Illawarra Folk Festival

The annual Illawarra Folk Festival has before been held over four days but for the 2026 festival, it may be eight venues with over 96 acts over three days. The festival will include the sounds of folk, indie, world, roots, bluegrass, Balkan and Celtic music, as well as poetry, comedy and dance. Set in the spectacular northern Illawarra Escarpment in Bulli Showground, the 2026 festival may have eight onsite venues and be a family-friendly village with action from early morning to late night. With superb music from up to 96 international, national and local artists performing in over 228 concerts, workshops, sessions, and dances there will be also a colourful array of international food stalls, craft stalls and the festival bar. You can also camp onsite or stay in top-quality accommodation nearby. There is plenty of onsite car parking and Bulli train station is a short walk away. The festival commences on Friday afternoon, and concludes on Sunday evening with a finale with special guests. The festival does not have any major grants or funding and will be relying on the limited funds the Illawarra Folk Club has and ticket sales to survive.