AIKEN -- Aiken will once again become a regional fine art and antiques destination when the 10th annual Antiques in the Heart of Aiken comes to the Aiken Center for the Arts, Jan. 29-Feb. 1.

Proceeds from Antiques in the Heart of Aiken benefit the Aiken Center for the Arts, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary as a major art resource for the area. The center offers a variety of visual and performing art classes, free exhibits, children's summer art camps and special events with the goal of furthering arts in the community.

Since the 19th century, Aiken has served as the winter home for some of America's greatest collectors of the 20th century, including the Bissell, Knox, Garvan, Vanderbilt and Whitney families. Antiques in the Heart of Aiken is continuing that tradition by offering new purchase opportunities for area collectors while raising funds for the Aiken Center for the Arts.

Special events will debut with the Antiques in the Heart of Aiken Preview Party from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, at the center, 122 Laurens St. SW in downtown Aiken. Patrons will have the opportunity to preview and purchase fine antiques while enjoying an evening of heavy hors d'oeuvres and an open bar. Preview Party tickets are $60 per person and include general admission show passes.

The Antiques in the Heart of Aiken Show and Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30-31, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1. General admission tickets, which cover entry for all three days, are $8 per person. Patrons will be able to select from a wide assortment of antiques and decorative arts presented by more than 20 dealers from across the country, including the finest American and European furniture, art, books, silver, porcelains, vintage linens, oriental rugs, estate jewelry and more.

Enjoy signature soups, salads, sandwiches with daily specials and delectable desserts made by Aiken's best cooks at the Sweetheart Café, which offers delectable treats during the show on Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Tickets for all events are available at the Aiken Center for the Arts or by calling 803-641-9094. For more information, visit www.aikencenterforthearts.org.

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