The MOJA Arts Festival returns to Charleston from September 25 to October 5. In its 41st year, the event will offer 11 days of food, music, art, dance, and community activities. The festival celebrates African American and Caribbean culture with performances and events at venues throughout Charleston’s historic neighborhoods.
MOJA Festival: Charleston’s Cultural Affair
The MOJA Arts Festival is organized by the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs with the all-volunteer MOJA Planning Committee. The festival features visual arts, theater, music, poetry, and dance.
The festival also offers traditional crafts, local food, and family-friendly activities. MOJA runs educational programs, including workshops in public schools and community centers serving seniors.
Must-See Events at the 2025 MOJA Arts Festival
Showcasing arts, music, and community spirit, the MOJA Arts Festival highlights Charleston’s vibrant cultural scene. The event will kick off with MOJA Opening Day Street Parade on September 25 at 6 PM.
The procession will move from Marion Square to East Bay/South Market, which will be followed by an opening reception featuring Rochelle Whitney Green. On September 26, Johnny Osbourne will be headlining the Reggae Block Dance from 6 PM.
Among the 11 days of shows and events, these highlights stand out for attendees. MOJA will host an evening of Jazz with Adam Hawley on September 30. Hawley is a guitarist, producer, and innovative composer and bandleader.
Handpicked by Maurice White, he debuted on the renowned Kalimba Music label. MOJA will host an Eastside Neighborhood Celebration at 11 AM in Hampstead Square on September 27. The park will have food trucks, dance, artisans, and live music by guitarist Greg Loney.
Another event, Step Afrika! The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence, will be performed on October 2 at 7.30 PM. The award-winning dance company will depict the journey of African Americans from the rural South to the industrial North.
On October 3, the Gullah Collective will take the stage with Gullah Geechee heritage at 7 PM. The group blends jazz influences with singing, lively percussion, and call-and-response traditions.
On October 4, the Morehouse College Glee Club will perform at the Dock Street Theatre at 7 PM. Led by Dr. David Morrow, the show will feature a performance by the choral group.
Tickets
The MOJA Arts Festival spans over several days with a number of events. Some of these events are free to attend, while others require tickets. Ticketed events may include performances, workshops, and special celebrations.
Attendees can find full schedules and ticket information on the MOJA Festival website.
With its rich programming and community-focused initiatives, MOJA continues to be a platform for cultural expression and connection in Charleston.
