This week brings the return of the New York State Sheep and Wool festival to Rhinebeck, New York. Held at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds on October 15 and 16th, this is the premier fiber event in the Northeast. Over 30,000 people are expected to attend this year.
Billed as a family event, this Art Festival has something for everyone. Everything from live animals like sheep, goats, and rabbits to the fiber and products made from all these beautiful animals. You can buy raw fleece, roving, handspun yarn, and garments like socks and sweaters made by hand. You can buy the table looms or craft project supplies you always wanted.
There are fun crafts for kids and adults, live music, food, and beautiful artwork. Kids love petting animals and running around. There are also specialized classes for the master dyer and weaver.
Witness the competition for best live animal in many categories, best fleece, and best fashion.
In addition to the new equipment and tools, there is an auction of used equipment and tools. If you are thinking of exploring a skill you learned in one of the workshops, here is a great way to purchase the tools you need. There are always plenty of floor looms and spinning wheels to go around as well as rare and obscure items you can’t find anywhere else.
This festival truly has something for everyone.
