Thanksgiving weekend is the start of holiday season traditions. Doing a little shopping. Stepping back in time to the good ol' days when life was simpler, slower and centered on things that brought people together. Of course, we're talking about the local tradition of visiting Blue Ox Millworks the weekend after Thanksgiving during its annual Craftsman's Days, Nov. 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ($10, $9 w/food bank donation, free for kids under 12).

This two-day nostalgic trip gives visitors the opportunity to explore the millworks grounds, see antique machinery and learn from the experts who know how to use them. Master craft workers show off their skills and wares with demonstrations of blacksmithing, woodworking, spinning and weaving, foundry casting, ceramics and more. You can wind your way among vendors, listen to some storytelling and get something wholesome to eat. As always, the family-friendly event features some of the area's best toe-tapping tunage. While you're roaming the grounds watching the sparks and wool fly, you can feel extra folksy listening to live music from Kindred Spirits, Belles of the Levee, Jeff Kelley and Friends, Papa Paul Fowler, Dale Winget, Empty Bottle Boys and Sarah Torres.

— Kali Cozyris