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Louisiana Folklife

Exploring Louisiana’s Culture, History, and Creative Expression

Louisiana Studies Conference

 

The Louisiana Studies Conference brings together scholars, writers, and cultural authorities to celebrate and examine Louisiana’s rich heritage. Hosted annually at Northwestern State University, the free, public event features presentations, performances, and discussions on Louisiana’s literature, history, music, folklore, and more.

17th Annual LA Studies Conference

Natchitoches – NSU Folk Festival

 

Join us on July 19, 2025, for Crafting Louisiana at Northwestern State University’s Hall of Traditional Crafts in Natchitoches. This family-friendly event will feature over 100 invited craftspeople, authentic folk foods, KidFest activities, and live bluegrass and country open jams. Guests can enjoy free Cajun and Zydeco dance lessons, watch the Louisiana State Fiddle Championship, and taste their way through the Red Beans & Rice Cookoff. It’s a full day of fun, food, music, and culture—celebrating the best of Louisiana traditions!

Folk Festival flyer

LOUISIANA STATE FIDDLE CHAMPIONSHIP

 

On July 19, 2025, the Louisiana State Fiddlers’ Championship (LSFC) will celebrate the rich heritage of Louisiana’s musical traditions. The event is designed to preserve and promote the traditional music and fiddling styles that are integral to many forms of Louisiana music. Beyond honoring the past, the championship also fosters appreciation and understanding of this cultural art form, encourages young fiddlers to pursue their musical passions, and promotes jam sessions and contests as vibrant spaces for creativity and the continuation of the fiddle tradition.

Louisiana Folk Life

Hall of Master Folk Artists

 

The Hall of Master Folk Artists at NSU honors the creativity and traditions of Louisiana’s most talented craftspeople. Showcasing the artistry of master weavers, woodworkers, musicians, and more, the Hall preserves cultural heritage while inspiring future generations.

Louisiana Folk Festival

NSU Louisiana High School Essay Contest

 

The 17th Annual NSU Louisiana High School Essay Contest invites students in grades 9–12 from all across Louisiana to explore the theme “Louisiana Dramas” through literary analysis of a play or musical. Submissions were accepted through June 1, offering young writers a chance to engage with the performing arts, sharpen their analytical skills, and win recognition. Winners received cash prizes, scholarship opportunities, and even had a chance to perform or present their work at the Louisiana Studies Conference.

Louisiana Folk Festival

Louisiana Folklife Journal

 

 

Among the many activities of the Louisiana Folklife Center is the Louisiana Folklife journal, which covers many topics related to the folklore of Louisiana. Although some of the issues are no longer available, many can be purchased from the Louisiana Folklife Center. Below is a listing of the issues and the articles included in each.

Louisiana Folk Festival

Louisiana Folklife Recordings

 

The Louisiana Folklife Center has released a series of folklife related recordings. These recordings represent valuable resources for the musical culture of Louisiana. They are avilable by mail-order. Recording formats and prices are listed next to each available recording.

Louisiana Folk Festival
LOUISIANA FOLKLIFE SPONSORS
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Supported in part by grants and donors

LOUISIANA FOLKLIFE SPONSORS
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A big thank you goes out to the Festival 2025 sponsors and in-kind donors! The Festival would not be possible without your support. Thank you all so much!

Northwestern State University of Louisiana
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