NJ Folk Festival To Celebrate 50 Years of Cultural Traditions In Middlesex County

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ - The New Jersey Folk Festival is reaching a major milestone this month, and Middlesex County is inviting everyone to join the celebration.

On Saturday, Aug. 23, Davidson's Mill Pond Park in North Brunswick will host the 50th anniversary of what organizers call the state's oldest and largest celebration of folk culture and heritage.

The free, family-friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and promises a full day of activities celebrating both global traditions and local talent.

As part of the FolkLIVE 2025 series, this year's festival emphasizes the connections between cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression.

Visitors can expect an authentic folk experience with live demonstrations by New Jersey folklife centers, skilled artisans, and cultural organizations representing various traditions. The festival will feature continuous music and dance performances throughout the day, showcasing the breadth of folk traditions practiced across the state.

The event goes beyond passive observation, offering hands-on experiences for attendees of all ages. Children can participate in traditional crafts activities, while families can enjoy tractor rides around the scenic park grounds. A folk marketplace will allow visitors to purchase authentic crafts and artwork directly from the artists who create them.

Davidson's Mill Pond Park provides an ideal setting for the celebration, with the Middlesex County EARTH Center contributing nature-focused activities that complement the cultural programming. The combination creates an educational experience that connects environmental awareness with cultural appreciation.

One unique feature of this year's festival is live cricket demonstrations, offering visitors a chance to learn about this traditional sport that holds cultural significance in many communities represented at the event.

Organizers recommend that visitors come prepared for a full day outdoors. Families should bring picnic blankets or folding chairs to create comfortable spots for enjoying performances and activities. Essential items include hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles for staying comfortable throughout the day.

Food vendors will be on-site offering local cuisine, giving attendees the opportunity to taste dishes that reflect the cultural diversity celebrated at the festival.

Free parking is available in designated grassy areas around Davidson's Mill Pond Park, located at 42 Riva Avenue in North Brunswick. A limited number of ADA-accessible parking spaces are available in paved lots for visitors who need them.