Kevin Cashen will start things off on Friday evening with an introduction and a warm welcome, and will follow up with the first lecture of the weekend about documenting and re-creating historical swords. Later on, Herb Kettell will lead the first open forge session under the pavilion.

Saturday morning, Matt Berry will demonstrate gilding and plating techniques, followed by Matt Parkinson demonstrating pattern welded sword forging under the tent. Tristan Zukowski and Michael Edelson well then entertain us with European sword techniques. Ashokan chef Bill Waren and his staff will then provide a hearty lunch, and there will be an opportunity to purchase Bladesmith Guild merchandise.

After lunch, Jordan Lamothe will demonstrate Koftgari, a technique for overlaying gold and silver onto iron in intricate designs.  Emiliano Carrillo will then take center stage with a sword grinding demo, followed by Matt Parkinson demonstrating bezel setting. Tristan and Michael Will then be back to close out the afternoon with the demonstration of European sword cutting.

After dinner, Emiliano will be back with a demonstration of silver overlay of sword hilts. Tim Zowada will then take the stage to enlighten us all about heat treating of longer blades.

Topping off the evening will be our traditional memorial tribute with fine beverages and snacks for all to enjoy, and a raffle of a custom- made blade to support this special part of our program.

On Sunday morning, our good friend and long time member Lee Jones will present a lecture on embellishing swords from a diversity of cultures and times.

As usual, we will be closing both days with "open forge" time led by Herb Kettell and the weekend will culminate with a knife show. Be sure to bring your finest work to sell, trade, or just brag about! As always, tailgaters and venders are welcome at no additional charge.

Thomas Boucher of Greasy Luck Forge will be our demonstrator.

For more info visit Northeast Blacksmiths web page. Registration opens August 6, 2025.