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- The Smithsonian folk life festival is held outdoors on the National Mall in late July and early Junes. Hundreds of tradition bearers worldwide share their heritage in D.C. The scorching heat didn’t prevent people from coming.
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- Traditional Hawaii dance is a big attraction of this year’s festival. The group, Unukupukupu, a hula haula( a school where the ancient dance hula is taught) from University of Hawai’i, performed for about an hour at the festival.
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- For many members of the group, this is the first time they have performed outside Hawaii. Prior to this, Unukupukupu danced at the library of congress on June 26.
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- Art is an important part of the festival. Chanel Compton, 28,artist and museum educator, paints the sculptures outside an art demonstration tent set up by artist Jay Coleman.
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- Universities figure prominently in the festival as well. Angie Weikert, education director with the Museum of the Rockies at Montana State University, introduces people to the university’s study about dinosaurs.
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- Water is a necessity in this hot weather. People quickly formed a line at several water places of the festival.
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- Fruit vendors say the hot temperature makes good business. Desiree Diggs sells watermelon and other fruits for $4. She says she hopes to make a lot during the festival.
WASHINGTON — The Smithsonian Folklife Festival opened June 27 on the National Mall, featuring hundreds of exhibits of traditional crafts and arts. A huge attraction this year is the traditional hula dance from the group Unukupupu. The overwhelming heat didn’t prevent people from coming and enjoying this year’s festival.