Things To Do in Augusta This Weekend: September 18-September 20

This weekend, Augusta's calendar is packed with something for everyone. Arts in the Heart of Augusta returns for its 45th year at a new temporary home, while St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church hosts its annual Oyster Fest, complete with oysters, live music, and family fun. Animal lovers, meanwhile, can head to Sip, Snack, Slither for exotic encounters and local vendors. Whichever event you choose, there's plenty to fill a September weekend in Augusta.

Arts in the Heart of Augusta, the Greater Augusta Arts Council's annual fundraiser, marks its 45th year with a temporary move to the Exchange Club Fairgrounds due to downtown construction. Festivalgoers can browse the Global Village's 20 represented countries, shop from more than 130 fine arts and crafts vendors, and enjoy multiple stages of music, dance, and theater, plus an expanded family area with interactive art installations. Volunteers get free entry and an exclusive T-shirt.

St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church invites the community to Oyster Fest for a day of food and fellowship, with oysters prepared by JC Seafood of Aiken, plus cold beer. Kids' activities include a bounce house, face painting, hot dogs, and snow cones, while adults can enjoy live music, arts-and-crafts vendors, a raffle, and a silent auction.

Sip, Snack, Slither returns to Augusta, organized by Not Normal Exotics. Free to attend, the community event features local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities for all ages, along with photo opportunities and educational experiences. Not Normal Exotics brings back its signature animal encounters, with the petting zoo and VIP shows requiring separate paid tokens or tickets. Organizers describe it as bigger and better than previous years, encouraging attendees to shop local, enjoy the atmosphere, and spend the day with family and friends.

Augusta's weekend lineup spans decades of sound and shifts into high gear. Catch live local music before a legendary rock band marks a milestone anniversary on a bigger stage. Car enthusiasts can wrap up the weekend admiring custom builds and classic rides just across the river.

Augusta's calendar heats up this week with something for every appetite. Bake a loaf from scratch, tee off for a good cause, or settle in for pasta and wine with friends. Art lovers can round out the week celebrating a local museum milestone.