Believe it or not, GVL, Artisphere presented by TD Bank is now in its 20th year, and continues to draw record-breaking crowds year after year. The free annual arts festival returns to downtown Greenville this Mother’s Day weekend, May 10-12.

This time round, 140 visual artists showcasing their talents in 17 different mediums are setting up shop at GE Artist Row. From live music and local bites to hands-on exhibits and street performances, there’s something for the whole family (and your inner art lover) to admire and enjoy.

Artisphere has been named the Best Art Festival in USA Today's 10Best list. | Photo by Creagh Cross

Looking forward to celebrating the arts this Mother’s Day weekend? Here’s a quick overview of the festival before you go:

Festival hours

Friday, May 10: 12-8 p.m.
Saturday, May 11: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday, May 12: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Must-see highlights

Squonk on the Falls Park Amphitheater: An immersive outdoor spectacle bursting with rollicking music, dazzling imagery, and the thrill of audience participation. At the center of this riotous romp is the Squonkcordion, an enormous musical instrument powered by behemoth bellows topped with towering tuba bells.
Lotty: An interactive giant squid installation by Moradavaga on Tate Plaza.
Artists of the Upstate: A juried exhibition that spotlights a diversity of local talent in upstate South Carolina.
Arts & Drafts: Grab a tasty craft beer and watch as artists of multiple disciplines perform live demos.
Kidsphere: Interactive activities and crafts for little ones.

Where to park

Main St. at River and Markley and other access point streets will be shut down starting at 4 a.m. on Thursday morning prior to the festival.

A variety of parking options are available in the City’s conveniently located parking garages. For more info on parking, check out this interactive parking map.

Plan your visit