JUNEAU, Alaska-Established in the winter 1975, the Alaska Folk Festival has grown to become a central event in Juneau's local music scene and is the oldest and largest festival of its kind in Alaska. Many of its founding members are still around and many of their children are continuing the musical traditions of their parents. Each year this annual event held in Juneau celebrates folk music from Alaska, the Northwestern United States, and Canada. Welcoming artists of all levels, the festival now boasts more than 140 acts, as well as dances and workshops. The festival is based on a 15-minute-act structure as a way for local musicians to pick up new skills through workshops and performances. Guest artists also come to town for the event, and though some years have seen big-name acts, most of the guest artists are not household names; they are chosen from a list of recommendations and then voted on by the Folk Fest board. The festival takes place April 5-11, 2010 and is free to the public. For more information please visit their web site: www.alaskafolkfest.org

Media Contact: Laura Ecklund, 760.212.6060, laura@atmstravelnews.com, www.traveljuneau.com. Photos available. Click here for Media Kit.