After much consideration and careful evaluation, the Board of Directors for the Kutztown Folk Festival has announced that its nine-day summer event will not be held in 2025. This decision comes as a result of mounting financial challenges that have made the event unsustainable.
“This was a difficult choice, but due to dwindling attendance, increased costs and continued net losses, we are no longer able to host the Kutztown Folk Festival,” said Ed Richmond, vice president and chief financial officer of the Kutztown Pennsylvania German Festival, Inc. “We are hopeful that a successor, or successors, will step up to reimagine the event and take on its operations moving forward.”
The Kutztown Folk Festival, the oldest continuously operated folklife festival in America, provided insight and understanding of the traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch and their fascinating way of life.
The Festival Board would like to express its gratitude to all who have supported the Kutztown Folk Festival.
“The Festival is a true community event, and we are grateful to the volunteers, staff, vendors, craftspeople, sponsors and patrons who contributed to its cultural legacy,” said Richmond. “This decision to suspend operations was difficult. The Board wanted to announce now, so that our vendors and craftspeople have the opportunity to make alternate summer plans. We encourage our guests to continue to support Pennsylvania Dutch culture in the region.”
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FAQS
How long has the Kutztown Folk Festival been in operation?
The Kutztown Folk Festival was established in 1950. Click here to read a full history of the event.
What is the mission of the Festival?
The Kutztown Folk Festival celebrates the unique folklife, living traditions, and arts of the Pennsylvania Dutch and the broader cultural region, engaging diverse audiences with high-quality food, entertainment, and educational experiences for all ages.
Is the Kutztown Folk Festival affiliated with Kutztown University?
The Kutztown Folk Festival is not directly affiliated with Kutztown University. Kutztown Pennsylvania German Festival, Inc. is a separate 501c4 not-for-profit corporation that has been financially supported by the Kutztown University Foundation.
How much does it cost to operate the Kutztown Folk Festival?
The Kutztown Folk Festival’s annual budget in 2024 was $1,000,000.
How much has the event lost?
Since 2022, the event has lost $347,000.
Will vendors be refunded their deposits?
All vendors will be refunded 100% of their deposits.
In what other ways can I celebrate and support Pennsylvania Dutch culture in the region?
There still are many ways to celebrate this vibrant culture, such as Kutztown University’s Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center and the Reading-Berks Guild of Craftsmen.
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Jillian Lovejoy, Spokesperson
