Every autumn, fiber lovers from across the country look forward to one special gathering. The Kings County Fiber Festival 2026 is set to take place on October 10, 2026, and it promises to be a landmark event for crafters, artists, and textile enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you knit, weave, spin, or dye, this festival has something meaningful waiting for you.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you go — from featured events and vendor highlights to workshop schedules and practical travel tips.
What Is the Kings County Fiber Festival?
The Kings County Fiber Festival is an annual celebration of textile arts held in Kings County. It brings together independent makers, fiber farms, yarn dyers, tool sellers, and craft educators under one roof. The festival has grown steadily over the years. Today, it stands as one of the most anticipated fiber arts events on the East Coast calendar.
The 2026 edition takes on extra excitement. Organizers have expanded the vendor floor, added new workshop tracks, and partnered with well-known fiber artists to deliver a richer experience than ever before. Therefore, whether you are attending for the first time or returning for the fifth year, you will find something fresh and inspiring.
Event Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | Kings County Fiber Festival 2026 |
| Date | October 10, 2026 |
| Location | Kings County Fairgrounds, New York |
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | General: $12 / Early Bird: $8 |
| Parking | Free on-site parking available |
| Website | kingscountyfiberfestival.org |
Doors open at 9:00 AM, and the last entry is at 4:00 PM. Organizers recommend arriving early. The morning hours tend to be the best time to shop, since popular vendors sell out of limited-edition colorways quickly.
Featured Events on October 10, 2026
The organizers pack the day from start to finish. Each event aims to entertain, educate, and connect the fiber arts community. Here is a look at the main highlights.
Opening Ceremony and Fiber Arts Showcase
The festival kicks off with a short opening ceremony at 9:15 AM on the main stage. Local officials and festival founders will welcome attendees. Right after, the Fiber Arts Showcase begins. This display features handmade garments, tapestries, woven baskets, and sculptural textile work created by artists from across the region. It is free to view and open all day.
Spinning Demonstration Circle
One of the most beloved traditions at the festival is the Spinning Demonstration Circle. It runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM in the outdoor pavilion. Experienced spinners work on their wheels in a relaxed, open setting. Visitors can watch, ask questions, and even try spinning wool for the first time. Additionally, several spinners will bring rare fiber blends, including hand-combed Shetland and baby alpaca, to demonstrate the full process from raw fleece to finished yarn.
Fleece to Shawl Competition
The Fleece to Shawl Competition is always a crowd-pleaser. Teams of four work together to wash, card, spin, and weave a shawl within a set time limit. Judging criteria include speed, technique, and finished quality. However, the real magic is watching the process unfold in real time. The competition begins at 10:30 AM and results are announced at 3:00 PM on the main stage.
Live Dyeing Sessions
Natural dyeing has seen a major revival in recent years. The live dyeing sessions at the 2026 festival reflect that growing interest. Expert dyers will use locally foraged plants, flowers, and roots to create stunning colors on wool and silk. Sessions run at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Space is limited, so registration is recommended in advance through the festival website.
Fiber Arts Panel Discussion
At 2:00 PM, a panel of professional fiber artists, textile historians, and small-batch producers will gather on the main stage. The topic this year is “Slow Fiber: Reclaiming the Handmade.” Panelists will discuss sustainability, fair pricing, and the growing interest in traditional craft methods. The discussion is free for all attendees and expected to run about 45 minutes.
Workshops: Learn Something New
The Kings County Fiber Festival 2026 offers a wide range of workshops for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Pre-registration is required for all sessions, and spots fill up fast.
Workshop Schedule Overview
| Workshop Title | Time | Skill Level | Fee |
| Intro to Drop Spindle Spinning | 9:30 AM | Beginner | $25 |
| Natural Dyeing with Local Plants | 10:00 AM | All Levels | $35 |
| Rigid Heddle Weaving Basics | 11:00 AM | Beginner | $30 |
| Advanced Colorwork Knitting | 12:00 PM | Intermediate | $40 |
| Wet Felting Workshop | 1:00 PM | All Levels | $30 |
| Tapestry Weaving Techniques | 2:30 PM | Intermediate | $40 |
All workshop fees include materials unless otherwise noted. Instructors are experienced teachers and working artists. Each session runs between 60 and 90 minutes. Therefore, you can easily attend two workshops in a single day if you plan your schedule wisely.
Vendors: Who Will Be There?
The vendor hall is the heartbeat of the festival. In 2026, more than 80 vendors will offer their goods, making it the largest vendor market in the festival’s history.
Types of Vendors
You can expect a wide variety of sellers at the event:
- Independent yarn dyers offering small-batch, hand-dyed skeins
- Fiber farms selling raw fleece, roving, and pre-drafted top
- Spinning wheel and loom dealers with tools for every budget
- Pattern designers and indie publishers
- Notions sellers with needles, hooks, stitch markers, and bags
- Sustainable textile businesses focused on eco-friendly production
Highlighted Vendor Spotlight
A few standout vendors are already confirmed for the 2026 event. Meadow & Wool Farm from upstate New York will bring their signature Corriedale fleece and hand-spun skeins. Brookside Natural Dyes will showcase their indigo and weld collections. Lastly, Hudson Loom Studio will offer live weaving demonstrations alongside their equipment sales.
However, new discoveries are part of what makes the vendor hall so exciting. Many first-time vendors appear each year, and those chance encounters often lead to the most memorable purchases of the day.
Family and Community Activities
The festival is a welcoming space for all ages. Children and teenagers are encouraged to participate in several dedicated activities.
Fiber Arts for Kids Corner
The Kids Corner runs all day and is staffed by volunteer instructors. Children aged 5 to 12 can try finger knitting, simple weaving on cardboard looms, and basic felting. All materials are provided at no extra cost. Parents appreciate that this area keeps children supervised and engaged, giving adults time to explore the vendor hall freely.
Community Knitting and Crochet Circle
A large open circle will be set up in the community tent for drop-in knitting and crochet. Bring your current project or start something new at the festival. The circle runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and is a wonderful way to meet fellow crafters. Additionally, local charity groups will be on hand to collect finished hats, scarves, and blankets for donation.
Food and Refreshments
Keeping energy up is important during a full day of fiber fun. The festival grounds will feature a dedicated food zone with several options.
| Food Vendor | Type of Food |
| Green Roots Kitchen | Vegetarian and vegan plates |
| The Grain & Garden | Artisan sandwiches and soups |
| Sweet Thread Bakery | Pastries, cookies, and coffee |
| Harvest Hill Cider | Local hard and soft cider |
Picnic tables and seating areas are available throughout the grounds. Outside food is permitted, so feel free to pack a lunch if you prefer.
How to Get There
Kings County Fairgrounds is accessible by car, public transit, and bicycle.
By car, take the Southern State Parkway to Exit 19. Signage will guide you from there. Free parking is available on-site, and overflow lots are managed by festival staff.
By train, the nearest LIRR station is Valley Stream. A shuttle bus runs between the station and the festival grounds every 30 minutes starting at 8:30 AM. The last shuttle back to the station departs at 5:30 PM.
By bike, a secure bicycle parking area is located near the main entrance. The festival encourages sustainable travel and welcomes cyclists warmly.
What to Bring
Packing smart will make your visit much more enjoyable. Here is a helpful checklist:
- A tote bag or market bag for purchases
- Cash and cards (some vendors accept cash only)
- A water bottle to stay hydrated
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Your current knitting or crochet project for the community circle
- A light jacket or layer, as October mornings can be cool
- A festival map, available at the entrance or downloadable from the website
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Attending the Kings County Fiber Festival for the first time can feel overwhelming at first. The vendor hall is large, the schedule is full, and the choices are many. However, a little planning goes a long way.
Start with a walk through the entire vendor hall before you buy anything. This gives you a sense of what is available and helps you prioritize. Pick one or two workshops in advance and register online to avoid disappointment. Set a budget before you arrive, but allow yourself a little flexibility for unexpected finds.
Most importantly, talk to the people around you. The festival community is warm and generous. Experienced crafters are happy to share advice, and vendors love answering questions about their products and processes.
Conclusion
The Kings County Fiber Festival 2026 on October 10, 2026, is shaping up to be a truly special event. From the Fleece to Shawl Competition and live dyeing sessions to more than 80 vendors and a packed workshop schedule, there is something meaningful for every fiber lover. The festival celebrates craft, community, and creativity in a welcoming and well-organized setting. Plan ahead, arrive early, and prepare to feel inspired. Whether you leave with a bag full of yarn or learn a new weaving skill, you’ll find your time at this festival well spent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date of the Kings County Fiber Festival 2026?
The festival takes place on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Kings County Fairgrounds.
Do I need to register for workshops in advance?
All workshops require pre-registration through the festival’s official website. Spots fill up quickly, so early booking is strongly recommended.
Is the festival suitable for children?
The Kids Corner offers free, supervised fiber arts activities for children aged 5 to 12 throughout the day. The festival is family-friendly and welcoming to all ages.
Are pets allowed at the festival?
Festival organizers permit leashed dogs in outdoor areas of the festival grounds. However, they do not allow pets inside vendor halls or workshop spaces.
What payment methods do vendors accept?
Most vendors accept both cash and major credit cards. However, some small-scale sellers prefer cash. It is a good idea to bring both just to be safe.
