Schoolhouse Stories

Schoolhouse Stories

October 4 @ 12:00 pm2:30 pm

All Day

A Story of Storytelling Exhibit

International Storytelling Center 100 West Main St, Jonesborough

A new exhibit at the Center features the history and achievements of ISC from its origins in the first National Storytelling Festival in 1973. It also displays the long history […]

The Storybook Trail

Jimmy Neil Smith Park

While you’re at the Festival, check out our Storybook Trail in the Jimmy Neil Smith Park behind the International Storytelling Center. The trail currently features The Library Dragon by Carmen […]

Yoga in the Park

Storytelling Park 100 W. Main Street, Jonesborough

Deborah Byrd is an RYT200 certified yoga instructor whose main practice and trainings are in vinyasa, yin, and hatha styles. Her interest in yoga has been threaded through the last two decades of her […]

Swappin’ Ground

Oak Hill School Sabin Drive, Jonesborough

At the first National Storytelling Festival in 1973, a handful of storytellers gathered around the courthouse in Jonesborough's town square and traded tales. An old wagon served as the stage, […]

The Peanut Man with Carmen Deedy

Jackson Theatre

The Peanut Man Join award-winning children's author Carmen Agra Deedy as she shares her story of a Cuban refugee and her joy in an unexpected encounter that connects her beloved […]

$20

The Heron’s Journey with Adam Booth

International Storytelling Center 100 West Main St, Jonesborough

Adam uses spoken storytelling, quilting, and paper sculpture to tell an allegory filled with magic, challenges to opposition, and transformation. Free with Festival swatch. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Schoolhouse Stories

Oak Hill School Sabin Drive, Jonesborough

12–12:30 PM Stories with Jasmin Cardenas 12:30–1 PM Games in front yard 1–1:30 PM Stories with Doug Elliott 1:30–2 PM Games in front yard 2–2:30 PM Stories with Donna Washington […]

Everything – Plus the Truth! Donald Davis and Sons

Jackson Theatre

Donald Davis celebrates his 80th decade by sharing a stage with his children. Join Doug, Kelly, and Jonathan Davis for this candid and no-holds-barred interview with their father!   Tickets […]

$20

Legacy Series – Major General John Borling, Vietnam POW

Jackson Theatre

A retired major general in the U.S. Air Force, John Borling's military career spanned 37 years. A highly decorated officer, his medals include the Silver Star, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, […]

$20

Remembering Jimmy Neil Smith

Jackson Theatre

You are invited to share a memory of our beloved friend and festival founder, Jimmy Neil Smith. Guided interviews will be conducted on the upper level of the Jackson Theatre, […]

Swappin’ Ground

Oak Hill School Sabin Drive, Jonesborough

At the first National Storytelling Festival in 1973, a handful of storytellers gathered around the courthouse in Jonesborough's town square and traded tales. An old wagon served as the stage, […]

Wine and Beer Garden

International Storytelling Center 100 West Main St, Jonesborough

Relax in the afternoon at the Festival's Wine and Beer Garden, featuring a selection of wines and craft beers available for purchase.  Sponsored by One Stop Wine and Spirits.

Yarnspinners’ Party

International Storytelling Center 100 West Main St, Jonesborough

Celebrate, meet the National Storytelling Festival’s featured tellers, and enjoy great food and fellowship at the Yarnspinners’ Party on Saturday, October 4th from 5-7 p.m. at the Mary B. Martin […]

$150

Story Slam

Creekside Tent 100 E Main St, Jonesborough

Join the fun as these Story Slam tellers compete for the best 5-minute story! Content suitable for a general audience ages 13 and up. 2025 PARTICIPANTS: Allison Downey, Katie Knutson, […]

Ghost Stories

Mill Spring Park 104 Spring Street, Jonesborough

Join us for Ghost Stories at Mill Spring Park from 7:30 - 9 pm on Saturday, October 4. This is an outdoor concert. Bring chairs or blankets, since there is […]

$10

After Hours

Jackson Theatre

Put the Festival day to bed with this blend of story and song that’s sure to amuse and delight! Festival fan favorite Kevin Kling will partner with "accordionista" Simone Perrin […]

$20