Cotten received the National Folk Festival award on February 1, 1967, recognizing her contributions to folk music.
On February 1, 1967, Elizabeth Cotten was honored with the National Folk Festival award, a testament to her enduring influence and talent in the traditional music arena. This accolade recognized Cotten’s invaluable contributions to the preservation and dissemination of American folk music. The National Folk Festival, known for celebrating folk traditions and artists who embody them, chose Cotten for her skillful playing, historical authenticity, and the unique guitar style that enriched the musical landscape. By this award, her work was acknowledged as an essential part of the American folk revival — a movement highlighting cultural heritage through music. The recognition reinforced Cotten's role in popularizing folk genres and perpetuated her teaching and musical philosophy to younger musicians.