One of Victoria’s most beloved music events is gearing up for a milestone celebration, with the Port Fairy Folk Festival set to mark its 50th anniversary over the Labour Day long weekend in March 2027.
What began as a small community gathering in 1977 has grown into one of the world’s most respected folk festivals, attracting acclaimed artists and devoted audiences from across Australia and beyond. Half a century later, the festival remains deeply connected to the values that built its reputation: community, storytelling, connection and a shared love of live music.
The appetite for the golden anniversary event is already proving extraordinary. Festival organisers have reported record-breaking ticket sales in the first week, highlighting just how much affection generations of music lovers have for the iconic seaside gathering.
Today, the first artist announcement offers an early glimpse of what’s in store for the landmark edition. The initial lineup brings together a mix of international favourites and Australian talent including John Butler and band, Kutcha Edwards, Mia Dyson, Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission, We Mavericks and The Settlement.
Joining them are acclaimed international acts including The Milk Carton Kids from the United States, Scotland’s Skerryvore and Dlù, Ireland’s Daoirí Farrell, Joshua Burnside and Eleanor McEvoy, England’s Grace Petrie and Kate Rusby, Canada’s The Burning Hell, Spain’s Alosa and American singer-songwriter Tim Easton.
Port Fairy Folk Festival Program Director Justin Rudge said the anniversary offered a chance to celebrate the many people who have helped shape the event across five decades.
“Together with the volunteer committee and team, it’s such an honour to be the custodians of an event so beloved to so many. This first artist lineup is the Folkie at its best – Artists of the Year, international stars and the cream of local artists,” he said.
Rudge said the 2027 event would honour the festival’s rich history while continuing to evolve for future generations.
More artists, special anniversary events, family programming and archival celebrations will be announced in the months ahead.
The 50th Port Fairy Folk Festival runs from 5 to 8 March 2027. For tickets, accommodation options and more information, visit https://portfairyfolkfestival.com.
