Join us for a fresh take on our summer youth-focused workshops! Family Folk Camp is open to all ages, but recommended for rising 5th-12th grade with an adult guardian 25 +. You’ll choose a major area of focus; art, music, or farming then have plenty of chances to take mini-classes and participate in summer camp classics like hiking, canoeing, and pool time! This event is geared toward parents or guardians bringing a child or children. We also welcome pairings of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and godparents. If you’re unsure how your group fits, contact us!

Register Opening Soon!

Sample Schedule - coming soon.

Save the Date!

September Sampler offers a taste of all the Alabama Folk School has to offer. During this two-day event, crafters and true beginners alike can find something to love. Students can look forward to an extended schedule in 2026 with double the workshops and an option to stay overnight or visit for one or both days.

Workshops and details coming fall of 2025.

At Old Time & Gee’s Bend, painting, ceramics, and blacksmithing students pursue their work in an encouraging atmosphere while music students fully immerse themselves in Old-Time workshops, their days and nights filled with instruction from expert musicians and community jam sessions. Mary Ann Pettway and China Pettway will simultaneously host their famous quilting retreat.

Registration Opens May 2026!

The Alabama Folk School's Creative Retreat offers a restful weekend with the beautiful backdrop of Camp McDowell in the fall. Bring your personal projects and join us for a long weekend of focused time to rest and create. In the past, participants have brought sewing, woodworking, and writing projects or have simply spent their time reading, hiking, and resting. The time is your own! We’ll provide all your meals, access to wifi, nature trails, quiet spaces to work and rest, and evening refreshments.

Lodging for this event will be in Bethany Village. Participants will have the option to stay in a Parsley Commons lodge room or a dorm style cabin. All lodging options include refreshments on opening night and nine meals throughout the weekend starting with Thursday supper and ending with Sunday lunch.