Upcoming 2026 Events
Discover Heirloom Treasures Fiber Arts at One of the Events Below
Meet the Artist:
For over three decades, Rita de Maintenon has been preserving and advancing the time-honored tradition of heirloom lace-making and fiber arts. Her work blends historical techniques with a contemporary touch, ensuring that these intricate skills are not only remembered but also celebrated.
In the image above, Rita is shown at an event at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, NC. She stands beside a mannequin displaying one of her stunning handmade lace shawls, a testament to the patience, precision, and artistry that define her craft.
Attending one of Rita’s demonstrations is more than just an opportunity to admire her exquisite pieces; it’s a chance to witness fiber art in motion. Whether she is weaving delicate patterns, sharing the stories behind each stitch, or engaging with visitors about the rich history of lace-making, Rita’s passion for the craft shines through.
We invite you to join us at an upcoming event to experience the elegance of heirloom-quality fiber arts firsthand.
Heritage Lace Demonstration and Sale
April 23 - April 26, 10am - 4pm
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
🧶 SIGNATURE EVENT
Fiber Day
May 9, 2026
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
Heritage Lace Demonstration and Sale
June 11 - June 14, 10am - 4pm
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
Heritage Lace Demonstration and Sale
July 23 - July 26, 10am - 4pm
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
🧶 SIGNATURE EVENT
Heritage Weekend
September 19 – September 20, 2026
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
Heritage Lace Demonstration and Sale
October 22 - October 25, 10am - 4pm
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
🧶 SIGNATURE EVENT
Holiday Sale
December 5, 2026 • 10am – 4pm
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
Heritage Lace Demonstration and Sale
December 10 - December 13, 10am - 4pm
Folk Art Center
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Milepost 382, Asheville, NC
Visit the Folk Art Center
Address:
Southern Highland Craft Guild
Milepost 382, Blue Ridge Parkway
PO Box 9545, Asheville, NC 28815
How to Get There:
From Downtown Asheville: Take I-240 E to US-70 E/Tunnel Rd. Follow signs for Blue Ridge Parkway North and take Milepost 382 exit.
From I-40: Take Exit 55 and follow signs for Blue Ridge Parkway North. Continue to Milepost 382.
From I-26: Merge onto I-240 E, take Exit 7 onto Tunnel Rd/US-70 E, and follow signs for Blue Ridge Parkway.
Located just a short drive from downtown Asheville, the Folk Art Center is a must-visit destination showcasing the best of traditional and contemporary Appalachian crafts.