Jackson, Mississippi proudly hosts the 83rd National Folk Festival November 13-15, 2026, marking the first year of an unprecedented three-year residency in the heart of downtown.
The National Folk Festival has announced the full performance schedule for November’s event. With over 300 artists performing across six stages, and dozens of craft demonstrators and artisans showcasing their craft in the Mississippi Folklife Area and the Festival Marketplace, festival attendees can expect a feast of delights anywhere they turn, and new favorites to discover. The festival returns to Downtown Jackson, November 13-15, 2026, with a similar festival footprint as last year, with a few changes.
The National Folk Festival is America's longest-running celebration of the people, cultures, and living traditions that make our nation unique. Since 1934, this free, traveling festival has been a vibrant showcase where communities gather to share their stories through music, dance, food, and craft.
Coming to downtown Jackson, November 13-15, 2026, the festival transforms the city into a living tapestry of American culture. Multiple stages will pulse with continuous performances from musicians, storytellers, dancers and more—the keepers of our collective memory who pass down everything from generations-old ballads to contemporary expressions of identity. Expect to hear the deep roots of blues and soul, alongside the rhythmic power of hip-hop and the heartfelt traditions of gospel and southern soul. The festival will also celebrate the rich HBCU culture that has shaped so much of America. You'll witness hands-on craft demonstrations, taste authentic regional and international cuisine, and experience the joy of storytelling that connects us all.
While Mississippi artists have graced the National Folk Festival stages for decades, this marks its first journey to the Deep South, where so many of America's most powerful cultural traditions, from the delta blues to the marching bands of historically Black colleges and universities, were born and continue to flourish.
National Folk Festival Announces Full Schedule for Nov 13–15 Events
The National Folk Festival announced today the full performance schedule for November’s event. With over 300 artists performing across six stages, and dozens of craft demonstrators and artisans showcasing their craft in…
THU NOV 12
Thacker Mountain Radio Hour
Hal & Mal's and The National Folk Festival present Thacker Mountain Radio Hour featuring Rebolú, Jasmine Holmes, and Dat Mighty 9 featuring Big Chief Romeo.
National Folk Festival Reveals 2026 Mississippi Folklife Lineup
"Mississippi Flavor: At the Crossroads of the American Story" puts a spotlight on the ways the state's folk traditions have influenced the nation. The wide-ranging program for the 83rd National Folk Festival's…
From Blues to Choctaw Dance: New Performers Announced for Jackson’s National Folk Festival
The 83rd National Folk Festival keeps growing, and its newest additions prove that Jackson, Mississippi is exactly where this celebration belongs.
Mavis Staples Among Additonal Performers Announced for the 83rd National Folk Festival
Seven additional performers appearing at the 83rd National Folk Festival in Downtown Jackson, November 13-15, were announced today. The artists represent a broad spectrum of traditions, from gospel and soul to the…
First Performer Details Announced for 83rd National Folk Festival in Jackson, MS
The National Folk Festival revealed today the first eight artists who will be performing at the 83rd National Folk Festival in Downtown Jackson, November 13-15, 2026. This will be the second year…
Jackson Has Good Folk: What the National Folk Festival Means for the City With Soul
One of America's oldest and most traveled cultural celebrations is back in Jackson, Mississippi — and it's leaving something behind.
Vendors specializing in Mississippi and Deep South cuisine, international flavors, snacks/desserts, "fair" foods, main dishes, and specialty beverages are needed.
Priority is given to artists from Mississippi, featuring both traditional crafts and contemporary artists' expressions.
Medicine For Your Soul: Annie & The Caldwells
Annie & The Caldwells have carried their gospel sound from Mississippi's Golden Triangle to stages across Europe and Los Angeles.
More Than a Dance: Why Capoeira Belongs at the National Folk Festival
When Capoeira Luanda enters the roda at this year's National Folk Festival, you'll witness a tradition that's part dance, part fight and part survival story.
Jackson Has Good Folk: What the National Folk Festival Means for the City With Soul
One of America's oldest and most traveled cultural celebrations is back in Jackson, Mississippi — and it's leaving something behind.
National Council for the Traditional Arts, City of Jackson, Jackson Redevelopment Authority, Visit Jackson, Downtown Jackson Partners, Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, Community Foundation for Mississippi, Mississippi Arts Commission, Mississippi Humanities Council, Visit Mississippi, and National Park Service
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