artfields 2024 with kids
We are big fans of Lake City and have been a few times. But this will be our first time visiting during ArtFields! We’ve been studying up and feel like we have a good plan. Plus we have an inside source who went on day 1 and has channeled us some good-to-know info! Here are some tips for how to have an awesome time at ArtFields 2023 with kids.
the basic facts
WHEN | April 26–May 4
DISTANCE | Lake City is about 75 minutes from central Myrtle Beach and only about 50 minutes from Conway.
WHAT IS IT | ArtFields is one of the South’s biggest art festivals in one of SC’s most unique little towns. The place comes alive with art, culture, food, music, and more.
key things to know
EVENT IS FREE BUT REGISTER TO VOTE | YOU CAN PRE-REGISTER HERE then you’ll get info about where to check in to validate your registration.
THERE IS A SUPER HANDY APP | It’s called Bloomberg Connects. Find it in your App Store. I recommend it. It has the schedule listed by day, maps, artists, and more.
CHECK OUT THE MAP | Lake City isn’t really all that big until ArtFields comes to town! When going with kids I think it’s easiest just to walk the main areas and pop into whatever venues are open.
START AT WELCOME CENTER | 103 W Main Street. You’ll get a map there and activate your vote.
The full schedule is here | There are special events each day, especially on the weekend.
CHILDREN’S ART VENUES WILL BE LABELED | They’ll have a blue JR (for junior) on the map. Our on-site contact recommends these venues for kids:
#1 Continuum; #8 Joes Barbershop; #9 Olio Studios; #16 TRAX Visual Art; #26 Chamber of Commerce; and #39 Jones-Carter Gallery (better for older kids).
other good to know info...
CHECK OUT THE VENUES + ART PREVIEW HERE | You can get a preview of the art that will be in each venue at that link! Very helpful for making sure you don’t miss anything you particularly want to see.
SEE THE MURALS | Here is a post where we covered the murals. They have since added one so my list is not complete anymore. Be sure to seek out some of these while you’re in town!
MOORE BOTANICAL GARDENS | ArtFields is one of the few times of the year when the gardens are open to the public – and free of charge! The gardens are about 7 minutes from central Lake City. May be a good option to pop over if the crowds in Lake City get too much for little ones. (Gardens are not open on Sun, 4/23)
FIND THE PUBLIC GREEN SPACES | Lake City has a designation as a Certified Bee City and you can tell when you’re there. So many unique plants and flowers to help bees thrive! There are many little parks and courtyards throughout town. We mention a few of them in this article too!
BEWARE –– THE TRAIN IS LOUD! | The train runs right through central Lake City multiple times a day and it is LOUD. So loud that our kids must bolt inside the nearest shop to lessen the sound. Not much you can do except be aware!
