We're thrilled to announce Porch Songs, Public Voices, a traveling festival connecting Georgia communities through music, storytelling, and shared traditions.

It's Georgia Humanities' contribution to "By the People: Conversations Beyond 250," a national initiative celebrating 250 years of American culture. And we're kicking things off in Hartwell! The Hartwell Folk Life Festival: Porch Songs & Stories takes place Saturday, April 18, in downtown Hartwell! The day features Cherokee storytelling, music & dance, a blues history experience with Max Simpson, and an evening Blues Jam with the High Cotton Music Hall House Band and Clarence "Big C" Cameron. All events are free and open to the public! Stay tuned for more about upcoming community programs, and we'll see you in Hartwell! --- By the People: Conversations Beyond 250 is a series of community-driven programs created by 51 humanities councils across the United States, its territories, and the District of Columbia in collaboration with local partners. Together, these programs explore 250 years of the nation’s cultural life and imagine its shared future. The initiative was developed by @humfed and @smithsonianfolklife.