The KY Farm Launch program began the second round of cohorts in March. The program is designed for beginning farmers who have land and not sure what to do with it, or people who are still looking for property but want an enterprise in mind before purchase. Cohort started the first 6 weeks learning about business structure, record keeping, tax filing, marketing, business plans, and basic requirements for vegetable, beef, and small ruminant production. In May the participants b

By Sarabeth Parido One of the most beloved parts of the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival is back—workshops for 2026 are officially live! Each year, these classes offer a chance to slow down, learn something new, and spend time with others who share a love for fiber, creativity, and handmade work. Whether you’re brand new to fiber arts or have years of experience, this year’s workshop lineup has something to inspire you. Our 2026 workshops cover a wide range of fiber arts

By Kelley Yates In September 2024, the University of Kentucky was awarded an USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Grant. Sub grants were given to the Kentucky Center for Ag Rural Development and the Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office. The goal of the grant was to create a co-hort of beginning farmers who were interested in learning more about raising vegetables, fruits, cattle, poultry, and small ruminants. The program would be for nine months, meeting once a

By Sarabeth Parido Workshops are at the heart of the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival — a place where creativity meets community and where fiber enthusiasts of all levels come together to learn, share, and grow. The 2025 Festival was no exception, offering an inspiring lineup of classes that celebrated the skill, artistry, and joy of working with natural fibers. This year, attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics — from beginner-friendly spinning and

By Sarabeth Parido We’re thrilled to announce that applications are now open for vendors and workshop instructors for the 2026 Kentucky Sheep & Fiber Festival, happening the third weekend of May 2026 at Masterson Station Park in Lexington, KY. This two-day celebration of fiber arts brings together shepherds, makers, fiber artists, and enthusiasts from across the region for a weekend of shopping, learning, and community. Vendor Applications Our vendor marketplace is a juried e