Holiday Folk Fair International

The 80th Holiday Folk Fair International will be held Fri., Nov. 17 – Sun., Nov. 19, 2023, at the Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis, Wis. A program of the International Institute of Wisconsin (IIW), Holiday Folk Fair International celebrates the cultural heritage of the people living in southeastern Wisconsin. This year’s theme, “Celebrate the Culture of Traditional Dress,” will allow Fairgoers the opportunity to explore how groups share their culture and traditions through the apparel they wear. “The Holiday Folk Fair International is an event that enables cultures from around the world to showcase their traditions and heritage. As we foster an environment of learning and understanding, of respect and tolerance, visitors will begin to find within themselves the necessary qualities for shaping their lives and that of their community, as well as of our state and nation,” said Paul F. Trebian, President and CEO of the IIW. “Our communities provide an identity and a sense of belonging. They help us discover who we are and why. It is our culture that shapes our identity and influences our behavior.” Special attractions in 2023 include invited international performers and artisans, photographic exhibits, the Artisan corner, the Wisconsin Woodturners, and a bonsai exhibit. The three-day event features the All Nations Theater with traditional music and dance; the World Café offering traditional dishes; the Tanzhauz where attendees dance and sing along with a variety of musical stylings; the Coffee House where patrons enjoy a beverage and baked goods while listening to talented musicians; Heritage Lane with unique traditions and customs through interactive exhibits; the International Bazaar, where cultural artifacts create a unique shopping experience; and the Callen Chef’s Stage featuring local chefs preparing traditional cuisine. Hours will be 2 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Fri., Nov. 17; 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 18; and 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sun., Nov. 19. Advance tickets, which will be available for purchase at the Folk Fair website beginning Monday, October 2, are $13 each for eight years old and up. Admission at the gate will be $16 for ages 8 – 61, with children up to age seven admitted at no charge. Those 62 and over will be admitted for $14, and all military personnel with a military ID card will be admitted free. For more information on the 2023 Holiday Folk Fair International, visit www.folkfair.org or call 414-225-6225.