Shrewsbury Folk Festival 2026

Shrewsbury Folk Festival is where world-class music meets laid-back riverside vibes. Every August Bank Holiday, it brings together a brilliant mix of folk, world music and Americana, all wrapped up in top-notch production and one of the friendliest atmospheres you’ll find anywhere on the festival circuit.

Expect the very best of UK traditional and contemporary folk alongside standout artists from North America and Canada, plus a colourful splash of global sounds. Big names, rising stars, unexpected discoveries — it’s all part of the magic. Whether you’re a lifelong folk fan or just dipping your toes in, there’s always something that’ll stop you in your tracks.

But Shrewsbury is about much more than what’s happening on the four music stages.

Set on a treelined riverside site close to the historic town centre, the festival has built its reputation on being relaxed, welcoming and genuinely inclusive. It’s proudly dog-friendly, family-friendly and first-timer-friendly — the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation in a queue and end up with new festival mates by the end of the weekend.

There’s loads to explore including:

• Four open-air and covered music stages
• A lively dance tent for ceilidhs, bals, shows and displays
• Workshops and sessions
• Dedicated festivals-in-a-festival for the kids and teens

For younger festivalgoers, it’s a wonderland of creativity and fun. Children can dive into music, dance, crafts, circus skills and more, while teenagers have their own tailored programme and space to hang out, get involved and make it their own. It’s a proper family affair — without ever feeling like it’s “just for families”.

There’s plenty for adults to join in too. From yoga and crafting to walks, talks, singarounds, instrument tuition and informal music sessions, there’s always something happening beyond the main stages. And the best bit? It’s all included in your ticket price, so you can try something new completely free!

When you’re not soaking up the music or getting stuck into an activity, you can wander through the artisan shopping arena, sample your way around the food village or pull up a seat at one of the many real ale or cocktail bars. And when the night winds down, you won’t have to go far. With on-site camping and glamping, you can roll straight from the dance tent to your tent (or comfy bell tent) and wake up ready to do it all over again.

At its heart, Shrewsbury Folk Festival is about more than just great performances — it’s about community, connection and that unbeatable feeling of being exactly where you’re meant to be for one long, music-filled weekend.

2026 date: August 28-31

View the line-up

Book day or weekend tickets