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.

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Introducing Taff Rapids, Cardiff’s bluegrass sensation taking the international stage by storm. Comprising seasoned musicians Darren Eedens, Sion Russell Jones, David Grubb, and Clem Saynor, the band blends traditional bluegrass classics with captivating originals, incorporating Welsh-language songs for a unique global appeal.

In 2023, they were invited to the IBMA World of Bluegrass Showcase in Raleigh, NC, USA, the first welsh group to receive such an invitation. UK, European, and Canadian tours followed throughout 2024, and a ticket to Folk Alliance International 2025 highlights their growing demand and undeniable talent. With electrifying performances, rich harmonies, and unmatched instrumental prowess, Taff Rapids is set to become a powerhouse in bluegrass and beyond, to show the world what Welsh Bluegrass is.

Represented by Rootstown Bookings Europe and Strada UK they have a number of tours and festivals confirmed through out Europe, where they will be bringing their new album titled “Blŵgras”, which is to be released on March 1st at Acapela Studios in Cardiff.