Photography by ABC News
From 2-6 April, the National Folk Festival will proudly celebrate its 60-year anniversary.
This longstanding, family friendly event brings together thousands of visitors, volunteers and artists to celebrate diverse folk cultures and traditions from around Australia and the world.
Photography by Region Canberra
Held every year over the Easter long weekend, this iconic festival transforms Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) into a village full of music, dance, poetry, circus, art, interactive workshops, family friendly activities, plus an array of spontaneous street performances and vibrant jam sessions. Among the festival’s dynamic atmosphere, there’s an eclectic mix of artisan stalls for shopping, plus delicious food and drink to indulge in.
Photography by OutIn Canberra
As it approaches its 60th year, the festival’s ethos remains stronger than ever, centring on empowering audiences, artists and communities to celebrate diversity and creativity, delivering a unique experience where everyone comes away enriched with new skills and connections.
Photography by University of Canberra
Photography by ABC News
Here are some of the program highlights:
● Headliners and special guests: Judy Small AM, The Fagans, Natalie and Brittany Haas, Dallahan, and Grace Petrie.
● Musicians and bands: Maatakitj, Austral, Elias Alexander, T3HO., Charley Castle & the Boys in the Well, Fred Smith, Kris Mizzi, San Miguel Fraser, and the Tuck Shop Ladies.
● Spoken word and storytelling: Tug Dumbly, Jamie McAvinue, Jan ‘Yarn’ Wositzky and Penny Glass, Jason Roweth, Peter Pentland (Hayseed), and Kiran the Storyteller.
● Dance: Bortier Okoe, Phil Jamison, Coral Reid, and Shane Lestideau.
● Young Folk program: The next generation of artists, solo performers and large ensembles of musicians exploring Australian, English, Celtic and Scandinavian traditions.
● Families and kids: Folktale storytelling and songs, puppetry, traditional maypole dancing, ribbon weaving, circus performances and skills, family dances, music workshops, open mic, and arts and craft activities.
Photography by CBR2019
Visitors can apply for one of the many opportunities to actively participate in the festival, whether as a singer, musician or performer, or as a volunteer for a workshop or interactive session. Local artisans and vendors are also encouraged to apply to host a stall and sell their wares.
Tickets are available for one day or the whole festival, or you can buy a camping package for the full experience. Children under 5 go free. To explore the program, buy tickets, or to register as a volunteer or a performer, head to folkfestival.org.au
Enjoy this complimentary magazine, and continue to feel inspired to find endless possibilities to enhance your own living.
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