Haha, I've been a folkie ever since I can remember. Blame it on a radio broadcast my Mum taped, which had Sweeney's Men and Planxty (among others) on it. Never stood a chance!
Not many of my friends are into it, and those who do, are into 'world' and 'ethnic' music. That said, I have found a few great purchases in record stores. However, one CD that goes down quite well with most people is a compilation called 'Legends of the Scottish Fiddle'. You can find it on the Green Linnet site, along with many others listenable for free.
One friend likes some folk because they are a Sharpe fan.
Wanted to go to the local festival again this year, but couldn't make it, but it was only 10 minutes away from where I live!