Your culture deserves a stage
Your dancers deserve this moment
FolkWave Festival 2026
Granbury, Texas
Labor Day weekend.
A 3-day multicultural dance competition where folk groups from across America compete, perform, and celebrate the traditions that make us beautiful.
After your big moment, compete for cash prizes, trophies, stage performances, and recognition that can launch your dance journey.
1st, 2nd, 3rd place cash prizes + special awards for Costume & Choreography.
Don’t miss your shot. Register before it’s too late!
REGISTER YOUR DANCE GROUP
For Performers
Register your folk dance group and be part of something bigger
What's Included in the registration:
Competition entry across three age categories (6-12, 12-16, 16+)
Full access to Master Classes with dance experts
Professional stage production and awards ceremony
Connection with folk dance groups from across America
Special Hotel Booking Rate
Fee: $250 per group member
GET TICKETS
You can watch dozens of cultural traditions come alive on one stage and experience the magic.
Day 1: Opening Ceremony & Performances
Watch all groups compete.
Day 2: Competition & Masterclasses
Dive into exclusive workshops led by master choreographers.
Day 3: Finals & Gala Ceremony
Watch the top groups compete in finals, and the awards announcement.
Perfect for families, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone who loves authentic live performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FolkWave Festival's mission?
FolkWave Festival's mission is to introduce international cultures to the American public by inviting folk dance companies and groups from all over the United States to compete in this multicultural festival of dance.
FolkWave is both a celebration and a competitive event where folk dance groups from across the country come together to compete and perform for a judging panel.
How much does it cost to participate?
Registration fee is $250-$300 per group member.This includes competition entry, all Master Classes on Day 2, professional production, networking opportunities, and the awards ceremony.
What size should our group be?
Minimum group size 10 dancers.
Maximum group size 20 dancers.
Do we need to perform traditional choreography only?
Your performance should represent your cultural tradition authentically. Creativity is encouraged as long as it honors the roots of the dance.
I don't know anything about folk dance. Will I still enjoy it?
Most of our audience had never seen folk dance before. We provide cultural context for each performance, program notes explaining the tradition, history, and what to watch for.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Potentially, but we encourage advance purchase. Events like this can sell out quickly.
What if we've never competed before?
FolkWave welcomes both seasoned competitors and groups trying this for the first time. Our judging panel evaluates based on authenticity, technique, and storytelling.
Who should come to the FolkWave Festival?
Anyone who appreciates culture, loves live performance, or wants to expose their family to something meaningful. Perfect for cultural enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the traditions that make America diverse.
What kind of judging panel evaluates performances?
Our judging panel includes internationally recognized choreographers, dance directors, cultural experts, and folk dance practitioners with decades of experience.
What if our tradition isn't well-known?
We want to spotlight traditions that deserve more recognition. Whether you're dancing a widely known style or a regional tradition most people have never seen, Folkwave is your stage.
Is this appropriate for kids?
Absolutely! Folkwave is family friendly. Performances are colorful, energetic, and typically 6-10 minutes each. Perfect for holding kids' attention.
How can I stay updated on festival news?
Follow us on social media (@folkwavefestival), or check back on this page regularly. We'll announce major updates (dates, location, registration opening, etc.) across all channels.
Is there a Prize?
Cash prize
1st place - $1500, 1st place trophy, perform in closing ceremony, Guest Performance (no registration fee) for the following fest Opening Ceremony.
2nd place - $1000 Cash Prize, 2nd place trophy, Perform in closing ceremony performance
3rd place - $500 Cash Prize, 3rd place Trophy, Perform in closing ceremony performance.
Honorary Mention Costumes - Win a medal for best costumes, perform in closing ceremony performance.
Honorary Mention for Choreography - Win a medal for choreography, and perform in closing ceremony
