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Airing of the Quilts returns to the Ozark Folk Center Friday, Oct. 2

A handmade quilt is proudly unfurled for onlookers at the Ozark Folk Center State Park. (Photo submitted.)

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Ark. — The Ozark Folk Center State Park will bring a beloved Ozark tradition to life this fall with The Airing of the Quilts, a special heritage event showcasing the park’s remarkable collection of historic quilts. The display will take place on Friday, October 2, 2026, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see dozens of quilts that have not been exhibited together in decades.

For many years, the Committee of One Hundred for the Ozark Folk Center has generously procured and donated an extraordinary array of quilts, each one a reflection of Ozark craftsmanship, community, and history. These quilts are carefully stored in breathable bags in the Quilt Shop, where limited space allows only one or two pieces to be displayed at a time.

The Airing of the Quilts revives a seasonal ritual once common throughout the Ozark Hills. Traditionally, families stored quilts in trunks or cabinets during the summer months. When fall arrived, the quilts were brought outside and hung in the sunshine and breeze to freshen. Sunlight helped deter pests and mold, while the cool air carried the scents of the garden. In spring, the process was repeated before quilts were wrapped in pillowcases and stored again for the warmer season.

This year’s event will recreate that timeless bit of housekeeping as a vibrant, colorful display across the Craft Village. Visitors can stroll among the quilts, admire their craftsmanship, and learn about the stories stitched into each piece. The event highlights both the artistry of Ozark quilters and honors the work of the Committee of One Hundred to preserve and share these cultural treasures.

The Airing of the Quilts is open to all park guests with regular Craft Village admission and offers a unique window into Ozark heritage, community traditions, and textile history.

For more information, contact the Ozark Folk Center State Park at 870-269-3854 or visit OzarkFolkCenter.com.

Make a weekend out of your visit with a stay in the comfortable Cabins at Dry Creek at the park. You can book online at OzarkFolkCenter.com or call 800-264-3655 for your rooming needs.

The Ozark Folk Center State Park is located at 1032 Park Avenue in Mountain View, less than a mile from the Courthouse Square. The park may also be reached by taking Hwy 5/9/14 (Sylamore Ave) to Jimmy Driftwood Parkway, which leads directly to the park entrance.

The Craft Village at the Ozark Folk Center State Park is regularly open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission to the Ozark Folk Center Craft Village is $15 for adults or $8 for children 6-12, children under 6 are free. Call 870-269-3851 for more information or visit Tickets.OzarkFolkCenter.com for a complete list of concerts and classes.

Ozark Folk Center State Park

The Ozark Folk Center State Park, located in Mountain View, Arkansas, is open seasonally from mid-April to mid-November. The park’s mission is “to perpetuate, present and promote the Ozark way of life in an educational and enjoyable manner.” To learn more visit OzarkFolkCenter.com.

Arkansas State Parks

Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.

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