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From tall tales about Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill to the legend of Davy Crockett, folk stories are a vital component of American culture. Storytelling strengthens communities, transmits oral history, and provides a fascinating window onto the rich diversity of the American experience. In Frisco, the Lone Star Storytelling Festival proudly continues this tradition by presenting two days of performances by professional and amateur storytellers from around the country. Over 7,000 attendees from Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and numerous other states will gather in Frisco's Simpson Plaza to enjoy more than twenty storytelling concerts. Six professional storytellers will share tales from Japan, Appalachia, and beyond for children, teens, and adults. Humanities Texas is pleased to provide grant support for the sixth annual Festival, which will take place this year on October 9th and 10th.

In addition to storytelling, the festival will include demonstrations of pottery, quilting, weaving, and spinning. Attendees will have the opportunity to create their own bit of folk history by participating in these and other arts and crafts.

The Lone Star Storytelling Festival promotes the continuity of oral traditions by giving young storytellers the opportunity to perform alongside experienced performers. Approximately twenty local students will train with local storytellers to develop their own performances, making use of the Frisco Public Library's folklore resources. Youth storytellers often go on to perform at other major storytelling venues.

More information, including directions and the festival schedule, can be found at the Lone Star Storytelling Festival Website.