Folk Alliance International (FAI) has announced a partnership with the Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, to highlight Louisiana’s vibrant cultural landscape and make this year’s conference more accessible to local artists and industry professionals.

Through this collaboration, Louisiana residents can receive 50% off registration fees, applicable to both member and nonmember rates. First-time attendees are also encouraged to apply for scholarships to further reduce costs. The lowest registration rates are available through October 31, making now the best time to sign up.

Louisiana’s creative community will take center stage at this year’s event, with daytime programming that features Zydeco, blues, and the media and business culture that make New Orleans unique. Special sessions include a presentation by Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes, this year’s Mike Seeger Traditional Fellowship Awardee. In total, 18 official Louisiana showcase acts will perform, including two dedicated stages—Friday night’s Lafayette Sheauxcase, highlighting Zydeco and Cajun music, and Saturday’s Louisiana Office of Cultural Development Showcase, offering a broad celebration of the state’s musical heritage.

Conference attendees are encouraged to stay through Sunday night for Louisiana Adventure Day and the official closing party at Tipitina’s. These experiences will feature local events, excursions, and special discounts designed to immerse visitors in the music, food, and culture of New Orleans and beyond.

Local organizations interested in hosting activations during Louisiana Adventure Day are invited to complete the form on the FAI website for inclusion.

The discount for the Folk Alliance International Conference is open now through Oct. 31. For registration and additional details, visit here.