Ozark Folk Center Arkansas State Park in Mountain View Arkansas Events Calendar
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Workshops & Special Events

2008 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

January 1 - December 31, 2008

2008 CALENDAR OF EVENTS


The Ozark Folk Center is open Wednesday through Saturday from April 18, 2008 until September 27, 2008.  In October 2008, the park is open Tuesday through Sunday, with music concerts Tuesday through Saturday.  The Craft Village is open from 10 am until 5 pm.  Music concerts begin at 7:30 pm.  The Skillet Restaurant is open from 7 am until 8 pm throughout the season and on special occasions throughout the year.  The Cabins at Dry Creek is open year round. 
The Craft Village presents over 20 different demonstrations of Ozark mountain pioneer crafts such as basket making, pottery, blacksmithing, wood carving, quilting and soap making, to name a few.  These craft items are for sale both from the artisans directly and in the Homespun Gift Shop on the park grounds.   In addition, there are hourly music performances and a daily living history presentation. 
Folk Center concerts feature a variety of traditional acoustic music from the Southern mountains of the United States.  There will be special concerts during the year featuring other forms of music such as contemporary Country, Gospel, Rock and Folk. 
For those seeking unique and personal learning experiences, the Center offers Folk School, as well as other workshops and seminars in traditional folk instruments, in traditional arts and crafts, and in growing and using herbs.  Workshops and special events occur throughout the year at the Folk Center.  These are listed below.

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July 4, 2008
4th of July
Time: 10 am - 5 pm
The Folk Center Craft Grounds will be open 4th of July with over 20 pioneer craft demonstrations, traditional music performances and a living history presentation at noon, sack races, egg carries, apple bobbing, and lots of good old-fashioned family fun.  Ice-cold watermelon will be served during the activities.

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July 5, 2008
Celebrity Concert Old-Time String Band Event
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
A special Folk Center concert featuring Carolina Chocolate Drops.  Tickets $15.00.  Check our website at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for updates on special guest performers.
Admission: $15

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July 6, 2008
Sunday Gospel Concert
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
A concert of traditional, Southern Gospel music.
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July 7 - 11, 2008
Ozark Folk Center Day Camp
A fun week for the kids. They will enjoy learning about history, crafts and nature.  For ages 8-12.  Limited enrollment - call early to reserve a spot.
Admission: $55 includes all materials & T-shirts.  Lunch plans available for purchase.
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July 7 – 9, 2008
Spinning and Natural Dyeing
Glenda Hershberger, OFC Spinner will teach you the art of carding and spinning wool, as well as how to dye it with natural materials and mordents.

$150; deposit $45; Material fee $25

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July 8 - 11, 2008
Old-Time String Band Week:  A Traditional Music Event
A week of workshops in old-time string band instruments, such as the mandolin, fiddle and banjo. Concerts featuring old-time string bands. Special guest include Curly Miller, Carole Ann Rose and Karen Kraft. Watch our website at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for updates on performers and activities.

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July 11 - 12, 2008
5th Annual National Shape Note Gathering:  A Traditional Music Event
Come and participate or just enjoy the sounds! Whether you grew up attending Sacred Harp singings, learned to sight read by using a seven-shape system, or are simply curious about what's behind that unusual, appealing shape-note sound, come and attend this new event.  Shape-note singers from different styles, repertoires, and traditions—along with people who have never sung by shapes—will come together for a general session.

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July 17 - 19, 2008
Great Smoky Mountain Cloggers
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
The celebrated Great Smoky Mountain Cloggers return to the Folk Center theater for three nights of traditional old-time clog dancing.  The Great Smoky Mountain Cloggers are from the mountains of North Carolina, the birthplace of clogging and have performed before the Queen of England and many other important venues.  Tickets available at the door.
Admission: $10 adults; $6 children 6-12
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July 14 – 16, 2008
Felting Basics and Beyond
Wool becomes felt when it is subjected to moisture, heat and pressure.  Spinner Glenda Hershberger will start this class off with the basic flat felting of wool, and then guide students to the more advanced needle felting.

$150; deposit $45; Material fee $10

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July 15 and 16, 2008
Pine Needle Baskets
OFC basket maker Sharon Fernimen will instruct students in the technique of lashing or stitching pine needles together to create distinct and original baskets.

$100; deposit $30

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July 18 – 19, 2008
Found Objects Mosaics
The ancient art of mosaics is alive and well in the 21st century, and under the guidance of L.J. Smole, the techniques can be easily learned.  Day one of class, student will design and assemble a 2 X 2 framed panel mosaic, while day two will be spent grouting and detailing the finished design.

$100; deposit $30; Material fee $40
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July 21 - 25, 2008
Ozark Folk Center Day Camp
A fun week for the kids. They'll enjoy learning about history, crafts and nature.  For ages 8-12.  Limited enrollment - call early to reserve a spot.
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July 21, 2008
July 22, 2008 (optional second day)
Slip Decorating on Clay
Instructor Judi Munn, demonstrating OFC potter, will teach several techniques that are used to decorate and add texture to clay pots.

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July 21 - 24, 2008
Mountain Dulcimer Workshops
Workshops in Mountain Dulcimer for all level of student. Class size is limited. Early registration is advised. Visit our website often at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for updated information on instructors and schedule.
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July 26, 2008
The Women of Mountain Music:  A Traditional Music Event
This concert, featuring all the women who regularly sing and work in other areas of the Folk Center, has the reputation of being one of the best of the season. Don't miss it.
Admission: $10 adults; $6 children 6-12
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July 28 – August 1, 2008
Teen Performance Camp with Aubrey Atwater (Ages 13 - 19)
Teen Performance Camp is an opportunity for budding entertainers to experience all aspects of performance success.  Learning opportunities will cover acoustic instrumentation, rhythm, singing and dance, as well as performance etiquette, songwriting, sound mixing and recording.  Field trips will give students an opportunity to lay their instruments down and burn off nervous energy while enjoying the Ozarks' outdoors.  The week will culminate with performance opportunities ranging from impromptu outdoor appearances to an act on the Folk Center stage.
Registration $250.  Lodging and meals separate.  Students are encouraged to bring their own instruments. 
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August 3, 2008
Sunday Gospel Concert
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
A concert of traditional Southern Gospel music.
Admission: $10 adults; $6 children 6-12
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August 4 - 7, 2008
Hammered Dulcimer Workshops
Workshops in Hammered Dulcimer for all level of student. Early registration is advised. Class size is limited. Visit this website often for updated information on instructors and schedule.
Admission: Contact the Park
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August 8 - 9, 2008
Cowboy Gathering and Folk Humor & Storytelling Weekend
Celebrate the past and present history of America's western culture.  Full day of music, storytelling and poetry recitations by working cowboys.  Concerts Friday and Saturday evening featuring award winning guest performers.  Watch our website at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for updates on performers and activities.
Admission: $10 adults; $6 children 6-12
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August 22 – 23, 2008
Stone Set Jewelry II
During this two-day course, L.J. Smole will teach basic silversmithing and stone setting skills.  Students can expect to produce a minimum of two pieces of finished jewelry.

$100; deposit $30; Material Fee $50.00
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August 29 - 30, 2008
Tribute to Grandpa Jones Concerts
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Two nights of concerts pay tribute to the folk humorist and claw hammer banjo player, Grandpa Jones. Both nights will feature Ramona Jones & the Jones Family Band, along with other special guest performers.   The Tennessee Gentlemen will be in concert with Ramona Jones and the Jones Family Band on Friday, August 29, 2008.  Admission: $12.50.  Doc Watson and David Holt will return again to the Ozark Folk Center on Saturday, August 30, 2008. Make plans now to attend. Limited seating.  Admission: $37.50

Watch our website at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com for additional information.
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August 30 - September 1, 2008
Labor Day Weekend
Time: 10 am - 5 pm
The Ozark Folk Center's Craft Village will be open from 10 am until 5 pm.
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September 7, 2008
Sunday Gospel Concert
Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
A concert of traditional Southern Gospel music.
Admission: $10 adults. $6 children 6-12.
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September 7 – 12, 2008
Elderhostel – An Ozark Experience
Immerse yourself in tradition as you take an unhurried view of the beautiful Ozark Mountain region.  Take a good look as you raft the lazy White River.  Enjoy a relaxing "walk into the past" in the Ozark National Forest.  Identify plants and explore the site of water driven gristmill and cotton gin.  Become part of this way of life listening to songs and stories descended from the British Isles.  Visit with the Center's artisans and discover their creative talents.  You'll be able to feel the struggles and joy of life in the Ozarks as you are drawn into the Living History presentations.  You'll not forget this area after you've picnicked by a clear flowing stream or discovered the unrivaled beauty of Blanchard Cave; memories await you.
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September 8 - 9, 2008
Intermediate Blacksmithing Techniques
Scott Riedy, OFC Blacksmith, will instruct students with intermediate blacksmithing abilities to stretch their ironworking skills, including the practice of advanced hammer techniques.

$100; deposit $30; Material Fee $20

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September 12 - 14, 2008
Folk Dance Days
Dance workshops for people of all ages, in traditional styles such as clogging, jig and contra. Contact the park to be put on our Dance Workshop mailing list.
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September 19 - 20, 2008
Jimmie Rodgers Tribute
Known for his high, lonesome yodels, Jimmie Rodgers is considered by many to be the father of country music. His music is celebrated with two nights of concerts featuring special guest performers.
Admission: $10 for adults. $6 for children 6-12.

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September 20, 2008
Arkansas Native American Celebration
A celebration of the early tribes of the Ozarks and of Arkansas with demonstrations, talks, food, stories and a campfire dance.
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September 22 and 23, 2008
Log Cabin Relief Carving
Bill Standard, OFC Woodcarver, will teach students to transform a piece of basswood into a beautiful scene featuring an Ozark log cabin nestled in the woods.

$100; deposit $30; Material fee $10
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September 26 - 27, 2008
Arkansas State Fiddle Championship
Weekend of contest and concerts.  Performances by Arkansas' top fiddlers. Contest rules will be posted on our website at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com prior to the contest.
Admission: $10 for adults. $6 for children 6-12.
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October 2, 2008
Herb Harvest Dinner
Feast on the bounty from our herb garden! Dress your best for this annual dinner, hosted by our patron group, the Committee of 100. Reservations required. Call (870) 269-3851 before September 24 for reservations or register on-line at www.ozarkfolkcenter.com
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October 3 - 4, 2008
Herb Harvest Festival
This annual workshop features nationally known authors and regional herbal experts, merchants of plants and herbal products and intensive classes. Increase your knowledge and appreciation for the world of beneficial plants. Special guest speakers will be announced. Admission: one day, $45 before September 24. $55 after Sept. 24. Two days, $85 before September 24. $100 after September 24. Deposit of $35 is non-refundable.
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October 4, 2008
Tribute to Jimmy Driftwood
Annual tribute to an Ozark Native Son – singer, songwriter, (writer of the Grammy winning song "Battle Of New Orleans")  folk song collector, Jimmy Driftwood.
Admission: One $10 adults; $6 children 6-12
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October 5, 2008
Sunday Gospel Concert
Featuring traditional Southern Gospel music.
Admission: $10 for adults. $6 for children 6-12.
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October 6 - 8, 2008
Homeschooler's Day Camp
A week of activities especially for home schooled children, ages 8 to 12.  Campers will learn about Ozark history and crafts as well as other entertaining and educational subjects, from making pasta to collection for a nature journal.  Limited enrollment.  Register early.  Some classes available for Adults too!
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October 11, 2008
Fire on the Mountain: Hammerfest X, A Blacksmithing Event
This blacksmithing event features demonstrations by well-known blacksmiths, as well as competitions and awards.  Blacksmiths are encouraged to bring items to enter in the "people's choice" competition.
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October 17 – 18, 2008
Advanced Jewelry/Silversmithing Techniques
This class, taught by L.J. Smole, will cover techniques in silversmithing not covered in the basic classes.  Students will be exposed to forging, and constructing hinges and closures to make jewelry or other objects.  Students must already know basic techniques such as soldering and cold joining and be able to safely use polishing and flex-shaft equipment. 

$100; deposit $30; Material fee $50

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October 24 – 25, 2008
Extension Homemakers Club Annual Quilt Show
The Extension Homemakers will display quilts, from antique to newly made creations.  This event takes place in the Folk Center's Administration Building and is free to the public.
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October 24, 2008
"The Care and Preservation of Quilts"
Quilter Jan Hickman presents a lecture on the care of your vintage quilts, as well as your new quilts, to ensure that they become the heirlooms of the future.
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October 25, 2008
BEANFEST

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October 25, 2008
Celebrity Concert with Big Smith 
Big Smith will perform on Saturday, October 25, 2008 for the final Celebrity Concert of the 2008 season.  Tickets are $15.00.

Big Smith is a band from Springfield, Missouri composed of five cousins: Mark and Jody Bilyeu, Bill and Rik Thomas, and Jay Williamson. The newest member, fiddle player Molly Healey, brings the total to six creative individuals bound together by blood and harmony.
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November 1, 2008
Last Day Craft Village is open for the season
The Craft Village will be open from 10 am until 5 pm for this last day of the season.
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November 1, 2008
Skillet Restaurant Last Day of the Season
The Skillet Restaurant will be open from 7 am until 8 pm on this last day of the regular season. We will re-open for Thanksgiving and the weekend following on November 23.
Contact: (870) 269-3851, ozarkfolkcenter@arkansas.com
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November 6,7 & 8, 2008                                                                                 Fall Bluegrass Festival
This annual event is held at the Ozark Folk Center and is hosted and sponsored by the Mountain View Blue Grass Association.  Contact: www.mountainview-bluegrass.com

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November 13 - 15, 2008
Make It a Handmade Christmas
We have Suzanne Tourtelot teaching quilting, Carrie Marry is teaching students to weave a rug, Bill Standard is teaching Santa Carving, Jeanne Dudley is teaching broom tying, Gail Lewis is teaching beginning sewing, Scott Reidy is teaching blacksmithing and many many more.

Mary Gillihan is offering her Folk Kids program for the three days. Children will learn to make starch icicles, snow flakes, felted santas or angels and how to play traditional Ozark games.

Make it a Handmade Christmas will be fun for the whole family.

$50 per day plus material fees

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November 27 - 29, 2008
Ozark Holidays
Thanksgiving Buffet at the Skillet Restaurant. Special holiday music concerts and craft bazaar Thursday through Saturday.
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December 15, 2008
Homespun Gift Shop last day open in 2008
The Homespun Gift Shop will be open today and then closed until April 2008.
Contact: (870) 269-3851, ozarkfolkcenter@arkansas.com
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In-season Folk School Craft Workshops
Craft workshops are held throughout the regular Folk Center season (mid April through October - check our events calendar for dates). Classes in Pottery, Furniture Making, Blacksmithing and Fiber Arts as well as others are available in addition to craft classes offered during the annual Ozark Folk School in March. Most classes are suitable for beginning to intermediate students. Instructional events are 2 -5 days long, depending on the specific event. Classes are limited in size so each participant will receive individual attention from their instructor. Classes generally begin at 10:00 am each morning and continue until 5:00 pm, with a lunch break at midday. Tuition for class includes admission to the Folk Center Craft Grounds and evening music concerts. Room and meals are not included in tuition. There is a newly renovated lodge and a full service restaurant on the park grounds. Don't forget to make reservations when you register for a class.  For all of our other In-season Folk School workshops, please visit our website www.ozarkfolkcenter.com
Design your own Craft Workshops
This program honors our cultural richness, variety and vitality through crafts, and serves as a bridge between past and present. Start as a beginner, or improve the skills you already have in one or two day classes available May through October. You tell us what you would like to learn, and tell us the dates, and we set you up with an instructor.   The classes are usually held in craft demonstration work areas on the Ozark Folk Center Craft Grounds, May through October; 10 am – 5 pm.  Please see our schedule for days of operation.  The class fees are based on length of time spent and difficulty of subject.  Fees range from $45 to $120 per day.  Class length can vary from three to six hours per day.  Please contact us for further information.