Folk & Traditional Arts Program

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission's mission involves both a commitment to care for the state's most treasured lands, waters and historic places and a desire to connect all Washingtonians to their natural, cultural, and artistic heritage through memorable experiences in the parks. Since 2004, the Folk & Traditional Arts Program has added to those memorable experiences with events in state parks by musicians, dancers, craftspeople and storytellers who represent a wide variety of old and new Washington traditions.

We host events in state parks by musicians, dancers, craftspeople and storytellers who represent a wide variety of old and new Washington traditions. From tribal canoe family journeys to Cinco de Mayo festivities, from fisher poetry to Ecuadorian song, from Hawaiian hula to old-time square dances, the program brings people together — some to celebrate a common heritage and some to learn about the traditions of others.

Enjoy this short video highlighting our Folk & Traditional Arts program and a few of the many events and programs held at parks across Washington.

Folk and Traditional Arts Events

• Visit the Folk and Traditional Arts Events Page for in-depth information on Folk Arts Concerts, Festivals and Workshops.
• Download the Folk and Traditional Arts Events 2025 Calendar (PDF)

Annual Reports

• Folk & Traditional Arts Program Annual Report - 2022 (PDF)
• Folk & Traditional Arts Program Annual Report - 2023 (PDF)

Program Sponsors

Thank you to our sponsors! the  National Endowment for the Arts, Washington State Parks Specialty License Plate Fund, and  Washington State Parks Foundation.