Where else can you get a tattoo, learn about sour dough bread making, enjoy live music with a Grammy-nominated artist, and explore the world of Chippewa Valley artisans? Look no farther than the Folk Arts Festival at the Chippewa Valley Museum. This eclectic wintertime event offers a full line up for local culture seekers.
There are a lot of new demos coming in 2026. You can watch the magic of live basket making, intricate beadwork, and embedded visual artists. Fan favorites will be back demonstrating violin restoration, fiber arts, embroidery, beekeeping, wool spinning, and wood working.
Creative Director Olaf Lind says “part of the magic of the Folk Arts Festival is that you can stop to talk with any of the artists to discuss how they got started and what they’re doing.”
This year’s festival embraces the “Tattoo: Identity Through Ink” exhibit currently in the museum’s rotating gallery. Featured artist Tyler Morse will be offering live tattoos during the festival. Henna artists Sabine Stark and Hannah Danovsky offer temporary body art. The Pablo Center is bringing a STEAM project where people can create their own Tessellation Tattoo designs, and there will be temporary tattoos provided by the Eau Claire K-Kids Club.
Enjoy a fun line-up of live performances, from the dreamy harp melodies of Bethany Shuda to high-energy polka with Richie Yurkovich and Polkarioty. Settle in for some foot-stomping bluegrass with The Ottersons, then soak up the beautiful flute harmonies of Peter Phippen. Before or after the shows, explore Peter’s world flute collection and try making music yourself with Bethany’s amazing collection of harps—because this festival isn’t just for listening, it’s for playing too!
In addition to the artists, there will be fun activities for kids and food to purchase.
For a detailed schedule and a list of presenters, CLICK HERE.
