Western Folklife Center

Western Folklife is a renowned brand dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich and diverse cultures of the American West. With a vision to explore and give voice to traditional and dynamic communities, their mission is to connect the American West with the world through storytelling and cultural expression. At Western Folklife, they provide a vibrant platform for rural and urban communities to communicate and exchange new ideas and avenues of expression.

They are widely recognized for producing the first Cowboy Poetry Gathering in 1985, and it remains their signature event. This celebrated gathering promotes the artistry and ingenuity of life in the American West while addressing contemporary realities and issues. Throughout the year, Western Folklife engages in valuable fieldwork, research, exhibits, and archiving activities to preserve, document, and share the heritage of the West.

Their media and educational programs entertain and engage audiences, deepening their understanding of the vitality and challenges faced by western communities. As a local and regional nonprofit cultural center, Western Folklife houses an exhibition gallery, a 300-seat theater, a black box theater, a historic saloon, and a gift shop. Governed by a dedicated board of trustees and a national advisory council, they rely on the support of staff, members, donors, and volunteers to fulfill their mission.

Operational funding is derived from a combination of earned and contributed income generated by ticketed events, public sources, private foundations, individual donors, and businesses. The Western Folklife Center values its donor privacy and ensures that personally identifiable information is not shared with outside parties without consent. To stay connected with the Western Folklife Center and receive news and updates, you can sign up with your email address.

They respect your privacy and adhere to a strict privacy policy. If you have any inquiries about donating to the Western Folklife Center or wish to learn more about their work, you can contact their Development offices. The Western Folklife Center is located at 501 Railroad Street, Elko, Nevada, and can be reached at 775-738-7508 (toll-free 880-888-5885), Pacific time zone.

Discover the vibrant cultures and captivating stories of the American West with Western Folklife Center, an organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving the heritage of this iconic region