Experience Culture and History at Gee’s Bend’s Airing of the Quilts Festival
If you’ve never experienced Gee’s Bend’s world-famous quilts in their natural setting, this weekend is your chance. (Steve Pitkin / Airing of the Quilts)
The annual Airing of the Quilts Festival returns to Boykin, Alabama, on Saturday, Oct. 3, bringing together quilters, artists, musicians, and visitors for a one-day celebration of the community’s rich quilting tradition.
The festival runs from 9 AM to 5 PM and offers a chance to see hundreds of quilts displayed outdoors throughout the historic community.
About Gee’s Bend + Airing of the Quilts
The outdoor display is a rare opportunity to experience the quilts outside of a museum or gallery setting—and meet the artists behind them. (Steve Pitkin / Airing of the Quilts)
Gee’s Bend quilts are renowned for their bold, improvisational designs and deep connection to the community’s history. Generations of quilters have passed down this craft, often using everyday fabrics to create functional works of art.
During the festival, dozens of Gee’s Bend quilters will sell their work directly to visitors. Guests can also enjoy quilting demonstrations, hands-on workshops, explore exhibitions, and take guided tours of the community.
This year is particularly notable, as global fashion brand Ralph Lauren has announced its “Ralph Lauren x Gee’s Bend” collection in collaboration with Gee’s Bend quilters Claudia Pettway Charley and Loretta Pettway Bennett.
The festival has attracted thousands of visitors from more than 36 states and six countries in previous years.
“If you’ve never attended the Airing of the Quilts, this is the year to go. And if you’re returning, you already know what makes it so memorable, and why it’s truly a day well spent.”
— Pam Swanner, Executive Director, The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA)
What to Expect at the Festival
Along with the quilts, visitors can enjoy:
- Quilting demonstrations + hands-on workshops
- Guided tours along the Gee’s Bend Heritage Trail
- Live music from local choirs and performers, including the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church Choir
- Local food vendors
- Local makers and artisans
- Exhibitions and historic sites
A hop-on, hop-off bus will run throughout the day along the Gee’s Bend Heritage Trail, with stops at local makers’ sites, the historic Boykin Mercantile, and other culturally significant locations. Tickets are $25 per person, with children under 12 riding free when accompanied by a paid adult.
Click here for a full run-down of the Airing of the Quilts Festival—schedule, tickets + more details.
Airing of the Quilts Festival 2026
- Where: Gee’s Bend Welcome Center, 12021 Co Rd 29, Boykin, AL 36723
- When: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, 9 AM – 5 PM
- Cost: Free admission, with a suggested donation of $40
