A Typical Week or Weekend

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 every Wednesday and Friday morning.

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.

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. 

Sometimes a weekend is too short, and a week is too long – but a long weekend is just right! Long Weekend start days vary. Please confirm your specific start day upon registering.