Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival: Not Just for Knitters

Looking for something to do this past weekend I decided to go on an adventure and attend my very first Sheep and Wool Festival at the Howard County Fairgrounds. The Festival is held every year around Mother’s Day, drawing yarn enthusiasts and fiber artists statewide to our corner of Maryland.

Not being a fiber artist I had no idea what to expect and was amazed at the size of the event. Not only were there hundreds of vendors but thousands attended, some folks coming in busses from other states. Just finding a parking spot was an adventure but Howard County Police and volunteers did a great job of directing traffic and keeping things moving. The people mover made of a flatbed trailer and a tractor transported attendees from the far parking areas. Ample handicap parking was provided near the gates.

The vendors’ displays were a kaleidoscope of color and texture. Even if you don’t knit or crochet, like me, the stalls were a treat for the eyes and hands. If your idea of wool is the scratchy sweaters your mom made you wear as kid prepare to be amazed at the softness of hand spun wool and beauty of artisan made garments and accessories.

Even if you are unable to knit, crochet or weave, there were plenty of finished products available for purchase or order. Everything from socks, hand knit gloves, hats and scarves, stunning beautiful sweaters, and hand woven garments were available.  Even my husband who has little interest in fiber arts found one of a kind handmade walking sticks, thrown pottery, and, to his great delight, lots of yummy lamb treats.

Children could learn to make dream catchers, a needle tapestry bracelet or even to knit. A variety of animals such as rabbits, lambs, alpacas and lamas were attendance for up close and hands on petting. On Sunday, a retelling of the story of the Golden Fleece delighted and entertained. There were a number of musical performances were going on throughout both days of the festival. A sheep dog demo took place.

If you’ve hesitated to attend because you don’t knit or crochet put those questions aside.  The Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival is not just for knitters. It’s for everyone who loves a fun day in Howard County. If you missed the even this year, there is always next year. While the date for next year’s event has not been set keep up with the plans on the official website for the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival.

Hats pictured are made Good Shepherd Lamb and Dog Coats. The flower are made from the scraps of the blankets the coats are made from. Nothing is wasted.