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.
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
Upcoming Courses and Events
Soil Health for a Thriving Garden
September 17, 2025
In this full-day, hands-on workshop, join fellow gardeners and an expert horticulturist to explore and understand the materials and practices that bring your soil alive and make your crops thrive. We’ll talk about the science of fertility and soil while we practice: understanding a soil with on-farm tests and a soil test, planting cover crops, managing cover crops, terminating cover crops, preparing a seedbed for planting, choosing common fertilizers and amendments. Throughout the day we’ll have the opportunity to discuss all sorts of related topics based on student interest (such as no-till, composting, intercropping, and crop scheduling.)
"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."