Cordelia is an Ashevillian who loves to collaborate with local businesses and events to get their story into the world.

This is a contributor-submitted Voices piece. Want to join the conversation? We invite you to write for us. Learn how to share your voice here.

For 50 years, the Bannermans have been helping families make a new Thanksgiving tradition in Western North Carolina. In 1969, Bannerman Folk Camp began with Glenn and Evelyn Bannerman, and their four children – Craig, Ren, Beth, and Lee Ann. After attending other folk dance camps throughout the 60s, the couple decided there was a need for a camp focused on intergenerational programming. Now, 50 years later, the camp is run by a family of four generations, each of whom contributes individual skills to this unique weekend.

This fall, Bannerman Folk Camp will offer participants a chance to connect through dance, recreation, and live music for the 50th time. The annual Thanksgiving tradition is a weekend spent together in the mountains where participants dance, play, create, and spend time in intergenerational community. Whether you’re a singer, dancer, crafter, or you just love to play, Bannerman Folk Camp has something in store for you. The camp welcomes families and individuals, young and young-at-heart, locals and travelers to spend Thanksgiving weekend together. Focusing on traditional styles of dance, recreation and music, Bannerman Folk Camp takes what’s old and makes it new again.

This year, Bannerman Folk Camp will welcome internationally renowned dance teachers alongside locally beloved workshop leaders, and will feature live music from the local Crooked Pine Band. Activities include: international dance, contra dance, big circle dance, live music, music jam sessions, cooking, folk arts and crafts, shape note singing, hiking, storytelling, intergenerational games, and more.

Bannerman Folk Camp will happen November 28-December 1 this year, at Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, NC. Registration for the weekend, or for a day pass, is open at www.bannermanfolkcamp.com. Scholarships are available.