Jun 22, 2:20 PM EDT

2012 National Folk Festival in Nashville cancelled

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- The National Folk Festival is cancelling its events this year after financial problems stemming from funding shortfalls at last year's festival in Nashville.

According to a news release from the festival, the crowds were enthusiastic, but stifling heat followed by tropical downpours kept many people away.

Typically the festival takes place in the same location three years in a row. A festival is still planned for next year in Nashville.

The National Council for Traditional Arts has produced the festival almost continuously since 1934.

The festival showcases traditional arts of many nations, races and cultural groups. The 2011 festival over Labor Day weekend included performances of bluegrass music, Hawaiian hula, Mexican mariachi and East African rumba.

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