Flagstaff Friends of Traditional Music (FFOTM) has appointed Antara Hunter as the new Director of the Flagstaff Folk Festival. Hunter, known for her work as a singer-songwriter, educator, and advocate for cultural arts, will lead the festival with an aim to maintain its traditions while also expanding its presence in the folk music scene.
Hunter takes over from previous leadership that helped establish the festival as a significant event in Northern Arizona’s summer calendar. Her selection is intended to professionalize operations and strengthen ties to the musical heritage of the Colorado Plateau region.
Hunter brings experience in supporting local musicians by providing opportunities for artists of all ages. She stated, “The Flagstaff Folk Festival is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a means toward deepening connection with each other through the power of music and storytelling. My goal is to ensure that every person—whether a seasoned musician or a first-time festival goer—feels the sense of belonging and connection that only folk music can provide.”
Under her direction, several initiatives are planned for upcoming festivals. These include expanding educational workshops with more youth mentorship and diverse instrumental clinics, increasing digital engagement to promote artists and improve audience experience, and curating performances that represent various folk genres such as Americana, Country, Bluegrass, and Contemporary styles.
The FFOTM board cited Hunter’s mix of musical background, organizational skills, and marketing knowledge as key reasons for her appointment. Board President Rich D’Aloisio said, “We’re excited to announce that Antara Hunter is our new Folk Fest Director. A positive and upbeat musician, Antara brings a deep love of folk music and a strong commitment to community. Her energy, creativity, and collaborative spirit make her a wonderful fit for this role.”
The Flagstaff Folk Festival is held annually at Coconino Center for the Arts and Pioneer Museum grounds. The event features over 100 acts on multiple stages and is recognized as one of the region’s affordable family-friendly cultural gatherings. The next festival will take place June 13-14, 2026.
Hunter has longstanding ties to both California and Flagstaff. She attended local schools before graduating from Northern Arizona University in 1994. Her career includes performing as part of Antara & Delilah—a duo that collaborated with Jim Messina—and organizing large-scale events such as Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival. Since returning to Flagstaff in 2015, she has been active as an organizer, producer, teacher, and arts advocate.
