The Smithsonian Folklife Festival celebrates living traditions of, by, and for the people. It is an annual event hosted by the Smithsonian Institution that honors cultural heritage through music, dance, crafts, foodways, storytelling, and other traditional arts from communities across the United States and around the world.
Each year, the festival highlights different cultural themes and regions, featuring artisans, performers, and cultural practitioners who share their knowledge and skills with the public. Programs often explore the connections between culture, history, and identity, emphasizing community-based traditions and intangible cultural heritage.
The festival is held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and is free to the public. It serves as both a public celebration and a scholarly platform, fostering dialogue about cultural sustainability, social justice, and the role of tradition in contemporary life.