The 27th Annual Herb Harvest Fall Festival takes place October 6-8, 2016 at the Ozark Folk Center State Park. This year’s focus is on the foods, fiber arts, garden flowers and medicinal herbs of South America. This region was chosen in part because it is the origin of Capsicum (Pepper), which is the Herb of the Year™ for 2016.
A Lavish Herbal Feast begins at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 6 with a garden party reception, sponsored and produced by the Herb Society of America Ozark Unit. This dressy feast will feature foods, libations and folk dance adapted from South American countries.
The workshop on October 7 and 8 will be presented by a team of herbal experts. Featured speaker is Steven Foster who is the author or coauthor of 18 books including three Peterson field guides— A Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs of Eastern and Central North America, Venomous Animals and Poisonous Plants of North America (1994, with the late Roger Caras) and A Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs: Western North America (with Christopher Hobbs, 2002). His first National Geographic title, A Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine (2006, with Rebecca Johnson), was named a “Best of Reference” by the New York Public Library.
This unique historical, horticultural and culinary learning experience includes Susan Belsinger, herbal author and photographer, fiber artist, Jeanette Larson and horticulturalist, Kathleen Connole. Demonstrations by Katie and Randy Crumby of Mount Olive Smoked Peppers and Ozark lifestyle specialist, Marion Spear will spice up the festival, according to Tina Marie Wilcox, the Ozark Folk Center’s herbalist.
Registrants can save $10 by meeting the September 29 deadline, though early registration is advised. Herb Harvest Fall Festival fees are as follows: one day admission, $60 before September 29 or $70 after September 29; Two day admission, $110.00 before September 29 or $120.00 after September 29. Full details are available at www.OzarkFolkCenter.com or call 870-269-3851.
The mission of Ozark Folk Center State Park is to perpetuate, present and promote the Ozark way of life in an educational and enjoyable manner; through craft demonstrations, musical programs, the Heritage Herb Garden, workshops and other special events.
