On Thursday, August 20, the Old Forge Library, located at 220 Crosby Blvd., invites visitors and neighbors alike to celebrate local customs and heritage during a full afternoon of traditional crafting and regional history.

The afternoon begins at 2 pm with a hands-on balsam crafting session. For more than a century, sweet-scented balsam pillows and sachets have brought the fresh fragrance of Adirondack forests into homes, becoming one of the region’s most cherished keepsakes. 

Participants will work with fragrant, dried balsam fir needles. Designed for all skill levels, attendees can choose to sew traditional fabric pillows or decorate and stuff simple drawstring pouches. All materials are provided, and participants will leave with a finished keepsake to enjoy or gift. This program is generously funded by the Generous Acts Fund at the Adirondack Community Trust, with balsam supplies provided through the support of Big Moose Chapel members, who carry on a long-standing local balsam crafting tradition.

The celebration of our Adirondacks continues at 5 pm as the library hosts the latest installment of the Local History Series, presented by the Town of Webb Historical Association. Guest speaker Eric Sutherland of Maple Moss Sugarworks will present on the rich history and traditions of Adirondack maple sugaring, exploring how this time-honored practice has shaped the region's cultural and agricultural landscape.

Both programs are free and open to the public. While walk-ins for the 2 pm balsam workshop are welcome as supplies last, registration is appreciated for planning. To reserve a spot or learn more, contact the Old Forge Library at 315-369-6008 or email oldforge@midyork.org.