Edmonton Folk Music Festival Society

The Edmonton Folk Music Festival Society is a charitable, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating folk music through the annual Edmonton Folk Music Festival. Established in 1980, the festival has grown to become one of the world's leading folk music events, known for its diverse lineup of performers and its commitment to community building.

History

The festival was founded by Don Whalen and a core group of volunteers, with the support of various individuals and organizations, including Mitch Podolak. The initial festival was part of Alberta's 75th anniversary celebrations, and it benefited from provincial funding and resources from the Travelling Goodtime Alberta Medicine Show, which included notable artists such as Sylvia Tyson, Connie Kaldor, and Stan Rogers. The first festival was held at Gold Bar Park, and subsequent years have seen it relocate to Gallagher Park, where it currently takes place[4][5].

Mission and Activities

The society's mission is to celebrate diverse and affordable folk music while fostering meaningful and inclusive experiences for its volunteers, artists, vendors, patrons, and the broader community of Edmonton, Alberta. The festival offers a wide range of activities, including music workshops and concerts across multiple stages, a tent village for craftspeople, a CD retail area, and a large beer garden[1][2].

Governance and Operations

The festival is managed by a team led by producer Terry Wickham, who oversees the artist selection process. It relies heavily on volunteer support, with over 2,600 volunteers involved each year. This volunteer-driven structure helps maintain affordable ticket prices for attendees. The society also engages in fundraising activities and seeks corporate sponsorships to support its mission[2].

Cultural Significance

The Edmonton Folk Music Festival Society recognizes and respects the cultural heritage of the land it occupies, which is situated on Treaty Six Territory. It acknowledges the historical significance of the Edmonton river valley as a traditional meeting place for Indigenous Peoples and seeks to honor this heritage through its community-building efforts[2].