The MSU Libraries, along with several regional partners, continue to work with the Smithsonian Center for Folklife & Cultural Heritage to plan the Ozarks program of the 2023 Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

The free, 10-day festival will be held in late June and early July of 2023 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. At the event, participants will experience Ozarks music, food, crafts and stories through daily demonstrations and nightly concerts.

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival, held annually, draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and millions more online.

Mark your calendars for a sneak-peek performance

A special preview event will be held this summer, June 26 from 4-6 p.m. (EDT) in conjunction with the 2022 Smithsonian Folklife Festival. The event, held on the National Mall, will feature old-time Ozarks music and dance. The performance will be livestreamed, recorded and archived, so that folks back in the Ozarks can enjoy it in real time. Stay tuned for more details.

Volunteer your time or talents

Many individuals and groups have reached out to the MSU Libraries, offering their time, talent, and expertise in planning this massive event. In an effort to streamline this process, a simple online interest form has been developed. If you would like to help with the festival in any way, please complete this form.

Tom Peters, dean of library services and director of the Ozarks Folklife Festival, continues to share festival updates through his weekly newsletter, Library Notes. Subscribe to follow the region’s journey to the National Mall in 2023.