The Airing of the Quilts Festival returns with Wells Fargo as Sponsor

Gee’s Bend, Alabama — April 10, 2026 — The Airing of the Quilts Festival returns for its fifth year with Wells Fargo joining as sponsor for the 2026 celebration. Set for October 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Gee's Bend Welcome Center, the festival is co-organized by Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy and Sew Gee's Bend Heritage Builders.

The festival celebrates the world-renowned quilting traditions of Gee's Bend, a cultural legacy that has influenced art, history, and storytelling across generations. After drawing 3,000 visitors and generating an estimated $878,000 in economic impact for Alabama according to Grey Research Solutions in its previous year, the festival continues to grow in both cultural significance and community benefit. 

“Wells Fargo’s investment comes at a pivotal moment as the festival continues to grow in both cultural significance and economic impact,” said Kim V. Kelly, Executive Director of the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy. “This support helps us expand opportunities for local artisans while preserving one of the most important artistic traditions in America.”

Widely recognized for its bold, improvisational designs, Gee’s Bend quilting has earned international acclaim, with works featured in major museums and collections. The festival brings that legacy to life through immersive experiences that connect visitors directly with the artists and the community behind the quilts.

Attendees can expect a dynamic, day-long experience featuring quilt displays, live demonstrations, storytelling, guided tours, local food vendors, music, and hands-on workshops for all ages.

Registration will open in June 2026 with a recommended donation to support the Gee's Bend quilt-making community. To receive first notice when registration goes live, visit www.airingofthequilts.org and subscribe to the email list.

As the festival marks its fifth year, organizers anticipate continued growth in attendance and impact, positioning Gee’s Bend as a premier cultural tourism destination in the South.

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Sponsorship Opportunities

Organizations and businesses interested in sponsoring the 2026 Airing of the Quilts Festival are invited to support this nationally recognized cultural event. Sponsorship opportunities offer meaningful brand visibility, community engagement, and direct impact on preserving the legacy of Gee’s Bend quilting while contributing to local economic growth.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please click here or contact Kim V. Kelly at kvk@fqblegacy.org.