Imagine wandering through twenty acres of gardens in full autumn color — roses and herbs perfuming the air, leaves tumbling in shades of gold and ember across winding woodland paths. All around, tents and tables are nestled among the blooms and trees, where elders, artisans, and storytellers gather to share more than fifty timeless skills through hands-on instruction, live demonstrations, and stories passed down through generations.

The atmosphere is calm and welcoming — a peaceful, all-inclusive space where people of every age and background come together to learn, connect, and remember. Conversations drift easily between tables; laughter rises and mingles with birdsong and the hum of music from the stage. In the main pavilion, educators and keynote speakers share wisdom on preserving the knowledge that once sustained us, while nearby, the scent of wood smoke and cooking herbs leads toward food trucks and local businesses offering nourishment and comfort.

It’s a day that feels like stepping into another time — community-centered, grounded in curiosity and care, where the beauty of nature and the warmth of human connection remind us how rich life can be when knowledge is shared and the old ways are kept alive.

Each corner of the gardens will hold a small world of its own — a place to listen, to watch, to try your hand at something nearly forgotten. The final roster of teachers and topics will be announced closer to the festival, and offerings may shift as needed — our teachers are living treasures, and their well-being comes first.

What’s certain is that the day will be alive with motion and memory: fires being coaxed to life, dye pots simmering with color, jars of jam cooling in the shade. You might learn to weave a basket, sharpen a knife, inoculate mushrooms, or fold sourdough by hand. Others may find themselves sewing, blacksmithing, fermenting food, carving wood, or learning the old ways of herbal medicine and foraging.

Beyond the practical arts, there will be quiet corners for reflection — storytellers and philosophers sharing wisdom, musicians teaching the feel of string and rhythm, mentors guiding through business, budgeting, or the art of a good marriage. Children will have their own “make-and-take” spaces, where curiosity and joy lead the way.

From canning and composting to archery, watercolor, and midwifery — the skills are many and ever-growing. All are taught in the spirit of community, preservation, and the belief that knowledge is a living thread — one we pass from hand to hand, generation to generation.

The Gathering takes place at Clary Gardens — a breathtaking 20-acre botanical garden in Coshocton, Ohio. The landscape is a living classroom: rose gardens in bloom, herb fields humming with bees, wooded trails winding through native Ohio forest.

As autumn settles in, the grounds glow with color — a mosaic of gold, rust, and crimson leaves carpeting the earth. Tents and tables will be arranged throughout the gardens, with the main pavilion serving as the heart of the festival: a place for keynote speakers, music, and shared stories.

Clary Gardens is open and inviting, rising gently through wooded hills and meadows. Paved paths wind upward through rose beds, herb gardens, and shaded overlooks, connecting gathering spaces tucked along the way. The central pavilion rests at the heart of it all, surrounded by a classroom building and tents, while a children’s area sits near the top of the hill with easy access to the woodlands beyond. Clary Gardens is open and inviting, with accessible paths, rest areas, and wide-open spaces that make exploration easy. It’s a place where learning and beauty intertwine — where every turn of the path brings something new to see, smell, hear, and remember.

Festival Address: Clary Gardens, 588 W Chestnut St, Coshocton, OH 43812. Be sure to reference the "Where can I park?" section prior to arrival.

Everyone is welcome. The Lost Skills Gathering is for anyone who feels the pull of simpler ways — for those who long to slow down, get their hands dirty, and remember what it feels like to make something real. It’s for families and friends, for curious beginners and seasoned craftspeople alike. Whether you’ve never lit a fire without a match or you grew up learning from your grandparents’ hands, you’ll find a place here.

The day is intentionally all-inclusive — peaceful, friendly, and grounded in respect. There’s no competition, no hierarchy, only shared curiosity and connection. Elders, children, teachers, and learners walk side by side, trading stories and discoveries beneath the trees. Come as you are, stay as long as you like, and leave with something lasting: knowledge, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.

The Lost Skills Gathering is built on respect, kindness, and shared curiosity. We’re creating a peaceful space — one where everyone can feel welcome, safe, and free to learn without judgment or distraction.

To preserve that environment, we ask all who attend to come with open hearts and considerate minds. This is a politics-free gathering — no divisive speech, clothing, signage, or behavior of any kind will be permitted. Anyone acting in a way that causes harm, discomfort, or disruption will be asked to leave without refund.

For the well-being of all, this is also a drug-free, alcohol-free, weapon-free and gun-free event. We honor our elders, our children, and our shared sense of community by keeping the day grounded in peace, respect, and learning.

Absolutely! The Lost Skills Gathering depends on the generosity, energy, and passion of our volunteers — and we’d love to have you join the team.

We’re currently seeking kind, capable people to assist both before and during the festival. Opportunities include helping with setup and teardown, teacher transport, customer service and mobility support, festival security, janitorial care, and roles on our Festival Management Committee for those who want to take on more active planning and leadership positions.

If you have a heart for community, a love of tradition, and a willingness to lend a hand, please reach out.

📧 Email: Connect@LostSkillsGathering.com

Together, we can build something truly meaningful — a gathering that preserves wisdom, strengthens community, and passes the old skills forward.

The Lost Skills Gathering celebrates an old-fashioned way of learning — one rooted in generosity, respect, and shared experience. Each of our teachers, storytellers, and demonstrators offers their time, skill, and wisdom directly to you — not through a ticket or vendor fee, but through a spirit of open exchange.

Most classes are rolling and drop-in style, meaning you can join when space allows. Some may draw small queues or repeat sessions throughout the day, and instructors may adjust content or timing as needed to accommodate interest and weather.

To honor their efforts, each teacher will have a suggested donation amount posted at their tent or table. Some may also offer custom lessons, handmade goods, or projects for a set contribution. Please take care of your teachers — your donations are how they fund their time and materials, and your kindness helps ensure these traditions continue to be passed on.

And remember, gratitude doesn’t have to be only money. If you feel inspired, you might bring something you’ve made or grown — a jar of jelly, vegetables from your garden, a piece of handmade art, useful tools or crafts, seeds to share, or even a favorite family recipe. These thoughtful gifts carry the same spirit of exchange and community the festival was built on.

Think of it as tipping a musician after a heartfelt song — a simple way of saying, “Your knowledge matters.” Bring cash, bring kindness, bring something from the heart — and together, we’ll keep these old ways alive.

Children of all ages are welcome at the Lost Skills Gathering, and we’ve designed spaces especially for their curiosity and creativity. The Kids’ Area sits near the top of the gardens — a lively, hands-on zone where learning feels like play. Here, little ones can explore crafts and skills such as tie-dyeing, creating sunprints, painting with watercolor, making bead art, decorating plastic canvas, and more.

Throughout the day, storytellers will gather young listeners in shaded nooks for tales of nature, heritage, and adventure, while a festival-wide scavenger hunt invites families to wander the gardens together, discovering hidden treasures and new experiences along the way.

The atmosphere is joyful and welcoming — a place where kids can get their hands messy, laugh freely, and feel a part of the greater story of learning, creativity, and connection that the Lost Skills Gathering celebrates.

Yes — the Lost Skills Gathering will be held rain or shine. Most activities take place under covered tents or in the pavilion, so the learning continues even if the skies open. In the case of severe or unsafe weather, the schedule may be delayed or adjusted for safety, but the spirit of the day carries on. Bring a raincoat, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure — it’s all part of the experience.

Come prepared for a full day outdoors — walking, learning, and soaking in the beauty of the gardens. Weather in early October can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring what will keep you comfortable, rain or shine.

You’re welcome to bring a folding chair or picnic blanket, but please keep them off main paths and away from vendor or class spaces to ensure clear walkways for others. A refillable water bottle is recommended. A small bag or basket could be handy for carrying goodies, samples, and make-n-take creations from classes.

We recommend comfortable walking shoes, a notebook and pen for jotting down notes during workshops, and maybe even a hat or sunscreen if the weather calls for it.

Cash is highly encouraged, as many of our artisans and teachers will be demonstrating and selling their work in areas without reliable credit card terminals. Having cash on hand ensures you won’t miss out on handcrafted goods, local foods, and special treasures that may not be available elsewhere. We also invite you to show gratitude directly — many teachers and presenters offer their time and wisdom from the heart, and cash tips are a wonderful way to thank them for sharing their skills. Bringing a little extra helps you fully participate in the spirit of exchange and support that keeps gatherings like this thriving.

Above all else, bring an open heart and a curious mind. Let wonder be your guide as you walk the winding paths — each tent, teacher, and story are waiting to spark something familiar and new within you.

Plan to arrive a little early to allow time for parking and the short walk to the gardens. Gates open before the first classes and demonstrations begin, so arriving early helps you settle in, explore the grounds, and make the most of the day. The earlier you come, the more you’ll see, learn, and experience before the crowds grow.

While you won’t find more fierce animal lovers than us, the Lost Skills Gathering isn’t quite ready to include our four-legged friends just yet. With so many people, demonstrations, and hands-on activities throughout the gardens, even the best-behaved pets can add an unpredictable element to the day (can you imagine a poor granny being attacked by a wild noodle-crazed terrier, or a poodle hanging from the side of a pig being demoed?).

For everyone’s comfort and safety — both human and animal — pets are not permitted on the festival grounds.

However, trained service animals are always welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines. Please ensure your service companion remains leashed, under control, and clearly identified while on site.

We truly appreciate your understanding and love for animals — we feel the same way.

You won’t go hungry at the Lost Skills Gathering. A selection of local food trucks will be on-site throughout the day, offering a variety of delicious meals and treats. Many of our teachers and vendors will also share samples and small bites tied to their craft — from homemade preserves and herbal snacks to other traditional tastes worth exploring.

Water will be available for purchase near the food area and pavilion, and you’re encouraged to bring your own reusable bottle to stay hydrated as you explore the grounds.

Restrooms are located inside two central buildings, with portable toilets positioned near the main pavilion, as well as by the food trucks and woodland entrance for convenience. The main restroom building on-site is ADA-accessible, and one of the portable toilets will also be ADA-accessible. All facilities will be regularly maintained throughout the day.

We ask that everyone help us care for the gardens by keeping the grounds clean and litter-free. Trash receptacles will be placed throughout the site for your convenience — please use them thoughtfully so the beauty of Clary Gardens remains undisturbed for all to enjoy.

While there will be no on-site parking at Clary Gardens, convenient public parking is available just a short 3-minute walk away. The nearest lot sits only about 500 feet from the garden entrance, across the street at the corner of S. Whitewoman Street and W. Chestnut Street, where there are 145 parking spots.

Additional parking areas will be available in Roscoe Village and at COTC university, which is less than a quarter mile or an easy 5-minute walk from the Clary Gardens entrance. During festival hours, limited chauffeuring options may also be available to assist guests who need a ride to and from the gate.

We recommend arriving a little early, giving yourself time to enjoy the whole experience and to learn as much as you can. The walk itself offers a lovely first glimpse of the gardens and the autumn colors beyond, as well as a chance to see historic Roscoe Village.

A First Aid Tent will be clearly marked on the festival map and located near the central pavilion. Our team of trained volunteers will be available to assist with basic first aid needs such as minor cuts, scrapes, or heat-related concerns.

In addition, a Herbal First Aid Tent will be on-site, staffed by experienced herbalists offering gentle, traditional plant-based support for minor discomforts. These services are intended to be educational and comforting, not diagnostic or medical in nature.

In the event of a more serious injury or emergency, our volunteers will contact local emergency services immediately. Please note that all attendees are responsible for their own health decisions and any medical or emergency costs incurred.

For your safety, familiarize yourself with both First Aid locations upon arrival, and don’t hesitate to ask a volunteer or staff member for assistance at any time.

Disclaimer: Herbal First Aid is offered for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for licensed medical treatment.

The next Lost Skills Gathering will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Clary Gardens in Coshocton, Ohio.

Future gatherings are planned to return each autumn as the leaves begin to turn. The following year’s festival is already scheduled for Saturday, October 2, 2027.

It’s the perfect time of year to walk the gardens, breathe in the fall air, and join a community of artisans, elders, and learners keeping the old ways alive.

We began this festival because we saw something slipping away — not just the skills of our ancestors, but the connection between generations. Many of today’s youth grow up fluent in screens and code, yet distant from the simple, grounding knowledge that once defined daily life: how to grow food, mend what’s broken, and create with one’s own hands. Meanwhile, many elders hold lifetimes of wisdom that risk fading into memory, unheard and unshared.

The Lost Skills Gathering was born as a bridge — a way to bring people back together. To let young and old meet eye to eye, hand to hand. To celebrate our community’s artisans, storytellers, and teachers. And to remind us all that self-reliance, creativity, and cooperation are not relics of the past, but the roots of resilience.

In uncertain times, these skills and the human connections they foster, become invaluable. This gathering is our way of honoring what’s enduring, healing what’s divided, and building up community know-how and self-sufficient resilience.

Participation in the Lost Skills Gathering is voluntary, and by attending you agree to abide by all festival policies. The following apply:

• Tickets. Presale tickets will be held at Will Call at festival entrance. The purchaser is required to show ID to claim Will Call presale ticket purchase. No refunds for tickets. Festival is held rain or shine. Ticket purchases are non-refundable. Ticket or entry to festival means that attendee accepts all terms and conditions posted on this webpage.
  
• Re-entry with stamp only. Once you leave the festival grounds, you may only re-enter if you have a valid re-entry stamp.
  
• Assumption of risk & participation. You choose to attend any class, speaker presentation, live demonstration or activity at your own will and responsibility. You agree to follow all directions, warnings and safety instructions given by instructors, presenters or festival staff. If you bring children under 12, they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. It is strongly recommended that attendees 17 and under be accompanied by an adult. Some activities may require that you are in suitable health, physically capable and aware of your own limits; you are responsible for asking questions and making informed decisions.
  
• Safe, respectful space. The festival is committed to being an inclusive, peaceful community environment. No politics, divisive signage, clothing or behavior will be tolerated. Anyone violating this policy may be removed without refund.
  
• Prohibited items/activities. The festival is drug-free, alcohol-free and gun-free. Any attendee in violation may be removed without refund and may be subject to law enforcement involvement.
  
• Photo/Media release. By attending you consent that you may be photographed, recorded or filmed during your participation in the festival. The festival may use your image, likeness or voice in future promotional materials without notice or compensation.
  
• Liability waiver, release and indemnity. You hereby release and hold harmless the festival organizers, venue, sponsors, agents, volunteers and their respective representatives from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, injury (including death), property damage or loss arising out of or in connection with your attendance or participation in the festival, including travel to/from the event. You agree to indemnify the organizers against any claim arising out of your actions. You understand this waiver is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by law in the state of Ohio.
  
• Compliance with rules and instructions. You agree to abide by all festival rules, staff instructions, posted signage, and local, state and federal laws. Failure to do so may result in removal from the event without refund.
  
• Governing law & venue. These terms shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of Ohio, and you agree that any dispute shall be brought in the appropriate court of Coshocton County, Ohio, unless otherwise required by law.
  

By purchasing a ticket and/or entering the festival grounds you acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to the above policies and the full terms and conditions.

Your safety, comfort, and enjoyment are at the heart of the Lost Skills Gathering. Please take a moment to read and understand these important policies before attending:

• Weather & unforeseen events: The festival will take place rain or shine. In the rare event of severe weather, venue issues, or other circumstances beyond our control, the schedule may be modified, postponed, or cancelled. All tickets are non-refundable, and the organizers’ liability is limited.
  
• Health & attendance: Please do not attend if you are ill, contagious, or otherwise pose a health risk to others. Organizers may refuse entry on health or safety grounds to protect attendees and staff.
  
• Children & minors: Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and it is strongly recommended that attendees under 18 be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents and guardians are fully responsible for their children’s safety and behavior.
  
• Inherent risks: Many festival activities involve hands-on learning, tools, or natural materials. By participating, you accept all inherent risks of injury and agree to follow all safety instructions, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and use provided safety gear. Please participate only within your personal abilities and health limits.
  
• Medical emergencies: Basic first aid may be available on-site, and emergency services can be contacted if needed. Attendees are responsible for their own medical costs, treatment decisions, and personal insurance coverage.
  
• Personal property: The organizers are not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged property. Please keep personal items secure.
  
• Behavior & removal: Respectful conduct is required at all times. The festival reserves the right to remove any attendee who violates policies, behaves dangerously, or disrupts the peace of the event — without refund or compensation.
  
• Vendors & artisans: All vendors must comply with setup, insurance, and safety requirements provided by the festival.
  
• Accessibility & schedule changes: Clary Gardens is a naturally hilly landscape with winding paths — many are paved, while others are gravel or earthen trails that lead into the woodlands. Some areas, such as certain paths, booths, or activity sites, may not be safely accessible for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. Please use care and good judgment when navigating the grounds, and participate only within your own comfort and ability. The festival cannot guarantee access to all areas or activities, and attendees are responsible for knowing their limits and acting accordingly. Event layout, classes, and schedules may change without prior notice as we adapt to weather and space needs, and we’ll do our best to maintain a smooth and enjoyable flow for all.
  
• Photography & media: By attending, you consent to being photographed or filmed for promotional use by the festival on social media, websites, and future materials. Attendance implies consent and no compensation will be provided.
  
• Agreement & acknowledgment: Purchasing a ticket or entering the event grounds signifies that you have read and agree to all festival policies and waivers, and that you accept personal responsibility for your participation.
  
• Additional terms apply: See "Lost Skills Gathering – Terms, Conditions & Liability Waiver" below.
  
  

The Lost Skills Gathering exists to foster connection, creativity, and care for one another. By respecting these guidelines, you help ensure a safe, welcoming, and memorable experience for all.

Presented by Woodland Herbal LLC (DBA Woodland Herbal)

Festival Directors: Brandon Elijah Scott & Jennifer Parsons
Venue: Clary Gardens, 588 W. Chestnut St., Coshocton, OH 43812

1. General Terms of Attendance

By purchasing a ticket and/or entering the Lost Skills Gathering (“Festival”), you agree to comply with all policies, terms, and conditions set forth herein. These terms form a binding agreement between you (“Attendee”) and Woodland Herbal LLC (DBA Woodland Herbal), its directors, employees, agents, volunteers, vendors, sponsors, and partners (collectively, “Organizers”).

Attendance and participation are entirely voluntary. Entry to the Festival signifies acceptance of all terms, including the liability waiver, photo release, and behavioral policies outlined below.

2. No Refund Policy

All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable, regardless of weather, illness, schedule changes, or event modifications. Tickets may not be resold or transferred for profit. The Festival will take place rain or shine, though schedules and activities may be adjusted for safety.

3. Force Majeure & Event Modification

The Organizers reserve the right to postpone, cancel, or modify the Festival due to weather, public health concerns, natural disaster, venue unavailability, or any circumstance beyond reasonable control. In such cases, no refunds will be issued. Organizers’ liability is limited solely to the ticket purchase price and only in cases of proven negligence.

4. Health, Safety & Participation

Attendees must be in good health and free of contagious conditions. Anyone who is ill or poses a health risk to others may be refused entry or asked to leave.

Participation in any demonstration, class, or activity is voluntary and undertaken at the attendee’s own risk. Attendees must follow all safety instructions, use caution, and act within their own physical and mental capabilities. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Attendees under 18 are strongly encouraged to have a parent or guardian present.

5. Accessibility & Terrain

Clary Gardens is a naturally hilly landscape with both paved and unpaved paths. Some areas—including woodland trails and certain activity spaces—may not be safely accessible for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. Attendees are responsible for knowing their own limits and exercising caution when navigating the grounds. The Organizers are not responsible for accessibility to all locations, activities, or booths.

6. Inherent Risks & Assumption of Liability

The Festival includes activities that carry inherent risk (e.g., fire-making, woodworking, foraging, herbal preparation, use of tools, and similar demonstrations). By attending, you acknowledge these risks and agree to hold harmless Woodland Herbal LLC, the Festival, its directors, and associated parties from any injury, illness, or damage resulting from participation or attendance.

You voluntarily assume all risks associated with attendance, including injury, illness, allergic reaction, property damage, or loss.

7. Emergency Medical Care

Basic first aid may be provided on-site. In the event of injury or emergency, organizers may contact medical services as deemed necessary. Attendees are responsible for their own medical treatment decisions and expenses. The Festival and its Organizers are not liable for any medical costs incurred.

8. Conduct, Behavior & Removal

The Festival maintains a peaceful, inclusive, and family-friendly environment. Attendees agree to conduct themselves with kindness and respect.

• No political signage, divisive clothing, or disruptive speech or behavior.
  
• No alcohol, drugs, or weapons of any kind.
  
• No proselytizing or religious demonstrations.
  

Anyone violating these rules or endangering others will be asked to leave immediately, without refund or compensation.

9. Property & Personal Belongings

The Organizers are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property. Attendees should keep personal belongings secure and attended at all times.

10. Photography & Media Release

By attending, you grant Woodland Herbal LLC and its representatives the unrestricted, perpetual right to photograph, record, or film your participation, and to use such media for promotional, educational, and archival purposes without compensation. Attendance implies consent to this media release.

11. Vendors, Sponsors & Exhibitors

All vendors, sponsors, and exhibitors participating in the Festival must carry a minimum $1,000,000 general liability insurance policy naming The Lost Skills Gathering and Woodland Herbal LLC as additional insureds. Proof of insurance must be submitted before the event. Vendors are responsible for their own booth setup, equipment, and compliance with all safety requirements.

12. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by Ohio law, Woodland Herbal LLC, its directors, staff, volunteers, and affiliates are not liable for any injury, loss, damage, delay, accident, or expense arising out of or in connection with attendance or participation at the Festival. This includes, but is not limited to, negligence, acts of third parties, weather, or conditions of the venue.

13. Severability

If any part of this Agreement is found invalid or unenforceable, all remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

14. Entire Agreement

This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the attendee and the Organizers and supersedes any prior oral or written communications. By purchasing a ticket or entering the Festival grounds, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions and the accompanying Liability Waiver.

Woodland Herbal LLC (DBA Woodland Herbal)

Festival Directors: Brandon Elijah Scott & Jennifer Parsons

Lost Skills Gathering – Coshocton, Ohio