Enjoy winter at Conner Prairie
With new discoveries just around the corner, grab the boots and mittens and explore our newest seasonal adventure, Winter on the Prairie!
Winter on the Prairie
January 23 – March 16 (Thursdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
Join us beginning January 23 for an amazing place to play both indoors and outdoors! Winter on the Prairie is a one-of-a-kind way to experience everything Conner Prairie has to offer. Grab your boots and mittens as you set journey across acres of land. Discover the tranquility and beauty that can only be found after a fresh snow. Then, join the community of Prairietown to warm up by the hearth as you take in the smells of the food on the fire. Make new friends as you learn how winter was embraced with parlor games and time spent indoors with friends and family, much like it is today. Check out our indoor play space featuring elements of Discovery Station and special activities that will make your winter experience full of discoveries.
Upcoming Programs & Events
Our outdoor grounds are closed until January 23, 2025.
Fun in the Forge
January 11
Experience the thrill of being a blacksmith for the day. At Fun in the Forge, you will learn how to use a coal forge and anvil to create some simple yet impressive products. From wall hooks to BBQ skewers, flint and steel to a dinner bell, this program guides you through the process of learning new skills and refining techniques.
Basic Blacksmithing
January 13
Join us in the Modern Blacksmith Shop where stewardship and tradition meet innovation. In this workshop, you will learn how to use our traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience to help your project take shape, and get perspectives about the overall history and importance of blacksmithing.
Blacksmithing, Flint and Steel: Morning Class
January 17
During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided.
Blacksmithing, Flint and Steel: Evening Class
January 17
During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided.
Chocolate at the Hearth
January 18
In preparation for Valentine’s Day, join us at the hearth for a unique experience and learn how to prepare some delicious historic chocolate recipes. We’ll make traditional desserts such as chocolate tarts, chocolate puffs, drinking chocolate, and chocolate cakes. One of these delicacies is not like the others, but you’ll need to join us to find out why.
Basic Blacksmithing
January 20
Join us in the Modern Blacksmith Shop where stewardship and tradition meet innovation. In this workshop, you will learn how to use our traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience to help your project take shape, and get perspectives about the overall history and importance of blacksmithing.
Wheel Thrown Pottery: Afternoon Session
January 7, 14, 21 and 28
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace.
Wheel Thrown Pottery: Evening Session
January 7, 14, 21 and 28
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace.
Blacksmithing, Flint and Steel: Morning Class
January 24
During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided.
Blacksmithing, Flint and Steel: Evening Class
January 24
During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided.
Woodworking Unplugged: Spoon Carving
January 25
Learn how to carve a simple spoon in this one-day, beginner friendly class. Lessons will cover safe carving techniques, tools, differences in carving greenwood* and “dry” wood, and the use of finishes. Finally, students will be given ample time to carve a simple spoon design as part of a group session. This process will further develop the skills and passion to continue carving on your own.
Basic Blacksmithing
January 27
Join us in the Modern Blacksmith Shop where stewardship and tradition meet innovation. In this workshop, you will learn how to use our traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience to help your project take shape, and get perspectives about the overall history and importance of blacksmithing.
Blacksmithing, Flint and Steel: Morning Class
January 31
During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided.
Blacksmithing, Flint and Steel: Evening Class
January 31
During this two-hour class, learn how to make a flint and steel Firestarter while also experiencing how to use it to light a primitive fire. You will use a traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience, and learn how to use a simple bending jig. All tools and materials are provided.
Basic Blacksmithing
February 3
Join us in the Modern Blacksmith Shop where stewardship and tradition meet innovation. In this workshop, you will learn how to use our traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience to help your project take shape, and get perspectives about the overall history and importance of blacksmithing.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Morning Class
February 6
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Afternoon Class
February 6
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Blacksmithing: One Piece Knife
February 7
In this class, you will learn how to use our traditional coal forge, gain hammer and anvil techniques, and perfect the use of files and grinders. After you have crafted your knife, you will heat treat the metal for a hardened finish. Upon completion, you not only get to leave with an enhanced understanding of history, but you also get to take home your creation.
Fun in the Forge
February 8
Experience the thrill of being a blacksmith for the day. At Fun in the Forge, you will learn how to use a coal forge and anvil to create some simple yet impressive products. From wall hooks to BBQ skewers, flint and steel to a dinner bell, this program guides you through the process of learning new skills and refining techniques.
Raising Poultry
February 8
Have you ever wanted to raise poultry, but weren’t sure where to start? Do you wonder what it takes to raise chickens or ducks? If so, then this class is for you! Join Conner Prairie’s Ag Staff as we discuss everything you need to know about raising a small flock of poultry. This interactive class will provide participants with hands-on experience working with Conner Prairie’s friendly flock, while covering topics such as handling, housing, egg science, and nutrition.
Basic Embroidery
February 9
Want to learn the foundations of embroidery that provide more depth and knowledge than just an online tutorial? Join our Basic Embroidery course and learn how to create different types of basic stitches. Once you have mastered these introductory embroidery skills, you will use these stitches to create an item that shows off your skills. This class will give you the experience and confidence to expand on these basic skills.
Basic Blacksmithing
February 10
Join us in the Modern Blacksmith Shop where stewardship and tradition meet innovation. In this workshop, you will learn how to use our traditional coal-fired forge, gain hammer and anvil experience to help your project take shape, and get perspectives about the overall history and importance of blacksmithing.
Wheel Thrown Pottery: Afternoon Sessions
February 11, 18, 25 and March 4
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace.
Wheel Thrown Pottery: Evening Sessions
February 11, 18, 25 and March 4
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace.
Woodworking: Shaker Side Table
February 12, 19 and 26 and March 5, 12, and 19
In this weekly workshop, consisting of three sessions, students will build a small table with a single drawer using hand tools and locally sourced walnut wood. We will use the same methodology as woodworkers from the few Shaker communities in this region during the early 1800s.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Morning Class
February 13
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Afternoon Class
February 13
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Cheers to Chocolate: Wine
February 14
Celebrate Valentine’s Day by enjoying some perfect pairings with your perfect partner, significant other, or best friend! Learn about the history of cacao, and how it is processed into delicious chocolate. Then, enjoy a pairing flight of ethically sourced chocolates and wine/whiskey tastings that elevates both.
Blacksmithing: One Piece Knife
February 14
In this class, you will learn how to use our traditional coal forge, gain hammer and anvil techniques, and perfect the use of files and grinders. After you have crafted your knife, you will heat treat the metal for a hardened finish. Upon completion, you not only get to leave with an enhanced understanding of history, but you also get to take home your creation.
Cheers to Chocolate: Whiskey
February 15
Celebrate Valentine’s Day by enjoying some perfect pairings with your perfect partner, significant other, or best friend! Learn about the history of cacao, and how it is processed into delicious chocolate. Then, enjoy a pairing flight of ethically sourced chocolates and wine/whiskey tastings that elevates both.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Morning Class
February 20
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Afternoon Class
February 20
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Metalworking, Copper Bracelet: Morning Class
February 21
Creating wearable art is a unique and personal metalworking experience. We provide the tools and techniques for you to make a copper bracelet. You will begin with soft copper. Using hammers, you will flatten, texture, and shape metal into a beautiful, custom piece for yourself or someone special.
Metalworking, Copper Bracelet: Afternoon Class
February 21
Creating wearable art is a unique and personal metalworking experience. We provide the tools and techniques for you to make a copper bracelet. You will begin with soft copper. Using hammers, you will flatten, texture, and shape metal into a beautiful, custom piece for yourself or someone special.
Woodworking Unplugged: Hand Cut Dovetailing
February 22 and 23
This two-day class is an introduction to fine furniture making and traditional woodworking for anyone interested in early American furniture or classic joinery. Follow along with an easy layout process that makes this joint deceptively simple. Learn to use a saw, plane, and chisel confidently.
Knifesmithing: Building the Hand-Forged Knife
February 24
During this five-session workshop, you can expect to complete at least one knife. When signing up, please make sure you can attend all classes in this workshop to get the full experience. Guests must supply their own 120 grit sandpaper, an 8 or 10-inch, half-round file with handle, and a 10 or 12-inch flat file with handle.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Morning Class
February 27
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Woodworking Unplugged, Trinket Box: Evening Class
February 27
Learn about the marvels of woodworking in this introductory class that teaches you how to make a trinket box. Through the techniques and elements of the woodworking process, this project introduces you to working with hammers, nails, glue, a drilling saw, and guidance on how to use a hand plane.
Metalworking, Copper Bracelet: Morning Class
February 28
Creating wearable art is a unique and personal metalworking experience. We provide the tools and techniques for you to make a copper bracelet. You will begin with soft copper. Using hammers, you will flatten, texture, and shape metal into a beautiful, custom piece for yourself or someone special.
Metalworking, Copper Bracelet: Afternoon Class
February 28
Creating wearable art is a unique and personal metalworking experience. We provide the tools and techniques for you to make a copper bracelet. You will begin with soft copper. Using hammers, you will flatten, texture, and shape metal into a beautiful, custom piece for yourself or someone special.