Folkmoot USA will kick off its 30th anniversary year with the “BIG 30” from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 3, at Sid’s on Main in Canton.

It will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, music, cash bar and live and silent auctions. Folkmoot, an international folk dance and music festival headquartered in Waynesville, brings more than 250 performers from nearly a dozen countries around the globe to perform throughout WNC.

The annual cultural exchange brings the music and dance traditions of the world to Western North Carolina’s doorstep. It is one of the premiere festivals in the eastern United States, attracting 100,000 people each year.

This year, Folkmoot will be held July 17-28. In recognition of the mountain communities who have supported Folkmoot for the last three decades, the festival will feature local Appalachian music and dance at flagship performances in Haywood County.  

Tickets for the pre-festival celebration are $50 per person. Call 828.452.2997 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for tickets.

www.FolkmootUSA.org or 877.FolkUSA (877.365.5872).