A Studio in the Woods, the rural production studio which just celebrated its 50th anniversary, announced the return of FORESTival: A Celebration of Art and Nature for its 9th year. Celebrating a bunch of new and old additions to the studio and its surrounding area, November 16’s FORESTival will honor the 50th anniversary of the land’s purchase by founders Joe and Lucianne Carmichael and the construction of the Writer’s Cabin, a space for writers and artists.

Constantly trying to find ways of conserving the area’s natural beauty, those who run A Studio in the Woods pride themselves on the state of the bottomland hardwood forest. “We are excited to throw open our doors to the community and celebrate 50 years of our caring for this land and it caring for us,” said Ama Rogan, the site’s managing director. “Our founders felt this place’s power to inspire and heal when they purchased it in 1969 and FORESTival is when we get to share that unique magic with everyone.”

Grammy-winning cajun band Lost Bayou Ramblers will headline the event, along with performances by Panorama Brass Band, Blake Amos and Nancy Burtchaell. The festival also includes artistic presentations by various artists, both residents and guests, including Monica Haller and Sebastian Muellauer, Geraldine Laurendeau and Jonathan “rat de bois farouche” Mayers, Margaret Pearce, Antenna’s Draw-a-thon and many more. 

Faubourg Farms, Pirogues and Quintin’s Natural Ice Cream will offer food. Kids of all ages are invited to take part in art activities. Tulane scientists will offer guided walks in the woods. A silent auction will be held, offering attendees the chance to win art pieces and experiences. 

A Studio in the Woods is only open to the public during FORESTival. Tickets are $15 for adults. Kids get free admission. The early bird hour (10 a.m. to 11 a.m.) offers $10 admission and a bird tour at 10:30 a.m. A Studio in the Woods is located in Lower Algiers at 13401 Patterson Rd. Overflow Parking and shuttle transportation are available at 9201 Patterson Rd. For more information about the festival, or to purchase tickets, visit A Studio in the Woods’s website, here.