What is FestivALL?
Brief History
FestivALL Charleston began in 2005 with the support of Mayor Danny Jones and the Charleston City Council. From the beginning, it was the consensus of the Steering Committee that FestivALL should include visual arts, music, theater, dance and film as well as other cultural and entertainment events. It mixes fine arts and pop arts in venues and locations all over Charleston and includes a wide variety of styles and genres.
FestivALL directly produces some events, co-produces some events and presents some events that are produced by other individuals and organizations.
At the initial three-day FestivALL in 2005, there were 120 performances and exhibits. In 2006 there were just as many events and performances but more attendees and, in 2007, the number of days increased to four and events and attendees also increased. In 2008 FestivALL became ten days with attendance of over 40,000 at 83 different events featuring 169 performances, exhibits and presentations by 378 companies, troupes and individual artists. In 2009 over 50,000 people enjoyed FestivALL events and the attendence stayed around 50,000 in 2010 and 2011.
FestivALL is always open for proposals of new events. It is supported by the City of Charleston and also receives financial support from the State of West Virginia, Kanawha County Commission, Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation and other foundations, Corporate and business sponsorships, individual contributions and ticket revenue.
"It’s a place and event where you can stroll and be happy, where you can look at art, hear music, watch street performers, and just mingle with people. You never quite know what treat will be up the street, what sight will bring delight."
- Wonderful West Virginia magazine
