Folklife is…
A chance to be present.
A chance to be together.
A chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves.

The belief that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, has a name.

Ubuntu.

Often translated as “I am because we are,” Ubuntu speaks to a deep truth: that our humanity is rooted in our relationships with one another. A loved one. A friend. A neighbor. A stranger.

It reminds us that we belong to each other, that our lives are interconnected in ways both seen and unseen. That every act of care, every shared experience, every moment of connection has a ripple effect far beyond what we can measure.

Folklife is chance to live that belief.

Folklife is place where we don’t just talk about belonging, we practice it. Where culture is the bridge between us. Where the path to solidarity, joy, and liberation is showing up, year after year, rain or shine.

This year, in its 55th iteration, the Festival will feature more than 4,000 artists and culture bearers as well as host over 200 creative entrepreneurs and small, family-owned businesses. Over the four days, we anticipate more than 200,000 people will celebrate, together.

Your support makes this possible. If you’re able, we invite you to make a gift this spring*.

Your gift ensures the festival remains free from tickets and gates, accessible to all.
You gift sustains artists, makers, workers and organizers who bring the festival to life.
Your gift nurtures the space for Ubuntu to grow beyond an idea – into practice.

Mahalo for all your support. We’ll see you at the festival.

Reese and Ben

55th Annual NW Folklife Festival 2026