Tucked away in the mountains of western North Carolina, John C. Campbell Folk School offers weeklong and weekend classes for adults in craft, art, music, dance, cooking, gardening, nature studies, photography, writing, and more. Our non-competitive and small-sized classes are offered year-round on a scenic 270-acre campus, attracting students from all over the world. The Folk School transforms lives, bringing people together in a nurturing environment for experiences in learning and community life that spark self-discovery. “I sing behind the plow,” the Folk School’s motto since its founding in 1925, reflects the importance of lifelong learning and growth while finding joy in every step of the process.
Description
The Folk School’s 50th Annual Fall Festival Returns October 3 and 4, 2026
(Brasstown, NC) The John C. Campbell Folk School Fall Festival returns this year on Oct. 3 and 4, bringing more than 13,000 visitors from across the Southern Appalachian region to celebrate the spirit of community and creativity. This fall, experience the Folk School’s stunning 270-acre campus as you browse outdoor vendors for artisan finds and enjoy live craft demonstrations. The event will feature two music and dance stages, showcasing dozens of local and regional performers.
The Fall Festival offers plentiful free parking and an on-campus shuttle bus and handicapped golf carts. The festival can be challenging for pets because of the crowds and the heat. We encourage those who bring their pets to seek out water stations, keep their pet on a leash, clean up after your pet, and be respectful of attendees. Handicapped parking is available in the Keith House gravel lot. The John C. Campbell Folk School is only two hours from Asheville, Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Knoxville and a day’s drive for half of the residents of the U.S.
Regular admission tickets are $15 for adults (18 and up), $12 for ages 12-17, $12 for Seniors (65+) and veterans, and free for children 12 and under. Tickets purchased in advance are $12 for adults (18 and up), $10 for ages 12-17, $12 for Seniors (65+), and veterans. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the festival gates. Fall Festival commemorative t-shirts and items will be available to purchase from the school’s Craft Shop.
Interested in volunteering? Volunteer roles range from greeting guests and assisting with traffic to supporting logistics throughout the event. Volunteer perks include free admission the day you volunteer, a commemorative Fall Festival t-shirt and a complimentary sack lunch. Learn more about volunteering at https://www.folkschool.org/events/fall-festival/.
For complete event details, visit www.folkschool.org/fallfestival or call 1-800-365-5724.
Note: Note: Applicable SimpleTix service fees will be added at checkout. Purchase early to receive the best price and avoid lines at the gate. A portion of your ticket price supports our parking volunteers and public safety partners.
Date & Time
Oct 3 - 4, 2026
Venue Details
John C. Campbell Folk School
1 Folk School RoadBrasstown, North Carolina 28902
