The Port Fairy Folk Festival has unveiled its first wave of artists for its 49th edition next year.
The event takes place at the coastal village of Port Fairy, Victoria over the Labour Day long weekend from March 6th-9th 2026.
Swedish vocal quartet ÅKERVINDA will bring their unique fusion of ancient Nordic folk songs with contemporary harmonies, while English troubadour Blair Dunlop is set to captivate audiences with his heartfelt lyricism.
Irish representation is strong with genre-bending quintet Beoga known for their electrifying live performances, alongside the iconic voice of jazz, blues and folk, Mary Coughlan who returns for her fourth appearance at the festival. Rising Irish singer-songwriter Gráinne Hunt will also showcase her voice of rare beauty.
In a special coup for the festival, The Swell Season, featuring Markéta Irglová and Glen Hansard, will make a rare appearance. The duo, known for their Academy Award-winning song “Falling Slowly” from the film Once, are sure to be a highlight of the weekend.
From Scotland, the exhilarating folk-fusion band Elephant Sessions will have audiences dancing into the night, while revered American singer-songwriter Iron & Wine will bring his soulful, poetic storytelling to Port Fairy for the first time.
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Australia will be well-represented with powerhouse Emma Donovan presenting her new project Take Me To The River, acclaimed songwriters Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham joining forces, and the energetic Melbourne duo Pierce Brothers returning to the festival.
The international offerings continue with Canadian talents Mia Kelly and Steve Poltz, Portuguese-Canadian Nico Paulo, Swedish string trio Northern Resonance, Icelandic folk poet Svavar Knútur and American vocal group Windborne.
“This first lineup truly reflects the spirit of Port Fairy – global, diverse, and deeply rooted in the joy of live music,” said Justin Rudge, Port Fairy Folk Festival Program Director.
The four-day event will feature more than 100 artists performing across four major stages on the festival grounds, as well as in smaller venues throughout the Port Fairy village. The 2026 edition sets the stage for the festival’s milestone 50th anniversary in 2027.
Early bird tickets are on sale now. For full ticketing information, visit portfairyfolkfestival.com.
Port Fairy Folk Festival 2026
For tickets and more info, visit portfairyfolkfestival.com
March 6th-9th 2026
Port Fairy, VIC
