The John C. Campbell Folk School will host its annual Forge After Dark event and Forging for the Future live auction on Nov. 7-8, 2025, as part of its yearlong centennial celebration. The two-day event, which begins with a free blacksmithing showcase and culminates in a live auction of handcrafted works, will highlight the school’s century-long commitment to creativity, community and Appalachian traditions. 

The weekend kicks off on Friday, Nov. 7, with Forge After Dark, an evening gathering from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. at the Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop on the Folk School campus. Visitors can watch master blacksmiths at work, enjoy live music and refreshments, purchase raffle tickets and experience the vibrant atmosphere of collaborative craftmaking. A documentary about legendary Clay Spencer will be shown during the evening. The event is free and open to the public. 

On Saturday, Nov. 8, the school will host its annual fine craft auction and raffle, with a public preview from noon to 2 p.m. followed by the live auction from 2 to 4 p.m. Online previews of select items will also be shared. Auction items will include freshly forged pieces from the previous evening as well as a curated collection of works donated by Folk School instructors, students and staff, with a special focus on artists celebrating the Folk School’s centennial. Proceeds will support the Folk School’s educational programming, studio upkeep and scholarship funds.  

“Forge After Dark embodies what the Folk School has always stood for: the joy of making, the value of tradition and the power of community,” said Bethany Chaney, executive director of the John C. Campbell Folk School. “We’re excited to celebrate our centennial with this special event that brings people together around the fire, the forge and the arts.” 

Founded in 1925 by Olive Dame Campbell and Marguerite Butler, and named for Olive’s late husband, the John C. Campbell Folk School was inspired by the Danish folk school model of lifelong learning and community. Today, it is an internationally recognized destination for craft, music, dance, and storytelling, attracting students from across the world while remaining rooted in Southern Appalachian culture. 

The Forge After Dark event and auction are part of a full calendar of events marking the Folk School’s 100th anniversary. More details can be found at www.folkschool.org/100.