About the 2023 Faire
Each year we gather for two and a half days in dedicated to the sharing of herbal knowledge and the celebration of our community and bio region. We host herbalist/teachers from around the Great Lakes region with a sprinkling of herbalists from non-Great Lakes states. Our intention is to empower knowledgeable herbalists and beginners alike, provide a space for networking and sharing knowledge, and to strengthen our regional herbal community. The 2023 Great Lakes Herb Faire was our 9th annual gathering and was held from September 8th - 10th, 2023.
In 2023, we returned to the Cedar Lake Outdoor Center for another magical weekend packed with plants, fresh air, good food and community. The weather was nicely mild with beautiful blue skies. We welcomed Rosemary Gladstar and Lucretia VanDyke as our keynote speakers. Children and adults covered in beautiful henna tattoos roamed the land. Together, we raised over $2000 for Black to the Land Coalition in our silent auction. On Saturday night, we partied to the sounds of Serita's Black Rose Duo while partaking in herbal switchel. We had too many great classes to mention them all - many popular herb walks, a wonderfully fun plant dye class, and more.
The Faire is a joyous gathering in Chelsea, Michigan (near Ann Arbor) at the beautiful, rustic, Cedar Lake Outdoor Center which is located at 2500 Pierce Road in Chelsea, Michigan. Click here for a map. The faire is primarily an outdoor event. Classes are mostly in covered tents and a few may be inside of a building. Please plan to dress and pack accordingly! It has rained at some point over the weekend every year since we began.
The Great Lakes Herb Faire brings together herbalists from the Great Lakes bio region and some from much farther away! Over the years the feedback we have received from people who attended has been overwhelmingly positive. People are excited to network and meet other herbalists in their communities, learn directly from teachers rather than relying on books, and walk the trails on the surrounding land meeting and getting to know the herbs in person. We are a family-friendly event with many kids attending and a wonderful kids-only class program. We hear from parents and the kids themselves that they can't wait to come back next year! There is always amazing energy from everyone, the food is always delicious and the marketplace is always loaded with fantastic herbal creations.
In 2023, we returned to the Cedar Lake Outdoor Center for another magical weekend packed with plants, fresh air, good food and community. The weather was nicely mild with beautiful blue skies. We welcomed Rosemary Gladstar and Lucretia VanDyke as our keynote speakers. Children and adults covered in beautiful henna tattoos roamed the land. Together, we raised over $2000 for Black to the Land Coalition in our silent auction. On Saturday night, we partied to the sounds of Serita's Black Rose Duo while partaking in herbal switchel. We had too many great classes to mention them all - many popular herb walks, a wonderfully fun plant dye class, and more.
The Faire is a joyous gathering in Chelsea, Michigan (near Ann Arbor) at the beautiful, rustic, Cedar Lake Outdoor Center which is located at 2500 Pierce Road in Chelsea, Michigan. Click here for a map. The faire is primarily an outdoor event. Classes are mostly in covered tents and a few may be inside of a building. Please plan to dress and pack accordingly! It has rained at some point over the weekend every year since we began.
The Great Lakes Herb Faire brings together herbalists from the Great Lakes bio region and some from much farther away! Over the years the feedback we have received from people who attended has been overwhelmingly positive. People are excited to network and meet other herbalists in their communities, learn directly from teachers rather than relying on books, and walk the trails on the surrounding land meeting and getting to know the herbs in person. We are a family-friendly event with many kids attending and a wonderful kids-only class program. We hear from parents and the kids themselves that they can't wait to come back next year! There is always amazing energy from everyone, the food is always delicious and the marketplace is always loaded with fantastic herbal creations.
Keynote Speakers
In 2023, we were thrilled to welcome Rosemary Gladstar and Lucretia Vandyke as our keynote speakers!
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Rosemary Gladstar has been practicing, living, learning, teaching and writing about herbs for over 50 years. She is the author of twelve books including Medicinal Herbs; a Beginners Guide, Herbal Healing for Women, Gladstar Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Well Being and Herbal Healing for Men. She is also the author and director of the popular home study course, The Science and Art of Herbalism. In 2018 Rosemary was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for her life work from the National University of Naturopathic Medicine. Rosemary is the co-founder and former director of both The International Herb Symposium and The New England Women’s Herbal Conference, the Founding President of United Plant Savers, and the co-founder and original formulator of Traditional Medicinal Tea Company. She recently moved from her home at Sage Mountain ~ an Herbal Retreat Center and Botanical Sanctuary where she has lived, taught and worked for the past 30 years ~ to a smaller haven where she plans to plant a small garden, dream more, do less, and spend more time with the plants. www.scienceandartofherbalism.co
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With a journey that began when she was a little girl mixing herbs on her grandparents’ farm, Lucretia VanDyke has had a lifelong connection to the plants and been in the wellness industry for over 25 years. Her quest for knowledge and storytelling has led her all over the world and throughout the south to learn about remedies and ceremonies from indigenous folk healers and keepers of the culture.
One of the foremost experts on southern folk healing arts, Lucretia integrates rituals, plant spirit meditation, food /herbs, botanical skincare, and ancestor reverence into people’s practices. |
Saturday Night Entertainment
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A self-professed “Funkateer”, and WYCE Jammie Award winning singer Serita Crowley of Serita’s Black Rose from Grand Rapids, Michigan brings a raucous mix of FUNK, ROCK, BLUES, NEO-SOUL, and AMERICANA. Serita, along with her partner Jon Hayes are at its core, performing together for nearly two decades. As an acoustic duo, or full band, they play much of the timeless “feel good music” from the 60’s and 70’s along with their own original music. Their self-titled EP release in 2012 has won several awards including WYCE's Jammie Award for "Best Short Form Album". The Acoustic Duo has also been the supporting act for the legendary Smokey Robinson of Motown, and Kansas. Serita’s fiery, blues- and soul-infused vocals come straight from the heart, and it will surely reach yours!
The Traveling Elixir Fixer
The Great Lakes Herb Faire is an exciting event that brings together herb enthusiasts, herbalists, and wellness seekers from all over the region. In 2023, we were thrilled to offer a refreshing and invigorating beverage at the event - the Lime Lemongrass Switchel crafted by Angie Jackson, The Traveling Elixir Fixer.
Switchel, also known as "haymaker's punch," originated in the Caribbean and has a long history dating back to colonial America. Enjoyed initially by farmers during their field breaks, it quickly gained popularity for its ability to quench thirst and replenish electrolytes. The Lime Lemongrass Switchel pays homage to this tradition while adding a modern twist with its citrusy and herbal flavors. Angie’s zero-proof (alcohol-free) Lime Lemongrass Switchel recipe will be freshly prepared using the finest ingredients. Each batch is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and a delightful drinking experience. Whether you are a herb connoisseur or simply someone looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional beverages, the Lime Lemongrass Switchel is sure to delight your taste buds.
Angie joined us on Saturday night during the musical entertainment for a sample of this extraordinary beverage. Sip on the zero-proof Lime Lemongrass Switchel while enjoying the entertainment, and connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for herbs and wellness.
Switchel, also known as "haymaker's punch," originated in the Caribbean and has a long history dating back to colonial America. Enjoyed initially by farmers during their field breaks, it quickly gained popularity for its ability to quench thirst and replenish electrolytes. The Lime Lemongrass Switchel pays homage to this tradition while adding a modern twist with its citrusy and herbal flavors. Angie’s zero-proof (alcohol-free) Lime Lemongrass Switchel recipe will be freshly prepared using the finest ingredients. Each batch is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and a delightful drinking experience. Whether you are a herb connoisseur or simply someone looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional beverages, the Lime Lemongrass Switchel is sure to delight your taste buds.
Angie joined us on Saturday night during the musical entertainment for a sample of this extraordinary beverage. Sip on the zero-proof Lime Lemongrass Switchel while enjoying the entertainment, and connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for herbs and wellness.
2023 Adult Classes
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2023 Teachers
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2023 Kids Tent
The kids tent was full of creative energy, laughter, and drumming this year. Lots of crafting happened! Numerous twigloos, herbal paintings, wands, potions, and herbal tea blends were created this year.
House of Moons
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New in 2023, we set aside a physical space for emotional tending and self-care based on the sacred feminine. It was an inclusive space that invited anyone interested in or identifying with the feminine, including trans, two-spirited, non-binary folx and others. Our goal was to support one another in community and feed our spirits. This space we are calling the House of Moons. Hosted by Maiden Cici Pfeifer and Crones Schantell Taylor and Panoka Walker.
The House of Moons was a resounding success. It was a truly sacred space where people could gather, rest, and commune. Several ceremonies were held including the Waxing and Waning Ceremony took place down by the water at the Amphitheater. Many Maidens, Mothers and Crones took part in this celebration of the phases and transitions in our lives. Below is a slideshow album from the House of Moons. |
Some of the things that happened in the House of Moons:
Waxing and Waning Ceremony
Many came together for a celebration of the stages of womanhood. We honored those entering puberty in the transition from Maiden to Mother, and entering menopause in the transition from Mother to Crone. All who wished to honor them were invited to share in the celebration. The ceremony was for all who identify as women/feminine who have not had a ceremony to celebrate them, and it was not necessary to be at any specific age or stage to participate. There was a special gift for Maidens coming into puberty. This event took place Saturday evening down by the lake, at the Amphitheater, lit by firelight.
The Sacred Moon
Participants learned how to enter their moon cycle in a sacred way, incorporating nature-based practices. We performed guided meditations, journaling and held space for reflection. Rather than listening to a presentation, participants engaged actively in the creative process. Those who were not menstruating will learn to use these tools to embrace the rhythms of a feminine life. For those men & non-feminine who choose to join us, we shared ways you can support the women/feminine people in your lives.
Classes
During most class sessions, the House of Moons was a refuge where people could take a break and enjoy self care, reflection, journaling, and crafts. We also held several classes over the weekend within the House of Moons, including: Herbalism for Young Women, Herbs for Sexual Health, Lifting the Veil of Illusion: Reclaiming Your Own Interlight with the making of crafts such as dream catchers for maidens, woven amulet bags for mothers, and walking staffs for crones.
Community Support
If you wish to donate or loan your gifts we would love to have that support. Coloring books, skin salves, snacks, tea blends, blankets, pillows, books with beautiful scenery, massage, energy work and other comfort items would be enjoyed. We will also have a place of honor - please bring anything you wish to place there as a representation of the Red Thread that connects you to your ancestors–and please plan to collect those (and loaned) items at the end of the Faire. Photos, stones, flowers, artwork and other token objects are appropriate here--nothing precious, please. We respectfully request that those who identify as male join us for the gatherings outside of the cabin. If anyone is interested in holding special ceremony for the men of our community please speak with Lea Pfeifer (248) 221-1304, or [email protected] for encouragement and connections.
Waxing and Waning Ceremony
Many came together for a celebration of the stages of womanhood. We honored those entering puberty in the transition from Maiden to Mother, and entering menopause in the transition from Mother to Crone. All who wished to honor them were invited to share in the celebration. The ceremony was for all who identify as women/feminine who have not had a ceremony to celebrate them, and it was not necessary to be at any specific age or stage to participate. There was a special gift for Maidens coming into puberty. This event took place Saturday evening down by the lake, at the Amphitheater, lit by firelight.
The Sacred Moon
Participants learned how to enter their moon cycle in a sacred way, incorporating nature-based practices. We performed guided meditations, journaling and held space for reflection. Rather than listening to a presentation, participants engaged actively in the creative process. Those who were not menstruating will learn to use these tools to embrace the rhythms of a feminine life. For those men & non-feminine who choose to join us, we shared ways you can support the women/feminine people in your lives.
Classes
During most class sessions, the House of Moons was a refuge where people could take a break and enjoy self care, reflection, journaling, and crafts. We also held several classes over the weekend within the House of Moons, including: Herbalism for Young Women, Herbs for Sexual Health, Lifting the Veil of Illusion: Reclaiming Your Own Interlight with the making of crafts such as dream catchers for maidens, woven amulet bags for mothers, and walking staffs for crones.
Community Support
If you wish to donate or loan your gifts we would love to have that support. Coloring books, skin salves, snacks, tea blends, blankets, pillows, books with beautiful scenery, massage, energy work and other comfort items would be enjoyed. We will also have a place of honor - please bring anything you wish to place there as a representation of the Red Thread that connects you to your ancestors–and please plan to collect those (and loaned) items at the end of the Faire. Photos, stones, flowers, artwork and other token objects are appropriate here--nothing precious, please. We respectfully request that those who identify as male join us for the gatherings outside of the cabin. If anyone is interested in holding special ceremony for the men of our community please speak with Lea Pfeifer (248) 221-1304, or [email protected] for encouragement and connections.
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