Following its biggest spring event to date, Manchester Folk Festival is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated return from Thursday 19th – Saturday 21st March 2026. Continuing to build its reputation as “the UK’s leading urban folk festival” (Mark Radcliffe), this unique alternative to the typical folk gathering trades campsite mud for the cosy surrounds of the Northern Quarter and Ancoats.

The three-day celebration will once again bring together the best contemporary and traditional folk, roots and acoustic artists from across the UK. Performances will take place at some of the city’s most beloved venues, including Band on the Wall, Hallé St Peter’s, New Century Hall, The Stoller Hall, Night & Day, The Castle, Hallé at St Michael’s and The Smithfield Market Tavern.

Today, Manchester Folk Festival is proud to reveal its first wave of artists, including Fairport Convention, Seth Lakeman, The Young’uns, Angeline Morrison, Shovel Dance Collective, Daudi Matsiko, Bella Hardy, Taff Rapids, Jenn Butterworth and McGoldrick, McCusker & Doyle.

Adding to the excitement, organisers have confirmed an expanded folk dance programme for 2026 – yes, a ceilidh is officially on the cards, offering another reason to rejoice when the “springtime staple for music lovers” (Tradfolk) rolls around.

The festival also plays a key role as host of English Folk Expo (EFEx), an international showcase of the most exciting artists from or based in England, bringing together over 170 music industry delegates with Manchester audiences.