Folklife Festival: A Melting Pot of Tradition

Located on the long stretch of the National Mall, Folklife is celebration of cultural heritages held annually by the Smithsonian Institution's Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. This year's festival will feature the topics of African American oral traditions, Welsh culture and music of the Americas, according to washingtonpost.com.

The planners of this year’s Folklife Festival must have been reading the mind of President Obama (before he became or even thought of being President Obama) when they chose to include African American oral traditions as a part of the cultural celebrations. As such a great orator himself, I’m sure Mr. Head of State is honored for this recent addition. This part of the program entitled "Giving Voice: The Power of Words in African American Culture" will include examples and discussions of poetry, sermons, debates, children's games and political speeches, according to washingtonpost.com

The festival will also highlight the culture of Wales, from its environment to its music, and include "Las Americas: Un Mundo Musical," a rhythmic project with artists from Venezuela and Mexico.
 
Besides a melting pot of tradition, festival-goers can also dip their sense into a mix of singer, scholars, dancers, and artist in a long line of tents and booths that cover seven blocks of the Mall. You can’t forget the party! At night, the fun continues with concerts and dancing. And don’t bother bringing your wallet. All the events of the 6-day festival are free (yes I said free). So clear your calendar and get ready to get down at one of our nation’s biggest cultural festivals.
 
Festival takes place June 24-28 and July 1-5. Open daily 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Evening events begin at 6 p.m.
 
Check out the official website, www.folklife.si.edu, for more information.

 
 
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