Great Lakes Woodworking Festival Update: Thank you everyone who has been part of the festival in the past. Woodworkers, volunteers, sponsors, and guests - we value your support. The festival is a passion project for us at the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute (SBWI). Over the past few months, the SBWI has undergone a comprehensive audit mandated by our accrediting body. This massive audit has required the time and effort from our staff that might otherwise be dedicated to the planning of the festival. Unfortunately, this puts us in the regrettable position of having to postpone the festival until next year.
Please know that this decision was not made lightly, and we understand the disappointment it may cause. Our hearts are heavy also. We value the role you all play not only in the festival, but in promoting our craft year-round. Our hope is that by successfully completing this audit, we will be able to greatly advance our college program and the SBWI as a whole for the future. We will always remain committed to promoting the artistry of woodworking and look forward to welcoming you back to the SBWI and the Great Lakes Woodworking Festival in the future.
Proudly Sponsored by the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute
Proudly Sponsored by the Department of Natural Resources!
2025 dates tbd
The Great Lakes Woodworking Festival is proudly sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute. Where craftsmanship and creativity come to live in harmony with nature!
Join us in Adrian, Michigan, for a weekend filled with all things woodworking, inspired by the beauty and sustainability of our natural resources. Our festival celebrates the artistry and skill of woodworking, featuring exhibits from the finest woodworkers in the region, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities for all ages. Discover the stunning collection of handcrafted furniture, decorative objects, and unique pieces on display, created using sustainably sourced wood from our forests. Meet and chat with the makers, who will happily share their techniques and inspirations.
Workshops & Demos
Get inspired by our live demonstrations, where skilled artists will show you how to transform a simple piece of wood into a work of art while highlighting the importance of responsible harvesting and conservation of our natural resources. Enter to win a custom guitar made by world renown luthier Gary Zimnicki.
For the little Ones
KIDS’ CORNER
And for the little ones, we've got a special section just for them! Our Kids' Corner is the perfect place for children to learn about woodworking and the importance of caring for our environment.
Kids can also learn the Truth About Trees! Did you know ping pong balls are made from wood?! Ping-pong balls are made with celluloid, which is a byproduct of the paper-making process. Kids will learn all about wood products in these fun interactive demonstrations.
Get Your GroOVe On
MUSICIANS
With food trucks, live music, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, the Great Lakes Woodworking Festival is the perfect place to spend a day or a whole weekend celebrating woodworking art, education, and sustainability.
ANDY SCHILLER
ROLLIE TUSSING
NOAH MARTIS
yummy food & drink
FOOD VENDORS
Every year we have some fantastic food vendors lined. You can enjoy pulled pork sandwiches, your favorite fried fair foods, kettle corn or beer and wine.
Please join us to celebrate the timeless craft of woodworking and the commitment of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute to inspiring and empowering the next generation of woodworkers. Long Live Wood!