JostWrite @ The 2011 Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the first day of the 2011 Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and I had a blast. If you know me, then you know that wherever there is music, there you will find ‘yours truly’ gyrating. I was at the event with two friends, and when it was time to dance, I migrated to the middle of the dance floor. I do not play with any opportunity to move. J

2011 festival focus is on the country of Colombia, The Peace Corp and Rhythm and Blues. The festival started Thursday, June 30th and will end Monday, July 11th. There are no events scheduled for July 5th and 6th.

This evening began with panel discussion about Soul Train brand’s historical significance in pop culture. A fun and vibrant dance lession session followed the discussion, and DJ Questlove finished the night off with music for a Soul Train dance party. EVERYone in attendance got down!

I was at the 2009 festival, but everyone I was scheduled to meet either did not show up or strutted in after I left in anger. Yep, I was stood up by more than one person. Yesterday was different. I left work and headed to the "Evening Concert: An Evening with Soul Train and Dance Party" with my friend, Chloe.  She had to leave, but I was later joined by another friend of mine, Yetty. We had a blast or at least I did. From listening to the Soul Train panel to the dance lessons and later dance…dance…dance, it was a certified fun party. I had long forgotten some songs, but with each change of music came the incentive for my hips to move. I am sure I lost a few pounds doing the 'running man" and "loss booty" dance down the soul train line.

A lot of songs from the 80s and before were featured that I was not familiar with. I guess my only demand to DJ QuestLove J was “Could you at least play some more songs from the 90s?” Oh well, I had a blast regardless. The crowd was a mixed audience in age and race. I was really impressed at the diversity in attendance. The night ended with a Michael Jackson number. J

A night of fun could have ended terribly; after all the dancing, an annoucement came from the stage that a mother was missing her 10-yr old daughter. Thank God, the girl was safe on the dance floor. She was having the time of her life while her dear mom searched for her. YAY!

If you are in Washington DC, and you need something to do this weekend or next, head over to The 2011 Smithsonian Folklife Festival. It is right at the Smithsonian station on the Blue and Orange lines. You can also get off at Federal Triangle station also on the Blue and Orange lines.

Click here for more info about the 2011 Smithsonian Folklife Festival