Your Library is holding Shirefest, a free festival celebrating J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved Shire in “The Hobbit” and the charm that his fictional land shares with our Appalachian culture. On Sunday, Sept. 21 from 2-4:30 p.m., all ages can drop by the Library for storytelling, live music, artisan demonstrations, outdoor games, and more.
The International Storytelling Center’s Teller-in-Residence, Jennifer Armstrong, will weave Welsh tales on the Library’s front steps for all ages at 2:30 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket to settle in for a time of world class storytelling. Armstrong is a musician and storyteller of humor, warmth, and grace. Her stories and songs about life’s mysteries, love, and gratitude have been heard across the country, including at the Kennedy Center and on NPR.
Shirefest will also feature live music. The Science Hill Chamber Orchestra will perform at 2 p.m., playing a selection of classical and Celtic compositions. At 3:30 p.m., the Celtic trio Jenny and the Weazels will craft a rich tapestry of Scottish and Irish sound, fusing ancient traditions with a modern, Appalachian sensibility.
Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy live demonstrations from local artisans and organizations. The State of Franklin Blacksmiths Guild will showcase blacksmithing and have hand-forged items for sale. Fiber artists from the Overmountain Weavers Guild will demonstrate the art of hand spinning wool and other fiber work.
Representatives from Rocky Fork State Park, ETSU Biological Sciences, and Green Valley Wildlife will show and discuss regional animals and insects. Northeast Tennessee Master Gardener Association members will share their expertise about the Appalachian Highlands’ flora.
Johnson City Brewing Company (JCBC) will also be onsite with root beer and butter beer, its new non-alcoholic offering, and talk about the craft of beer- and root beer-making in East Tennessee.
People of all ages will enjoy festival games and crafts, JCBC’s locally-brewed drinks, and browsing local vendor tables throughout the afternoon.
Call (423) 434-4454 for more information about Shirefest on Sunday, Sept. 21.
Visit our events calendar to find more upcoming opportunities for people of all ages. Follow Johnson City Public Library on Facebook and Instagram to receive updates about Library programs, collections, and services.
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