This year's show will be
June 23, 24 & 25, 2023 at the
Linn County Expo Center
Albany, Oregon
The Black Sheep Gathering is back in full swing, and we're all looking forward to getting together again in 2023! We were happy to finally reconvene last year, and it felt wonderful to be together with our fiber community again. We are looking forward to a fabulous 47th Annual Black Sheep Gathering at the Linn County Events Center in Albany, Oregon. And, the Natural Colored Wool Growers Association (NCWGA) is hosting their 2023 Western Regional Show at this year's event.
The 2023 Gathering will see the return of the Saturday evening Potluck with live music and everyone will be able to get together and share their fiber interests once again. Be sure to stay for the Spinners' Lead where fiber artists will show off their creations and the gorgeous animals that contributed their fiber.
We have a special animal treat this year; the BSG will host the Valais Blacknose Sheep Society's Western Regional Show for 2023. Originating in Switzerland, Valais are known for their cuteness, with very bright white locks and peek-a-boo black faces. You never want to miss the most charming sheep in the barn, and this year the sheep and fiber entries will be spectacular. If you want to learn more about this historic breed, recently introduced to the U.S., a full workshop will be available on Sunday. Taught by Marita Tauni, this will be a unique opportunity to hear about the breed from one of our judges, coming all the way from Sweden.
As usual, we'll have convenient camping and lodging options. You'll want to make your reservations soon to ensure you have a spot!
Admission and parking at the Gathering are free. Bring your families and friends and take part in one of the most unique events in the country to celebrate natural-colored animals and their fiber. Please remember, no dogs, other than service dogs, are allowed, and Service Dogs are restricted from the animal areas for the safety of animals and participants.
The Black Sheep Gathering is an all-volunteer organization that welcomes your suggestions, participation and assistance. We always welcome volunteers to keep the Black Sheep Gathering vibrant for years to come. For information on specific events, to volunteer or to offer suggestions, please contact any of the committee workers listed on the Contacts page.
Here's a link to a story about the show in the Albany Democrat-Herald.
