AIKEN -- Aiken will once again become a regional fine art and antiques destination when the 11th annual Antiques in the Heart of Aiken comes to the Aiken Center for the Arts, Feb. 4-7.

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 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, Feb. 4, at the center 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 open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 5-6, and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7. 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 items presented by more than 20 dealers from across the country, including American and European furniture, art, books, silver, porcelains, vintage linens, oriental rugs, estate jewelry and more.

Lectures will also be held on at 9 a.m. Friday and Saturday mornings at the Aiken Center for the Arts' Brown Pavilion. Friday's lecture will be "The Importance of Provenance," and Saturday's is titled "Arms & Militaria." Cost is $20 per lectured. Call in advance for reservations.

Restoration and hand-engraving services will also be provided during the show and sale on the second floor of the center, and the Sweetheart Café will offer signature soups, salads, sandwiches, daily specials and homemade desserts to guests from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday at noon to 3 p.m. Sunday.

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

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