From Scratch weekend is the Alabama Folk School workshop series designed for true beginners. If you’re interested in learning a new instrument or craft, this is the weekend for you! With plenty of free time in the schedule you can take a hike, go canoeing, or pick a porch and rocking chair to relax; enjoying all Camp McDowell has to offer.

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Come join us for the Southeastern Foraging Conference March 13th-16th 2025! Jon the South's best foragers for a weekend of hands-on learning.

For More Information please visit: https://www.southeasternforagingconference.com/

For mothers, daughters, grandmothers, aunts, nieces, godmothers & special friends who are like mothers & daughters–this annual retreat is a special springtime weekend in lower camp perfect for reconnecting, relaxing, and enjoying the company of your family. Cost is $160 per camper; scholarships are available upon request.

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One of the most popular Alabama Folk School offerings with great bluegrass music workshops, the spring Gee's Bend quilting retreat, and more. This four-day workshop series provides a truly immersive experience with a fun and enthusiastic community of musicians and artists.

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Join us for Youth Folk Camp – our only Alabama Folk School workshop designed for rising 5th-12th graders. Youth Folk Camp is a unique combination of summer overnight camp and folk school instruction in music, farming, craft skills, and more! Campers may choose one major and minor class for the workshop, all taught by experienced musicians and artists.

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September Sampler offers a sample of all the Alabama Folk School has to offer. During this one-day event, crafters and true beginners alike can find something to love. Students sign up for one of several class options and will enjoy an included lunch with live music. Tuition also includes the majority of supplies needed. We’re excited to welcome back Sarah Ward with Heirloom Pie Making as well as Cameron Strouss teaching her popular tea blending class.

Registration Opens June 2025

Cost for Workshop & Lunch Per Person: $100-$150

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At Old Time & Gee’s Bend, quilters, painters, and blacksmiths pursue their work in an encouraging atmosphere while music students fully immerse themselves in Old-Time classes, their days and nights filled with instruction from master musicians and jam sessions. This year, we’re excited to have Sami Braman returning to teach a new Fiddle III class, as well as Kay Justice returning for Guitar and Harmony Singing. We are also excited for the return of painting workshops with Howard Rains.

Afternoon mini classes give all participants a chance to take part in learning something totally new. Guests are also welcome to spend their free time exploring the beautiful nature that surrounds Camp McDowell. At night, all attendees are invited to a concert led by our talented instructors, with an occasional square dance, too! 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.

Registration Opens June 2025.

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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.

Learn More Here