May 15 – 17, 2026
Welcome to a weekend of Cajun music and dance with the very finest tradition-bearers. We offer multiple levels of instruction in Cajun fiddle, accordion and dance, plus cultural discussions, jam sessions, parties, traditional food and more! More information about the festival will be posted here when available. Questions? Contact the Program Manager, Kelli Emerson, at 608-924-4000 or programs@folklorevillage.org.
Schedule
The festival begins with a Friday evening dance. Saturday features a full day of workshops, catered meals, a cultural session, and an evening dance. The festival wraps up on Sunday with final workshops and lunch. The full schedule will be posted here when available.
Registration
Online registration will open in 2026.
Scholarships
It takes a village to put on our festivals. If you sign up to help us out by washing tableware (plates, silverware, and cups) after meals, you can attend the festival for only $120. Dishwashers spend approximately 30 – 60 minutes in the kitchen per meal. Please contact Program Manager Kelli Emerson at 608-924-4000 or programs@folklorevillage.org to inquire about dishwashing scholarships.
Artistic Staff
Ellen Keane, Dance
Ellen began social dancing at a very young age by standing upon her fathers’ feet. She enjoyed attending family dances for throughout her childhood and was turned on to Cajun music and dance in the 1990s. She aims to share the beautiful Zen that can be found and enjoyed by dancing to Cajun music. Ellen is a professional dance instructor and choreographer and is the Artistic Director of Keane Sense of Rhythm Tap Dance Company.
Brian O’Donnell, Beginning/Intermediate Fiddle
Brian caught the Cajun fiddle bug at the 1999 Ashokan camp in New York, and shortly afterwards started a jam session at his home which evolved into the Cajun Strangers. Brian is a much sought after fiddler in Cajun music circles and he also plays old time music. In addition to the Cajun Strangers, he plays fiddle and guitar in the Madison honky-tonk band the Dirty Shirts, and he plays fiddle and guitar in the Barley Brothers.
Charlie Terr, Intermediate Accordion
Charlie Terr has been bringing his fabulous musicianship and charm to our Cajun & Creole Weekends since the beginning. Charlie and his brother John Terr are founders of the renowned Chicago Cajun Aces and continue to teach, play, and inspire audiences and students across the country.
Gene Losey, Beginning Accordion
Gene Losey will guide beginning accordion players in basic scales, fingering and the techniques that “make it sound Cajun.” Don’t have an accordion? We may be able to find one for you to use if you inquire!
Meals
Sharing meals together is an essential part of many Folklore Village events, and Folklore Village festivals feature catered meals prepared fresh in-house by the fabulous RedBarn Catering. Vegetarian and gluten free options will be available at every meal for those who register as vegetarian or gluten free. If you have additional dietary restrictions please let us know via the festival registration form. RedBarn Catering will do their best to accommodate various needs but cannot guarantee all dietary needs will be met. If you have questions or concerns please contact Folklore Village at (608) 924-4000 ahead of the festival.
Accommodations
Bunkhouse (Very rustic): $20 per person per night
Stay on-site within walking distance (about 3 blocks) of Farwell Hall (main activities building). The bunkhouses are heated, with cots provided, and camp-style toilets and handpump nearby. Showers are located in Farwell Hall. Bring your own bedding, pillow, towel, flashlight, etc. Men and woman are housed in separate buildings. Heated and air conditioned!
Tenting: $10 per tent, per night
Many sites are available No campfires allowed. Showers and bathrooms are located in Farwell Hall (main activity building). You can register for tent camping via the festival registration form.
RV Camping with Electrical Hook-up: $15 per RV, per night
*Extremely limited; reserve early!*
To register for an RV spot with electrical hook-up please email programs@folklorevillage.org.
Other Lodging:
Folklore Village is glad to partner with AmericInn Dodgeville. Use this link for discounted rates!
Other hotels may offer a discount if you mention you are coming to a Folklore Village event.
Deer Valley Lodge (608)924-1600
Best Western (608)935-7739
Pine Ridge Motel (608)935-3386
Quality Inn (608)987-4747
