REPORTER (American, Female): In other news, we are only weeks away from our
city’s annual Folk Festival. Every year artists from around the United States,
as well as from Europe and Central America, flock to Austin to play at what is
arguably one of the largest gatherings of folk musicians in the world.
Many of you have probably been noticing an increase in the numbers of
festivals and major events in the Austin area. This is no coincidence. Our city
is in the process of redefining itself as a major destination in not only the
United States but worldwide as well. We have a lot to offer the world, and we
aim to prove it.
That’s why the government is investing heavily in large event venues,
sports stadiums, and concert halls. In addition, they are revamping our rather
outdated system of transportation, putting significant amounts of money into
expanding the rail system and bus lines. The vision is to have a city that is
prepared for residential growth and that can also handle influxes of tourists.
Needless to say, local businesses, especially hotels and restaurants, are not
complaining one bit about these changes.
But some long-time Austin dwellers are anxious about losing the small
town feeling that has been a source of pride for locals. One Austin resident who has lived in the city center
for over 20 years says, “I like
knowing all of my neighbors, having relationships with the shop owners. I’m not
sure how we can keep that familiarity with all of these newbies coming in.”
Government officials have responded to these concerns, saying that
without growth, the city will
face economic hardships in the not-so-distant future. Urban centers are the
hubs of trade and industry, and as the capitol of Texas, it’s important that
Austin remains relevant in those sectors. The Austin mayor has also chimed in,
pointing out that it’s the down-to-earth feeling of the city that is inviting
to outsiders, and that he thinks new residents will be invested in maintaining
that atmosphere.
Returning to the Folk Festival, we have some
details here for those of you who would like to participate. The festival is
going to take place at Zilker Park, so hope for good weather! For those of you
who aren’t familiar with the park, the festival grounds are set alongside the
beautiful Barton Creek, just off of Lady Bird Lake Trail.
The dates of the festival are October 3rd
to 5th, and it sure does look to be a great line-up for those few
days. The gates open at 11 a.m. and festivalgoers will need to leave the
grounds by 1 a.m. Being that this is an outdoor venue, you are advised to dress
for any weather. While the forecast so far looks sunny and warm, a sudden rain
cloud could leave you quite miserable if you don’t have an umbrella or poncho.
There are a variety of ticket packages
available, which are all listed on the festival’s website. You can get general
admission passes for any one of the festival days for $50. Or, there are
three-day passes for $120. If you really want to go all-out, there are also VIP
passes for one or three days, and these give you access to the private lounges
where the musicians will be hanging out between sets. VIP passes start at $500
and go on up to $3000.
Now, you’d be smart to buy your passes in
advance of the event. At-the-door costs are estimated to be up to 30 percent
higher, and that’s if there are even spaces left. You can order passes online,
directly through the Folk Festival webpage or from the Zilker Park box office.
You can also purchase passes in person at the box office. And if you end up
trying to get in at the last minute, be warned: undercover police will be
watching for ticket scalpers.
One of our reporters will be there to cover the
event, so stay tuned to our program for live updates and reviews of the
performances. And please feel free to call us at 1-800-332-9990 to let us know
your reactions to this year’s Folk Festival.