2-6 April 2026
Exhibition Park in Canberra

2025 FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

The 2025 National Folk Festival was an amazing celebration that was held from 17-21 April. Featuring captivating storytellers like Josh Pyke, Ruth Moody, Irish Mythen, David Francey, and First Nation voices such as Stuart Joel Nuggett, The Stiff Gins, and poet Sassi Spirit. Folks were inspired by world-class instrumentalists, including Chris Stout and Catriona McKay (fiddle and harp) and Will Pound and Jenn Butterworth (harmonica and guitar). They danced at the Bridgerton Ball, celebrated heritage at the Masked Ball, and immersed themselves in creative ensembles, sessions, and workshops. With over 500 events including family-friendly fun, circus, and forums—there’s always something for everyone at the National Folk Festival. Whether you’re passionate about music, dance, spoken word, or connecting with a vibrant community, join us to celebrate and create together next year 2-6 April 2026.

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CELEBRATE, CREATE AND CONNECT AT AUSTRALIA'S PREMIER FOLK AND CULTURAL EVENT

Welcome to the National Folk Festival, where we honour the rich tapestry of music, dance, poetry, circus, and cultural arts in Australia. Our Festival is a vibrant celebration of diverse folk traditions from around the world, featuring top-quality performances, workshops, and dances, along with immersive experiences that unite artists and audiences. Join us each year on Ngunnawal country in Canberra to experience a welcoming space where everyone can participate in their own way. Together, we ensure that folk and culture will thrive and inspire generations to come.

EXCELLENCE

Showcasing the highest quality in performances, workshops, and community engagements.

INCLUSION

Creating a space where all artists and audiences feel welcome, celebrating a diversity of cultures, backgrounds and stories.

INTEGRATION

Giving opportunity for collaboration between artists and audiences, where anyone can engage, contribute, and co-create.

SUSTAINABILITY

Nurturing a sustainable cultural landscape where folk traditions thrive, evolve, and inspire future generations.

EMPOWERING AUDIENCES, ARTISTS, AND COMMUNITIES TO CELEBRATE AND CREATE TOGETHER

FIND YOUR FOLK

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The National Folk Festival acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.

We especially acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Lands upon which our annual festival takes place, the Ngunnawal Peoples, their Elders past, present and emerging and their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of our region and we recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.