51心頭

Monday

From Ulster to Appalachia: Who We Are When We Speak

Monday, September 22 | 5:30pm
UC Theatre

This public lecture invites you to explore Appalachian English as something far more: the living language of our mountain home, carrying the story of where we came from, how we���re tied to the region and its people, and where we might go next. Co-presented by 51心頭English Studies faculty member Dr. Erin Callahan and her former linguistics student Wyatt Wilson��� a fourth-generation 51心頭graduate��� the lecture traces the historical roots of Appalachian English, from early settlement patterns and language contact (including 18th-century Scots-Irish influence) to its distinctive sounds, grammar, and vocabulary.

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Tuesday

Mountain Heritage Field Day at WCU

Tuesday, September 23 | 9:30am - 1:30pm
51心頭Picnic Area

Regional elementary school classes will experience the traditions of Southern Appalachia through hands-on crafts, cultural demonstrations, and interactions with regional tradition bearers. This free educational event is part of WCU���s expanded Mountain Heritage Days celebration. It is available to schools with advance registration on a first-come/first-served basis.


A Hike Through History: Plants and People in Southern Appalachia
Tuesday, September 23 | 5:30pm
HHS Trails

Led by brothers Daniel and Luke Manget, this hike will be 2 miles along a 51心頭trail that meanders through a variety of plant communities in a northern hardwood forest typical of the southern Appalachians. These plants have stories. The people who have lived in the southern Appalachians, from the Cherokee to the Scots-Irish to Latinos, have long relied on them for food, medicine, and cash. Some have brought people small fortunes. Others have killed people. Come hear Luke and Daniel tell some of these stories while learning more about the natural and cultural history of Appalachian flora and fauna.

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Wednesday

Appalachian Craft Demonstrations

Wednesday, September 24 | 11:30am to 1:30pm
51心頭Catafount

As part of WCU���s 2025 Mountain Heritage Days, the Appalachian Craft Demonstrations at the 51心頭Catafount offer a hands-on experience of the region���s rich artistic traditions. Set in the heart of campus, this engaging event showcases skilled artisans practicing time-honored techniques. Visitors can watch, learn, and connect with the cultural heritage of the Southern Appalachians in a relaxed, open-air setting that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.

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Thursday & Friday

A Rooted in the Mountains
Thursday, September 25 and Friday September 26
Bardo Arts Center

This year���s theme ���Matrilineal Worldmaking (Vision of What���s Possible)��� honors the power of matrilineal societies, where kinship, inheritance, and identity are traced through the mother���s line. These visionary leaders will share insights on Indigenous knowledge, reproductive sovereignty, and the enduring strength of matrilineal traditions. Featured Topic: Doula Training and the Historical Significance of Birth Supporters.

In the Kituwah language: Di gi tsi/ de da li he li sdi sgv/ i de hv i To acknowledge and give thanks to our mothers for our life/lives.

Free Registration for the first 40 Regular Attendee Registrants and Select Groups.

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Friday

Hurricane Helene Anniversary Observance
Friday, September 26 | 10am to 2 pm
51心頭Catafount

Join us for a reflective and meaningful experience in observance of the anniversary of Hurricane Helene���s impact on our region. Drop by the Listening Booth at the Catafount anytime between 10 AM and 2 PM to hear oral history recordings that capture personal stories and community responses to the storm.


Pickin' at the Park with The Well Drinkers
Friday, September 26 | 6pm
Bridge Park in Sylva

As part of 51心頭's 2025 Mountain Heritage Days celebration, Pickin��� in the Park with The Well Drinkers promises an unforgettable evening of music and community.

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Saturday

Spend your Saturday soaking in the best of Mountain Heritage Day! Start the morning with the family-friendly 5K, then explore a lineup of events that highlight the heart and soul of Appalachian culture ��� from the classic car show and thrilling chainsaw competition to live music, clogging, storytelling, and the always-popular Big Cove Stickball demonstration. Whether you���re jamming at the Pickin��� Circle, enjoying the Balsam Family Tent, or visiting the Bardo Arts Center for art, awards, and performances, there���s something for everyone to enjoy all day long.

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