It's been a great week for the 36th Annual International FolkFest. For the past week, dance troupes from Italy, Mexico, and Sweden have been visiting libraries, civic clubs, senior centers and other mid-state venues, to share their various cultures. Approximately 75 musicians, dancers and administrative personnel have been here for the past week and wrap-up with a special performance on the Murfreesboro square from 8:30 Saturday (6/16/2018) morning until 12:30 in the afternoon.
In addition to the historic square performance, all groups head to Bell Buckle, Tennessee Saturday (6/16/2018) evening for a show at the Bell Buckle Banquet Hall.
It was started in 1982 by Murfreesboro educator Steve Cates and the Cripple Creek Cloggers, who act as ambassadors for this community and travel to world destinations and perform the Appalachian style of dance and music.
The visiting groups from Italy, Mexico and Sweden stayed in dorms at Middle Tennessee State University.
Various faith groups, schools, civic groups and individuals provide meals each day as the troupes perform for retirement homes, boys and girls clubs, veterans, libraries, Murfreesboro City Schools, MTSU's Governor's School for the Arts, senior citizens, etc.
Group Transportation
The Boys and Girls Club of Rutherford County worked with the Folkfest Planning Committee and provided bus transportation for the groups from Italy, Mexico, and Sweden. Each group has a guide, a Folkfest volunteer, who will be with them all during their stay.
Tradition Continues
A popular tradition from earlier Folkfest's continued this year as families, individuals and neighborhoods, hosted and entertained the groups at a dinner meal. This provided an excellent opportunity for the locals to interact and have fun with a group from Italy, Mexico, and Sweden.
To become a part of the International Folkfest Planning Committee or Cripple Creek Cloggers, contact Steve Cates, Director, at appdancer@aol.com.
Visit the International Folkfest website: http://www.mboro-international-folkfest.org
