Colorful sights, sounds, and tastes — textiles of handwoven fabric donned by cultural dancers, translators relaying the Basque speech of artists explaining their process of carving vibrant wooden creatures, sizzling hot Txangurro burgers to frozen artisanal gelato — invite passersby to explore rich Basque culture, diverse Californian sounds, and share their own migration or immigration stories. This annual celebration, known as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, takes place from June 29 to July 4 and July 7-10 on the National Mall.
“Basque: Innovation by Culture” and “Sounds of California” are this year’s two main themes. The well-preserved crafts, dance, music, and food of the Basque people, in addition to their industrial success, are highlighted throughout the booths. Also featured is the idea of “social power” being derived from the varying musical expressions of California.
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Buddhist festival traditions on Japan are displayed at the Sounds of California Stage & Plaza on July 2 at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. (Katherine Du)![]()
Every evening of the festival, at 6:30 p.m., a musical performance is held at the Ralph Rinzler Concert Stage. (Katherine Du)![]()
A cultural dance is performed throughout the festival grounds. (Katherine Du)![]()
On July 2, traditional masks are carved at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. (Katherine Du)![]()
A question is asked about the lack of Latino songs from a women's perspective in Radio Bilingüe's "Linea Abierta" booth. (Katherine Du)![]()
Grass baskets are woven at a side of the Radio Bilingüe's "Linea Abierta" booth. (Katherine Du)![]()
The importance of oil is discussed in one of the Basque booths at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. (Katherine Du)![]()
On July 2, tourists enjoy treats on the lawn of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington D.C. (Katherine Du)
