Folk and Roots - 2009 Folk Festivals

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This is by no means a complete list of 2009 folk festivals and will be regularly updated, but by all means please email us to add your event details, this page is accessed by thousands of potential festival goers each year so the more information we have about your festival the more useful it is for them and you.

January February March April May

June July August September October
and beyond

January 15th - 1st February 2009
Celtic Connections, Glasgow
"Celtic Connections features artists from around the globe alongside the very best Scottish talent."

16th - 18th January 2009
Winter Music Weekend, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare, Ireland
"With 35 scheduled gigs, sessions, and concerts—over half of them free—this weekend covers acoustic music of all hues: Irish, bluegrass, blues, country, Cajun, classical, and so much more.
Top of the bill is a U.S. band who always impress with their incredible skill and passion for bluegrass music, Special Consensus, who will play a concert in the Mill Bar on the Friday night. Playing acoustic concerts in the Courthouse will be singers Kate Purcell and Niamh Parsons, oldtimey stalwarts the Broken String Band, local singer/songwriter Lou McMahon, and shanty singers Kimbers Men from the UK. The village will also witness the music and costumes with bells on with the return of the Golden Star Morris Dancers from Norfolk in England.
Making a much-anticipated return after blowing us away in 2004 are Tchobello, a five-piece busking band from Lille in northern France.
Cajun and bluegrass heroes Prison Love renew their long-standing relationship with the festival, while blues fans will look forward to seeing Clive Barnes back in the ‘Bridge. Frankie Lane and Paul Kelly play their own special brand of folk/country, including a stint at the picker’s session along with Clive Barnes.
The UK’s Boat Band will be remembered and welcomed back by those who saw them in 2007. Dave Saunders and friends will play in session as ever, as will many other local and visiting musicians.
A new feature of the festival is the programme of events in the Bunratty Castle Hotel. A busy schedule includes concerts in the bar, dinner-time jazz with the Mick Cummins Trio, and a dance night on Saturday with Celtic Sound. The hotel have special deals available for the weekend.
Back in the ‘Bridge, Sunday should be a cracker, with set dancing to Swallow's Tail Ceili Band in the GAA hall, a Classical recital from local genius Brendan Walsh AND a New Music concert in the Courthouse, and the finale that evening with the Josephine Marsh Band headlining, not to mention the sessions all over the village!

13th-15th February 2009
Cheltenham Folk Festival, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Including Steve Ashley with Robert Kirby & Orchestra, Sylvia Barnes & Sandy Stanage, Brian Peters, Martin & Shan Graebe; Damien Barber & Mike Wilson, Jeff Davis, Ron Taylor & Jeff Gillett, Faustus, Martin Simpson & Andy Cutting, Breabach and more
14th February 2009
Folkport at Southport Arts Centre, Cambridge Hall, Lord St, Southport, Merseyside
Featuring Mawkin Causley, The Anna Massie Band & The Kathryn Tickell Band, Uiscedwr, Ruth Notman & Show of Hands and more

21st February 2009
Betsys Winterlude, Conway Hall, 25 Red Lion Square, Holborn, London - 3:00pm onwards
"Famously cosy Clerkenwell pub and venue The Betsey Trotwood brings some of her favourite bands to the 500 capacity Conway Hall for a mid winter musical away day. With the emphasis on Folk, Americana and Indie Pop the line up is eclectic and packed with brilliant musicians, with some poets and DJ's thrown into the mix. The Betsey crew will provide a bar serving a selection of Kentish real ales, lager, wine and medieval mead … and food, tea and cakes will also be available."

22nd - 29th February 2009
Kirkby Fleetham Folk Club Winter Warmer Weekend, Kirkby Fleetham, North Yorkshire
Booked guests include: Sara Grey & Kieron Mearns, Hall Brothers, Sarah McQuaid, Zoox, Rudegin + Lots more

27th February - 1st March 2009
IVFDF 2009, Exeter, Devon
"The Inter-Varsity Folk Dance Festival (or IVFDF for short) is the country's longest continually running folk festival, aimed squarely at students (although anyone who feels they can keep up is welcome) and run by a different university each year. IVFDF is a non-stop weekend based (fairly broadly) around traditional forms of music and dance."

6th - 8th March 2009
The Swanage Blues Festival, Swanage, Dorset
Robin Bibi Band * The Mustangs * Jon Walsh Blues Band * Coalhouse Walker Blues Band * Chris Collins & Blues Etc * Motel 6 * Ernie's Rhythm Section * Fabulous Fezheads * John Crampton * C Sharp Blues * The Jives * Jim Tigwell * Martin Froud & Andrew Bazeley * Sonny Black * Will Killeen * Confused Blues * Steve Darrington * and more to come!

7th March 2009
Queensbury Music Festival Folk Day, Queensbury, West Yorkshire
Artists will include: Tom Bliss & Tom Napper, Pat Sherry & Stuart Douglas, Gerry McNeice Band, John Tams & Barry Coope, Skyhook, Crucible, Roger Davies, Hall Brothers, Michelle Plum & Nick B Hall + guests, Ylem, Duncan McFarlane's Electric Band and more.....

20th - 22nd March 2009
Oxford Folk Festival, Oxford
Kate Rusby, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, Dhol Foundation, Spiers & Boden, LAU, New St George Waits, Reel Bach Consort (Bonn), Cum Suis (Leiden), Wilber, Cock and Bull Band and Oxford Fiddle Group

26th - 29th March 2009
CWLWM CELTAIDD, The Celtic Festival of Wales, Trecco Bay, Porthcawl, South Wales
Take over 500 singers, musicians and dancers from all the Celtic countries, put them in a high quality holiday camp(superbly equipped with state of the art venues, leisure facilities & luxury heated mobile homes), invite the public to join them for a weekend of concerts, ceilidhs, sessions and workshops, and call it Cwlwm Celtaidd - The Celtic Festival of Wales! That’s it in a nutshell – the only Welsh festival dedicated to the Celtic tradition.
All details, including artist list, the highly affordable weekend ticket and accommodation prices are to be found on the www.cwlwmceltaidd.com. or phone the festival office on 01656 766667.

28th March 2009
Hillsborough Folk Day, An Oxfam, Oxjam Charity Music Day at The Burton Street Foundation, Hillsborough, Sheffield
"The afternoon event consists of mainly traditional folk music and dance and is by free admission. Voluntary contributions towards Oxfam will be gratefully accepted.
The evening concert is by ticket only. Tickets are only £7 (concessions £5). Doors open at 7.15pm.

4th April 2009
Frittenden Festival, Frittenden, Kent
"The Frittenden Festival - Sing, dance and play takes place in the Kent village of Frittenden on the 4th April 2009. It's a village-based folk festival mainly featuring performers deeply rooted in the traditional singing, dancing and music of South-Eastern England. Top of the bill is the wonderful Essex singer Annie Dearman, more than ably supported by her melodeon and concertina playing partner Steve Harrison.
Other artists include local singers Andy Turner, Nigel Hobbins, John Morgan, Marian Button, Peter Collins, Roger Resch and Bob Kenward, Julie Arnott and Gavin Atkin, singer and stepdancer Rosie Davis, and stepping teacher and performer Kerry Fletcher.
From slightly further afield we have David Campbell, the Mighty Quinns,Tom Moore and Tom Redman. We also have a superb singer and special guest from Derbyshire - Jack Crawford.
The event will include music and singing sessions, workshops, stepdancing sessions and a concert, and a the whole event will be topped off with a celebration ceilidh and barn dance in the village's Memorial Hall with music from Kent dance band stars Florida and caller Chris Pitt."

9th - 10th April 2009
Gosport and Fareham Easter Festival, Fareham, Hampshire
Eliza Carthy; Show of Hands; The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain; Roy Bailey; Martin Carthy; Mawkin:Causley; and The Michael McGoldrick Big Band are just some of the top-name artists confirmed for this year's Gosport & Fareham Easter Festival in Hampshire.
The 4-day Festival is England's biggest indoor Folk Festival. Now in its 18th year the Festival is held in comfortable indoor venues over the Easter weekend (April 9-12).
As well as concerts in the Ferneham Halls and Ashcroft Arts Centre in Fareham there are also workshops and sessions in the nearby Lysses House Hotel plus a range of other events including dance displays in Fareham town centre and a late night Festival Club.

17th - 18th April 2009
Folk Thing Ashby Folville Festival, Ashby Folville, Leicestershire
"We have a limit of 300 people, so think of it as a small, friendly, non-corporate, family folk festival, with an emphasis on local bands and musicians. There are two stages, a pub for sessions, a marquee on the campsite and ample room for Morris sides (which are welcome, contact us if you are part of one and wish to join us.) The ethos is DIY - if you want to join in, bring an instrument and start a session. The more the merrier!"
The weekend event will cost a recession beating £15 on the gate, available in advance. Parking and Camping inclusive.
The organisers can be contacted on 07751230072 or 07747011669 or for tickets 07954993750
Paul Pearson, Gabadon, The Outlandish Knights Ceilidh Band with caller John Brown, Treebeard
24th - 26th April 2009
Crediton Folk Weekend, Cheriton Fitzpaine, Devon
Artists confirmed include Jim Mageean, Graeme Knights, Hanging Johnny and more
Morris - Mummers - Concerts - Music Sessions - Singarounds - Displays

29th April - 4th May 2009

Wath Festival, South Yorkshire
Confirmed artists include: The Demon Barber Roadshow, Chumbawamba, The Karine Polwart Trio, Rachel Harrington & Zak Borden, Rory McLeod, Pete Morton, Cathryn Craig & Brian Willoughby, Chris & Kellie While, Tom Bliss, Katriona Gilmore & Jamie Roberts and more....
30th April - 1st May 2009

Shetland Folk Festival

1st - 3rd May 2009

Moor & Coast Festival, Whitby, North Yorkshire

1st - 4th May 2009

Upton Folk Festival, Worcestershire
40 + Morris Sides - Ceilidh's, Concerts, workshops, singarounds, morris parade (Sun), met the artist, musical meander, duck race, shanty session, church service etc.

8th - 10th May 2009

Clennell Hall Folk Festival, Alwinton, Northumberland National Park
Artists include: Jeremy Taylor, Something Nasty in The Woodshed, Kimber's Men, Paul Downes, Adrian Nation, The Amazing Mr Smith, Ron Gardner, Joe Stead, Beeswing, Dave Minikin, John Bromley, Mary Brettell, Gareth Scott
Holmfirth Folk Festival, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire

Tredegar House Folk Festival, Newport, Gwent
More details here

Folk on the Pier 2008, Cromer, Norfolk
The eleventh annual festival of roots'n'blues music hailed as the 'the best gig on the North Sea'.
Fairport Convention, Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham (Scotland), Vin Garbutt, Strawbs (Full Electric Band), Baka Beyond, Brass Monkey, ColvinQuarmby (Super new 5 piece line-up), Brooks Williams (USA), Claude Bourbon (France), Two Man Gentlemen Band (USA), Harvey Andrews, Fraser Nimmo, Uiscedwr Big Band, Simon Harper Band, Trefor & Vicki Williams (Wales) and many more .
14th May - 16th May 2009
Brigg Fiddle Festival, Brigg, Lincolnshire

15th - 16th May 2009

MayFest, Winchester, Hampshire
"Join us for a vibrant mix of music, song and dance in the streets, pubs and concert venues of Winchester with folk, jazz, blues and roots music, colourful dance displays and children's events.
Many events are free and take place in the High Street, the Square, on Cathedral Green and in some of Winchester’s favourite watering holes. There will be concerts, ceilidhs and gigs in the Guildhall, the Discovery Centre, United Church and St Lawrence's Church."

14th - 17th May 2009

Gurdyfest 2009, Youlgrave, Derbyshire
An exciting mix of music, dancing, workshops, sessions, concerts, demonstrations and friendship.

15th - 17th May 2009

Shepley Spring Festival, Shepley, West Yorkshire
Show of Hands, Martin Simpson Trio, Genticorum, Sheelanagig, Ella Edmondson, The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Belshazzar's Feast, Edward II, Chris Sherburn & Denny Bartley and more....

The Wood Festival, Oxfordshire
"The organizers behind TRUCK, the UK’s coolest small-but-perfectly-formed summer festival, have created a new kind of music event, powered by bicycles, wood-burning stoves and the sun. The aim of this festival is to celebrate music and nature, so naturally it’s called… WOOD!
The 2nd annual WOOD festival will be held at Braziers Park, Oxfordshire on May 15th, 16th & 17th 2009. With a great line-up of great (mainly) acoustic and organic music, there'll also be a full programme of activities and workshops for all ages.
The event runs entirely on renewable energy and aims to highlight green issues and through participation promote an ecologically friendly lifestyle. With composting toilets, showers heated by wood-burning stove and a solar-powered stage and dancing into the night in a bicycle powered 'disotheque'. There will be opportunities for everyone (from children to grandparents!) to participate. With workshops including singing, woodcraft, yoga to making wallets from orange juice cartons, and a fashion dress parade – with plenty of opportunities to learn more and join in our lively lunchtime discussions.
A more relaxed affair than TRUCK with a strong and diverse line-up of (mainly) acoustic acts on 2 stages that includes SPIERS & BODEN, MEIC STEVENS, PO' GIRL, JIM MORAY, DANNY THE CHAMP, STORNOWAY, JONQUIL,CO-PILGRIM with plenty more still to be announced."

21st - 24th May 2009

Wombwell MAD-Fest, Wombwell, South Yorkshire
Appearing: Little Johnny England, Baka Beyond, Uiscedwr, Elbow Jane, Phil Beer, Los Pistoleros, Emily Slade, Reg Meuross, Kim Richey(usa), Kieran Halpin, Pamela Wyn Shannon (usa), Rachel Harrington(usa), Sarah Macdougall(can), Carrivick Sisters, Katriona Gilmore & Jamie Roberts,Winter Wilson, Holly Taymar. Beggars Belief ceilidh band.
There are 4 days of free dance classes from 18-21st May followed by 4 days of music 21st-24th May. Camping available.

22nd May - 23rd May 2009
Ireby Festival, Ireby, Cumbria
Artists confirmed include: Eddi Reader, Po'Girl, Spiers and Boden, Peter Donegan, The New Rope String Band, The Old Dance School, Rod Clements and more...

22nd May - 25th May 2009
Chippenham Folk Festival, Chippenham, Wiltshire
Four days of the best in folk song, music, dance and traditions in the heart of Wiltshire

Festival on the Moor, Hutton le Hole, North Yorkshire
Guest List So Far: Dave Burland - Jackie Oates - Dave Goulder - Mawkin: Causley Richard Grainger - The Mick West Trio
Accordance Ceildh Band - Adrian O - Brother Crow - Steve Dawes & Helen Pitt Dick Miles - Lucy Ward
Kim Wyrd Guy - Christine Williamson - Jane Williamson with many more to come........

Chester Folk Festival, Chester
Artists include: Lau · Brass Monkey · Keith Donnelly . Tom Napper Tom Bliss · Brian Peters . Doc Harvey & The Philistanz · Quicksilver Marie Little · Flossie Malavialle · Dan McKinnan . Bill Whaley & Dave Fletcher · Pete Grassby . Aardvark Ceilidh Band · Asha · All Blacked Up

The 10th Fishguard Folk Festival, Fishguard, Pembrokeshire
Over the past nine years the seaport town of Fishguard has been host to one of the UK’s best small traditional music festivals. With concerts, dance displays, workshops, meet-the-artist events, busking, informal music and song sessions, the town will be filled with colourful displays of dancing, along with tunes, airs, jigs and reels. Also featuring the famous ‘spoons’ workshop and the popular guided ‘Pirate and Smugglers’ walk.
This small, friendly festival embraces the talents of old and young alike and actively encourages visitors to join in the sessions with the ‘stars’ of the show. Everyone is a part of the entertainment - not just a spectator.
Lots of opportunity to ‘do your own thing’.
Artists this year include: singer/songwriter Kevin Dempsey; one of Ireland’s premier pipers Neillidh Mulligan with his violinist son Fiachra, and also multi-instrumentalists Vicki Swann & Jonny Dyer, amongst many more.
So where better to celebrate our music and song? Welcome to the 10th Fishguard Folk Festival and seven thousand years of history and tradition!

28th - 31st May 2009
3rd Bude & Stratton Folk Festival, North Cornwall
"Bude by the sea and Stratton full of history. These two towns, now virtually merged, offer a natural location for a folk festival. The ancient market town of Stratton with its narrow streets and historic connection with the Battle of Stamford Hill (1643) has great character ideally suited to folk festivities. Stratton’s Tree Inn (oak beams and inglenooks) has hosted folk music for many years and Landlord and champion piper Rob Semple and his wife Emma are delighted to develop this tradition into an annual festival. Tim Browning of Bude’s Falcon Hotel plays guitar and accordion with Bude Lifeboat Crew’s Friggin’ Riggin’ - regulars at the Falcon for the past ten years. Between both hostelries, it became inevitable that a festival would emerge, supported by the strong folk tradition of North Cornwall and nearby Devon.
As a resort town, Bude offers plenty of accommodation, beautiful surfing beaches and the best view in the world from Compass Point to Lundy Island."
29th - 31st May 2009
Montrose Music Festival, Montrose, Angus

Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

5th - 7th June 2009
Wessex Folk Festival, Weymouth, Dorset
Artists include: Martin Simpson, Andy Cutting & Andy Seward Martin Carthy, Norma Waterson & Chris Parkinson

Littlehampton Folk and Roots Festival, Littlehampton, West Sussex
A fantastic musical weekend of some of the UK’s most exciting singers and bands.
Plenty of free events, see www.littlehampton-tc.gov.uk/assets/Events/Folkflyer.pdf for details

Southwell Folk Festival, Nottinghamshire
Confirmed artists include: Show of Hands, Martin Simpson, Lau, Michael McGoldrick, Jackie Oates, Flossie Malavialle and more
Wirral Folk on the Coast Festival, Bromborough, Wirral
Artists include: Show of Hands, Gordon Giltrap, Mike Silver, Anthony John Clarke, Kerfuffle, The Churchfitters, Shona Kipling & Damien O'kane, Les Barker and more
Dance teams, Craft fair, Free concerts, Workshops, Rolling Folk Club & music sessions

7th - 14th June 2009
Arran Folk Festival, Isle of Arran, Scotland
Artists include - Lunasa, Esther O'Connor, Moses.
A week of concerts, open sessions & ceilidh

12th - 14th June 2009
Wimborne Folk Festival, Wimborne, Dorset
Confirmed artists include: The 2Duos, Nancy Kerr & James Fagan, The Long Notes, Drever, McCusker, Woomble, Kerfuffle and more.

Raglan Festival, Raglan, Nr Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
Artists include Dave Swarbrick and Ashley Hutchings and the Lark Rise Band

Ipswich Riverside Folk Weekend, Ipswich
Details to be confirmed.

Gower Folk Festival, Parkmill, Gower Swansea
"Fabulous music in a stunning and intimate setting" Featuring: Beoga, Martin Simpson & Andy Cutting, Mawkin:Causley, Chris Newman & Maire Ni Chathasaigh, Ffynnon, Boldwood, Calan, Wistman's Wood, Maclaine Colston & Saul Rose and many more...
Keith Folk Festival, Keith, Moray
13th - 14th June 2009
Crich Tramway Village Folk Weekend, Derbyshire
Local musicians, with traditional trams, music, and dance throughout the Museum.

19th - 21st June 2009
Teignmouth Folk Festival, Teignmouth, Devon
Confirmed artists include: James Fagan and Nancy Kerr, Emily and Hazel Askew, Tom Lewis, Habbadam and more... further details here....

Middlewich Folk & Boat Festival, Middlewich, Cheshire

The Big Session, Leicester
Confirmed artists include Billy Bragg, Oysterband, Edward II, Eliza Carthy Band, Adrian Edmondson & The Bad Shepherds, Kathryn Tickell Band, Peatbog Faeries, Breabach, Blyth Power, The Shee and Ella Edmondson

Beverley Folk Festival, Beverley, East Yorkshire
"concerts ~ ceilidhs ~ workshops ~ children's events sessions ~ trade & craft fair and lots more"

20th June 2009
Wessex Acoustic Alfresco, The Farquharson Arms, Pimperne, Blandford Forum, Dorset
Open air one day festival featuring Colum Sands, Isambarde, Paul Downes, Issy & David Emeney with Kate Riaz, Mary Jane, Four Hand Reel, M/C PJ Wright
The Midsummer Music Folk Rock Festival, The Garage, Swansea
Line up includes: Rough Edge, The Rag Foundation, Moongazer, Rattled, Nicola Williams, Stranger, Mike Chant and the Nick Ward Band

20th - 28th June
Polperro Festival, Polperro, Cornwall
Live music of all genres daytime and eve, inside and out!
Street theatre and entertainment, Parades, Morris Dancers, Arts and Crafts, Drama, Poetry, Children’s entertainment, Coastal walks, Treasure hunt, New Music Day, Schools Day

21st - 28th June 2009
Leigh Folk Festival, Leigh on Sea, Essex
"The Leigh Folk Festival, which this year runs for a full week between Sunday June 21 and Sunday June 28, is widely recognised as the largest free folk festival in the UK. Now in its 18th year, it attracts visitors from all across the country, while still maintaining its connection to the local community."
See more details here
24th - 28th June
Leigh Folk Festival, Essex
The largest free folk festival in the country, at venues around Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, with over 60 musical acts, 30 dance display sides, mummers, street entertainers, ceilidhs, children's events and more besides.
25th June - 3rd July
Lymm Folk Club - Lymm Festival, Lymm, Cheshire
Artists include: Kerfuffle, Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, Bob Fox, Chris While and Julie Matthews and more....
26th - 28th June
Crawley Folk Festival, Crawley, Sussex
"With an indoor theatre, workshop rooms and oodles of outside space, The Hawth’s unique setting means we can do so much more than your average festival! You can soak up the ambience at the Amphitheatre stage or sample a pint at the bar and enjoy the best small acoustic acts at the foyer stage. If its big names on a big stage you’re after - the main theatre is for you, whilst the intimate Studio setting offers a chance to get up close and personal to some of folk’s most accomplished acts.
Real ale tents, food stands and craft stalls are nestled conveniently between the storytelling tent, dance stage and open air marquee allowing you to weave from one event to the next and adding to the camaraderie and feel-good festival vibe!"

Droylsden Folk Festival, Droylsden, Greater Manchester
"Droylsden Folk Festival Weekend has put itself firmly on the map as one of the premier folk music festivals in the North West of England, attracting well-known performers and local artistes with its friendly, laid-back approach to having a good time."
Artists include: Allan Taylor, Claire Mooney and more....

Dent Folk Festival, Cumbria
"A weekend of Music, Dance, Puppetry, Street Theatre, Storytelling, Workshops, Family Activities and Real Ale in one of the most beautiful settings in the UK.
St Albans Folk at the Festival, St Albans, Hertfordshire
Run as part of the St Albans Festival. Guests include concert with Kerr Fagan Harbron & Festival ceilidh with Stomp and caller Barry Goodman. Also includes day of dance, St Michaels Street dance out, pub music sessions.

3rd - 5th July
Maverick Festival, Woodbridge, Suffolk
Alt-country, Americana and the New Tradition
Artists include: Al Perkins, Brigette Demeyer, Rachel Harrington, Otis Gibbs, The Groanbox Boys, Cara Luft, The Toyhearts and more....
North Wales Bluegrass Festival, Conwy, North Wales

Two Rivers Folk Festival 2008, Chepstow, Monmouthshire

National Forest Folk Festival, Waterside Centre of Conkers, Moira, Nr Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire
Guests include: Seth Lakeman, Eliza Carthy, The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, Kerfuffle and more

Well Dressed’ Festival, Ashover Nr Chesterfield, Derbyshire
Artists include: Tams & Coope, Kerfuffle, Heckerty, Rosie Doonan and the Snap Dragons, Elbow Jane, Heretique and more.
Ceilidh, Dance teams, workshops open sessions and more.

Cleckheaton Folk Festival, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire
Confirmed artists include: Eric Bogle & John Munro, Battlefield Band, Tom Lewis, Ruth Notman & the Ruth Notman Trio, His Worship and The Pig, Duncan McFarlane & Ann Brivonese, Mrs Ackroyd, Blackstone Edge and more....

9th - 12th July
Stonehaven Folk Festival, Aberdeenshire

10th - 11th July 2009
Mansfield Folk Festival Rugby Club. Eakring Road. Mansfield. Nottinghamshire NG18 3EW
Friday night 7-30pm - midnight. Mega acoustic jam session.
Saturday. All day folk concert. 12 midday until 12 midnight. numerous entertainers.
Onsite catering all weekend. Licenced Bar. Free admission, Free camping for tents and caravans.
Furness Tradition Festival Weekend, Ulverston, Cumbria
"Weekend of social dance to Moorgate Dance Band and Rising Sun Band. Concerts featuring Benny Graham, Isambarde, Sam Lee (trio), Jen Clark - storytellers Nick Hennessey and Dominic Kelly. Displays from Furness Morris, Furness Clog, Belfagan Ladies Morris, PRATS (Pately Bridge sword dance side), Two Headed Sheep. Song and Story workshops and much more besides - all in an old cobbled Furness market town between the Lakeland Fells and Morecambe"

10th - 12th July 2009
Priddy Folk Festival, Priddy, Somerset
The friendliest folk festival in England, held at the beautiful village of Priddy, high on the magnificent Mendip Hills in sunny Somerset
Line up includes: Lau, Swarb’s Lazarus - their penultimate gig!!!, Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies, Jackie Oates, Sara Grey, Martha Tilston, Pete Coe, Steve Tilston, Steve Payne, Dalla, Brooks Williams, Emily & Hazel Askew, Jack Mc Neill & Charlie Heys, The Gasworks Singers, Kate Lissauer
Folkstation Festival, Isle of Wight
"FolkStation is a special folk festival; certainly not the biggest but it is a unique experience. Located at the award winning Havenstreet steam railway, the festival has built up from a “fringe” group of folk musicians who gathered together to play at railway events over 34-year history of the railway."
See here for more details.
Eastleigh Music Festival, Eastleigh, Hampshire
"Eastleigh Music Festival is a three day outdoor music celebration and community arts event where there will be a fantastic opportunity to enjoy great live music from both high profile international and local artists. There is also the chance to get involved with various dance and music workshops.
During the day on Saturday and all day Sunday the site is FREE with open access to all. On Saturday afternoon there will be performances from 16 up and coming local bands and musicians. On the Sunday there will be music from across the globe, in our multicultural celebration. Over the course of the weekend there will be great performances and extensive activities for all ages, including circus skills workshops, a climbing wall, football skills, various arts & craft workshops, sustainability stalls, food, and a full bar. Ticketed concerts shall take place during the evening on both the Friday and Saturday.
The Festival is held on Leigh Road Recreation Ground, which is a few minutes walk from Eastleigh Train Station and easily accessible from the M3 and M27. The two festival stages will be covered by two big tops so that performances can be enjoyed regardless of what the weather will be during this year’s British summer time."
Ely Folk Festival, Ely, Cambridgeshire
Confirmed artists include The Peatbog Faeries, Baka Beyond, Tanglefoot, Eric Bogle and John Munroe, Chris While and Julie Matthews, Flossie Malavialle, The Toy Hearts and Allan Taylor

Spratton Folk Festival, Spratton, Northamptonshire
Two stages with over 25 bands playing.

Singing Sticks Didgeridoo Music Festival, Northamptonshire

Bromsgrove Folk Festival, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire
"Artists booked include Eric Bogle, Tanglefoot and more"

11th - 12th July 2009

Goud Acoustic, Goudargues, Bagnols sur Cèze, France
Americana Roots Festival held in Beautiful location in rural France.

15th - 18th July
Hebridean Celtic Festival, Western Isles, North West Scotland
"This major Celtic music festival set against the glorious Gaelic culture and Hebridean heritage is currently entering its 13th year. A cornerstone in the wider European calendar of events, this unique festival is renowned for its dynamic programming, broad family appeal and fantastic welcoming community.
Major artists rub shoulders alongside a range of Celtic, world and homegrown performers creating a warm intimacy for an International audience. Make sure you don’t miss this years stunning event."
‘Simply one of the best festivals in the world.’

15th - 19th July
Larmer Tree Festival, near Salisbury, Wiltshire
"An eclectic music festival set in idyllic lush Victorian Gardens, in the heart of the remote and beautiful Cranbourne Chase on the Wiltshire/Dorset border, Larmer Tree Festival is the perfect escape from it all. Join an intimate crowd of 4,000 at this 5-day festival on Wed 15th-Sun 19th July 2009. With over 80 bands and djs from around the world, camping with stunning panaramic views, over 150 FREE workshops, an Artists' Quarter, Global Bazaar, FREE hot showers, Secret Garden therapies, a carnival procession plus much more. Voted Best UK Family Festival 2008. The festival has sold out in advance for the past 14 years. Artists confirmed so far include Richard Thompson, Jools Holland with special guest Dave Edmunds, The Imagined Village, Shantel & Bucovina Club Orkestar, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, Dreadzone, Edward II, Rich Hall aka Otis Lee Crenshaw plus many more."

17th - 19th July
Saddleworth Folk Festival, Saddleworth, Greenfield, Oldham, Lancashire
"Guests include, Eric Bogle and John Munroe, Bob Fox, New Rope String Band, Strawhead,Other Roads ( formerly John Wright Band), The Askew Sisters,The Young Un's Stanley Accrington and many more."

Bramton Live, Brampton, Cumbria
Confirmed artists include: Kris Drever, John McCusker and Roddy Woomble (with special guests Heidi Talbot and Boo Hewerdine, 2008 Scots Singer of the Year Emily Smith, Peatbog Faeries, Oysterband, Andy Fairweather Low, The Spooky Men's Chorale (Australia), Mary Gauthier (USA), Eliza Gilkyson (USA), Mabon (Wales), Chris While & Julie Matthews, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, Chris Sherburn and Denny Bartley, Elbow Jane, and comedy folk band The Lancashire Hotpots
Crosshaven Folk Festival, Co. Cork, Ireland
"Promises to be a great weekend encompassing Folk in all forms, Music, Dance, Song and Visual.
Acts include;Freddie White, Loudest Whisper, Hank Wedel and Open Kitchen, Noel Shine and Mary Greene.
Music will be held throughout the village ensuring variety and a fantastic atmosphere. Workshops, Folkmarkets, Set Dancing and facepainting will provide an avenue for everyone to enjoy themselves during the day. The performance group Fidget Feet always surprise audiences with their magical shows and encouragement of crowd participation.
A vintage Car Rally will pass through on the Sunday if that wasn,t all exciting enough!
As for the location, Crosshaven itself is a seaside village with all the associated amenities.

19th - 26th July
The Fiddler's Green Festival, Rostrevor, Co Down, Northern Ireland

23rd - 26th July
The Trowbridge Village Pump Festival, Wiltshire
The Trowbridge Village Pump Festival takes place at Stowford Manor Farm in Wiltshire, one of the most picturesque settings in the country for an event of this type. The festival features internationally known acts from the world of Folk/Roots music.
Confirmed artists include: Baaba Maal, Loudon Wainwright III, Alabama 3, Saw Doctors, Seth Lakeman, Hazmat Modine, Ade Edmondson & the Bad Shepherds, 17 Hippies, Edward II, Che Sudaka, Ian Siegal, Achanak, King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, The Destroyers, Luka Bloom, Steve Knightley

24th - 26th July
Lomond Folk Festival, Balloch, West Dunbartonshire
Warwick Folk Festival, Warwick, Warwickshire

25th July
The Riverfolk Festival, The Trout Inn, St.John's Bridge Faringdon Road, Lechlade on Thames, Gloucestershire
12.00 noon until 11.00pm(ish) FREE entry
Over 50 artists throughout the day.
Stalls and stands. Famous Aunt Sally game.
Face painting. Bouncy castle.
Good food and drink.

25th - 26th July
The Big Tent Festival, Falkland, Fife
"Exhibitions, debates, poetry, children's workshops, demonstrations, local food village along with a fusion of folk and world music. This year's acts include: Shooglenifty, Attic Lights, Mr McFalls Chamber plays both the music of Martyn Bennett then on stage with Michael Marra, the Treacherous Orchestra, Prince Edward Island, Nuala Kennedy Band, Joe Acheson Quartet and the Bevvy Sisters. Hosted by comedian Phil Kay."

26th July
Folk by The Oak, Hatfield, Hertfordshire
"A One Day Folk Festival of award winning contemporary folk artists in the enchanting grounds of Hatfield House.
Bring a picnic, sit back and absorb yourself in wistful ballads or dance along to jigs and reels surrounded by ancient trees in the beautiful Elizabeth Oak Field. For those who love acoustic music at it’s very best!"
30th July - 2nd August
Cambridge Folk Festival, Cambridge
Book early and quickly!!!
Stokes Bay Festival, Stokes Bay, Hampshire
"Enjoy some great live music in a family-friendly atmosphere at one of the safest and most relaxed festivals of the summer held in a picturesque setting at unspoilt Stokes Bay, with its stunning views across the Solent and the English Channel to the Isle of Wight."

31st July - 7th August
Sidmouth Folk Week, Sidmouth, Devon
The best of folk music, dance and song in a holiday at the seaside in East Devon. Concerts, dances, ceilidhs, dance displays, crafts, workshops, sessions, street theatre. Something for all the family with lots of special events for children.

7th - 9th August

Cropton Folk and Roots Festival, Cropton, Nr Pickering, North Yorkshire
ROOTS NORTH and FESTIVAL ON THE MOOR announce a new event taking place at Cropton in North Yorkshire - a few miles from Pickering - surrounded by some of the finest country side in England.
The festival site , set in the grounds of the Cropton Brewery,offers an indoor acoustic stage, an outdoor stage, and a craft fair set in a beautiful orchard . There'll be refreshments, mouth-watering food and of course a range of unique Cropton Real Ales. Camping is available on - site and there are B&B's and Hotels close by. A weekend ticket will cost you only £20 with camping an additional £5.
Guests so far include The Cut Offs, Richard Grainger, Brother Crow,The Arrowsmiths and Joolz Cavell , Anna Shannon, Dave Crabtree, String Theory, Dawes & Pitt, Graham Brotton, Wendy Arrowsmith,Bob Fortune,Landermason, Stormcrow, Penni McLaren Walker, Roscoe La Belle, Glyn Cavell, Emma Forman, Shirley Higton, Ethan Thomas, The Grrovediggers (tbc) more to follow

7th - 14th August

The Broadstairs Folk Week, Broadstairs, Kent
10th - 16th August

Bideford Folk Festival, Bideford, Devon
"This week long friendly festival is held in and around the historic port of Bideford , situated in beautiful North Devon . There are concerts and music sessions taking place every day of the week with plenty of opportunity for musicians and singers to join in and for audiences to sit and listen to some good music and soak up the atmosphere. Booked already a superb mix of well established artistes and the best of the new young folk acts."

14th - 16th August

The White Horse Folk Festival, Wantage, Oxfordshire
"White Horse Folk Festival is a small, friendly festival held in Oxfordshire where there is plenty of fine singing, quality guests and good company."

Saltburn Folk Festival, Saltburn, Cleveland
Artists invited include: Johnny Silvo, Pete Betts, Marie Little, Wilson Family, Isambarde, Jez Lowe & the Bad Pennies, Tich Freer, Cathryn Craig & Brian Willoughby, John Wright's Band, Nancy Kerr & James Fagan, Grace Notes, Chris While & Julie Mathews, The New Rope String Band, Kerfuffle, Steve Knightley, John Kelly, Hazel Bolton, Trevor Taylor, The Backshift, Bert Draycott, Wendy Arrowsmith, Edwina Hayes and more....
Innerleithen Music Festival, Scottish Borders
"Come to our small town by the River Tweed just 30 miles south of Edinburgh for a weekend featuring some of the biggest names in Celtic music. Plus workshops, outdoor concert and great pub sessions.
Accommodation is limited - please book early - details on the website or phone 01721 729949.
Tickets from the Eastgate Theatre (01721-725777) or from Scotlight, High Street, Innerleithen."

21st - 23rd August

Pontardawe Festival, Pontardawe, Neath Port
"Folk, roots, celtic and world music and dance for all the family + childrens events, litfest, real ale bar and lots more in the heart of the picturesque Swansea Valley."

The Green Man Festival, Glanusk Park, Powys, Wales
The Green Man Festival is held in the glorious setting of Glanusk Park Estate. Framed by the River Usk and the Monmouthshire Canal, Glanusk Park is set in over 20,000 acres of rolling parkland in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.

Moira Furnace Folk Festival, Derbyshire
"There will be craft, music and food stalls, a real ale bar, open air concerts at the furnace amphitheatre, an opening night ceilidh, sessions and sing arounds in local pubs and main site, Saturday night grand concert, boat trips and tractor rides.
Children's entertainment, including bouncy castles, face painting and Punch and Judy, Morris Dancing and Civil War re-enactments."

22nd - 28th August

Whitby Folk Week, Whitby, North Yorkshire
"There are around 600 events packed into the week and the main emphasis of the festival is on the traditional music, dance, song and storytelling of the British Isles and Ireland."

23rd August

Nyodema's World Music and Arts Festival at The Regis Centre, Belmont Street, Bognor Regis, West Sussex (11am to 7pm)
With live music and dance from around the world, workshops, crafts stalls and much more this is a day for all the family. Confirmed acts include the Indian dancers of the Beeja dance company and, back by popular demand, last year’s headliners, Baraka (from Ghana, Zambia, Dominica and Ireland). For more info please visit www.gambia.co.uk/nyodema or www.myspace.com/nyodema

27th - 31st August

Towersey Village Festival, Towersey, Oxfordshire
"Famed for being one of the most relaxed, family friendly festivals of its kind, Towersey Village Festival returns for the 45th edition with its eclectic mix of concerts, workshops, dances and dedicated youth and children’s programmes."
28th - 30th August

Bladnoch Folk and Blues Festival IIIBladnoch Distillery, Wigtown, Dumfries and Galloway

Confirmed artists include: Skerryvore, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Blabbermouth, Connie Lush, Bellevue Rendezvous,Kings of Cheeze, The Fortune Sons, Adrian Byron Burns.....and more, plus a climbing wall, junk music workshops, pub sessions and a busking competition. Catering on site. Booking recommended

28th - 31st August

Wadebridge Folk Festival, Wadebridge, Cornwall
Confirmed artists include: The Tannahill Weavers, Reg Meuross with Karen Tweed, Jez Lowe, Ffynnon, Dana and Susan Robinson, Pippa Drysdale, Dogan Mehmet, The Carrivick Sisters and more..
Concerts, Ceilidhs, Sessions & Workshops Southsea Folk Festival, Hampshire
Artists include: ColvinQuarmby, Martyn Joseph, Adrian Edmondson & The Bad Shepherds and Memo Gonzalez & The Bluescasters Shrewsbury Folk Festival, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
The confirmed line up includes: The Proclaimers, Seth Lakeman, Eric Bibb, The Dhol Foundation, Show of Hands, Hoven Droven, Spooky Men's Chorale, Patrick Street, Chris Wood, Lau, Megson, Karine Polwart, Chris Smither, Breabach, Corinne West, Rachael McShane, Emily Smith Band, Krista Detor, Duncan McFarlane Band and more..

4th - 6th September

Burnham Folkfest, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset
Purbeck Folk Festival, Purbeck Hills, Dorset
"Purbeck Folk Festival is a weekend event with camping. It is a new and unique folk festival set in the beautiful landscape of the Purbeck Hills, Dorset's jurassic coast. The festival takes place in two large barns on a sheep farm at Steeple Leaze Farm, Steeple near Wareham BH20 2NY.
Headline acts are: JIM MORAY with band, UISCEDWR, MAWKIN:CAUSLEY as well as Rosie Doonan's Snapdragons and Californian bluegrass songwriter Corinne West ( with dobro guitarist Doug Cox)."
Cowabunga Festival, Dorset
"Set in a stunning rural location, just half an hour outside of Bournemouth on England's epic Jurrasic Coastline, and only 15 minutes from the beach, nestled in the magical Isle of Purbeck, lies the perfect site to host the freshest new festival this September.
Cowabunga Festival is a cosy 500 capacity boutique event spread over three stages, three days and three nights. Showcasing the very finest of rising local and national talent in the world of music, plus inspirational performance and installation art, this truly is a weekend not to be missed."
Wallingford Bunkfest, Wallingford, Oxfordshire
"Concerts... dance displays... ceilidhs... beer festival... a huge Craft Fair... Fab Food... children's BunkFest... folk club... vintage displays... music on river boats... storytelling fringe... "

Moseley Folk Festival, Moseley, Birmingham
Line up includes Jim Moray, The Bad Shepherds, The Demon Barbers, Cara Dillon, Bert Jansch and more... see here for further details.
Fylde Folk Festival, Marine Hall, Fleetwood, Lancashire
Concerts, Ceilidh, Workshops, Dance teams, Singarounds, Pub Session, Youth Events, Pub Sessions, Craft & Music Fair. Lancashire & Cheshire Clog Dancing Contest, Young Person's Competition.

11th - 13th September

Swanage Folk Festival, Swanage, Dorset
"A weekend of concerts, dance, sessions, workshops, a ceilidh, a craft fair, children's entertainments, trade stalls, around 50 traditional dance sides in a grand parade Saturday afternoon through the town and ending on the sea front. Concert headliners for 2009 include Colvin Quarmby, Demon Barber's Road Show, Something Rotten in the Woodshed, John Conolly, Pete Coe, Belshazzar's Feast, Ian Bruce, plus many more artists. The ceilidh band is Stomp with Gordon Potts as caller."

Bromyard Folk Festival, Bromyard, Herefordshire
Confirmed artists include: Seth Lakeman, Battlefield Band, The Demon Barber Roadshow, Breabach, Faustus, Roy Bailey, Jez Lowe & The Bad Pennies, Jackie Oates, Kris Drever/John McCusker with Heidi Talbot and Boo Hewerdine, Crucible, Peel Your Own Spuds, Skyhook, Maz O’Connor, Jeff Warner, Steve Turner and far more.....

Sweet Sunny South, Hastings, Sussex
American ‘Oldtime’ Music Festival
Artists appearing include Beverly Smith and Carl Jones, The Kittyhawks and Robin Gillan. Workshops, picking sessions and camping are included in the price.

24th - 27th September

Johnny Keenan Banjo Festival, Longford, Ireland
Celebration of Irish traditional, American bluegrass, and Folk music
Consisting of nightly concerts, masterclass workshops, outdoor concerts, street & pub sessions

2nd - 4th October
Ingleton Folk Weekend, Ingleton, North Yorkshire
Situated in the Yorkshire Dales - Everything free except for the 2 main concerts.

9th - 11th October
Banbury Folk Festival, Banbury, Oxfordshire
Music in the Mountains, Top of Coom, Kerry, Eire
"High in the Kerry mountains on the Cork/Kerry Border
A fun filled weekend of Sessions, Concerts and Storytelling. With Fabulous Local Musicians and Singers, Special Guest Appearances .Irish Dancing and young Local Musicians. Storytelling, and general fun and frivolity!"
This is a free community based event, with no paid Artists, all who take part do so for fun, love of Music and Craic
if you would like to come along and take part please contact us for more details.
(Local Accommodation etc)
please let us know if you are coming to give an idea of numbers. Warm up sessions organised Locally Throughout the area leading up to the weekend, Why not come early and make a week of it!
All Singers, Musicians, Storytellers and Audience Welcome."
Contact John & Marie at corteen@utvinternet.com
Tel 00353 (0)6489578

16th - 18th October
Bollington Folk Music Weekend, Bollington, Cheshire
"The weekends are based around three singarounds with additional acoustic sessions, dancing, storytelling, workshops. An ideal weekend for singers and musicians who want to be involved."

Gainsborough Folk Festival, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire

30th April - 2nd May 2010
Bollington Folk Music Weekend, Bollington, Cheshire
"The weekends are based around three singarounds with additional acoustic sessions, dancing, storytelling, workshops. An ideal weekend for singers and musicians who want to be involved."

15th-17th October 2010
Bollington Folk Music Weekend, Bollington, Cheshire
"The weekends are based around three singarounds with additional acoustic sessions, dancing, storytelling, workshops. An ideal weekend for singers and musicians who want to be involved."


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