office of Cultural Affairs, Piccolo Spoleto serves as the community-centered counterpart to Spoleto Festival USA, offering a platform for regional artists while upholding a commitment to accessibility and artistic excellence. The festival celebrates both emerging and established talent, presenting professional work across a wide range of disciplines.
Each year, Piccolo Spoleto showcases an expansive lineup, including:
- Visual art exhibitions
- Classical, jazz, and choral music performances
- Dance and theater productions
- Film screenings, poetry readings, and cultural heritage events
- Children’s programming, artisan markets, and more
Free Opening Weekend Highlights Include:
- Spoleto Festival USA Opening Ceremony at City Hall Friday, May 23 at 12:00 PM
- Sunset Serenade with the Charleston Symphony at the U.S. Custom House Friday, May 23 at 8:00 PM
- Piccolo Spoleto Outdoor Art Exhibition at Marion Square Open daily from Friday, May 23 through Sunday, June 8
- Wragg Square Garden Party featuring Indigo in Bloom art exhibition, live music, and more Saturday, May 24 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Piccolo Spoleto Artisan Showcase at Marion Square, with live music Sunday, May 25 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Charleston Concert Band Memorial Day Concert at Hampton Park Monday, May 26 at 3:00 PM
A full schedule of events and online ticketing is available at www.piccolospoleto.com.