As we stir the pot for an even more engaging 2024, we're excited to announce that this year's workshops and activities are now available! Explore the immersive sessions we've curated just for you.

Browse through the array of workshops and activities for 2024, and relive the hands-on moments from 2023 to ignite your passion for learning and collaboration.

🌟 Ready to craft, create, and collaborate in 2024? Dive into the exciting lineup we have in store! 🌟

 

Cooking Demonstrations

During the first evening of the festival, Tanner Hammond will lead a cooking demonstration, and Shaun Thompson will lead a cooking demonstration during the second evening! Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to get an up-close and personal look at how Tanner and Shaun prepare mushrooms in glorious forms. Enjoy their artful dishes and learn some new tips for making mushroom dishes of your own. So don't wait - grab your ticket to the Gulf Coast Fungi Festival and get ready for a truly unique experience.

Mushroom Forays

Daytime Foray

The best way to learn mushroom identification is firsthand. Touch and smell are some of the best senses one can utilize for identifying mushrooms. Our daytime foray is the perfect opportunity to learn about local fungi in their natural environment. We’ll explore woodlands, marshes, and fields as we go on an expert-led hunt to find all the mushrooms we can. We’ll learn how to identify edible and poisonous varieties, as well as which mushrooms can be eaten raw and which should be cooked before consumption. Our leaders will provide instruction on mushroom identification, safety tips, and advice on foraging responsibly.

Nighttime UV Foray

Experience the exciting world of mycology after dark with a unique nighttime foray featuring ultraviolet light! Our experts will help you explore the wide range of fluorescent mushrooms (and other organisms!) that can be found in the evening using the power of ultraviolet light. Observe the beautiful and mesmerizing colors that are only visible in the dark and learn about the science behind this phenomenon. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced forager, our UV foray offers a truly unique experience to explore and learn more about mushrooms. So don’t miss out – join us for an unforgettable foray under the stars!

Don't forget to bring your headlamp and UV flashlight to get the most out of this nighttime experience.

Plant Walk

 Log Inoculation

Join local growers Mark Hainds to learn about mushroom log inoculation. In this workshop, participants will gain the basic knowledge of how to successfully create a shiitake mushroom log that can be grown in the garden or back yard. Participants will get hands-on experience with the preparation and inoculation process, plus plenty of time to ask questions and receive expert advice. This is an ideal workshop for beginners and experienced growers alike! Come gain the knowledge to start or expand your own backyard mushroom garden.

Glass Blowing Demonstration 

Kids Craft Corner

Composting Workshop

Breathwork

Are you tired of being weighed down by self-doubt and unresolved hurt? When was the last time you truly felt at peace with yourself and your past? 

Join me for a transformational breathwork journey that will take you on a life-changing exploration of radical self-love and forgiveness- towards yourself as well as others. 

You'll harness the power of your breath to release self-judgement, heal emotional wounds and extend compassion to yourself and those who have hurt you.

Leave feeling empowered to start anew, free from the shackles of resentment and self-criticism.

Participants will bring their own yoga mat and will be lying down for the journey. The session involves 30+ minutes of deep, circular breathing, paired with music and verbal guidance. You will leave feeling more connected to yourself than you ever have before!

Best Costume and Best Hat Contest

We are hosting a Best Costume and Best Hat contest at our festival! Come dressed in your most creative costume or hat Sunday morning for a chance to win two festival passes for the 2025 festival. The contest will take place on Sunday at 11 AM. Winners will be selected in both categories, so you could win both! Don't miss this excellent opportunity to show off your creativity. We can't wait to see your outfits!