Upcoming events
Oh, Snap! Learning to Use a Film Camera
Participants will learn the basic techniques of photography, how to take pictures on a 35mm camera and develop their film. All levels and ages 16+ welcome. Film cameras and supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. All proceeds go towards starting a community darkroom in Northwest Arkansas.
Listening Room w/ JrSOAPbox
Doors: 5:30 pm
Show: 6:00-8:00 pm (w/intermission)
Tickets: $25 each
JrSOAPbox grew up in a musical world. Follow the winding lettered highways of the Ozarks to the furthest southwest corner of Missouri, down a dirt road, through two washed out low water crossings, where, nestled above a pristine spring is a barn that has steadily been converted into a home over 5 decades of improvements. This is where Jr spent his entire childhood. Though Jr's upbringing was isolated, his father was a musician, as were all of his friends. "I thought playing music was the only reason people saw each other."
Jr's family comes from a rich literary background, which can clearly be heard in his songwriting. "I started writing songs to join "the adult" circles. Then I kept writing them because I like to play new ones." JrSOAPbox has since written hundreds of songs, covered by other artist, from France to Oregon to Nashville. His songs have been featured everywhere from film to the Dust Bowl exhibit at Crystal Bridges.
Jr's vast catalog spans the genres leaving him open to tailor fit each show's experience to his crowd. " I've got my rowdy bar room material and my lyrical house concert material... but most shows are somewhere in between."
Register here
The Shine Through Listening Room is a celebration of creativity, passion, and profound connection that music forges between artist and audience. The 2026 edition of the Shine Through Listening Room is produced by Shine On Events with collaboration from Ozark Folkways.
Artist website: https://jrsoapbox.com/
Lessons for Vets
Musical lessons for veterans led by Lee Haight. Lessons for vets occur every first and third Monday from 1 to 2:30.
Hand Darning Basics
Hand Darning Basics
Jessica McClendon will teach the basics of why to darn, what to darn, talk about the tools needed, and then jump in with some practice. We will also learn how to use a darning loom. All supplies included and feel free to bring something you hope to darn or just come and learn the techniques. Preregistration required.
Register here
Old Time Jam
A jam session for old time music led by Pete Howard. Old Time Jam occurs on the first and third Tuesday of every month, from 6-9PM.
How to Play Music with Others
How To Play Music With Others
A One-Day Workshop on Confidence, Groove & Connection
Do you love playing music but mostly play alone?
Have you wanted to jam with others but felt unsure or nervous?
This supportive, hands-on workshop is designed to help you feel more comfortable playing music with other people — no advanced theory, auditions, or pressure required. We’ll focus on the skills that actually make group music work: listening, staying in time, communicating, and building confidence. Mistakes are welcome, and you’ll never be forced to solo unless you want to.
Perfect for beginner to intermediate musicians who want to:
Feel less anxious playing with others
Improve timing and group awareness
Gain real experience in a low-pressure setting
All instruments and styles are welcome.
Format & Schedule
Total length: 7 hours 10am-5pm
Includes: 1-hour lunch break with food provided
Mix of guided exercises, small-group playing, and full-group activities
Plenty of breaks, movement, and time to reset
You’ll leave with practical tools, new confidence, and the experience of having played music with others successfully!
Final Note: You don’t get confident before playing with others, you get confident by doing it, in the right environment. If you’re waiting until you feel “ready” to play with others, this is the workshop that gets you ready.
Looking forward to jamming with you soon!
Register here
Soldier Songs and Voices Veterans Jam
The SSV jams are an opportunity for veterans to come together and play music, practice skills and share camaraderie in a comfortable, safe environment. SSV jams occur every second and fourth Sunday. Free and open to the public.
Irish Session
A gathering of musicians playing Irish tunes and songs in a circle. Tunes are mostly lively and rhythmic. Tunes are played together--that is, simultaneously, as in old-time music, instead of taking instrumental solos in turn as is common in bluegrass or jazz jams. Musicians play either by ear or by notation. Irish session occurs every fourth Monday from 5:30 to 8:30.
Bluegrass Jam
A jam session for bluegrass music. Bluegrass Jam occurs on the fourth Tuesday of every month, from 6-9PM.
Sashiko Mending Basics
Sashiko Mending Basics
Jessica McClendon will teach the basics of a Japanese mending technique called Sashiko. This technique is great for repairing jeans or other woven garments. We will talk about the supplies needed and the basic stitches, and then practice on our own.
All supplies included and feel free to bring something you hope to mend or just come and learn the techniques. Preregistration required.
Register here
Lindy Hop Swing Dancing (1st of 5)
LINDY HOP SWING DANCING
What folks call “swing dancing” originated in Harlem in the 1920s as the Lindy Hop. Learn this Black American partner dance that expresses music in creative ways.
Footwork patterns and Lead/Follow combinations will build on previous weeks’ skills. Couples and singles are welcome. Participants change partners frequently during lessons. Five-week series: begins April 2 and ends April 30.
Progressive lessons: Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm.
$40/person for the series of 5 classes
Limit: 20 participants
Registration is required. Register here
SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP
Join us—Jen, Lee, and Chris— the first Friday of the month, 10am-12:30 for an opportunity to work on your song and contribute to the community of songwriters in northwest Arkansas. Attendees will bring one song to share for feedback and participate in the conversations around other participants’ original songs.
Any genres/instruments welcome — All songwriters welcome.
Due to space and time constraints, attendees must register. Registration here.
Lessons for Vets
Musical lessons for veterans led by Lee Haight. Lessons for vets occur every first and third Monday from 1 to 2:30.
Old Time Jam and Square Dance
Old time jam, led by Pete Howard, begins at 6 with square dancing called by Steve Green and friends beginning at 7. The Old Time Jam and Square Dance occurs every first Tuesday from 6-9.
Dancing is beginner friendly and partners are not required!
Lindy Hop Swing Dancing (2nd of 5)
LINDY HOP SWING DANCING
What folks call “swing dancing” originated in Harlem in the 1920s as the Lindy Hop. Learn this Black American partner dance that expresses music in creative ways.
Footwork patterns and Lead/Follow combinations will build on previous weeks’ skills. Couples and singles are welcome. Participants change partners frequently during lessons. Five-week series: begins April 2 and ends April 30.
Progressive lessons: Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm.
$40/person for the series of 5 classes
Limit: 20 participants
Registration is required.
Soldier Songs and Voices Veterans Jam
The SSV jams are an opportunity for veterans to come together and play music, practice skills and share camaraderie in a comfortable, safe environment. SSV jams occur every second and fourth Sunday.
Second Sunday Singing
Second Sunday Singing is a gathering place for anyone who enjoys singing. We sing a variety of music from camp songs to show tunes and everything in between (well, almost) and are open to suggestions. We foster a causal atmosphere with no performance pressure where all skill levels are welcome. So whether you grew up singing in a choir, or belt out your favorite tunes in the shower, we would invite you to blend your voice with ours. Free and open to the public.
Mend It, Darn It!
Give that favorite clothing piece another chance and mend with us. Supplies and guidance provided. Free and open to the public. (DATE CHANGE)
Make It Sew! Get to Know Your Machine
This is an opportunity to get to know your machine and hopefully begin your friendship with it. Sewing machines are such great tools for repairing and expressing your creativity but take time to get acquainted with. In this class we hope to do just that. We will learn the basics of using and threading your machine, tips and tricks for success, uses of different needles and machine feet. Bring a machine you borrowed from your great aunt, got second hand, or just ordered new. Please let me know if you need a machine to use for the class, but I will bring a few as back up. We will also make a useful little pincushion to start you off on your sewing journey.
Be sure to bring your cord, foot pedal, and any attachments you have. Let’s explore!
Register here
Songwriters' Open Mic
An Open Mic featuring songwriters, each performing one original song, SOLO ONLY (unless there's a co-writer), without a band or accompanying musicians. First-come-first-served. Free and open to the public. CDs may be displayed and sold. Upcoming performances by participants may be posted.
Songwriters’ Open Mic occurs every second Tuesday!
Lindy Hop Swing Dancing (3rd of 5)
LINDY HOP SWING DANCING
What folks call “swing dancing” originated in Harlem in the 1920s as the Lindy Hop. Learn this Black American partner dance that expresses music in creative ways.
Footwork patterns and Lead/Follow combinations will build on previous weeks’ skills. Couples and singles are welcome. Participants change partners frequently during lessons. Five-week series: begins April 2 and ends April 30.
Progressive lessons: Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm.
$40/person for the series of 5 classes
Limit: 20 participants
Registration is required.
Lessons for Vets
Musical lessons for veterans led by Lee Haight. Lessons for vets occur every first and third Monday from 1 to 2:30.
Old Time Jam
A jam session for old time music led by Pete Howard. Old Time Jam occurs on the first and third Tuesday of every month, from 6-9PM.
Lindy Hop Swing Dancing (4th of 5)
LINDY HOP SWING DANCING
What folks call “swing dancing” originated in Harlem in the 1920s as the Lindy Hop. Learn this Black American partner dance that expresses music in creative ways.
Footwork patterns and Lead/Follow combinations will build on previous weeks’ skills. Couples and singles are welcome. Participants change partners frequently during lessons. Five-week series: begins April 2 and ends April 30.
Progressive lessons: Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm.
$40/person for the series of 5 classes
Limit: 20 participants
Registration is required.
Soldier Songs and Voices Veterans Jam
The SSV jams are an opportunity for veterans to come together and play music, practice skills and share camaraderie in a comfortable, safe environment. SSV jams occur every second and fourth Sunday.
Irish Session
A gathering of musicians playing Irish tunes and songs in a circle. Tunes are mostly lively and rhythmic. Tunes are played together--that is, simultaneously, as in old-time music, instead of taking instrumental solos in turn as is common in bluegrass or jazz jams. Musicians play either by ear or by notation. Irish session occurs every fourth Monday from 5:30 to 8:30. Free and open to the public.
Bluegrass Jam
A jam session for bluegrass music. Bluegrass Jam occurs on the fourth Tuesday of every month, from 6-9PM.
Lindy Hop Swing Dancing (5th of 5)
LINDY HOP SWING DANCING
What folks call “swing dancing” originated in Harlem in the 1920s as the Lindy Hop. Learn this Black American partner dance that expresses music in creative ways.
Footwork patterns and Lead/Follow combinations will build on previous weeks’ skills. Couples and singles are welcome. Participants change partners frequently during lessons. Five-week series: begins April 2 and ends April 30.
Progressive lessons: Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm.
$40/person for the series of 5 classes
Limit: 20 participants
Registration is required.
Ozark Traditional Healing and Folk Magic
Ozark Traditional Healing and Folk Magic
Our Ozark ancestors had a vast knowledge of remedies and rituals to use for any need. Although the Ozarks might look a little different today, this living knowledge is still alive and well with modern community healers. Join folklorist and author Brandon Weston in an exploration of the healing traditions of the past, the healers who practiced them, as well as how these traditions have changed and evolved to address the needs of our modern communities. We'll cover a little bit of everything, from mountain herbalism, to healing rituals, to charm bags and amulets. Participants will have the opportunity to craft their own Ozark charm bag during the class.
Brandon Weston is a 6th generation Ozark folklorist and author. He is the author of Ozark Folk Magic, the Ozark Mountain Spell Book, and Granny Thornapple’s Book of Charms. He is the owner of Ozark Healing Traditions, a collective of articles, lectures, and workshops focusing on traditions of medicine, magic, and folklore from the Ozark Mountain region. He comes from a long line of Ozark hillfolk and works hard to keep the traditions that he’s collected and learned alive and true for generations to come.
Register here
Songwriters' Open Mic
An Open Mic featuring songwriters, each performing one original song, SOLO ONLY (unless there's a co-writer), without a band or accompanying musicians. First-come-first-served. Free and open to the public. CDs may be displayed and sold. Upcoming performances by participants may be posted.
Songwriters’ Open Mic occurs every second Tuesday!
Mend It Darn It!
Give that favorite clothing piece another chance and mend with us. Supplies and guidance provided. Free and open to the public.
Second Sunday Singing
Second Sunday Singing is a gathering place for anyone who enjoys singing. We sing a variety of music from camp songs to show tunes and everything in between (well, almost) and are open to suggestions. We foster a causal atmosphere with no performance pressure where all skill levels are welcome. So whether you grew up singing in a choir, or belt out your favorite tunes in the shower, we would invite you to blend your voice with ours.
Soldier Songs and Voices Veterans Jam
The SSV jams are an opportunity for veterans to come together and play music, practice skills and share camaraderie in a comfortable, safe environment. SSV jams occur every second and fourth Sunday. Free and open to the public.
SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP
Join us—Jen, Lee, and Chris— each first Friday of the month, 10am-12:30 for an opportunity to work on your song and contribute to the community of songwriters in northwest Arkansas. Attendees will bring one song to share for feedback and participate in the conversations around other participants’ original songs.
Any genres/instruments welcome — All songwriters welcome.
Due to space and time constraints, attendees must register. Registration here.
Tenango Style Embroidery Series – Painting with Thread (4th in series of 4)
Join us for a four-week journey into the vibrant world of Tenango embroidery, a traditional art form from the Otomí communities of Hidalgo, Mexico. In this series, you’ll learn the foundations of color selection, how to “paint” with thread using signature fill stitches, and the cultural stories behind the whimsical animals and flowers found in Tenango designs.
This technique is relaxing, expressive, and beginner-friendly—no experience needed. Kits are provided and available in a variety of colors and patterns so each participant can create a unique piece.
This class is a series of four Wednesdays beginning on February 11, 2026, through March 4, 2026. The fee of $170 includes all four classes and all materials needed.
Register here
Old Time Jam and Square Dance
Old time jam, led by Pete Howard, begins at 6 with square dancing called by Steve Green and friends beginning at 7. The Old Time Jam and Square Dance occurs every first Tuesday from 6-9.
Dancing is beginner friendly and partners are not required!
Lessons for Vets
Musical lessons for veterans led by Lee Haight. Lessons for vets occur every first and third Monday from 1 to 2:30.
Listening Room w/ Brian Martin
Doors: 5:30 pm
Show: 6:00-8:00 pm (w/intermission)
Tickets: $25 each
While keeping one foot planted firmly in the roots of American music, Arkansas based singer/songwriter Brian Martin is forging a distinct path into its future as well. Interweaving old-time country blues and mountain folk music with southern soul, funk and gospel, Martin seamlessly creates a style that he simply refers to as "front porch soul." His burly voice and down home witty tales result in music that is both alluring and enduring for generations young and old.
Primarily performing as a solo artist since the early 2000’s, Martin released his debut album “No Rider” in 2011, a self described bare bones collection of intimate folk songs. He is also a founding member of Sad Daddy, a critically and commercially heralded string band based in the Ozark region and gaining traction well beyond. Since their 2010 inception, the band has released three studio albums and a live album, their most recent, “Way Up In The Hills,” debuting in 2022.
In addition to performing solo listening room concerts throughout the region, Martin has spent the last few years assembling “Brian Martin’s Mess,” featuring an all-star revolving cast of supporting musicians. Together, they are creating the soundscape for newer songs that thrive in a full band setting, as well as “thickening the sauce” on many older fan favorites. Along with “the Mess,” Martin is currently working up new material for his sophomore album, as well as preparing for an early spring studio session to begin work on Sad Daddy's fourth studio release.
Register here
The Shine Through Listening Room is a celebration of creativity, passion, and profound connection that music forges between artist and audience. The 2026 edition of the Shine Through Listening Room is produced by Shine On Events with collaboration from Ozark Folkways.
Artist website: https://brianmartinmusic.com/home
Tenango Style Embroidery Series – Painting with Thread (3rd in series of 4)
Join us for a four-week journey into the vibrant world of Tenango embroidery, a traditional art form from the Otomí communities of Hidalgo, Mexico. In this series, you’ll learn the foundations of color selection, how to “paint” with thread using signature fill stitches, and the cultural stories behind the whimsical animals and flowers found in Tenango designs.
This technique is relaxing, expressive, and beginner-friendly—no experience needed. Kits are provided and available in a variety of colors and patterns so each participant can create a unique piece.
This class is a series of four Wednesdays beginning on February 11, 2026, through March 4, 2026. The fee of $170 includes all four classes and all materials needed.
Register here
Bluegrass Jam
A jam session for bluegrass music. Bluegrass Jam occurs on the fourth Tuesday of every month, from 6-9PM.
Irish Session
A gathering of musicians playing Irish tunes and songs in a circle. Tunes are mostly lively and rhythmic. Tunes are played together--that is, simultaneously, as in old-time music, instead of taking instrumental solos in turn as is common in bluegrass or jazz jams. Musicians play either by ear or by notation. Irish session occurs every fourth Monday from 5:30 to 8:30. The first hour will be a slow session.
Soldier Songs and Voices Veterans Jam
The SSV jams are an opportunity for veterans to come together and play music, practice skills and share camaraderie in a comfortable, safe environment. SSV jams occur every second and fourth Sunday.
Oh, Snap! Learning to Use a Film Camera (sold out)
Participants will learn the basic techniques of photography, how to take pictures on a 35mm camera and develop their film. All levels and ages 16+ welcome. Film cameras and supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. All proceeds go towards starting a community darkroom in Northwest Arkansas.
Tenango Style Embroidery Series – Painting with Thread (2nd in series of 4)
Join us for a four-week journey into the vibrant world of Tenango embroidery, a traditional art form from the Otomí communities of Hidalgo, Mexico. In this series, you’ll learn the foundations of color selection, how to “paint” with thread using signature fill stitches, and the cultural stories behind the whimsical animals and flowers found in Tenango designs.
This technique is relaxing, expressive, and beginner-friendly—no experience needed. Kits are provided and available in a variety of colors and patterns so each participant can create a unique piece.
This class is a series of four Wednesdays beginning on February 11, 2026, through March 4, 2026. The fee of $170 includes all four classes and all materials needed.
Register here
Old Time Jam
A jam session for old time music led by Pete Howard. Old Time Jam occurs on the first and third Tuesday of every month, from 6-9PM.
Lessons for Vets
Musical lessons for veterans led by Lee Haight. Lessons for vets occur every first and third Monday from 1 to 2:30. Free and open to the public.
Listening Room w/ Dandelion Heart
Doors: 5:30 pm
Show: 6:00-8:00 pm (w/intermission)
Tickets: $25 each
Wild with purpose, the women of Dandelion Heart endeavor to create a unique Americana sound, blending four individual songwriting styles. These dandies are rooted in Northwest Arkansas, with a passion for making music, and having fun creating with each other. The band is composed of Lacy Hampton (guitar, hand percussion), Chase Hart (guitar), Korey Mckelvy (mandolele, banjo), and Willa Thomason (cello, guitar). Early on, the four shared originals from previous projects (Aisle 24, The Ozark Travelers, The Silver Lining), but quickly began evolving their set to include more originals born from collaborations. This resulted in the release of their debut album, Retrospect, in November of 2020. This group of four vocalists and multi-instrumentalist creates a dynamic set that is fluidly shifting throughout. Dandelion Heart strives to capture the beauty in simplicity, with penetrating harmonies and at times, sparse instrumentation. Expect to hear a blend of folk, blues, bluegrass, rock, and indie sounds from this up and coming hometown band.
Register here
The Shine Through: Listening Room is a celebration of creativity, passion, and profound connection that music forges between artist and audience. The 2026 edition of the Shine Through Listening Room is produced by Shine On Events with collaboration from Ozark Folkways.
Band website: https://dandelionheartband.com/
Tenango Style Embroidery Series – Painting with Thread
Join us for a four-week journey into the vibrant world of Tenango embroidery, a traditional art form from the Otomí communities of Hidalgo, Mexico. In this series, you’ll learn the foundations of color selection, how to “paint” with thread using signature fill stitches, and the cultural stories behind the whimsical animals and flowers found in Tenango designs.
This technique is relaxing, expressive, and beginner-friendly—no experience needed. Kits are provided and available in a variety of colors and patterns so each participant can create a unique piece.
This class is a series of four Wednesdays beginning on February 11, 2026, through March 4, 2026. The fee of $170 includes all four classes and all materials needed.
Register here
Songwriters' Open Mic
An Open Mic featuring songwriters, each performing one original song, SOLO ONLY (unless there's a co-writer), without a band or accompanying musicians. First-come-first-served. Free and open to the public. CDs may be displayed and sold. Upcoming performances by participants may be posted.
Songwriters’ Open Mic occurs every second Tuesday!
Second Sunday Singing
Second Sunday Singing is a gathering place for anyone who enjoys singing. We sing a variety of music from camp songs to show tunes and everything in between (well, almost) and are open to suggestions. We foster a causal atmosphere with no performance pressure where all skill levels are welcome. So whether you grew up singing in a choir, or belt out your favorite tunes in the shower, we would invite you to blend your voice with ours.
Soldier Songs and Voices Veterans Jam
The SSV jams are an opportunity for veterans to come together and play music, practice skills and share camaraderie in a comfortable, safe environment. SSV jams occur every second and fourth Sunday.
Ballad Singing (4th in series of 4)
In this series of four classes, Joanie will lead participants in singing together and learning harmonies, sharing the joy of singing these old stories. Come with friends, and if you know an old ballad, bring it along! No prior experience needed.
$40 for series of four weekly Thursday classes beginning on Jan. 15 and ending on Feb. 5.
Register here
Make It Sew! Get to Know Your Machine -
This is an opportunity to get to know your machine and hopefully begin your friendship with it. Sewing machines are such great tools for repairing and expressing your creativity but take time to get acquainted with. In this class we hope to do just that. We will learn the basics of using and threading your machine, tips and tricks for success, uses of different needles and machine feet. Bring a machine you borrowed from your great aunt, got second hand, or just ordered new. Please let me know if you need a machine to use for the class, but I will bring a few as back up. We will also make a useful little pincushion to start you off on your sewing journey.
Be sure to bring your cord, foot pedal, and any attachments you have. Let’s explore!
Register here
Listening Room w/ Carolina Mendoza
Doors: 5:30 pm
Show: 6:00-8:00 pm (w/intermission)
Tickets: $25 each
"There are legends of people born with the gift of making music so true, it can pierce the veil between life and death, conjuring spirits from the past and the future." (Sinners) Carolina Mendoza is truly that legend. Channeling Ozark Mountain folk along with the great Indigenous and Mexican ancestors, Carolina's voice pierces the soul.
Do not miss the opportunity to hear this singer songwriter from Mountain View, Arkansas.
Register here
The Shine Through Listening Room is a celebration of creativity, passion, and profound connection that music forges between artist and audience. The 2026 edition of the Shine Through Listening Room is produced by Shine On Events with collaboration from Ozark Folkways.
Youtube link: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=B8y4rCA_IN8&si=phv3Uo9sIHvQZiFF
Ballad Singing (3rd in series of 4)
In this series of four classes, Joanie will lead participants in singing together and learning harmonies, sharing the joy of singing these old stories. Come with friends, and if you know an old ballad, bring it along! No prior experience needed.
$40 for series of four weekly Thursday classes beginning on Jan. 15 and ending on Feb. 5.
Register here
Inclement Weather
Ozark Folkways @ Fayetteville Folk School and @ Winslow will be closed due to inclement weather until further notice. Stay safe out there!
Ballad Singing (2nd in series of 4)
In this series of four classes, Joanie will lead participants in singing together and learning harmonies, sharing the joy of singing these old stories. Come with friends, and if you know an old ballad, bring it along! No prior experience needed.
$40 for series of four weekly Thursday classes beginning on Jan. 15 and ending on Feb. 5.
Register here
RockEd Kickoff & Benefit Concert
The Folk School's RockEd program will host a benefit concert featuring RockEd student and teacher soloists and bands, including a headlining performance by local girl band The Belladonnas. Tickets are $10 at the door and raffle prizes will be available. All proceeds and donations go to RockEd programming scholarships for families in need (including Girl Power Rock and Kids Rock summer camps and semester rock band camp programming). This concert will also serve as a kickoff event for spring semester programming. For more info on RockEd, please visit rockednwa.com
Register here
Ballad Singing
In this series of four classes, Joanie will lead participants in singing together and learning harmonies, sharing the joy of singing these old stories. Come with friends, and if you know an old ballad, bring it along! No prior experience needed.
$40 for series of four weekly Thursday classes beginning on Jan. 15 and ending on Feb. 5.
Register here