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2023

Creative Encounters

Living Religions in the U.S.

How to Participate

Five men performing on stage in matching white shirts and pants, some with red vest. Two in front play harmonium and tablas while others clap. Smithsonian Folklife Festival logo on the screen behind them.
Riyaaz Qawwali, representing Sufi musical traditions from Houston, Texas, performed in a preview event at the 2022 Festival.
Photo by Sonya Pencheva, Ralph Rinzler Folklife Archives

The 2023 Smithsonian Folklife Festival program Creative Encounters: Living Religions in the U.S. explores how the country’s diverse religious traditions inspire a wellspring of creative encounters and expressions. The program centers the stories and lived experiences of Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, Native Americans, Humanists, and followers of African-inspired religions and other religious and ethical traditions.

Our open call for Festival participation is now closed, and participant selection is under way. We anticipate having a list of performers by March 2023.

Other ways to be involved in the program:

  • Interns — We offer spring and summer internships for students and non-students alike. The deadline to apply for summer placements was March 15. Check the internship listings for updates and how to apply.
  • Volunteers — Volunteers assist with stage management, audiovisual documentation, participant support, and much more. Subscribe to the Festival volunteer mailing list for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the deadline to submit my application?

January 20, 2023

What financial costs should I consider?

Travel, lodging, food, and accidental insurance for selected participants will be provided by the Smithsonian. Participants will also receive a daily stipend. Any additional expenses will be your responsibility.

If selected, what sort of time commitment is required?

In addition to attending the two-week Festival in D.C., participants will need to connect with Festival coordinators and curators in the preceding months to create and solidify their portion of the program.

Can I provide my own sponsorship or the sponsorship of my group?

No, self-sponsorship is not an option.

What if I can only attend part of the Festival?

We will give preference to contributors who are able to participate for the duration of the Festival.

How does the selection process work?

Smithsonian curators and other program partners will make the ultimate decisions on Festival content and participation. Priority will be given to individuals or groups who have a strong connection to the key themes and the flexibility to work within smaller numbers. Individuals or small groups who have the ability to present on a variety of topics will also be prioritized.

Applications will be reviewed by the Living Religion curatorial team. Festival participation will be determined based on the quality and authenticity of the proposed work. Applicants will not be contacted unless the curatorial team is interested in pursuing their participation in the Festival.

When will participants be notified?

Festival participants will be notified by Smithsonian officials in March 2023.

Where can I learn more about the Festival and past programs?

Please see our Mission & History and Past Programs pages online.

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