Open those Google cals, GVL (or the paper variety, if that’s more your thing), because the downtown arts scene is back (and better than ever). Starting in May, several beloved events will make their triumphant return for the first time since 2019. Looking at you, Downtown Alive.

Here are some of the signature Greenville arts events we’re excited to get back to:

Piedmont Natural Gas Downtown Alive

What we missed: Canceled in 2020 and 2021, Greenville's weekly street party — presented by Clemson MBA — is finally back.

When to go: Every Thursday night through Aug. 25, 2022 from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Where it happens: NOMA Square on Main St.

What we love: Seeing local bands and supporting the Metropolitan Arts Council (Downtown Alive is their biggest fundraiser of the year).

Make your plans: Details here.

Annual Mod Fête party

What we missed: MAConnect’s annual party is back after being canceled in 2020 and 2021, with this year’s soiree hosted at Greenville Center for Creative Arts.

When to go: Sat., May 21, 2022

Where it happens: Greenville Center for Creative Arts, 101 Abney St.

What we love: Supporting MAC's young professional's group, MAConnect. Did you know? They host other smaller events throughout the year like Scenic Sundays and curated First Fridays Gallery Crawls, and members get invites to all MAC + Centre Stage exhibit receptions, plus a MAC ArtCard (read: BOGO tickets to 7 local performances).

Make your plans: Details + tickets here.

Open Studios Retrospective

What we missed: After being digital for the past two years, this exhibit is back in-person.

When to go: Catch the opening reception on Sat., May 7, 2022 from 6:30-9 p.m., and enjoy the show through Fri., May 27, 2022.

Where it happens: The MAC Gallery, 16 Augusta St.

What we love: Admiring works from local artists, appreciating the talent our city has to offer, and getting excited for this year’s Greenville Open Studios (happening Nov. 12-13, 2022).

Make your plans: Details here.

Flat Out Under Pressure

What we missed: This 24-hour art-making event is back + comes with a big prize for the first place winner (read: a trip to Corona, Italy for two).

When to go: Check out the completed works of art on Sat., June 11, 2022 during the 7-9 p.m. reception/awards ceremony.

Where it happens: The MAC Gallery, 16 Augusta St.

What we love: Seeing the eight winners’ work displayed on downtown recycling bins (beginning next spring).

Make your plans: Learn more.

Did you know? You can also experience Greenville’s vibrant arts scene during First Fridays, held the first Friday of each month from 6-9 p.m., and stay on top of arts events year-round by bookmarking MAC’s Arts Calendar.

To stay connected with MAC throughout the year, join their email list by sending them an email.

Pro tip for arts lovers: Donating to MAC comes with major perks (on top of supporting the arts in our city) — a $100 donation means you’ll receive postcards for gallery openings and other events, plus a MAC ArtCard (which can be received on its own with a $50 donation).

See you out there, GVL.*

Poll:

Which returning arts event are you most looking forward to? Tell us here.