The Festival Australia Family has been attending the National since it’s inception, we have been well over 20 times and have the collection of festival mugs to prove it! We have heard murmurs regarding ticket prices in recent years, understandable when the cost of living is challenging for many. However, we reckon that the National represents extraordinary value for money. A single major act for a two-hour gig in an Aussie City these days costs $150 to $500 so the National represents amazing value for a five day and night festival. And, the music, theatre, dance, workshops, stalls and food on offer in a village-like atmosphere are simply wonderful. We filmed a World Record Lagerphone event there back in 2012 which I include below for your edification! Highly recommended. ED: Kevin Parker
The National Folk Festival, held annually in Canberra, Australia, is a celebrated event in the world of folk music and culture. It was first established in 1967 as the Port Phillip District Folk Music Festival in Melbourne. Since 1992, the festival has found its permanent home in Canberra, particularly at Exhibition Park (EPIC), where it is held every year during the Easter long weekend.
The festival’s mission is to serve as a hub for the Australian folk community, providing a platform to perform, share, and develop folk traditions. It emphasizes the importance of participation, learning, listening, and creating, embracing the diversity of folk traditions in Australia. This includes First Nations culture and traditions, as well as those brought during colonization and through subsequent migration. The festival celebrates the dynamic and evolving nature of folk culture, which encompasses music, dance, spoken word, and craft.
The festival is known for featuring a wide range of activities and performances, including over 140 concerts, impromptu street performances, workshops on musical instruments, visual art, storytelling, poetry, and many dance workshops. There will be Morris Dancers! Notable past artists include Bill Bragg, The Waifs, Tony McManus (Canada), Apodimi Compania (Greece), and Chris While & Julie Matthews (UK), among others.
Camping is available for up to 5,000 people adjacent to the festival grounds, adding to the immersive experience. The festival village transforms Exhibition Park into a exciting and supportive community for 6-days complete with stages, performance spaces, themed stalls and booths, bars, and cafes. The range of food on offer is always very good in our view.
For the latest information on the National Folk Festival, including details about the upcoming event, tickets, and more, you can visit their official website at www.folkfestival.org.au. They also have a Facebook page, which can be found at National Folk Festival Facebook.
