The Port Fairy Folk Festival has announced the first round of artists for its 49th edition.
The event take splace in the coastal village of Port Fairy, Victoria, over the Labour Day long weekend from March 6–9th 2026.
Among the international acts confirmed are Swedish vocal quartet Åkervinda, known for blending ancient Nordic folk songs with modern harmonies, and English singer-songwriter Blair Dunlop. Irish acts include the genre-crossing quintet Beoga, jazz and folk singer Mary Coughlan—returning for her fourth festival appearance—and emerging singer-songwriter Gráinne Hunt.
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.
Other international guests include Scotland’s Elephant Sessions, American artist Iron & Wine, Canadian performers Mia Kelly and Steve Poltz, Portuguese-Canadian singer Nico Paulo, Swedish trio Northern Resonance, Icelandic folk musician Svavar Knútur, and American vocal group Windborne.
Australian artists announced so far include Emma Donovan with her new project Take Me To The River, acclaimed songwriters Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham, and Melbourne duo Pierce Brothers returning to the festival.
“This first lineup truly reflects the spirit of Port Fairy—global, diverse and all about the joy of live music,” said Program Director Justin Rudge.
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The four-day festival will host over 100 artists on four main stages, as well as in smaller venues across the village. Next year’s event will lead into the festival’s 50th anniversary in 2027, which is expected to draw even more visitors to the region.
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
Port Fairy, VIC
