Villages of Van Buren - Event Calendar

Ranch Horse Show Series - The finals of the 2021 series. You won't want to miss this final competition and awards. Jackpot sorting, roping, barrel racing, extreme trail course competition, dance, food concessions, and more. 

Camping is available on the grounds.  

The Villages Folk School specializes in providing learning experiences in traditional arts and skills while drawing upon the uniqueness of each of the eleven historic Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa.

Classes are held in a peaceful rural setting, so students can return to a simpler time and witness the importance of the artisan in village life. Pre-registration is required for classes.

• LinoBlock Poster with Melinda Stockwell

Pre-registration is required for classes.
Register for October Classes

Friday 7-9pm: Donkeys will be numbered up and in pens. People will be able to just ride and a chance for anyone new to get their horses used to the donkey. No admission fee.

Saturday 11am-3pm: Full arena sort. All teams will be drawn, the number of rounds will be determined by the number of people. Teams of 3 people. $15 a person will enter you in all the rounds for the day. You will also need a $5 wristband if you are not camping. Sign-up will be 10-10:45am. There will be a Jackpot round at the end of the practice rounds. This will cost $5 a person and each person can enter 3 times.

Sunday 11am-3pm: Sort-n-pen. All teams will be drawn, the number of rounds will be determined by the number of people. Teams of 3 people. $15 a person will enter you in all the rounds for the day. You will also need a $5 wristband if you are not camping. Sign-up will be 10-10:45am. There will be a Jackpot round at the end of the practice rounds. This will cost $5 a person and each person can enter 3 times.

Year-end awards for the top 3 teams will be presented for both full arena and sort-n-pen.

Trail ride, dance, wine tasting, fun contests and much more!

Download the 2021 Schedule of Events

Weekend of trail riding and instructional painting!
Meet new friends in a safe group of horsemen, guided trail riding, building new friendships, creating a unique painting.
Four home-cooked meals are provided.
$95 includes food and all painting supplies.

Camping separately, reserve through River Valley 319-878-3888

A deposit of $40 to reserve a spot can be mailed to:
Sheri Dill-Billings
2430 285th St
New London, IA 52645
Or PayPal dillbillings@gmail.com
Please feel free to email or call with questions at 641-919-4021

Download the 2021 Schedule of Events

Postpone Until Next Year (November 4th, 2022)

Choose from a large selection of handmade bowls and enjoy all you can eat homemade soups!  Homemade bread, dessert, and drink included. $25 suggested donation handmade bowl to keep or good will offering for disposable bowl. 

The Villages Folk School specializes in providing learning experiences in traditional arts and skills while drawing upon the uniqueness of each of the eleven historic Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa.

Classes are held in a peaceful rural setting, so students can return to a simpler time and witness the importance of the artisan in village life. 

• Goat Milk Soap Making with Heather Nelson

Pre-registration is required for classes.
Register for November Classes

The Dutchman's Store is celebrating 36 years in Cantril, with a special Anniversary Sale.

Hours: Mon-Fri 8a-6p, Sat. 8a-5p, Closed Sunday.

Start the holiday season off with musical acts and performances provided by some very talented local musicians. This is a fun-filled family event.

Featuring many local entertainers from the Tri-Sate area including Mike Browning, Amy Fellows, Tom Allen, Brandon Cochenour, Justin & Jolene Snider, Joe Short, Marcella Hannam, Tiana Fincher, and Jed Westercamp and many more!

Friday Show: Doors open at 6pm, show at 7pm.
Saturday Show: Doors open at 5:30pm for Soup Supper, Show at 7pm.

Tickets: $10.00 in advance (age 5-adults) non refundable. 
$15.00 at the door (Limited Reserve Seating Available). Call 319-520-5385 for tickets. 

Sat Only: A soup supper will be served at 5:30 pm in the cafeteria prior to the show. A variety of soups, sandwiches and desserts will be available.

Download flyer for more information.

The Villages Folk School specializes in providing learning experiences in traditional arts and skills while drawing upon the uniqueness of each of the eleven historic Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa.

Classes are held in a peaceful rural setting, so students can return to a simpler time and witness the importance of the artisan in village life. 

• Rug Weaving Workshop (Multi-Day) with Teri Showman

Pre-registration is required for classes.
Register for November Classes

The Villages Folk School specializes in providing learning experiences in traditional arts and skills while drawing upon the uniqueness of each of the eleven historic Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa.

Classes are held in a peaceful rural setting, so students can return to a simpler time and witness the importance of the artisan in village life. 

• Leather Christmas Ornament with Stuart Holmes

Pre-registration is required for classes.
Register for November Classes

Celebrate the season, beginning Nov. 26 and continuing throughout the month of December with a variety of special events happening. The spirit of the season will abound as you enjoy the ever-popular Holiday Lights, unique holiday shopping experiences, Amish meals and special business open houses to find that perfect gift. And of course, we would love for you to spend a few days with us too! All of our  Bed & Breakfasts, Cabins, Cottages and Hunting Lodges are open all year long!

Request a Christmas in The Villages Brochure to be mailed to you.
 

Christmas is in the Air!

Shop for that special someone on your Christmas list, pick up stocking stuffers, enjoy special pricing, drawings and food. Help us celebrate shopping local!