Come prepared, pace yourself and stay curious at the upcoming National Folk Festival, says co-artistic director.

The festival will run at Exhibition Park in Canberra from 17-21 April.

Dr Chris Stone said with more than 120 acts and over 560 concerts, dances, workshops, sessions and special events, it was easy to get swept up in the energy.

“Come prepared, pace yourself and stay curious,” he said.

“Wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle, maybe a costume for one of our dance events, check the weather forecast and don’t forget sunscreen.

“Most importantly, build in time to just be — sit in the sun, listen to music you’ve never heard before, make new friends and soak up the atmosphere.

“The best festival moments often happen when you slow down and follow your ears.”

Dr Stone — who spoke to CD on behalf of fellow co-artistic directors Holly Downes and Michael Sollis — said special events would bring a fresh flavour to the program.

“The Trad Rave transforms traditional tunes for the dancefloor, while our Live at the National Variety Shows are curated concerts featuring standout festival artists backed by an all-star house band,” he said.

“The Bridgerton Ball invites you to dance in full regency splendour, and our cultural forums create space for deeper conversations around community, creativity, and identity in folk traditions.”

He said other highlights included the mix of Australian and international artists.

“There’s also a huge array of music workshops and sessions, dance and spoken word events, plus family-friendly activities,” Dr Stone said.

“From late-night musical antics in the Session Bar to the joyful mayhem of our roving performers, the festival is brimming with unforgettable experiences.”

Dr Stone said some aspects of the festival had been reimagined to enhance accessibility and flow, with new signage and improved navigation around the site.

“The refreshed Piazza dance stage and Family Fest Marquee now offer even more interactive, all-ages programming,” he said.

Dr Stone said the size of some venues had also changed, either increasing or decreasing. They’ve also created a dedicated youth space, Sam’s Caravan.

“The festival continues to evolve while staying true to its roots — community, creativity and connection,” he said.

Dr Stone said people should attend the festival to become part of it.

“At the National Folk Festival, you don’t just come to consume music or watch dance — you come to be part of it,” he said.

“We’ve created endless pathways for folks to have an immersive, transformative experience of co-creation.

“Whether it’s through learning a new skill, contributing to a forum, joining a session, or stepping into a spontaneous performance, the festival invites you to explore new forms of self-expression and connection, and to find and grow new communities by making, sharing, learning and performing together.”

More information on the festival can be found at folkfestival.org.au

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