In 2018, Portland's Folk Festival first occurred at McMenamin's White Eagle to honor the emerging local music culture and recognize their collective contributions. The event commenced at noon and lasted until dawn, with 24 neighborhood and regional artists participating in the celebration. An incredibly memorable occasion for all those fortunate enough to attend!
The Portland Folk Festival, which outgrew the modest capacity of the White Eagle venue, was moved to McMenamin's Mission Theater - a two-leveled and sophisticated yet rowdy ambiance. With this relocation came an expansion to a two-day affair filled with love and music that pushed the limits of sound techs but provided sheer joy for fans and artists alike who had sold tickets.
Later that year, the Portland's Folk Festival team received the disheartening news that Mission Theater would be reverting to its original setup as a movie theater. This situation left them greatly disappointed and without their new home, but they sought to remain hopeful in this trying time. Fortunately, they had a fantastic opportunity - hosting the 2020 festival at McMenamin's Crystal Ballroom, a legendary location renowned for its beauty!
And so Portland's Folk Festival stepped onto the stage of one of their city's most renowned venues, The Crystal Ballroom - where decades of world-renowned performers have left behind a palpable energy. This festival intends to bring together Portland's musical community and celebrate each other, form bonds, express gratitude, and show support for one another. As long as you keep attending this event, they pledge to continue hosting it in its current capacity!