A Typical Week or Weekend

Nestled on 270 acres in an enchanted valley, the Folk School offers those who are visiting the area a chance to experience a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty.

A Typical Week

During your stay, start every morning surrounded by the peaceful sounds of our secluded mountains. Take a walk on our campus paths, or on trails through the woods or by the stream. Treat yourself to Morningsong at 7:45 a.m. in the historic Keith House Community Room. This Danish custom of singing, folklore, and camaraderie will bring you friendly faces sharing songs, stories, and history each day.

Folk School staff will work hard to provide you with a positive Folk School experience of learning and sharing. Dining Hall staff will be serving healthy and plentiful meals made fresh every day.

In the studio, you will learn by doing, at your own pace. Small class size allows for personalized, one-on-one instruction with plenty of time for individual practice. No matter your experience or skill level, you will be amazed by what you create and the friendships you forge. Classes run for six hours a day, with a long break for lunch in between.

Evening offers you the opportunity to join a campus tour, enjoy a late afternoon tour in the garden, or spend some quiet time on your own before supper. While we continue to monitor dance and concert safety, we will work to find ways to fill the evenings with dance and music performances, readings by student and visiting writers, storytellers, and other special programming.

On Friday, we will come together for a closing ceremony and student exhibit, allowing each class to showcase their work. Admire the skill of ironworks created in the Blacksmith Shop. Revel in the handiwork of woodturned bowls and freshly stitched books. Learn about the process of making by seeing examples of works in progress.

Saturday wraps up your week of making art, making friends, and making memories. You have created something new. You have experienced the tradition and history of the Appalachians, and you will depart with inspiration and renewal that can only be found in this special place.

Exterior of Red Barn

Student Handbook

What to know, before you visit.

The Student Handbook includes more information and resources to help you prepare for your trip.

Download Student Handbook

A Typical Weekend

Weekend classes are a great way to get a taste of the Folk School experience and dip your toes into a new craft or technique. Arrive Friday afternoon for Registration and Orientation in our spacious Festival Barn, weather permitting. Classes begin that evening after supper to maximize your instruction time.  

Morningsong welcomes in the day on Saturday, then head down to breakfast to fill up before a full day of learning. Classes run until 12:15 p.m. and resume after lunch at 1:30 p.m. You’ll get out around 5 p.m., the perfect time to take an evening stroll on our nature trails before supper is served. Optional studio time is available from 6:45 to 9 p.m., depending on your class and instructor.  

After breakfast on Sunday, head to the studio from 9 to 11 a.m. for finishing touches and studio clean-up. Those staying on campus will need to have their residencies vacated by time indicated in order to accommodate the next set of students coming in. Lunch is served at 12:15 a.m., and guests are asked to depart afterward. 

Visit The Craft Shop

Our Craft Shop is open to visitors at limited capacity seven days a week. A founding member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, the Craft Shop sells the highest quality handcrafted items, representing the juried work of over 300 local and regional artists. We also invite you to take a journey through time in the History Center, where you can learn more about the Folk School’s fascinating story and view works by legendary and contemporary artisans. 

Learn More
Folk School Sign on the road

Getting Here

Only two hours from Asheville, Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Knoxville, and a day’s drive for half of the residents of the U.S.

Student Housing

Explore Our Campus

Find a map of our sprawling campus, information about our nature trails, and more.

Exterior of Keith House

Visitor Guidelines

A few things we ask you to keep in mind during your visit.

Craft Shop

Selling the highest quality handcrafted items made by regional artists.

History Center

Discover the rich heritage that has made the Folk School a historical landmark.

Musical performers on Festival Barn stage

Events

Activities for students, visitors, and the community to enjoy.