Uncategorized September 15, 2014

Trailing of the Sheep Festival 2014

The Trailing of the Sheep Festival was started in 1996 in response to the rapid loss of farms and ranches and the rapid growth in the Wood River Valley. The Festival preserves the stories and colorful history of sheep ranchers and herders, celebrates the rich cultures of the past and present and entertains and educates children, adults and families about the production of local food and fiber that sustain local economies and generations of hard-working families.

This year's Trailing of the Sheep Festival, held October 9-12, will offer a variety of fun and unique activities. Throughout the weekend the Valley's best chefs, restaurants and caterers come together to offer a culinary adventure called "Cooking with Lamb" in which participants will take classes, enjoy fine lamb delicacies, and meet with ranchers who proudly raise sheep in the west. 

Friday features an evening of storytelling with Hank Vogler, an outspoken Nevada sheep rancher who shares his deep love for ranching through stories sprinkled with humor. He is known for his quick wit, liberty with words and common sense.  He is a regular host on Rural Radio, a radio show with a mission of bridging rural and urban America.

The Sheep Folklife Fair will take place in Hailey from 10am-4pm on Saturday. This popular Folklife Fair provides demonstrations of sheep shearing, displays of sheep wagons, crafts for children, spinning and weaving demonstrations by regional and local artisans along with lots of scrumptious lamb dishes served by top chefs and restaurants.

The Sheepherder's Ball takes place Saturday at the NexStage Theatre and will feature music from the Hot Club of Cowtown. The Hot Club of Cowtown is from from Austin, Texas, and perform around the globe. NexStage will be turned into a nightclub for this event that will also raise funds for the festival. 

The Wood River Valley is gearing up for this year's Trailing of the Sheep Festival. Its rich culture paired with good old fashioned family fun is a great annual draw to the area. Taking place in Hailey and Ketchum, there will be plenty to do, see, and eat for everyone!

Visit http://www.trailingofthesheep.org/ for full schedule of events and ticket sales.

What is your favorite part of the Trailing of the Sheep Festival? Comment below!