In 1968, the founders of what is now the Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Arts Society issued the following four mandates for the organization and they have been contained in our official corporate documents over the years. We feel just as strongly about them today as they did back then.
From these mandates, we developed the following mission statement:
The Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Arts Society celebrates, preserves, and promotes the traditional and contemporary folk arts of our province at home and away, through public outreach and events, including our annual Folk Festival.
Our two longest running events, Folk Night at the Ship Pub and the Annual Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Festival are rites of passage for up and coming folk and traditional musicians, and beloved by seasoned performers. Our support for young artists is amplified at our annual Young Folk at the Hall concert, and on the Neil Murray stage for young performers at the Festival. Our events give audiences the opportunity to engage in celebration of our traditional folk arts.
Our annual Holiday Wassail is a gathering where families can sing their favorite carols along with some of our best musicians in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our Folk Festival not only showcases great performers, but gives our audiences a chance to take part by playing along in open jam sessions, learn traditional dances, arts and crafts.
Please join us as we continue to celebrate the unique heritage and culture of the people of Newfoundland & Labrador. Come out to our many events, sign up for our weekly newsletter, become a volunteer, a member, or a financial supporter of our organization.
If you’re interested in the financial picture of the 2024 NL Folk Festival, please click here!
The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society has been honored to receive a number of awards, and we very much appreciate the support and recognition.
The by-laws of the Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Arts Society.
The Folk Arts Society bestows Lifetime Achievement Awards to those who have made outstanding contributions to folk arts in Newfoundland and Labrador. Meet our past recipients.
