Feature Story

Crosby Arboretum hosts Forge Day event Feb. 7

By

Susan Collins-Smith

Published January 29, 2026 2:45pm

Updated January 29, 2026 2:50pm

Closeup of pine straw baskets sitting on a table. — The Forge Day and Heritage Festival 2026 will be held Feb. 7 at the Mississippi State University Crosby Arboretum in Picayune to showcase the historic and modern uses of the forge and other traditional skills. Several artisans will demonstrate, as well as sell, their crafts. (File photo by MSU Extension Service)

PICAYUNE, Miss. -- The Crosby Arboretum will host its annual Forge Day and Heritage Festival Feb. 7 in Picayune to showcase the historic and modern uses of the forge and other traditional skills.

The family-friendly event will begin at 10 a.m. and end at 2 p.m.

Members of the Gulf Coast Blacksmith Association, Gulf States Knife Makers Association and other craftspeople from across the region will display their metalsmithing and blacksmithing skills. Participants include Chuck Averett, Jared Kattengell, Larry House, Ed Lott and Bob Mercer.

“Forged in Fire” season six champion Seth Borries also will demonstrate his craftsmanship during the event. Interested attendees can try their hands at the forge. Closed-toe shoes and long sleeves are required, along with a signed waiver. Safety glasses will be available on site.

Weavers, spinners and quilters will show off their skills. Heritage livestock breeds, including a Pineywoods cow and babydoll sheep, known for their soft, fine wool, will be present. Leftie, a miniature donkey with a big personality, will return with his best friend Poncho.

Among the many vendors are knife maker David Bond and coppersmith Sam Albritton. Other vendors include Kennedy Hill Old Engines and Mills, herbalist Sophia Forstall and Denine Jones with pine needle baskets.

The Pineywood Cloggers will perform at 1 p.m. Hazel and the Delta Ramblers and David Delcambre and Friends will provide bluegrass and traditional old-style music.Attendees can also enjoy Native American storytelling and games.

Food vendors, including the Sugary Sweet Homestead, Scooter’s Kitchen and Kickin Lickin BBQ, will offer a variety of items for sale.

Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children 12 and under, and $4 for seniors, first responders and military members. Admission for Arboretum members is free. The Arboretum is located at 370 Ridge Road.

The Arboretum is operated by Mississippi State University.

MSU is an equal opportunity institution. For disability accommodation or other information, contact the Arboretum at 601-799-2311, ext. 0.