For the last 30 years, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition has celebrated wildlife art, conservation and the sporting lifestyle. Each year the event grows and expands as it exposes even more visitors and locals to the wonders of wildlife.
The unofficial kickoff to Charleston’s tourist season, the 31st annual SEWE is Feb. 15-17 at various venues and parks around downtown Charleston.
Nationally known wildlife experts, artists and environmentalists converge on Charleston and this year is no exception. SEWE welcomes Julie Scardina of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens and a frequent guest on “Today” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”
Scardina will host educational live animal presentations at the Charleston
Music Hall. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary will be teaming with Scardina to give
SEWE attendees an up-close look at alligators, bobcats, foxes, birds of prey,
snakes and more. They will have four shows together (two on Feb. 15; two on
Feb. 16), while Busch will have two encore shows on Feb 17.
A crowd favorite each year is the retriever demonstrations and the
DockDogs. This year, SEWE will have the only two-tank DockDogs event east of the Mississippi. Also at Brittlebank Park is the Sporting Village with outdoor outfitters, boats and equipment and fishing/hunting/safari guides. Charleston Place houses a vast exhibit of wildlife artwork, sculpture and photography.
Watch SEWE artists create original pieces live during the Quick Draw/Speed Sculpt on Feb. 15. Artists will have just one hour to create a piece from start to finish and then attendees can bid on the work in a live auction.
Day tickets are $10-$20, three-day passes are $40, and children 10 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. SEWE provides free shuttle service between venues during show hours with a ticket or badge, and handicapped accessible service is available. To purchase tickets, visit www.sewe.com or call 843-723-1748