The Colorado Folk Arts Council (CFAC) was organized in June of 1968 by a group of culturally active individuals to represent organized groups of various elements of Folk Arts (music, dancing, crafts, etc.) that would be a clearing house of information, distribute information and sponsor workshops and other events of orientation and understanding of people and cultures. The CFAC was incorporated as a non-profit organization on July 28, 1969 in the State of Colorado. The first activity of the CFAC was to help organize the ethnic group participation for the opening of the new convention center in Denver on May 18, 1969. The first Festival organized by the CFAC was held on the stage of the Central City Opera House on July 25, 1971. The annual International Heritage Festival was first presented at the DU arena in 1976 as part of the Colorado Centennial celebrations. The CFAC works with governments, schools and businesses throughout the Denver area and Colorado to coordinate and present cultural entertainment and education. Presentations range from a single ethnic group presenting a 15-minute program to multi-day festivals including music, dance, singing and traditional crafts. The CFAC receives its funding from grants, donations and commissions. The CFAC receives funding from the SCFD.
