It’s Memorial Day Weekend, which means it’s time to break out the tank tops, fire up the grill, and rediscover that the lakes are still really freaking cold in May. And it’s also time to scoot down to Seattle Center to go to Folklife.  I know, I know. The only thing you think of when I sa y Folklife is drum circles and faded tie-dye. And yes, that is absolutely the vibe. But it’s easy to get distracted by the wall of patchouli and forget that Folklife is so unique. Founded in 1972, it’s a massive, multiday festival in Seattle Center that’s been free to enter for its entire existence. Every year, about 6,000 people volunteer to perform there, a quarter of a million people pass through, and 800 people volunteer to make it happen.  And in case you think it’s all drum circles (which I’m not knocking, some of them are cool too): One of the booths literally sells my favorite quesadilla in the entire city. There’s a whole set of Irish rebel music. One stage is exclusively dedicated to indigenous musicians. Tonight is the Massive Monkees’ annual Youth Breakdance Championship. And LEMON BOY is playing at the Vera Project on Saturday night! Maybe you wanna learn Appalachian clog dancing? (I kind of do, tbh.)  Maybe you stopped going when we legalized pot, and you didn’t need to cozy up to a guy in a poncho to buy some anymore. Maybe you stopped going when you started making Adult Money and could afford to pay through the nose for other festivals. Or maybe you’re new to town, and this is the first time you’re hearing the words “Northwest Folklife.”  Whatever it is, in 2026, it’s insane that we still have a free culture festival in Seattle. Don’t take it for granted. Plus, you probably need some new tie-dye.  The post Go to Folklife This Year appeared first on The Stranger. ...read more read less