Cacao Making Workshop
“By the People” Events
7–8 p.m. MT
This workshop introduces the Zoque-Maya tradition of chocolate making. Participants will explore ancestral food preparation, taste cacao-based drinks, and learn how culinary traditions preserve family heritage and cultural identity. Presented by Esmeralda Torres and the Lopez Aquino Family of Chiapas, Mexico, and Utah, the session highlights tools, ingredients, and techniques passed through generations. Offered in partnership with the County Library and Utah Historical Society, this Hobby 101 class celebrates resilience, cultural memory, and shared traditions.
Categories: Workshop. Foodways. Cost: Free. Event Location: West Jordan, Utah.
Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
Viridian Event Center
West Jordan, UT.
For more info visit www.statehumanities.org. Baltimore Irish Trad Fest
“Of the People” Festivals
The Baltimore Irish Trad Fest is a weekend of workshops and performances led by world-renowned traditional Irish musicians, presented by the Baltimore Irish Music School. From evening concerts at the Creative Alliance to a ceili social at Mobtown Ballroom to lectures and recitals up and down the Avenue in Hampden, venues across the city unite to celebrate Baltimore’s rich tradition of Irish music and its context within the global Irish music community.
Categories: Performance. Workshop. Cost: $20-$200, depending on session and day. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.baltimoreirisharts.com/register-1. Event Location: Baltimore, Maryland.
Thursday, April 9, 2026 – Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Various venues
Baltimore, MD.
For more info visit www.baltimoreirisharts.com. The Deer Hide Agreement: Diplomacy, Responsibility, and Renewal
“By the People” Events
5:30–8:30 p.m. ET
Join us at the Skä•noñh Great Law of Peace Center for a community conversation grounded in the Deer Hide Agreement—an enduring symbol of Haudenosaunee diplomacy and responsibility. The evening will begin with a brief reflection from Oren Lyons, Faithkeeper of the Onondaga Nation, whose leadership and teaching have helped carry Haudenosaunee traditions and principles across generations. From there, participants will be invited into a facilitated conversation, reflecting together on the deer hide and the ideas it holds. There is no panel, no lecture, and no expectation of expertise.
Categories: Narrative Session. Cost: Free, but registration required. Call (315) 453-6767 to register. Event Location: Liverpool, New York.
Friday, April 10, 2026.
Skä•noñh Great Law of Peace Center
Liverpool, NY.
For more info visit www.skanonhcenter.org. Porch Songs & Public Voices Festival
“By the People” Events
Noon–10 p.m. ET
This celebration of storytelling, music, and culture features Native American stories and dance, folk performances, and an authentic blues presentation by Mojo on Max: Sticks, Stones, Roots and Bones, tracing the birth of the blues. Enjoy local storytelling, bluegrass music, regional food, and end the day with the monthly Blues Jam, highlighting performances by talented local musicians. It’s full day honoring diverse voices and musical traditions from the region!
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Workshop. Cost: Free. Event Location: Hartwell, Georgia.
Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Discover Hartwell
Hartwell, GA.
For more info visit www.discoverhartwell.com. Celebrate Micronesia
“Of the People” Festivals
Celebrate Micronesia Festival 2026: Ocean of Peace brings together Micronesian voices and communities from across the Pacific for a day of music, dance, art, food, and storytelling. Hosted in partnership with leaders from Micronesian communities across Hawai‘i, the festival honors the rich traditions and contemporary expressions of the Republic of Palau, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guåhan (Guam), Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae, Kiribati, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
Categories: Performance. Workshop. Foodways. Demonstration. Cost: Free; registration recommended. Get Tickets/Register: https://bishopmuseum.ticketspice.com/celebrate-micronesia-festival-2026. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. ASL-interpreted program. Event Location: Honolulu, Hawai‘i.
Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Bishop Museum
Honolulu, HI.
For more info visit www.bishopmuseum.org. Consider This: Labor, Farmworker, Organizing, and Histories of Indigenous Communities in Oregon
“By the People” Events
7–8:30 p.m. PT
Oregon Humanities will present an onstage conversation with Joaquín Lara Midkiff, Reyna López, and Ramón Ramírez. This program will explore how the mid-Willamette has been home to powerful farmworker and solidarity movements that transformed the lives of migrant laborers and reshaped Oregon’s political and economic landscape.
See the whole Consider This event series.
Categories: Narrative Session. Online Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9uJlkApFwk. Cost: Free, but registration is required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.tfaforms.com/5208220. Event Location: West Jordan, Utah.
Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Mt. Angel Theater Studio
Mt. Angel, OR.
For more info visit oregonhumanities.org. Living Traditions Festival
“Of the People” Festivals
Celebrating its fortieth year in 2026, the Living Traditions Festival is a three-day multicultural festival produced by the Salt Lake City Arts Council in partnership with the Utah Division of Arts & Museums. Presenting live music, dance, crafts, and foodways, Living Traditions supports the preservation of diverse traditions and perspectives. The festival highlights the artistic and cultural heritage of the Salt Lake City area and global traditions, and aims to cultivate dialogue and greater understanding among communities. Living Traditions also presents a free concert series, Mondays in the Park, throughout the summer.
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Demonstration. Cost: Free. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Event Location: Salt Lake City, Utah.
Friday, May 15, 2026 – Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Downtown Salt Lake City, UT.
For more info visit saltlakearts.org. Music, Memory, and Seminole Life in Florida
“By the People” Events
6–7:30 p.m. ET
Through song and storytelling, Seminole singer-songwriter Rita Youngman shares music rooted in Seminole history, place, and lived experience. Her work draws on stories passed down through generations while also engaging with contemporary Native American life in Florida. Performed in community and cultural settings, Youngman’s songwriting reflects deep connections to Florida’s landscapes and the enduring presence of Seminole voices within them.
See more in the Florida Reflections event series.
Categories: Narrative Session. Performance. Cost: Free. Event Location: Sarasota, Florida.
Monday, May 18, 2026.
Gulf Gate Library
Sarasota, FL.
For more info visit floridahumanities.org. Northwest Folklife Festival
“Of the People” Festivals
For over fifty years, Northwest Folklife Festival has served the Pacific Northwest as a beacon of its regional arts and culture in Seattle during Memorial Day weekend. Now in its fifty-fifth year, the annual festival celebrates Ubuntu, I am because we are, emphasizing our belonging to each other and to our shared humanity. As one of the largest and most cherished cultural celebrations in the Pacific Northwest, the festival attracts more than 200,000 attendees each year. This family-friendly, free event provides a creative outlet for local artists and communities and invites visitors to connect in-depth with these communities and cultural practices.
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Demonstration. Narrative Session. Cost: Free. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Assisted listening devices. ASL-interpreted program. Event Location: Seattle, Washington.
Friday, May 22, 2026 – Monday, May 25, 2026.
Seattle Center
Seattle, WA.
For more info visit nwfolklife.org. Vermont Reads 2026 Kick-Off
“By the People” Events
2–3:30 p.m. ET
Join Vermont Humanities for this kick-off celebration with the Center for Cartoon Studies for “Vermont Reads 2026: Charity and Sylvia.” Created by Tillie Walden from archival materials at the Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History in Middlebury, Charity and Sylvia is a groundbreaking biography that is also the story of nineteenth-century United States. This panel discussion will focus on non-fiction comics and how to approach using historical materials and references when creating art.
Categories: Narrative Session. Cost: Free, but registration encouraged. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vermont-reads-2026-kick-off-panel-discussion-tickets-1985369917869. Event Location: White River Junction, Vermont.
Saturday, May 30, 2026.
Center for Cartoon Studies
White River Junction, VT.
For more info visit www.vermonthumanities.org. Sealaska Heritage Institute Celebration
“Of the People” Festivals
The largest gathering of Southeast Alaska Native people, Celebration was held in 1982 as an opportunity for Alaska Native people to engage with their ancestral songs, dances, customs, and regalia. That first Celebration helped spark the renaissance of Native culture, language, and art that continues to flower today. With Native dance and song at the center, Celebration has grown to draw thousands and to include an art market, art exhibitions, fashion, food, and more. Celebration is organized biennially in Juneau by the Sealaska Heritage Institute, and everyone is invited to join.
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Cost: Tickets may be purchased at Centennial Hall during the event.
Four Day-Pass
General: $35
Youth (ages 7-12): $20
Elder (ages 65+): $20
Children 6 and under: Free
Daily Admission
General: $20
Youth (ages 7-12): $10
Elder (ages 65+): $10
Children 6 and under: Free. Event Location: Juneau, Alaska.
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 – Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Centennial Hall
Juneau, AK.
For more info visit sealaskaheritage.org. DC STEAM Expo
Spotlight Programs
Throughout this semester, fourth-grade students across DC Public Schools are challenged to identify issues affecting their neighborhoods, apply STEAM concepts in developing creative solutions, and build upon their personal experiences within their communities. The project culminates in the first-ever DC STEAM Expo, a poster-based science fair organized by the National Children’s Museum and hosted in the National Museum of American History’s Coulter Plaza.
Categories: Demonstration. Cost: Free. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Event Location: Washington, D.C.
Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Coulter Plaza, National Museum of American History
Washington, D.C.
Fiddle & Fork Festival
“Of the People” Festivals
Presented by the Blue Ridge Music Center and The Bluffs Restaurant, Fiddle & Fork Festival celebrates the music and foodways of the Blue Ridge Mountain region that stretches from Alabama to Pennsylvania. In its inaugural year, the festival includes an immersive dinner of locally sourced ingredients, music performances, food and craft demonstrations, and interviews with local musicians.
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Demonstration. Cost: Kick-Off Dinner: Tickets on sale soon
An Evening with Steep Canyon Rangers: $20-45
All other events are free and open to the public. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.blueridgemusiccenter.org/concert-events/steep-canyon-rangers-2026/. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Assisted listening devices. Event Location: Galax, Virginia.
Friday, June 12, 2026 – Sunday, June 14, 2026.
The Bluffs
Sparta, NC
Blue Ridge Music Center
Galax, VA.
For more info visit www.blueridgemusiccenter.org. Sing Democracy 250
Spotlight Programs
Sing Democracy 250 is a stirring musical odyssey commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, with performances by choirs across the United States in 2026. Through exciting new music, the performance brings people together to reflect on American history and our responsibilities to each other and our country. Sing Democracy 250 believes that music holds the power to transcend divisions, affirm diversity, and inspire hope and harmony for our nation, so that our democracy is not just remembered but renewed for the next 250 years. The power of democracy is in the voice of its people, and every voice matters.
Categories: Performance. Cost: TBA. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Assisted listening devices. Event Location: Washington, D.C.
Saturday, June 13, 2026.
DAR Constitution Hall
Washington, D.C.
For more info visit www.singdemocracy250.org. Folklife Marketplace
Spotlight Programs
Shop, make, and connect at the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building this summer. The Smithsonian Folklife Marketplace is bringing together artists and makers from across the United States in a place where culture is not just displayed but actively exchanged—a living expression of craft, creativity, and community. Visitors can shop, attend hands-on workshops with local and visiting artists, enjoy music and interviews, as well as explore Folklife Festival history in the Storied Objects exhibition.
Categories: Demonstration. Workshop. Cost: Free to enter. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Event Location: Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 – Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Arts and Industries Building
Washington, D.C.
For more info visit festival.si.edu. Juneteenth at Anacostia Community Museum
Spotlight Programs
From engaging workshops to powerful performances, Juneteenth at the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum is a tribute to resilience, creativity, and heritage. Join us for a neighborhood block party-style celebration of freedom, heritage, and community. While the museum stays open late, enjoy a full day of free activities outdoors featuring live music performances, powerful spoken word, cooking demonstrations, front-porch foodways conversations, youth activities, and gardening. The evening culminates with a high-energy outdoor late skate to close out the celebration.
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Demonstration. Workshop. Narrative Session. Cost: Free. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Event Location: Washington, D.C.
Friday, June 19, 2026.
Anacostia Community Museum
Washington, D.C.
For more info visit anacostia.si.edu. The Taste of Freedom: A Juneteenth Foodways Journey
“By the People” Events
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Donna Rae Pearson’s presentation explores the history of Kansas’s African American history of celebrating freedom, which began with “Emancipation Day” celebrations in communities across the state long before Juneteenth became a national holiday. Audience members will explore the holiday’s key symbols and discuss its modern expression in large community events and communal meals that echo the spirit of Black family reunions.
Categories: Foodways. Narrative Session. Cost: Free. Event Location: Newton, Kansas.
Friday, June 19, 2026.
Newton Public Library
Newton, KS.
For more info visit www.statehumanities.org. Folklife Marketplace
Spotlight Programs
Shop, make, and connect at the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building this summer. The Smithsonian Folklife Marketplace is bringing together artists and makers from across the United States in a place where culture is not just displayed but actively exchanged—a living expression of craft, creativity, and community. Visitors can shop, attend hands-on workshops with local and visiting artists, enjoy music and interviews, as well as explore Folklife Festival history in the Storied Objects exhibition.
Categories: Demonstration. Workshop. Cost: Free to enter. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Event Location: Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 – Sunday, June 28, 2026.
Arts and Industries Building
Washington, D.C.
For more info visit festival.si.edu. ROMP Bluegrass Festival
“Of the People” Festivals
Produced by the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky, ROMP Bluegrass Festival integrates the traditional sound and soul of the genre with emerging voices from across the country. ROMP’s full weekend of programming includes onsite camping, food and craft markets, jam sessions, workshops for all ages, and music stages throughout Yellow Creek Park.
Categories: Performance. Workshop. Cost: Adults – $37–87/day or $172/full pass (early bird prices)
Kids 12 and under – Free. Get Tickets/Register: https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/rompfest/romp-2026. Event Location: Owensboro, KY.
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 – Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Yellow Creek Park
Owensboro, KY.
For more info visit www.rompfest.com. Blackfoot Ranch Rodeo & Indian Relay Races
“Of the People” Festivals
Rain or shine, the Blackfoot Ranch Rodeo is an annual gathering with activities for the whole family that celebrates the rich folk cultures of Idaho’s ranching communities. From four-man trailer-loading teams to mutton-busting kids, the cowboys and cowgirls of Blackfoot compete in events modeled after the skills and routines of working ranchers. The weekend also features Indian Relay Races, a centuries-old tradition of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, as well as music, food, and displays showcasing leather workers and gear artisans.
Categories: Performance. Demonstration. Cost: $8-15/day. Get Tickets/Register: https://blackfootranchrodeo.com/events/. Event Location: Blackfoot, Idaho.
Thursday, June 25, 2026 – Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Eastern Idaho State Fair Grounds
Blackfoot, ID.
For more info visit blackfootranchrodeo.com. Arkansas Folklife Festival
“Of the People” Festivals
The Arkansas Folklife Festival celebrates the traditions, stories, and creativity that make Arkansas home. Drawing from the living cultures of the state’s six “culturesheds,” the festival honors both longstanding traditions and the new expressions that continue to grow from them. Rooted in joy and neighborly connection, the Arkansas Folklife Festival brings people together through music, craft, foodways, storytelling, and shared experience. Here, Arkansans gather to celebrate the traditions that shape everyday life, learn from one another, and take pride in the vibrant cultural landscape that connects communities across the state.
Categories: Performance. Workshop. Narrative Session. Foodways. Demonstration. Cost: Free. Event Location: North Little Rock, Arkansas.
Friday, June 26, 2026 – Sunday, June 28, 2026.
Riverfront Park
North Little Rock, AR.
For more info visit www.arkansasfolklifefestival.org. Weaving a Nation
“By the People” Events
In commemoration of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, Humanities Nebraska invites visitors to explore a selection of lesser-known stories from our country’s rich tapestry of backgrounds and perspectives. This festival will include family-friendly events, engaging workshops, and Chautauqua-style presentations that allow audience members to interact with historic figures.
Categories: Workshop. Cost: Free. Event Location: Hastings, Nebraska.
Friday, June 26, 2026 – Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Hastings College
Hastings, NE.
For more info visit humanitiesnebraska.org. Folklife Marketplace
Spotlight Programs
Shop, make, and connect at the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building this summer. The Smithsonian Folklife Marketplace is bringing together artists and makers from across the United States in a place where culture is not just displayed but actively exchanged—a living expression of craft, creativity, and community. Visitors can shop, attend hands-on workshops with local and visiting artists, enjoy music and interviews, as well as explore Folklife Festival history in the Storied Objects exhibition.
Categories: Demonstration. Workshop. Cost: Free to enter. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Event Location: Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 – Sunday, July 5, 2026.
Arts and Industries Building
Washington, D.C.
For more info visit festival.si.edu. July 4th Celebration with Rising Stars Fife and Drum Band
“By the People” Events
11 a.m.–1 p.m. CT
Celebrate the Fourth of July at The MAX with a free performance by Rising Stars Fife and Drum Band. Led by “Fife Master” Shardé Thomas, granddaughter of the legendary Othar Turner, and percussionist Chris Mallory, their performance will honor freedom in all its forms: our nation’s independence, the emancipation of a people, and the creative spirit that defines Mississippi’s global artistic impact.
Come early and shop fresh produce at Earth’s Bounty, plus enjoy free admission to The MAX (special hours: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.). Stop by the Alexander Family Church Gallery to view an episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood featuring Othar Turner, Jessie Mae Hemphill, and Abe Young, legends of Mississippi Hill Country fife and drum music, on loop through August 1 (courtesy of Fred Rogers Productions).
Categories: Performance. Foodways. Cost: Free. Event Location: Meridian, Mississippi.
Saturday, July 4, 2026.
Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience
Meridian, MS.
For more info visit www.msarts.org.