Small-town nonprofit Ozark Folkways is gearing up for its annual Fiber Fest. This two-day event is a community celebration of the fiber arts-rich tradition in the Ozarks. Fiber Fest is on Saturday and Sunday, October 26 and 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ozark Folkways, at 22733 N Hwy 71 in Winslow.

“We are a smaller, friendly event supporting the community and the fiber arts and artists, “said Peggy Bowen, one of the event organizers. “We have displays, vendors, talks, and demos! Guests can try their hand at some of the crafts being demonstrated.” 

Fiber Fest is a free, family-friendly event. Ozark Folkways seeks to entertain the whole community. It encourages guests new to and curious about fiber arts or life-long serious artisans.Fiber arts include creative media of thread. Well-known skills include sewing, lace making, felting, quilting, spinning, knitting, crocheting, and embroidery. There is something for everyone. Ozark Folkways promises this year’s Fiber Fest to be an immersive experience for all ages and skill levels. Attendees will find many fiber arts-related activities and goods. These will include exhibits, vendors, installations, demos, a silent auction, and a contest.

Folkways encourages artists to enter a fiber arts contest before the event. “We invite guests to check out activities inside and outside Folkways,” said Bowen. “We have displays and vendors outside. But last year some didn’t realize we were doing demos and talks inside!”

Exhibits will feature local talents, including a community-wide yarn bombing project. Vendors and live demonstrations will provide various fiber creations and other festivities. Besides fiber art, guests can explore a building on the National Register of Historic Places. They also can enjoy live music, dancing, and a food truck. 

Ozark Folkways has partnered with Our Lady of the Ozarks Shrine, the state’s only shrine until 2023. It is another historical building and will offer other cultural activities and exploration. Ozark Folkways is close to Sky-Vue Lodge and Lake Fort Smith. This allows for lodging and other nearby activities possible for those who want to stay in the countryside all weekend.

About Ozark Folkways: Ozark Folkways is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, development, instruction, and celebration of regional arts and crafts. We foster appreciation and economic use of heritage skills through workshops, events, and a gallery. For more information, please visit https://www.ozarkfolkway.org or contact info@ozarkfolkways.org.

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