What The Folk?

It's a little weird going to the American Folk Festival as a civilian. For years, The Maven was the lead reporter on the event for the Bangor Daily News — heck, she planned her wedding around it. But these days, we go and are actually able to kick back and relax. Not that there's much relaxing to be had.

The caliber of acts at the AFF — a free, Bangor-based offshoot of the National Folk Festival — has lured tens of thousands of people to the Queen City each summer. This event, which celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures that have contributed to American music, dance and folk arts, has truly become the biggest party of the season. It kicks off Friday at 6 p.m. and lasts until late Sunday afternoon.

This year's lineup promises to be equally festive. Most of the performers aren't household names, but you'll be humming their tunes long after the tents come down and the last Gyro is served. We're looking forward to Cherish the Ladies, Los Texmaniacs and The Nile Ensemble. We're also hungry for Falafel, Korean barbecue and John's Ice Cream. The Maine artisan vendors are also a draw — we'll stock up on jewelry by Lisa Bess and SeaColors yarn.

But what we really want to know is this: What are you looking forward to? What's your favorite folk festival tradition? Which foods do you crave? Which crafts will you buy? Please let us know by posting below. We hope to see you there!

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