Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area to Host 16th Annual Spring Planting and Music Festival

News Release Date: February 9, 2016

Contact: Bill Herman, 423-286-7275

Contact: Chris Derman, 423-569-9778

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area will be hosting the 16th annual Spring Planting and Music Festival on Saturday, April 30, 2016. The festival celebrates the Appalachian way of life that has been such a huge part of the history of the Big South Fork area.

During the festival, crafters demonstrate forgotten arts such as blacksmithing, basket making, handspinning, weaving, woodcarving, chair caning, soap making, garden herb lore and use, and paling fence making. In addition, there are displays of women's life, antique farm tools, farm animals and old-time toys which will delight young and old alike. Toe-tapping tunes of mountain music are performed throughout the area by various groups. Of special interest is the plowing and planting with mules and horses, which takes place at Lora Blevins field. Other demonstrations will take place at the Oscar Blevins farm site as well.

Early families who settled the Big South Fork area depended on their ability to successfully raise animals, crops, and gardens to feed themselves. Most of the farming that occurred here was truly subsistence farming. A family often consumed the entire production of the garden. This tradition continues with many families today. It's not uncommon for local residents to have large gardens that provide a substantial amount of food. Come celebrate this way of life with us as we provide memorable opportunities for you to experience this important part of our history.

For more information about this special event, as well as other events, call the Bandy Creek Visitor Center at [phone], or visit online at www.nps.gov/biso.