Geelong Folk Festival returns after more than 30 years

Geelong Folk Festival returns

After more than three decades, the Geelong Folk Music Club is reviving the Geelong Folk Festival, welcoming audiences back for a celebration of folk music on Sunday 6 September 2026.

Held at the Geelong West Town Hall, the one-day festival will showcase an outstanding lineup of performers presenting traditional and contemporary music inspired by cultures from around the world. Running from 11:00am until 9:30pm, the festival promises something for every music lover, from acoustic blues and Celtic traditions to singer-songwriters, vocal harmonies and contemporary folk.

Among the headline performers is legendary Australian acoustic blues and roots guitarist Nick Charles, alongside acclaimed Sri Lankan-born Melbourne troubadour Suzette Herft and renowned traditional Scottish singer Fiona Ross. Ross will also present one of three workshops during the festival, while Herft will lead an informal music session for performers and festival-goers.

Local talent features strongly throughout the program, with performances by Carl Dickens, The Ch00ks, Bellarine Banshees and Seal Prince and the Roof Rats, highlighting the strength and diversity of the region's thriving folk music community.

Festival secretary Merri Winter said the aim was to present the many different styles that make up folk music, creating a program that reflects traditions from across the globe while celebrating contemporary interpretations of the genre.

Music Line-up

The 2026 Geelong Folk Festival features performances by Nick Charles, Fiona Ross, Apolline, Carl Dickens, The Ch00ks, Bellarine Banshees, Shona Williams, Possums on the Porch, Jacob Boots, Velvet Sledgehammer, Suzette Herft, Seal Prince and the Roof Rats, Mickey & Michelle, Milk, The Drongo and The Crow, and Jill Meehan and Family.

The Geelong Folk Festival takes place on Sunday 6 September 2026 at the Geelong West Town Hall from 11:00am to 9:30pm.

Tickets and further information are available from the Geelong Folk Music Club.