From painters and potters to designers and musicians, Charlottetown’s creative spirit is everywhere you look. Inspired by the Island’s natural beauty and close knit community, local artists shape our city filled with thoughtful details, live performances, and one-of-a-kind finds.
Public art adds colour and character to Charlottetown’s streets. Keep an eye out for Jieun Kim’s lively mural behind City Cinema (64 King St) and I AM EELCO’s vibrant work on the Charlottetown Fire Hall (89 Kent St).
In autumn, the city fills with whimsical displays during the Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival. Sculptures celebrating Island icons – foxes, tuna, blue herons, and lobster – offer playful photo ops throughout the downtown core.
Theatrical talent abounds on stages across the city. Whether you check out the intimate black box theatre at The Guild, the impressive Main Stage at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, including Anne of Green Gables–The MusicalTM every other year (returning in 2026), the carefully curated lineup of performances at the PEI Brewing Company, or the modern venue at Florence Simmons Performance Hall (featuring Anne & Gilbert, The Musical), the options are limitless for catching heartwarming and inspiring entertainment.
Downtown Charlottetown is a treasure trove of locally made goods. Browse jewellery, apparel, pottery, woodwork, woven pieces, and original art in charming boutiques and working studios. Many artisans run their own storefronts, like Green Eye Designs on Victoria Row. Local cafes like Receiver Coffee Co. and The Gallery Coffee House & Bistro double as creative hubs, featuring rotating exhibitions by Island artists. You’ll also find in-house fashion lines at specialty shops such as SWENN and JEMS Boutique on Queen Street.
Explore more than 17,000 works at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery, Canada’s national gallery devoted to Canadian art. With rotating exhibitions and interactive displays, it’s engaging stop for visitors of all ages. The Hilda Woolnough Gallery in The Arts Guild features Island artists year-round, while nearby Details Fine Art Gallery on Victoria Row showcases work from more than local creators.
Tap into your artistic side with a workshop at Blank Canvas Art Supplies – a local independent art & craft supply store located in the Confederation Court Mall. Or slow down and try something new with a pottery workshop or course at Alley Street Clay Club, a welcoming creative space in downtown Charlottetown.
• Confederation Centre of the Arts & The Mack – Hosting world- class concerts, theatre, and live performances.
• Trailside Music Hall – An intimate venue featuring top-notch local and touring artists.
• The Guild – A cozy space for emerging and established musicians, right in the heart of downtown.
• PEI Brewing Company – A spacious venue that blends craft beer with big-stage concerts and lively events, making it a go-to spot for music lovers.
Seasonal: Typically June – October
• Victoria Row – A pedestrian-friendly hub where street performers and local artists shine.
• Sydney Street – Lined with patios and often filled with the sound of live music.
• Founders’ Food Hall & Market – A vibrant setting for live tunes alongside great local eats.
• Peake’s Wharf Stage – A summer hotspot for daily live performances with a scenic harbour backdrop.
Charlottetown’s restaurant scene is packed with spots offering live music alongside incredible food & drink. John Brown Richmond Street Grille, Hunter’s Ale House, Baba’s Lounge, The Old Triangle, Salt & Sol, Peake’s Quay Restaurant, Lone Oak Brew Pub, The Gahan House, and The Charlottetown Beer Garden are just a few local favourites known for their tasty menus and regular performances.
Q: Tell us about your creative work and how it began for you- have you always been an artist (at heart and in practice) and what inspires your work?
A: At six, I already wanted to be an illustrator. Art has always been my thing. I draw what brings me joy, hoping it brings joy to others.
Q: What brought you to want to live & work in Charlottetown?
A: We’ve been in Charlottetown for three years and fell in love with the Maritime way of life and how much it supports local markers.
Q: How does PEI inspire your creativity or shape your process?
A: PEI’s natural beauty and friendly, creative community continually inspire and shape the way I work.
Q: What’s one project, piece, or experience you’re especially proud of?
A: I’m especially proud of illustrating Suzanne Scott’s Little Island Days children’s book series. It is such a fun project to bring to life!
Q: What do you hope locals & visitors take away after experiencing your work?
A: One word: joy!
Find her work on Instagram @josianevlitos or on her website josianevlitos.com
In Charlottetown, creativity isn’t just something you see — it’s something you feel, everywhere you go.
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