General News
25 July, 2025
First artists revealed for Folkie
THE first wave of artists has been revealed for next year’s Port Fairy Folk Festival.
The much-loved festival is back for its 49th year in 2026, and once again it will be held over the Labour Day long weekend in March, 6-9.
Renowned for its unique blend of traditional and contemporary music from across the globe, the festival continues to bring together artists and community – creating an unparalleled celebration of music and storytelling, art and culture.
More than 100 artists are set to perform across four major stages on the Port Fairy Folk Festival arena, as well as within small venues and halls around the Port Fairy village.
The four-day event once again promises to be an unmissable weekend of discovery, connection and world-class music.
“This first line-up truly reflects the spirit of Port Fairy; global, diverse and deeply rooted in the joy of live music,” Justin Rudge, Port Fairy Folk Festival program director said.
“We can’t wait to welcome these incredible artists and music lovers from near and far to Port Fairy.
“They’ll be joined by hundreds more come March, in a gathering of artists spanning genres from traditional to contemporary; enticing audiences of all ages to enjoy the Folkie and the many activities we have planned for music lovers.”
The Port fairy Folk Festival is one of Australia’s longest running and most loved music festivals, drawing audiences from across the country and around the world for nearly five decades.
In 2027 the event will celebrate its 50th anniversary – a celebration that has driven awareness and economic impact for Port Fairy.
Leading the first line-up announcement will be the following artists:
Akervinda – a Swedish vocal quartet, blending ancient Nordic folk songs with contemporary harmonies;
Blair Dunlop (English) – an award-winning troubadour who will bring his heartfelt lyricism and artistry;
Beoga (Ireland) – Ireland’s genre-bending quintet, celebrated for their fiery live shows and their electrifying blend of traditional and contemporary folk;
Elephant Sessions (Scotland) – Scotland’s exhilarating folk-fusion band who will have audiences dancing into the night;
Emma Donovan (Take Me to the River) – this powerhouse of Australian soul and country will present her new project, fusing deep emotion and electrifying energy;
Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham – two of Australia’s finest songwriters will join forces for an unforgettable set;
Grainne Hunt (Ireland) – a rising Irish singer-songwriter with a voice of rare beauty;
Irone and Wine (USA) – this revered singer-songwriter will bring his soulful, poetic storytelling to Port Fairy for the first time;
Mary Coughlan (Ireland) – due to popular demand, Ireland’s iconic voice of jazz, blues and folk returns to the Folkie for the fourth time;
Mia Kelly (Canada) – a young Canadian talent who combines folk, blues and soul;
Nico Paula (Portugal/Canada) – delivering delicate melodies inspired by her Portuguese roots and Canadian home;
Northern Resonance (Sweden) – a modern Scandinavian string trio reimaging traditional Nordic sounds;
Pierce Brothers – this energic Melbourne duo is renowned for its dynamic live performances and is keen to return to Port Fairy;
Steve Poltz (Canada) – the charismatic, unpredictable performer and songwriter is behind chart-topping hits;
Svavar Knutur (Iceland) – Iceland’s folk poet who weaves humour and heart into every performance;
The Swell Season (Ireland) – Marketa Irglova and Glen Hansard’s and beloved folk-fuelled collaboration, known for their Academy Award-winning song, “Falling Slowly,’ from the film Once, will return for a rate and special appearance;
Windborne (USA) – stunning vocal group steeped in rich folk traditions from around the world.
