🔥 MakerFest 2026 in Putnam County — Hands-On Forging with Forged in Fire Champion Jason Crum, July 18–19

As the maker movement gains momentum across the Upper Cumberland, MakerFest is positioning itself as a flagship celebration of regional creativity and craftsmanship. The two-day event will draw families and artisans from across the Sequatchie Valley and beyond to experience live metalworking and support efforts to build a permanent home for local makers.

🎉 What’s happening: MakerFest 2026 will take place July 18–19 at the Original Putnam County Fairgrounds, hosted by UC Makerspace and Imagine Foundry. The centerpiece of the event is a featured demonstration and hands-on experience with Jason Crum, a champion from the hit TV show Forged in Fire. Crum will showcase live metalworking and blacksmithing techniques, giving attendees an up-close look at the skill, heat, and craftsmanship required to transform raw steel into finished pieces. ⚒️

🛠️ The hands-on experience: This isn’t just a spectator event. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to step up to the forge themselves and try their hand at blacksmithing under expert guidance. Whether you’ve always wondered what it feels like to work with molten metal or you’re a seasoned maker looking to expand your skills, MakerFest offers a chance to experience one of the most iconic maker crafts firsthand.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who should attend: Families, makers, artisans, and anyone curious about metalworking and regional creativity are welcome. The event celebrates the talent and innovation of the Upper Cumberland community and invites the public to participate in building momentum for a permanent makerspace facility.

📋 Vendor opportunities: UC Makerspace is still accepting vendor applications for the festival. Interested vendors can apply via the online form linked on the event page. 🎪

✨ Mark your calendar for July 18–19 and prepare to forge something unforgettable.

What to Know Before You Go

• Mark your calendar for July 18–19 at the Original Putnam County Fairgrounds and arrive early to secure parking and get the best spot for hands-on forging demonstrations with Forged in Fire champion Jason Crum.
• Wear closed-toe shoes and heat-resistant clothing since you’ll be working near active forges during the hands-on blacksmithing experience.
• Bring water and sunscreen as the event takes place outdoors at the fairgrounds during July heat.
• Plan to stay overnight in the area; consider Tennessee Dude & Guest Ranch, a family-owned ranch experience in the Sequatchie Valley near the event location. — Tennessee Dude & Guest Ranch

Source: UC Makerspace – MakerFest event July 18-19 at Putnam County Fairgrounds featuring Forged in Fire Champion Jason Crum with live forging demos and hands-on experiences

Related Businesses

UC Makerspace

UC Makerspace is the primary host and organizer of MakerFest 2026, directly running the event at the Putnam County Fairgrounds.

Sequatchie Valley Lodge

Provides lodging in the Sequatchie Valley near the MakerFest event location, addressing the article’s recommendation to stay overnight in the area.

White Oak Ranch Tennessee

RV park and campground in the Sequatchie Valley near Dunlap offering overnight accommodation options for MakerFest attendees.

Sequatchie Valley BBQ

Local restaurant in Dunlap providing dining options for families and attendees visiting the area for the two-day MakerFest event.

Adrenaline Trampoline Park

Family-friendly entertainment venue in the Sequatchie Valley offering activities for families attending MakerFest.

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