Simone Wai

Creative Director Folkways

What is your favorite Folkways event?

My favorite event is the Renaissance Night Bazaar. I love all of the themed costumes and performances. The community really gets into the theme by dressing up and expressing their creativity. It really transports you into another world and allows you to get into character.

What is your favorite non-Folkways event?

As a person who loves putting together costumes, one of my favorite events to attend is the Plains Art Museum Gala. The themes are always fun, and they go all out with the performances, food, and decorations. Their gala is an immersive experience that incorporates art into every turn. It’s also for a great cause, supporting the museum as a fundraiser.

Folkways is known for bringing imagination, connection, and creativity to the Fargo community—but behind every market, bazaar, and immersive experience is a team of people who love this city just as much as the audiences they serve. We asked members of the Folkways staff to share their favorite events, both within the organization and out in the wider community

Parsley

Events Intern Folkways

What is your favorite Folkways event?

I adore the Night Bazaars! It’s always so cool to see everyone come dressed in their themed costumes, and it’s such a great display of creativity from both vendors and visitors!

What is your favorite non-Folkways event?

I love Paradox’s Nerdy Rummage Sale! It’s so cool to see all the memorabilia folks have collected over the years, as well as the incredible crafts put together by some of our talented local artists!

Lesleyanne Buegel

Programming Manager, Folkways

What is your favorite Folkways event?

Circus Night Bazaar is lways at the height of summer (July). The Circus Bazaar is full of energy, action, and fun. I love to book programming for this event because you can really stretch the limits and engage with a wide variety of talent. I enjoy seeing folks show up in costume, and watching guests take in the experiences with fresh eyes and ears.

What is your favorite non-Folkways event?

The Fargo Film Festival offers a great selection of short and feature films. The camaraderie among movie attendees and the format of a film festival have always appealed to me!

Dexter Dutton

Development Manager, Folkways

What is your favorite Folkways event?

I love Saturday mornings at the Red River Market. The Market is what made me fall in love with Fargo, so there’s a special nostalgia I feel each time I’m there. Now, getting to help make the magic happen for thousands of others to experience adds a little extra sweetness to my Saturdays, July through October.

What is your favorite non-Folkways event?

Tempo events, like the Blade Rave that just happened, are so much fun. One thing about me, I love to dance, and the dance floor at any Tempo function is sure to be a good time.

Amanda Frost

Marketing Coordinator Folkways

What is your favorite Folkways event?

My favorite Folkways event has to be the Renaissance Night Bazaar. As the first outdoor night bazaar of the season, it’s such a joy to celebrate being outside with the community after months of winter. I love how wholeheartedly everyone embraces the theme; seeing people arrive in costume truly brings the atmosphere to life. The roaming performers are another highlight; their playful characters add a touch of whimsy and make the entire evening delightfully silly and fun.

What is your favorite non-Folkways event?

One of my favorite local events that I look forward to each year is the Junkyard 5k in August. This race is very accepting of all skill levels, and I just love the energy of a supportive and energetic run. Hanging out afterwards at the brewery is also so much fun, and they give out really great prizes. It is a lowstakes race, and the route is along the Red River, which is so beautiful.