PARTICIPATE
Planning has begun for the next Festival, 2-6 April 2026. Follow the Festival on social media and sign up to the Festival newsletter through the website contact form to hear when artist applications go live!
In addition to programmed artists, each year at the Festival there are many opportunities to join in with you voice or instrument including our Festival Ensembles that welcome folks of all levels. Whether you're an experienced player or simply love to get involved, these ensembles give you the chance to actively participate in the music-making magic of the Festival. Rehearse, collaborate, and perform alongside artists from all over the world.
Additionally, the Festival has other opportunities to participate including oodles of workshops and sessions. You can also throw your hat in the ring to perform on the blackboard stage at The Bohemia. This venue hosts short performances by anyone who wants to share, from budding instrumentalists and singer-songwriters to seasoned performers, sign up for your chance to perform. Performers are selected through an unbiased ballot system, and you can sign up in person at the venue each day during the Festival
At the 2025 National Folk Festival, ensembles included:
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Restrung: Led by Mickey & Michelle, this ensemble is perfect for string players who want to perform alongside key Festival artists. In 2025, this will include the enchanting Tibetan artist Tenzin Choegyal (vocals and flute).
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Festival Mariachi Band: Bring your brass, guitars, mandolins, ukuleles—almost anything!—and join the Queen of Hearts Mariachi Band. Learn the exhilarating rhythms of Mexican folk music and perform at the Latin Fiesta.
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National Contra Band: Join the Canberra Contra Club and learn how to play music for contra dancing, preparing for a high-energy performance at the Farewell Dance. Whatever instrument you play, you’ll help create an unforgettable Festival dance finale!
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Festival Squeezeboxes: If you play accordion, concertina, or any other squeezebox, this group is for you! Led by a special guest tutor (to be announced soon!).
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Festival Irish Dancing: Come along each day and prepare your feet for a performance at the Final Concert with Marg & Bill Winnett, accompanied by the wonderful sounds of Trioc.
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Festival Flutes: Join The Emerald Ruby in a unique flute choir performance and learn how to adapt your concert flute for different genres.
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Festival Ukuleles: Start your mornings with singalongs, led by Thom Jackson and the Ukastle Ukestra.
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Festival Choir: Sing alongside choir leaders John Flanagan and friends, and perform with featured Festival artist Ruth Moody in the Final Concert.
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Festival Pipes: Bring your bagpipes of any kind and join daily workshops led by the Celtic Piping Club.
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Festival Drumming: Prepare for the Yankadi African Celebration with Mama Buluku and Mady Keita from Super Mande Percussion!
