Charleston ArtWalk returns for 2026 season March 19

PRESS RELEASE

CHARLESTON, WV — The Downtown Charleston Association (DCA) is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of ArtWalk, the city’s premier monthly celebration of local art, culture, and commerce. The 2026 season officially kicks off tomorrow, Thursday, March 19, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

A staple of the Charleston community, ArtWalk transforms the historic downtown streets into a vibrant, walkable gallery. This year, the DCA is doubling down on its mission to increase visibility for the local creative economy, with strategic plans to bring more “eyes to art” and more “shoppers to shop local.”


2026 ArtWalk Schedule

ArtWalk occurs on the third Thursday of every month from March through December. Attendees can mark their calendars for the following 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM sessions:

  • March 19 (Season Opener)
  • April 16
  • May 21
  • June 18
  • July 16
  • August 20
  • September 17
  • October 15
  • November 27 (Special Black Friday Edition)
  • December 17

Note: While typically held on the third Thursday, the November event is held on Black Friday to celebrate the holiday shopping season.

Supporting the Local Core

Run by the Downtown Charleston Association, ArtWalk is more than just an art show; it is an economic engine for downtown businesses. By pairing local artists with retail spaces and galleries, the event encourages residents and visitors to explore the unique shops and restaurants that define Charleston’s character.

“We want to ensure that every ArtWalk is an invitation to discover something new,” says the DCA. “Whether it’s a breathtaking painting, a handcrafted piece of jewelry, or a new favorite boutique, the goal is to keep our downtown thriving and our local artists supported.”

About ArtWalk

ArtWalk is a free, self-guided walking tour through downtown Charleston, WV. It features a diverse range of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and live music, hosted by various participating venues. 

Author

Compiled by the RealWV staff.