Wool fest rooted in Scot traditions

LEHI — Utah's lamb and wool industries have a culture with Scottish roots that will be highlighted at the upcoming Lamb and Wool Festival at Thanksgiving Point.

The festival is Friday from 3-8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and features a demonstration of waulking, a traditional step that cleans and thickens woolen cloth. Waulking involves soaking newly woven cloth and thumping it rhythmically to shrink and soften it. Historically workers sang Gaelic songs to keep the rhythm and lighten the work. Other demonstrations include sheep shearing, wool spinning and storytelling.

Visitors can participate in the festival by making a wool bracelet, a hacky sack, or participating in a variety of other crafts and activities.

The festival is part of Farm Country's mission to teach and showcase important agricultural traditions. The Utah Humanities Council and other community groups support the festival. Festival admission is included in regular Farm Country admission, which is $3.50 per person. Children 2 and under are free.