Nothing like Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center in the winter

There’s nothing like December in Southern Appalachia! The crisp air, the changing leaves, and (if you’re near Robbinsville, NC) the wonderful music and art at RCP partner Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center.

Sitting vibrantly in the center of the community, the Center has grown and developed through the years, enriching the community in every step.

Developed in 1927 as the Stecoah Union School, the education facility occasionally hosted bluegrass celebrities such as Lester Flatt , Earl Scruggs and Bill Monro. Unfortunately, the school was closed in 1994 in consolidation. In 1996, dedicated community members joined forces to restore the abandoned building, reestablishing it back to the treasure it was – more than 80 years ago – and still is.

The Center remains a solid stone structure surrounded by approximately ten acres of natural mountain land, now offering over 20 programs to approximately 10,000 people annually. This includes culinary classes, community gardening and “An Appalachian Evening,” a Saturday summer celebration series preserving mountain culture by showcasing bluegrass, folk and old-time music preceded by traditional Appalachian dinners.

But with summer over and winter right around the corner, it’s come time to start bundling up for the cold. Before you head to the department store for that scarf or hat, how about sharpening your skills and making it yourself?

On Monday & Thursday, December 6 & 9, the Center is offering knitting classes for novice and intermediate students. The two-day session, running from 1-4pm will gear you up with the basics of knitting, including how to read a pattern, how to pick up stiches, and increasing and decreasing rows.

The cost of the class is $30. A materials list will be provided or can be purchase for $22. To register call: 828-479-3364.

Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit with a mission preservation and promotion of Southern Appalachian mountain culture.

To learn more about Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center:
Click here to visit their website.
Click here to follow them on Facebook.

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