2008 Guide to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington D.C.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an annual event held on the grounds of the prestigious National Mall in downtown Washington, D.C. and sponsored by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. The Folklife Festival is a two week event coinciding with the 4^th of July holiday weekend. This event is free to the public and hosts over one million visitors annually.

The Festival first began in 1967 and throughout the years it has brought more than 23,000 different types of performers from musicians, story tellers, actors and the like. The festival is divided into sections by nations, regions, state or themes. The Festival has drawn tradition bearers from over 90 nations, scores of ethnic communities, more than 100 Indian groups and a number of varying occupations.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is the largest cultural event in the United States and reaches over 40 million interested readers and viewers alike. It has been the subject of books, documentary films, articles and debate. Come and enjoy the richness of the cultures presented and be prepared to learn as much as you can about each one!

When/Where is the Folklife Festival?

June 25-29, 2008 and July 2-6, 2008

11a.m.-5 p.m. Daily. Evening events begin at 6:00 p.m.

National Mall, Washington, D.C.

Festival Map (pdf) - Great resource to help plan your day's activities and events.

Tips and Tricks for Visiting During This Time of Year

Dress appropriately - This time of year in DC stands to be some very hot and sticky weather. Wear loose fitting clothing such as loose shorts, loose fitting top, wide brimmed hat, and shades are a must!

Sunscreen/Protection - You will want to make sure that you bring plenty of sun screen as you are out and about in the elements, moving from tent to tent and possible even seeing the sights around Washington, DC. I would encourage nothing less that 30 SPF sunscreen for your day. 50 SPF if you have young children with you.

Water - Bring plenty of water with you. There will be vendors throughout the area, but I would advise that you bring several bottles per person in your party.

Money - I would recommend that you bring plenty of greenbacks with you to enjoy the cultural foods and for additional beverages, arts, crafts, etc., that may catch your eye. As with any event with large crowds, display, handle and carry your money appropriately to avoid any possibility of theft.

What Can I Expect By Participating in The Festival?

You can expect to participate in cultural celebrations, traditional food sampling, dancing, singing, etc. There are a variety of events suitable to the whole family and I am confident that you will enjoy your time spent at the Festival.

Some of the highlights of this year's program include:

Bhutan - The Festival will celebrate Bhutan's special approach towards life in the 21^st century. (Archery, music and dance, architecture, etc.)

NASA - Fifty Years and Beyond - This will showcase the significant role men and women have played in the exploration of space and the accomplishments they have produced. The participant will also get some insight into future plans NASA is pursuing as well.

Texas - a Celebration of Food, Music and Wine - This celebration will focus on the musical, cuisine and winemaking from the various regions around the state. If you love country music and great Texas Style cooking, you will absolutely love this portion of the Festival!

Schedule of Events

There is a schedule of events that will be posted in early June and you can gain access by clicking here.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Visitor Information

Web Site

Watch this great video of past Festival events to know what to expect.

So whether this is your first time to the Festival and Washington, D.C. or if you are a returning visitor or resident, you will enjoy the rich cultural heritage, great food, inspiring dancing, and learning of the different cultures which make up the United States of America.

Sources:

Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage