Richmond Folk Festival Celebrating 20 Years

The Richmond Folk Festival, Richmond’s most beloved annual event, returns September 27 through 29, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Each year the festival, held on the banks of the James River at Tredegar, attracts more than 200,000 people. The Richmond Folk Festival, which began as the National Folk Festival in 2005, features six stages and showcases music and dance by more than 30 performing groups from across the nation and from around the world.

In the Folklife area and Center for Cultural Vibrancy Stage this year you can discover the African origins of textiles and music. Curated by the Elegba Folklore Society in partnership with the Virginia Folklife Program of Virginia Humanities, contemporary practices are paired with their origin stories. 

The Center for Cultural Vibrancy Stage returns with some of the finest traditional artists from across the Commonwealth and beyond. From bluegrass to jazz and blues, there’s something here to sate every musical palate. Sample Crooked Road legends Johnny and Jeanette Williams backed by members of No Speed Limit, or tap into the electrifying harmonies of Richmond’s own Legendary Ingramettes.

In the Family Area, creep and crawl through the Bug Bonanza, produced by the Children’s Museum of Richmond. You can search for bizarre bugs while learning interesting facts. Then witness the inner workings of a beehive (behind glass) with master gardeners who will teach about the importance of these pollinators. Or try soccer shots or a sensory zone. The City Singers link music to insects, and the National Park Service will be back with cool crafts and games.

This year’s Folk Festival will be held September 27, 6:30pm till 10:00pm; September 28, 12:00pm till 9:30pm; and September 29, 12:00pm till 6:00pm. The three-day event kicks off at 5:30 pm September 28 with a performance by Tremé Brass, and a parade down Tredegar Street to the Altria Stage. Fun (free) signs will be handed out.

For more information please visit richmondfolkfestival.org