Building and enriching community in the Avon Hills of Central Minnesota
What is a Folk School?
Folk schools, originating in 19th-century Denmark, emphasize hands-on, intergenerational, and non-competitive learning for its own sake. They aim to preserve traditional skills lost to modern efficiency, valuing the satisfaction of craftsmanship and the sense of community it fosters. Folk schools serve as a response to cultural and technological changes, striving to retain creative, hands-on knowledge, while building and enriching our community in the process.
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Upcoming Courses and Events
The Porchlight Collective Earth Day Retreat
April 22, 2026
This Earth Day retreat centers around the practice of reconnecting with the land, the rhythms of nature, and one another. Rooted in the spirit of care for the Earth, the day weaves together grounding movement, mindful walking, seasonal reflection, and simple outdoor cooking. Through practices such as breathwork, gentle yoga, storytelling, and gathering around the fire, we explore what it means to live in relationship with the natural world and with our community.
"The entire feeling of Avon Hills Folk School is inspiring and it's hard not to feel creative and energized while taking classes there."
Kind Words.
“The location is beautiful. The woods feel like home to me. It is far enough away from The Cities that it feels like a getaway, and I can experience more nature and dark skies than I can at home, but it is close enough that it doesn’t take long to get there.”
"Instructors were great. The environment was casual and very comfortable. Participants were engaged and very friendly."