39th Annual Folklife Festival

Don’t you dare assume that, because of the name, it’s nothing but “folksy.”

And, whatever you do, DO NOT call it a “hippie fest.” Sure, they’ve got petitioners seeking to legalize marijuana, but let’s face it – that issue has a LOT more support than merely from the hippie populace. Besides, there’s more to this event than that.

A LOT more.

The 39th annual Northwest Folklife Festival is now upon us, taking place at Seattle Center this Memorial Day Weekend, from May 28th to the 31st, 2010 (in other words, this weekend, dear hedonists).

From street food to street performers, this festival is where it’s at for regional arts, music, dance, and overall community-based culture. Local artists, artisans and craftsmakers display their impressive wares – be it alpaca fibered hats, metallic yard art, hand-blown glass amulets, cobbled shoes, or homestead honey – befitting of any upscale boutique or café.

But THE big focus of this fest is its music and dance – with a focus on folk, ethnic and traditional. With over 7,000 volunteer vendor and volunteer performer participants and over 1,300 festival volunteers, this event is an absolute must-see. You can even download the FREE Festival iPhone app here. (With special thanks going to Hal Mueller and Mike Richardson for creating this app specifically for the Folklife Festival.)

Feeling disconnected from your fellow Puget Sounders? Need to feel the rhythm in your heart and the tap in your toes? Then make an effort to boogie your butt on over to the Folklife Festival this weekend. As if you need even MORE incentive, admission is FREE (with a suggested donation $10/person or $20/family).

Note: In order to comply with FTC Act 16 C.F.R. 255, Heed the Hedonist would like to disclose that it does receive media “comps” and/or media discounts – but not in exchange for favorable coverage, or for withholding unfavorable coverage, of the given venue/meal/performance/product/service.