Wild Fermentation Workshop: Kimchi, Kraut & Wild Vegetables

Learn fermentation techniques using wild plants and seasonal vegetables while creating kimchi and kraut to take home.
About this Event

Join Colorado forager and creative educator Constance Wilde (Rachel) for an immersive workshop exploring wild foods, seasonal fermentation, edible plants, and traditional food preservation techniques inspired by the Rocky Mountains.

These workshops are designed to reconnect participants with the natural world through guided outdoor exploration, hands-on crafting, seasonal observation, and traditional creative techniques. Each workshop combines foraging, plant identification, shared meals, and hands-on project work in a relaxed and community-oriented environment welcoming both beginners and experienced participants.

This workshop focuses on fermentation techniques using wild and garden vegetables while introducing participants to edible local plants commonly used in traditional preservation methods. Participants will prepare seasonal kimchi, kraut, and small-batch fermented condiments to take home.

Sample Schedule

• 10:00 AM – Introduction to edible wild greens and fermentation basics
• 10:30 AM – Guided plant walk and harvesting
• 12:00 PM – Vegetable preparation and seasoning workshop
• 1:00 PM – Shared seasonal lunch
• 2:00 PM – Fermentation jar assembly and preservation techniques
• 2:30 PM – Discussion of food safety and long-term storage
• 3:00 PM – Wrap up and take-home ferments

What to Expect

Most workshops begin with introductions, tea, and an overview of the day before transitioning into a guided outdoor walk focused on foraging, seasonal observation, plant identification, harvesting techniques, and local ecology. After the outdoor portion, participants return for a shared seasonal lunch followed by afternoon crafting and hands-on project work.

All classes include an outdoor walk of approximately 1 mile and may involve uneven terrain, mountain trails, moderate hiking, or off-trail conditions depending on the season and workshop type.

What to Bring & How to Prepare

• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
• Layers for changing temperatures
• Light rain jacket or waterproof outer layer
• Water bottle
• Small backpack or day bag
• One or two clean glass jars

Please check the weather forecast near Nederland, Colorado the day before your workshop for the most accurate estimate of conditions.

Weather, Cancellations, & Additional Information

Mountain weather can change rapidly, especially during summer afternoons. Rain, wind, lightning, colder temperatures, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Front Range and alpine environments.

Workshops generally continue in light or moderate weather conditions, and indoor activities or modified programming may be substituted when appropriate. In cases of severe weather, workshops may be rescheduled or class credit may be issued.

Refunds are not available for last-minute cancellations, missed classes, or weather-related schedule changes.

Please notify the instructor of any dietary restrictions at least 48 hours prior to the event.