This festival was founded in 1972 by two local musicians who wanted to have a festival for people who are not celebrities.

Artists from the Pacific Northwest along with special guests from throughout the world create a four day celebration of music and art and food.

The tradition of sharing and participation at the Festival encourages exploration and learning between participants and public alike. Folklife brings together an estimated 250,000 visitors, 1,000 volunteers and more than 7,000 musicians, dancers, tradition bearers and visual artists who contribute their time, talent, and energy.

Every year there is a different cultural theme. 2008 honors Urban Indians and celebrates the art and life of Indigenous people