Soirée 2026

The Soirée is back for its fifth year as Anderson's signature arts festival, transforming downtown into a hub of creativity and celebration! The 2026 Soirée will uphold its tradition of excellence while showcasing the best in visual, culinary, and performing arts. This vibrant, community-led festival—hosted by the City of Anderson—offers an unforgettable two-day cultural experience that draws visitors from across the region. New this year, artist demo tents will be interwoven with vendor booths, giving guests a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.

The festival takes place April 24-25, 2026 in downtown Anderson, SC on Main Street and Carolina Wren Park. Application deadline is November 30, 2025, with artist notification by December 23, 2025. Over $2,000 in prize money will be distributed including Best of Show ($1,000), Fine Artist Runner-up ($400), Artisan Runner-up ($400), and Best Booth ($250). Categories include Fine Art (painting, drawing, fiber, sculpture, mixed media, photography, printmaking, ceramics, digital art), Jewelry, Home Goods, Stationery and Paper Accessories, Bath/Body/Candles, Culinary Products, and Apparel/Accessories.

All work must be original, handcrafted pieces produced by the artist. Artists must submit 5 images including 4 representing their complete range of work and 1 booth image. The application is free and emerging artists are accepted. Artists must be present and personally staff their exhibit space during the entire event. The Soirée is coordinated by the City of Anderson with artistic guidance from the Anderson Arts Center, and proceeds help fund new art initiatives in Anderson year-round.