The Foothills Watershed in Old Fort, NC, invites the community to gather for an evening of music, storytelling, and heritage at the Community Harvest Celebration, happening Friday, November 14, from 5–9 PM. Nestled along the scenic Catawba River, this family-friendly event celebrates Appalachian resilience through hands-on traditions and live performance.
Hosted in partnership with McDowell County native Jordan Laney of Slow Down Sound, the celebration will be led by William Ritter, an old-time fiddler, seed-saver, and ballad singer from Mitchell County. Ritter’s work bridges the worlds of folk music and agricultural heritage—connecting people through both song and soil. His efforts to preserve traditional Appalachian practices, from seed-saving to storytelling, reflect a deep commitment to community and cultural continuity.
The evening’s seed swap, inspired by Ritter’s Song to Seed initiative, offers a chance to connect through shared seeds and stories. Song to Seed is a regional collaboration that highlights the connection between traditional music and heritage crops, inviting communities to take part in seed exchanges, storytelling, and musical performances that celebrate biodiversity and local food sovereignty.
Seed saving, as the organizers emphasize, is about more than gardening—it’s a vital act of preservation. With over 90% of U.S. vegetable varieties lost in the last century, community-driven efforts like this help protect the flavor, nutrition, and diversity of Appalachian food traditions.
What to Expect at the Community Harvest Celebration:
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Traditional Appalachian music and storytelling
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A community seed exchange—bring seeds to share if you have them, or come to learn and take home a few packets
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Local food and beverages available for purchase, including beer, non-alcoholic options, CBD, and THC beverages
The event is free, open to all ages, and will take place rain or shine at Foothills Watershed (655 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC). Guests can enjoy the venue’s expansive outdoor setting or relax in the cozy, heated indoor spaces.
To stay connected and learn more about upcoming events, follow @foothillswatershed on Instagram.
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