FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Golden Age of Summerville Festival to be held on Apr. 25-27

 

February 18, 2007, Summerville, SC. – The Golden Age of Summerville Festival, formerly known as the Golden Age of Inns, will be held Apr. 25-27 in Historic Downtown Summerville.  This historically inspired event is committed to educating and creating a level of awareness of the history of Summerville. 

 

The festival’s new name and this year’s theme "Summerville’s Architectural Heritage" recognizes the rich history of the town with its procession of distinctly American styles, from Greek Revival to present day. Natural beauty, mild weather and the perceived curative powers of the magnificent pines in Summerville spurred the building of inns and guest houses for visitors, and palatial mansions by year-round residents.  The festival schedule will feature a three-part lecture series, open houses, an antiques fair, an elegant gala, guided tours and other events and activities intended to showcase the beauty and charm of Historic Downtown Summerville and to highlight the Historic district of Summerville with more than 700 area buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

           

The event will kickoff at 5 p.m. on Friday, Apr. 25 with an Opening Reception at Kings Inn Bed and Breakfast and an Art Walk on Short Central.  Participating artists will line the street and wine and cheese will be served at participating stores.  The first lecture of the three to be offered at various historic venues and featuring expert speakers addressing different aspects of Summerville's architecture will begin at 6:30 p.m.

 

On Saturday, Apr. 26, the Historic district will come alive with the Farmer’s Market, the Summerville-Dorchester Museum, Summerville Preservation Society and B&B Open Houses, Guided Walking and Trolley Tours of the Historic District and the Greater Summerville Antiques Association Outdoor Fair where experts will be available to appraise family heirlooms and other items patrons offer.  Following the open houses with refreshments and guided tours of Summerville’s existing inns, renowned local artist Helen K. Beacham will offer a watercolor demonstration highlighting local architecture during afternoon tea in the garden of Kings Inn Bed and Breakfast. Admission to the lectures and other events will be by way of Patron's Passes available for purchase at a variety of locations before and during the festival. The passes will also qualify patrons for discounts and special offers at participating shops and restaurants.

 

The Festival Gala themed “Spring By Design” will be hosted at The Summer House at 8 p.m. and will feature a “Taste of the District,” music, dancing and a silent auction.  Tickets are $60 per person or $100 per couple. 

 

The event is expected to raise awareness of Historic Downtown Summerville, encouraging day visits and overnight guests, in much the same way as the town’s “Golden Era.” Information on the festival and complete schedule of events is available at www.goldenageofsummerville.com.

 

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Welcome to the Official 2008 Golden Age of Summerville Festival site!