National Folk Festival - Kickoff

Get a preview of the nation’s longest-running multicultural traditional arts celebration

The National Folk Festival is excited to announce a special program, providing a taste of what’s to come at the nation’s premier celebration of the artistic traditions of all Americans. Join us at the "Welcome to Jackson" mural at the corner of State and Pearl Streets for an eclectic and dynamic program, ranging from Cajun to South Asian Kuchipudi dance, and from blues to salsa dura.

Schedule of Events

Make a day of it!

Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument

Tours start at 9:00 AM

Free shuttle runs every 30 minutes from the Hinds County Tax Collector parking lot in downtown Jackson. Shuttle runs from 8:45 - 11:15 AM.

Mississippi Museum of Art

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Of Salt & Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South exhibition opening

Opening day activities will include a panel discussion, quilt demonstrations, and the following performances:

Chief Shaka Zulu

New Orleans Black Masking craftsman and stilt dancer

12:00 - 12:30 PM

1:15 - 1:45 PM

Annie & the Caldwell Singers

gospel

2:00 - 3:00 PM

National Folk Festival KICKOFF

4:00 - 7:30 PM

seating opens at 3:30 PM

BeauSoleil Trio

Cajun

4:00 - 4:30 PM

Yamini Kalluri & the Kritya Music Ensemble

Kuchipudi dance

4:45 - 5:15 PM

Eddie Cotton, Jr.

soul bues

5:30 - 6:15 PM

Edwin Perez y su Orquesta

salsa dura

6:30 - 7:30 PM

Food & Beverages

Food and drink is available for sale. Food is provided by Hal & Mal's, and beverages are provided by Martin's Downtown and Cathead Distillery.

Admission: Free