Every March, the city of Charleston, South Carolina, becomes a pulsating hub for conservation and creativity at the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE). This multi-day event honors the fierce spirit of the Southeast’s wild creatures, pairing fine art with hands-on wildlife experiences. Held outdoors and indoors around historic downtown Charleston, SEWE is a gateway to both the natural world and the cultural heritage that protects it.

Travelers arrive to a festival where the call of birds is matched by the hum of artists capturing foxes, turtles, and eagles in vivid detail. Over 300 wildlife artists exhibit paintings, sculpture, photography, and functional art, each piece inviting you to see nature with new eyes. But SEWE is not just an art show—its goal is to educate and engage, hosting seminars, demonstrations, and film screenings that remind visitors that wildlife is as much about stewardship as it is wonder.

Exploring SEWE feels like navigating a living gallery stretched across the Charleston Gaillard Center and Marion Square. The terrain here is flat but alive—marsh breezes mingle with street sounds as visitors move from exhibit to exhibit. Kid-friendly events coax families outdoors and into discovery, while conservation leaders share practical lessons on preserving habitats.

Plan your visit around hydration and comfort: March weather swings between brisk and mild, so dress in layers prepared for Charleston’s shift from damp morning fog to afternoon sunshine. Footwear should be sturdy enough for walking paved streets and occasional grassy patches. Arriving early helps dodge crowds and catch softer morning light perfect for photography and calm engagement.

Whether you’re a casual admirer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, SEWE offers a tangible connection to the Southeast’s untamed landscapes and the species that inhabit them. It’s an invitation to witness diversity fiercely thriving and an opportunity to support the ongoing dialogue between nature and people deeply invested in its future.