What to Expect at Folk Music Festivals in 2018
Contents
Looking for something fun and different to do this year? Why not check out a folk music festival! These festivals are a great way to experience traditional music and culture from around the world. Here’s what you can expect at folk music festivals in 2018.
Introduction
Folk music festivals are a time-honored tradition in the United States, with many dating back decades. These festivals usually take place outdoors and feature a variety of folk musicians playing traditional and contemporary folk music.
If you’re thinking of attending a folk music festival this year, here’s what you can expect:
-A wide variety of folk musicians playing traditional and contemporary folk music.
-A wide variety of food and drink vendors selling everything from grilled cheese to beer.
-A relaxed atmosphere where you can picnic on the lawn, listen to great music, and enjoy the company of friends and family.
What is a folk music festival?
A folk music festival is a traditional music festival featuring folk music. Folk music includes traditional and contemporary folk music, and is often known for its roots in oral traditions. Folk festivals may also feature dance, story-telling, and other forms of traditional arts.
Folk music festivals are held throughout the world, and often feature a mix of local, regional, and national acts. Many festivals also offer workshops and jam sessions, giving attendees the opportunity to learn from and interact with the performers.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of folk music or just looking to experience something new, a folk music festival is a great way to spend a weekend or longer. Here are some tips on what to expect:
-Plan to spend at least part of each day listening to music. There will be plenty of other activities going on, but the focus of most festivals is the music. Many stages will have continuous live entertainment from early in the morning until late at night.
-Bring comfortable shoes. You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking between stages, so comfortable shoes are a must. Many festivals also have designated “dance floors” where you can enjoy traditional dances such as square dancing or contra dancing.
-Be prepared for different weather conditions. Depending on when and where the festival is taking place, you may need to pack for warm days, cool nights, rain showers, or even sunburn (if there’s no shade). Check the forecast in advance and pack accordingly.
-Folk festivals are generally family-friendly events. If you’re traveling with children, look for festivals that offer special activities for kids such as face painting, storytelling, or musical performances specifically geared towards young audiences.
-Some festivals take place in remote locations with limited access to amenities such as restaurants or hotels. If this is the case, be sure to pack enough food and supplies for the duration of your stay. Many festival grounds also have camping facilities if you’re looking to extend your stay.
What to expect at a folk music festival
At a folk music festival, you can expect to hear a wide variety of music styles being performed by many different artists. There will be plenty of opportunities to get up and dance, or simply sit back and enjoy the music. Food and drink stalls will be available, selling a variety of traditional and modern dishes. There may also be craft stalls selling handmade items related to the folk music tradition.
The history of folk music festivals
Folk music festivals have been a popular tradition in the United States for many years. From small-town gatherings to large-scale events, these festivals offer a chance for music lovers to come together and enjoy a wide variety of folk music.
The first folk music festival was held in Newport, Rhode Island in 1959. Since then, these festivals have become increasingly popular, with many different festivals taking place across the country each year.
Folk music festivals typically feature a variety of traditional and contemporary folk musicians from across the United States and beyond. In recent years, some festivals have also featured musicians from other genres, such as rock, jazz, and bluegrass.
Whether you’re a seasoned folk music fan or just starting out, there’s sure to be a festival that’s right for you. Here are some of the most popular folk music festivals taking place in 2018:
Newport Folk Festival: This annual event is one of the most well-known and respected folk music festivals in the world. It takes place every summer in Newport, Rhode Island and features an eclectic mix of established and up-and-coming Folk musicians.
Old Settler’s Music Festival: This annual festival takes place in Austin, Texas and features four stages of continuous live music. It is one of the largest gatherings of Folk enthusiasts in the country.
North Carolina Folk Festival: This free annual event takes place in downtown Greensboro and features three days of nonstop Folk music from a wide range of artists.
The future of folk music festivals
Folk music festivals are increasing in popularity, with more and more people attending each year. These festivals provide a unique opportunity to experience traditional Folk music, as well as to see some of the best up-and-coming Folk artists.
However, with the increase in popularity of these festivals comes an increased risk of commercialization. Many festival organizers are looking to make a profit, rather than to showcase traditional Folk music. This can lead to higher ticket prices, as well as a decrease in the quality of music at the festival.
To counter this trend, many Folk music fans are organizing their own small-scale festivals. These festivals are often free or very affordable, and they prioritize traditional Folk music over profit. If you’re interested in attending a Folk music festival this year, be sure to do your research beforehand so that you know what to expect.
