The Champaign-Urbana Folk and Roots Festival is an all-volunteer-run, not-for-profit, grassroots festival that brings together national, regional and local artists and folk organizations for over 80 high-quality folk performances and participatory activities throughout downtown Urbana.
The festival includes performances, dances, instructional sessions, jams, song-circles, family activities, storytelling, instrument-making and much, much more! The festival has a particular interest in evolving and unique forms of folk music and art, especially forms that break down barriers between audience and performers, while also providing the occasion to preserve local traditions and histories.
As always, you can reach us on our Contact Us page, subscribe to our newsletter to keep in touch, and learn more about volunteering. Check out our social media profiles in the sidebar to your right. For more news, see our blog, or check out our posts on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
At its core, C-U Folk & Roots Fest is about gathering community—quite literally…[Its] mission focuses on promoting community, inclusivity, showcasing diverse artistic forms, fostering quality social interactions, and energizing downtown Urbana. Lofty goals for a humble Midwest music festival, no doubt. Yet thanks to abundant community goodwill and some strategic planning, C-U Folk & Roots has spent 15 years bringing its mission to life.