From coast to coast, we want your folk.
The Not Your Average Folk Contest returns with its biggest evolution yet. For the first time, artists from across the United States are invited to submit original music for a chance to perform on one of the NC Folk Festival’s main stages.
What began as a statewide showcase has grown into a national platform designed to elevate emerging talent and support artists at every stage of their musical journey. In today’s digital landscape, gaining meaningful visibility can be a challenge, particularly for unsigned and unrepresented musicians. This contest provides a pathway for discovery, offering artists an opportunity to be seen, heard, and celebrated by both industry professionals and new audiences.
Entries will be reviewed by a panel of expert jurors who will select a group of finalists. The public will then vote to determine the artist who earns a featured performance spot at the 2026 NC Folk Festival. It is a celebration of creativity, community, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.
WHAT YOU COULD WIN:
60-minute performance on a mainstage of the 2026 North Carolina Folk festival
Hotel, Travel, and Food Expenses / Accommodations provided by the festival surrounding the performance as mentioned above
TIMELINE:
January 12: Submissions Open
February 13: Submissions Close (11:59PM EST)
February 18-March 11: Judges Adjudicate
March 16: Top 3 Announced and Public Voting Begins
March 30: Voting Ends
Late April: Winners Announced
ELIGIBILITY IN A NUTSHELL:
Contestants, including each member of a group, must be 18 years or older to apply.
Contestants must submit an accurate application.
Contestants, including each member of a group, must not be represented by an agent, booking firm, or talent agency, and must not have an outstanding contractual relationship with a major record label or publisher.
JUDGING IN A NUTSHELL:
Appeal of Performance (25%)
Incorporation of Folk / Traditional Elements (25%)
Musicianship (25%)
Uniqueness of Work Performed (25%)