BDenz, I know what you mean. I wrote a piece about that for the Victory Review a few years ago, which prompted a nasty rebuke from the then Executive Director of Folklife. But mostly I just come with very low expectations, hang around the NW corner, let things come to me and occasionally encounter some great acts mostly by chance. Also the free open stage in the Alki Room is a good place for anyone to play, hear and meet other musicians who are not necessarily scheduled performers. Also they occasionally give me a stage or workshop so I can't be too harsh about them. This year they actually got a schedule out on time (April 14th), and I got (wonder or wonders!) free parking passes for the two days I'm on the schedule. So maybe... well probably not. It's just gotten too big and commercial and something-for-everyone but little for those interested in Northwest folk music and folklore. But I'll be there as usual.

Cheers, S. in Seattle