The beloved Victorian festival continues to build an eclectic programme spanning blues, Americana, Celtic traditions and North African sounds.
Port Fairy Folk Festival has dropped another wave of artists for its 2026 edition, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most diverse line-ups in the festival’s storied history.
Catch up on all the latest news here.
Leading the latest announcement is three-time Grammy winner Fantastic Negrito, whose blues-infused sound has been turning heads across the globe. The Oakland-based artist brings his electrifying live show to the Victorian coast alongside dreamy folk-pop songwriter Hannah Cohen.
Morocco’s Asmâa Hamzaoui & Bnat Timbouktou will bring their hypnotic gnawa traditions to Australian shores — the all-female ensemble represents a rare opportunity to experience this ancient trance music live. Scotland’s Dallahan continue the Celtic thread, whilst Catalonia’s El Pony Pisador promise their trademark exuberant folk energy. Americana legend Jim Lauderdale rounds out the overseas contingent with decades of songwriting craft in tow.
Port Fairy Folk Festival keeps local music a priority with Feelds, Caisha Sprout, and Crest of Crows joining the bill alongside Radical Son and The Southern Ocean Sea Band. The Lost Clog and celebrated English duo While & Matthews add to the folk credentials, whilst Ireland’s The Ocelots and American bluegrass outfit MountainGrass Unit bring their own distinct sound.
The third lineup comes after previously announced heavyweights Iron & Wine, Kasey Chambers, Emma Donovan’s Take Me To The River project, and Willie Watson. Irish legend Mary Coughlan, Swedish folk act Åkervinda, Pierce Brothers, California’s Rainbow Girls, plus Celtic powerhouses Elephant Sessions and Beoga have also been confirmed.
Festival Director Justin Rudge emphasised the programme’s breadth: “This latest line-up brings together everything from Oakland blues to Moroccan trance, Appalachian string music and Catalan sea shanties, alongside the heart of Australian folk.”
Taking place over Labour Day long weekend from 6-9 March 2026, the festival continues its reputation as one of Australia’s most adventurous and welcoming gatherings. The seaside town of Port Fairy provides the perfect backdrop for four days of discovery, community connection, and exceptional live music spanning continents and traditions.
Full lineup details and accommodation options are available at here.
