Middlesex Co. Folk Festival Returns In 2025 With PoWow, Gospel And More: Dates

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ — Following a successful debut in 2024, Middlesex County’s FolkLIVE festival returns this year.

This will be a total of four outdoor events celebrating global traditions and local talent. These family-friendly events highlight the diverse voices, cultures and stories that make Middlesex County one of America's most vibrant and inclusive communities.

“FolkLIVE has grown into a powerful expression of our County’s identity,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios. “It’s about more than performances — it’s about connecting people through the shared language of culture. Whether attending one event or all four, you’ll find something that reflects your story or invites you to learn someone else’s. I invite all residents and visitors to come out this summer and enjoy one of our many outdoor events!”

The festival is organized by the Arts Institute of Middlesex County. Here is the 2025 line-up:

Saturday, June 21-Sunday, June 22 11 am-8 pm FolkLIVE: Raritan Native American Heritage Celebration and PowWow

• This two-day event held at the Middlesex County Fairgrounds in East Brunswick welcomes over 1,000 Native American artists, dancers, and educators from across the country. Visitors can enjoy traditional storytelling, dance exhibitions, artisan demonstrations and authentic cuisine, including buffalo burgers, venison stew, and corn soup. Tribes represented include the Lakota, Navajo, Mohawk, Cherokee, Aztec, Hawaiian, and many others. Tickets are available here.

• Saturday, June 28 2-6 pm FolkLIVE: Gospel Music Festival

• Returning to Monument Square Park in New Brunswick, the Gospel Music Festival will feature Grammy award winner Fred Hammond and Grammy award nominee Kierra Sheard, along with emerging local talent. With roots tracing back to the foundation of this nation, gospel music has been traditionally passed down through generations. Free admission.

Saturday, August 23 10 am-4 pm FolkLIVE: New Jersey Folk Festival 50th Anniversary

• The state’s longest-running folk festival will now join Middlesex County’s FolkLIVE event series at Davidson’s Mill Pond Park in South Brunswick. Celebrating its 50th year, the festival will include live music, dance, heritage exhibits, crafts, food vendors, and family-friendly programming. This new venue will also highlight the Garden State’s agricultural heritage. Free admission.

Saturday, September 13 2-6 pm FolkLIVE: Mexican Independence Festival 2025

• This year, in partnership with Holy Family Parish’s Folkloric Dance Troupe, the Mexican Independence Festival will join Middlesex County’s FolkLIVE event series at Elmer B. Boyd Park in New Brunswick. The event will celebrate Mexican culture and traditions with an array of local, national and international artists and artisans. Other event highlights include folkloric performers, Mariachi musicians, and entertainment from “GRITO DE INDEPENDENCIA,” in partnership with the Mexican Consulate in New Brunswick. Free admission.

For the latest updates, including artist lineups and full schedules, visit MiddlesexCountyCulture.com.