Our Mission

Texas Folklife is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and presenting the diverse cultures and living heritage of the Lone Star State. 

What Is "Folklife"?

Folklife is the accumulated traditions practiced or appreciated by members of a group who share a common history or way of life. A group's traditions may include a wide range of skills and knowledge, from customs and belief to stories and songs, from music and dance to crafts and other decorative handmade objects. Generally, traditions are learned informally and passed on from one person in the group to the next, often orally, by imitation, or in performance. Read more about the definitions of folklife and folklore at American Folklore Society (AFS) homepage and the AFS "What is Folklore" project. 

What We Do

Since 1984, Texas Folklife has honored the cultural traditions passed down within communities across Texas and explored their importance in contemporary society. As the state-designated public folklife program of Texas, we promote cultural sustainability through our commitment to support artists, tradition bearers, and communities. Texas Folklife has been called “one of the state’s true cultural treasures” by the Austin American-Statesman for the accessible, joyful arts experiences we provide.  Based in Austin, our team works across the state with a variety of community partners to cultivate, present, and embolden the state’s rich cultural legacy through a vibrant mix of public programs and initiatives, including:

• Performances
• Exhibitions
• Education Programs & Curriculum Materials
• Apprenticeships
• Multimedia projects
• Fiscal Sponsorships
• Folk and Traditional Arts Infrastructure Building
• Archive Preservation Project