Port Fairy Folk Festival

Picture this: it’s the Labour Day long weekend and you’re sinking back a few cold bevs listening to acoustic folk. Let’s actualise this red-hot dream and introduce you to the Port Fairy Folk Festival. From Friday, 6 to Monday, 9 March 2020, thousands of festival goers will descend on the Great Ocean Road and revel in four days of folk music – over 100 acts from across the globe.

‘This is a festival for every music lover – from the young to the young at heart,’ says Program Director Caroline Moore. Now in its 44th year, the Port Fairy Folk Festival gathers some of the best international and local folk artists, exemplifying the great traditions of many cultures, regions, communities and countries. Cast your eye on the line-up you will see it’s a melting pot of talent, from Johannesburg to New Orleans, Prince Edward Island to Northcote.

Among the standouts are The Blind Boys of Alabama (USA), Benny Walker (Canada), Bob Jensen (Canada), Flacco & Sandman (England), Flats & Sharps (England), Michael Veitch (South Africa), Ruby Gill (South Africa) and Sibusile Xaba (South Africa). From our own shores German-born, Italian-raised brother duo Amistat, Yorta Yorta singer/songwriter Benny Walker, and Chitra are ones to watch. Chitra’s ‘A Kind’ is now a staple on my latest Spotify playlist.

Beyond the music, patrons can enjoy special late-night screenings of A Mighty Wind, the mockumentary about folk music with TV stars Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy (Schitt’s Creek), and Jane Lynch (Glee). Thematic, much?

The all-ages festival – yes, children are welcome, and if they’re under 12, do not need to purchase a ticket – will be home to a flurry of workshops and kid-friendly shows including a curated children’s program called The Teeny Tiny Stevies.

Gather your family, significant other or mates, book your accommodation sorted and fall in love with some world-class folk acts.

Early bird tickets to the Port Fairy Folk Festival are available now. Secure your spot here!

Port Fairy Folk Festival
Friday, 6 to Monday, 9 March 2025
portfairyfolkfestival.com