OUR STORY

The Swannanoa Gathering was established in 1992 as a vision of Warren Wilson College President Doug Orr and founding Director Jim Magill to host summer workshops celebrating the music and dance traditions of the southern Appalachian region and beyond. Starting with three programs and less than 100 students, it has grown into a premier five-week event with seven programs that has enrolled over 30,000 participants from across the U.S. and abroad. Featuring renowned instructors in a beautiful setting amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Gathering offers a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity centered around community, creativity, and cultural heritage.