Archived Arts & Entertainment

Appalachian storytellers, crafts and musicians at folk fest

art franklinfestThe 10th annual Franklin Folk Festival, a “Celebration of Appalachian Heritage,” runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 20, in downtown Franklin.

 

The festival features Appalachian demonstrators, crafters, cloggers, musicians, vendors, antique cars, vintage farm equipment, fire engines and tractors. There will be mountain music, gospel music sing-a-longs and open invitations to join the pickin’ at the Jammin’ Tent. Civil War re-enactors will engage in mock skirmishes.

At 9 a.m., exhibits open and the Fire Truck Parade begins, followed by the official kick-off ceremony at 10 a.m. at the Gazebo Main Stage. The annual Corn Shuckin’ Contest will follow. 

The Macon County Arts Council will present Appalachian tales, Cherokee legends, heritage stories and songs, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Franklin Town Hall. At 10 a.m., Franklin storyteller, poet and author Patti McClure will present heritage stories and songs. At 11:15 a.m., Wendel Craker of Georgia will spin yarns and share Southern Appalachian mountain folklore. At 12:30 p.m., Tom Hill will present legends and myths of the Cherokee Indians. And, heritage arts and crafts will be available from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the children’s activity area behind Town Hall. www.artscouncilofmacon.org or 828.524.7683. Free.

Youth ages 18 and under can showcase their talents at the Mountain Youth Talent Show from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m., at the Gazebo Main Stage. Register online at www.jackson.ces.ncsu.edu or 828.586.4009.  

For festival information, call 828.524.2516 or 800.932.5294 or visit www.franklinfolkfestival.com.

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