There are large 'folk' communities in Boston, Seattle....even Denver has one...and lots of other places have small to moderate groups, but DC is a bit different in that there is still a core group which preserves and 'does' a lot of *traditional* music. (and most of them are more eclectic than yours truly..*grin*) You can find the more modern stuff, and plenty singer-songwriters here too, as well as Celtic and a very large Bluegrass community. This is why I say that 'ol Max, being close to both the DC area and the N.Y, N.J, Mass., Maine areas, may be closer to the center...even with no major events right down the street.

Our newsletter has page after page of listings for local venues and performers and dances, etc....The point being, that you can find almost any kind of 'folk-related' music & dance going on here, including music of many other cultures besides Anglo-Celtic. Why, there are even folks around here who know some Dylan! ;>)