Texas Folklife Festival
About the Festival
The Texas Folklife Festival was modeled after the Smithsonian’s Folklife Festival, which was held in Washington, D.C. in 1968.On behalf of the Institute of Texan Cultures (which was built as part of the Texan Pavilion for the 1968 World’s Fair),O.T. Baker attended the first Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Festival founder Baker came home with big plans to replicate the event.
The first Texas Folklife Festival was held from September 7-10, 1972, on the grounds of the Institute in HemisFair Park. O.T. Baker (1910-2006), the Festival’s founder and director from 1972-75, was a dedicated and inspirational leader in constructing this phenomenal event that has received countless international, regional and local awards. The festival will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2011.
Contact Us
Main Office: 210-458-2224
Fax: 210-458-2113
Address: 801 East Durango Blvd. San Antonio, Texas 78205
Volunteer Hotline: 210-458-2216
Volunteer Fax: 210-458-2278
Volunteer Check-In: 210-458-2138 (This number is answered only during Festival hours)
Staff Members
Jo Ann Andera, Festival Director: 210-458-2249
Debbie Salas, Administrative Associate: 210-458-2224
Karen Sanchez, Volunteer Coordinator: 210-458-2283
James Benavides, Public Affairs Specialist, (210) 458-2237; Cell: (210) 347-9786