Nov
2
11:00 AM11:00

WNC Fermenting Festival 2025 - In Person

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Cultivate Our Community with this uniquely tasteful event to be held from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Sunday, Nov. 2nd, at Olivette Farm Stand at 172 Old Macedonia Rd., Alexander NC. FREE to attend. Local and regional fermenters will be presenting their products with several hosting free fermenting demonstrations and sharing skills in preparing beneficial food and drinks such as jun, koji, gluten free sourdough, ciders/fruit wines, animal food, chocolates, and vegan cheese.  Vendors will share their products, information, and resources on the benefits of eating probiotic rich and locally grown fermented foods. Live printed t-shirts, ceramic artists, farmers, food trucks, local resources and other treasures will be on site. This family friendly event is designed to bring all members of Asheville, greater WNC and surrounding localities together to honor each other and our communities through the support of fermentation, food preservation, farming, and food security.

Please note, that while participants are not required to blend materials along with the demonstration, the materials list linked below explains what supplies you'll want to have available so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →

Oct
23
to Oct 25

D-3 SOURDOUGH & GRAINS - The Fermentation Summit 2025 - ONLINE

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Wrap up the summit with the nourishing world of grains and sourdough. Learn to start and care for a sourdough starter, bake with wild yeast water, create nut and seed misos, and enjoy kefir breads or gluten-free cheela pancakes. Today’s sessions will empower you to transform grains into wholesome, flavorful, and deeply satisfying ferments.

Please note, that while participants are not required to blend materials along with the demonstration, the materials list linked below explains what supplies you'll want to have available so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Oct
21
to Oct 23

The Fermentation Summit 2025 - ONLINE

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Attend presentations from our lineup of expert speakers featuring beginner, intermediate, and advanced recipes and fermentation techniques, tips for safe and consistent results, and unique recipes to take your fermentation skills to the next level. Your free ticket includes 48-hour access to each presentation throughout the summit. Thursday’s presentations can be accessed through Saturday, October 25th.

Please note, that while participants are not required to blend materials along with the demonstration, the materials list linked below explains what supplies you'll want to have available so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Sep
17
6:30 PM18:30

Fermenting Vegetables @ New York Botanical Garden - Online

  • New York Botanical Garden (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation. Discover cover the basic science behind how to ferment vegetables - from sauerkraut and beets to carrots and corn. Then, try your hand at fermenting whatever vegetables you have in your kitchen while we discuss the many health benefits fermented foods can provide.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Sep
9
6:30 PM18:30

Fermenting Hot Sauces and Chili Pastes @ New York Botanical Garden - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Craft fermented hot sauce and chili pastes with Contraband Ferments. In this class, you'll review the history and science behind fermentation and learn the basic principles to making your own delicious, probiotic-rich hot sauces and pastes. Whether you like it just a little spicy or fiery hot, this class adds the right amount of spice to your life.

Please note, that while participants are not required to blend materials along with the demonstration, the materials list linked below explains what supplies you'll want to have available so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Aug
13
6:30 PM18:30

Making Kombucha @ New York Botanical Garden - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of our oldest food processing methods. Scientifically known as zymology, it refers to the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. We'll cover the basic science of how to ferment tea to make kombucha, how it can improve your gut health, and ways to brew it yourself. You'll try your hand at preparing a drink and some fruit leathers.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Aug
11
6:00 PM18:00

Plastic Free Living at Brooklyn Brainery - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Plastic. Also known as polymeric material that has the capability of being molded or shaped. There is a lot more to plastics and the damage that they do not only to our planet but also to our bodies. In this course we will cover some of the science, health hazards, and hidden ways that plastics exist and how we can live in a more plastic-free world.

We'll explore ways to use less (or no) plastic in our homes, groceries, beauty products, clothing and how to become better consumers for both ourselves and the planet.

View Event →
Aug
4
6:00 PM18:00

Fermented Sodas & Fizzy Beverages at Brooklyn Brainery - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Brace yourselves for these fizzy, buzzy sodas. While there are more choices on the market now for sparkly fermented beverages made with healthier ingredients, like kombucha and fruit sodas made with real fruit and cane sugar, they can be a bit on the pricey side. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to make these delicious beverages in your home kitchen. Join us to learn how to make your own fizzy herbal sodas, talk about the science behind them, and why they are good for you!

If you'd like to make your own fermented sodas during/after class, here's what you'll need:

6-8 Inches of Ginger root
Sugar
Water
pint jar
LARGE vessel for fermenting in a few days (gallon jar, plastic bucket, etc)
Optional: Turmeric Root, Lemon

View Event →
Jul
26
10:00 AM10:00

Intro to Gut Health at Brooklyn Brainery - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Your digestive system is home to over 70% of your immune system! So it’s crucial to keep your gut in tip-top shape in order to maintain good health. We will discuss the difference between good and bad bacteria and explore how each affects everything from your energy level to your mood.

We’ll focus on how to strengthen your digestion, create better eating habits, and introducing fermented foods, herbal medicine, and other supportive foods into your diet.

View Event →
Jul
24
6:30 PM18:30

Gut Health: The Key To Your Immune System @ New York Botanical Garden - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Your digestive system is home to over 70% of your immune system! So keeping your gut in tip-top shape is crucial to maintaining good health. We will examine the difference between good and bad bacteria and explore how each affects your energy level, skin, and overall health. We'll focus on how to strengthen your digestion and create better eating habits, including by introducing fermented foods and herbal medicine into your diet.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Jul
17
7:00 PM19:00

Fermented Veggies at Brooklyn Brainery - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation.

In this course we will cover the basic science behind making fermented veggies of all sorts, why it’s good for you, and we’ll teach you how to make it yourself. If you are interested in Old World food preservation, gut health, or fermentation in general, this is the class for you! 

View Event →
Jun
23
7:00 PM19:00

Gettin’ Gutsy! Week 6: What’s Hurting Your Gut? Antacids, Medications, Pathogens & Stress - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

A 6-Week Journey to Revitalize Your Gut Health

Welcome to Gettin’ Gutsy!—a transformative six-week program designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to optimize your gut health. This program integrates education, actionable steps, and holistic support to help you achieve lasting improvements in digestion, energy, and overall well-being.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Jun
17
6:30 PM18:30

Making Miso @ New York Botanical Gardens - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation. Discover cover the basic science behind how to ferment vegetables – from sauerkraut and beets to carrots and corn. Then, try your hand at fermenting whatever vegetables you have in your kitchen while we discuss the many health benefits fermented foods can provide. 

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Jun
16
7:00 PM19:00

Gettin’ Gutsy! Week 5: Prebiotics, Probiotics & Fermentation - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

A 6-Week Journey to Revitalize Your Gut Health

Welcome to Gettin’ Gutsy!—a transformative six-week program designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to optimize your gut health. This program integrates education, actionable steps, and holistic support to help you achieve lasting improvements in digestion, energy, and overall well-being.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Jun
9
7:00 PM19:00

Gettin’ Gutsy! Week 4: Red Flags—Recognizing Digestive Imbalances - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

A 6-Week Journey to Revitalize Your Gut Health

Welcome to Gettin’ Gutsy!—a transformative six-week program designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to optimize your gut health. This program integrates education, actionable steps, and holistic support to help you achieve lasting improvements in digestion, energy, and overall well-being.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Jun
7
10:00 AM10:00

Fermenting Vegetables Workshop @ ATL Botanic Garden In-Person

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation. Discover cover the basic science behind how to ferment vegetables – from sauerkraut and beets to carrots and corn. Then, try your hand at fermenting whatever vegetables you have in your kitchen while we discuss the many health benefits fermented foods can provide. 

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Jun
2
7:00 PM19:00

Gettin’ Gutsy! Week 3: What Happens When We Eat? Stomach Acid & Enzymes - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

A 6-Week Journey to Revitalize Your Gut Health

Welcome to Gettin’ Gutsy!—a transformative six-week program designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to optimize your gut health. This program integrates education, actionable steps, and holistic support to help you achieve lasting improvements in digestion, energy, and overall well-being.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
May
12
7:00 PM19:00

Gettin’ Gutsy! Week2: Mindful Eating, Nutrition Basics & Nervous System Regulation - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

A 6-Week Journey to Revitalize Your Gut Health

Welcome to Gettin’ Gutsy!—a transformative six-week program designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to optimize your gut health. This program integrates education, actionable steps, and holistic support to help you achieve lasting improvements in digestion, energy, and overall well-being.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
May
5
7:00 PM19:00

Gettin’ Gutsy! Week 1: Gut Health Assessment, Eating Hygiene & Anatomy, & Physiology - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

A 6-Week Journey to Revitalize Your Gut Health

Welcome to Gettin’ Gutsy!—a transformative six-week program designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to optimize your gut health. This program integrates education, actionable steps, and holistic support to help you achieve lasting improvements in digestion, energy, and overall well-being.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Apr
16
7:00 PM19:00

Gut Health Workshop @Matawan Aberdeen Library - Online

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Mar
23
12:00 PM12:00

Fermented Vegetables @ Fleur & Forage in Atlanta In-Person

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation. Discover cover the basic science behind how to ferment vegetables – from sauerkraut and beets to carrots and corn. Then, try your hand at fermenting whatever vegetables you have in your kitchen while we discuss the many health benefits fermented foods can provide. 

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Mar
9
10:00 AM10:00

Miso Making in Person @ Atlanta Botanic Garden

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Learn the basic science behind making miso, its health benefits and how to make miso variations at home for different uses, including traditional soy and non-soy recipes. Nibble on tasty miso-seasoned nosh while you learn during this semi-hands-on class.

Miso is a traditional Japanese product produced by fermenting soybeans with salt and the fungus Aspergillus oryzae called Koji. High in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals, miso has important nutritional value. This class is ideal for anyone interested in DIY projects, food preservation, gut health or fermentation in general.

Please note, while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Mar
5
6:00 PM18:00

Miso Making at Brooklyn Brainery In-Person

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

In this course we will cover the basic science behind making miso, why it is good for you and how to make it yourself.

Miso is a traditional Japanese product produced by fermenting soybeans with salt and the fungus Aspergillus oryzae called Koji. High in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals, miso played an important nutritional role in Japan. We'll discuss both soy and non-soy misos. 

If you are interested in DIY projects, Old World food preservation, gut health or fermentation in general this is the class for you!

We'll also prepare a miso in class to take home and sample some varieties! 

View Event →
Mar
4
2:00 PM14:00

Fermented Veggies at Brooklyn Brainery In-Person

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation.

In this course we will cover the basic science behind making fermented veggies of all sorts, why it’s good for you, and we’ll teach you how to make it yourself. If you are interested in Old World food preservation, gut health, or fermentation in general, this is the class for you! 

We'll make a pint of veggies to take home! 

View Event →
Mar
2
2:00 PM14:00

Shrubs + Switchels: Tasty, Tangy Botanical Beverages at Brooklyn Brainery In-Person

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Delight your guests with these sophisticated, refreshing drinks! Both tart and sweet, a shrub is a tasty tonic made with a vinegar base, fruit, sugar, and herbs. Drink as a tonic or mix with mineral water or your favorite spirit.

Students will learn everything you need to know to make your own tasty shrubs and switchels at home. We'll make a shrub to take home as well. 

View Event →
Mar
2
11:00 AM11:00

Fermented Veggies at Brooklyn Brainery In-Person

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Scientifically known as zymology, it is the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation.

In this course we will cover the basic science behind making fermented veggies of all sorts, why it’s good for you, and we’ll teach you how to make it yourself. If you are interested in Old World food preservation, gut health, or fermentation in general, this is the class for you! 

We'll make a pint of veggies to take home! 

All participants will take home a starter culture so that you can brew your own kombucha at home, and we'll taste samples as well! 

View Event →
Feb
26
6:30 PM18:30

Detoxify Your Home at New York Botanic Garden Online-Live

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Environmental toxicity stresses our immune systems and makes us more prone to allergies. Consider what changes you can make to your home to make it a safer place for you and your loved ones-from simple but essential product swaps to certain chemicals to avoid altogether. We'll cover dryer sheets, body products, water systems, and more! See website for materials list.

Please note, while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Feb
9
3:30 PM15:30

Making Kombucha at New York Botanic Garden Online-Live

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of our oldest food processing methods. Scientifically known as zymology, it refers to the conversion of carbohydrates into alcohols, carbon dioxide, yeast, or bacteria. We'll cover the basic science of how to ferment tea to make kombucha, how it can improve your gut health, and ways to brew it yourself. You'll try your hand at preparing a drink and some fruit leathers.

Materials for Online Classes:
Please note, while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Dec
12
6:00 PM18:00

Fermenting Condiments at New York Botanic Garden Online

  • New York Botanic Gardens (ONLINE) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.


Discover new ways to use your garden's bounty! Overgrown peppers, tomatoes, basil and more can be used as a great base when creating your own condiments such as ketchup, mustard, pesto, salsa, corn relish, and hot sauce. and more. Led by experts at Contraband Ferments, you'll learn the science behind the fermentation process as they demonstrate the basic principles of making your own delicious, nutritional, and probiotic-rich condiments.


Please note, while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Nov
3
11:00 AM11:00

WNC Fermentation Festival @ Olive Farm, NC in Person

SIGN UP HERE

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Fermentation is one of the oldest food processing methods still used today. Beer, miso, sourdough, kefir, kimchi and many other delicious foods we love are the product of fermentation. Discover the basic science and techniques behind fermentation and enjoy appetizers as you discuss the many health benefits fermented foods can provide.

Please note, while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →
Oct
20
2:00 PM14:00

Fermented Condiments (In Person)

Sign up here

Note the "Location" below which indicates if a particular class meets online or in person. Price differences may apply. Confirmation emails will contain specific logistics.

Learn to make your own fermented condiments with Contraband Ferments.

Get the history and science behind fermentation, as well as the basic principles to make your own delicious, probiotic-rich condiments. If you’re a condiment junky like we are, then this is the class for you. 

We'll make fermented salsa to take home and Cheryl will be discussing other condiments and demoing how to make fermented ketchup and other condiments as well!

Please note, that while participants are not expected to cook along with the demonstration, the materials list below explains what supplies you'll want in the house so you can put what you've learned into action after class.

View Event →