5 Best Performing Arts Venues in Charleston, South Carolina

Since 2005, this annual fete has served as the city's marquee event for foodies. Spread over five days, it brings together the nation's leading chefs (including local James Beard Award winners), food writers, and, of course, regular diners who love to eat and drink. Held the first full weekend of March, it emphasizes the Lowcountry's culinary heritage. Marion Square serves as the hub with its Culinary Village, but savvy attendees grab up tickets quickly for the numerous dinners and special events held around the city.

Toasting emerging designers and models with runway shows, competitions, and exhibitions, the main events at this five-night festival in March are held beneath tents in Marion Square. Smaller shows are hosted by downtown boutiques. The festival has helped several designers launch their fashion careers. But perhaps even more impressive than the festival are the tony after-parties.

Sponsored every October by the Preservation Society of Charleston, the Fall Tour of Homes provides an inside look at Charleston's private buildings and gardens, from stately mansions on the Battery to intact Revolutionary-era houses.

More than 100 private homes, gardens, and historic churches are open to the public for tours during the Festival of Houses & Gardens, held annually during March and April. There are also symphony galas in stately drawing rooms, oyster roasts, and candlelight tours.

One of Charleston's biggest annual events, this celebration of the region's flora and fauna takes place in mid-February, offering fine art by renowned wildlife artists, bird of prey demonstrations, dog competitions, an oyster roast, and a gala. Spread across three days, the expo generally attracts more than 500 artists and 40,000 participants to various venues around the city.