Yates County Chamber of Commerce / July 16, 2026
Middlesex, NY. East Hill Farm, the home of Folk Art Guild’s studios, orchards and gardens, is transformed into classrooms during the 2026 Craft Weekend, August 6-9. Individuals are invited into an exploration of creative practices: Writing, Drawing, Theater, Singing and Seed Preservation,Photography, as well as Weaving, Woodturning and Pottery. The Craft Weekend presents an opportunity to find a practical connection with a deeper part of oneself, nature, and a craft which is shared with others in a community setting. Students of all ages study under the guidance of seasoned teachers. Classes vary in size, generally from 5 to 15 students. Delicious meals are enjoyed together in a community atmosphere of sharing. There is time for an individual to slow down, perceive the world around them, and experience closeness to nature. Stay overnight in the Guild’s dorm, camp, or commute.
This annual event presents two new unique offerings in 2026! Theater and an exploration of nature and song, Seeds and Songs of Resilience. In Theater, students can participate in an experiment that provides gentle challenges and explorations in a safe space. Using both classical and modern texts, games and improvisations, skilled teachers Paul Schliffer and Jim Post will guide exercises to play, feel, move, and connect with a deeper part of oneself and each other. Seeds and Songs of Resilience is a wonderful offering from Fruition’s Petra Page-Mann and Ithaca musician Tracy Robertson. Together, they propose to play with song, explore gardens, forest bathe, write, reflect, and rest. This is an invitation to explore how embodied creative practices can open pathways for personal and collective resilience.
Other highlights of this four-day weekend are:
- Farm-fresh meals prepared in the Guild kitchen by talented cooks. All participants enjoy a daily lunch. Overnight guests also receive breakfast and dinner.
- Camaraderie with classmates, teachers, and students from all the other classes. There are informal opportunities to share experiences at each meal. People of all ages and backgrounds find encouragement, laughter, and inspiration. The Guild today is a welcoming, intergenerational community.
- Evening activities stretch the days longer. Gather around the bonfire, share music and stories, and gaze at the stars in the clear sky. Enjoying the picturesque terrain of the Guild’s fields and woods at East Hill Farm. The 350-acre property invites exploring the hiking trails and sitting by the pond.
- Optional morning yoga. A gentle Iyengar class before breakfast starts each day.
- The effect of the whole experience allows slowing down, appreciating friendship and the nature all around us
