The Best Folk Music Calendar to Check Out This Year
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Looking for the best folk music calendar to check out this year? Look no further – we’ve got you covered! From traditional to contemporary, there’s something for everyone. So start planning your folk music fix now!
Introduction
Folk music has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, as artists have begun to draw on traditional sounds and themes in order to create something new and exciting. If you’re a fan of this genre, then you’ll be pleased to know that there are a number of great folk music festivals taking place around the world in 2020.
So, whether you’re looking for a laid-back event where you can enjoy some campfire sing-alongs or a more lively affair with plenty of dancing and drinking, there’s sure to be a folk music festival that’s perfect for you. To help you make your decision, we’ve put together a list of some of the best folk music festivals taking place in 2020.
The best folk music festivals in the U.S.
Folk music has come a long way since its early days in the United States. Today, the genre is enjoyed by music lovers around the world. If you’re a fan of folk music, you’ll want to check out these folk music festivals in the United States. From the East Coast to the West Coast, there’s a folk music festival for everyone.
Newport Folk Festival
The Newport Folk Festival is one of the most well-known and respected folk music festivals in the United States. Held annually in Newport, Rhode Island, the festival features a wide range of folk musicians from across the country and around the world.
Now in its 59th year, the Newport Folk Festival is one of the longest-running folk music festivals in the country. The festival was founded in 1959 by George Wein, who also founded the nearby Newport Jazz Festival.
Wein intended for the Newport Folk Festival to be a more intimate and relaxed alternative to the larger and more commercialized music festivals that were becoming popular at the time. The festival has always been held outdoors, with a focus on acoustic music and performers.
Over the years, the Newport Folk Festival has featured some of the most legendary names in folk music, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, and many others. In recent years, the festival has expanded its scope to include a wider range of genres, such as indie-folk, Americana, roots music, and more.
The Newport Folk Festival is always held on the last full weekend in July. Tickets go on sale in late April or early May each year.
Pickathon
Every summer, crowds of music fans descend on a little farm just outside of Portland, Oregon, for what has become one of the most highly anticipated music festivals of the year: Pickathon.
Now in its 20th year, Pickathon has established itself as a premier destination for fans of Americana, roots, and folk music, with an impressive lineup of both established and up-and-coming artists. This year’s lineup includes legends like John Prine and Mavis Staples, along with exciting new voices like Lillie Mae and Yola.
In addition to its stellar musical lineup, Pickathon is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on Leave No Trace principles. The festival has won multiple awards for its efforts to reduce waste and its use of alternative energy sources.
If you’re looking for an authentic folk music experience this summer, Pickathon is the perfect place to be.
Americanafest
AmericanaFest is one of the most respected and long-running folk music festivals in the United States. Taking place in Nashville, Tennessee, Americanafest draws in folk and Americana fans from all over the world for a week of music and fun.
This year’s Americanafest is taking place from September 11-17, and features a lineup of some of the best folk musicians in the country. Artists performing at this year’s festival include Jason Isbell, John Prine, Mavis Staples, The Indigo Girls, and many more.
The best folk music festivals in Europe
There’s nothing quite like listening to live music outdoors, and there’s no better place to do it than at a folk music festival. Europe is home to some of the best folk music festivals in the world, and we’ve compiled a list of the best ones to check out this year.
Celtic Connections
Celtic Connections is one of the most popular folk music festivals in Europe, and takes place every January in Glasgow, Scotland. The festival attracts some of the biggest names in Celtic and folk music, and features over 2,000 artists from all over the world. If you’re a fan of traditional Celtic music, or just want to experience some great live music, Celtic Connections is definitely worth checking out.
Cambridge Folk Festival
The Cambridge Folk Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious folk music festivals in the world. Held in the picturesque university city of Cambridge, England, the festival attracts visitors from all over the world. With over 300 performances across five stages, there is something for everyone at this incredible event.
Primavera Sound
Prague seasonal festival celebrates the start of spring with a lineup of international and local musicians. The festival takes place in the Czech Republic’s capital city, and this year’s edition will include sets from the likes of Vampire Weekend, Metronomy, Janelle Monáe,end Sigrid.
The best folk music festivals in Canada
Folk music has seen a bit of a resurgence in recent years, and with that has come a new wave of folk music festivals. If you’re a fan of folk music, or just want to check out something new, here are the best folk music festivals in Canada.
Mariposa Folk Festival
The Mariposa Folk Festival is one of Canada’s longest-running and most prestigious folk music festivals. Since 1961, the festival has been held in Orillia, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Couchiching. The festival features a wide range of folk musicians from across Canada and around the world, as well as a variety of family-friendly activities.
The Mariposa Folk Festival is held annually on the second weekend in July. Tickets for the festival can be purchased in advance or at the gate.
Winnipeg Folk Festival
If you love folk music, then you’ll want to check out the Winnipeg Folk Festival. This event takes place in Manitoba’s capital city and features a wide variety of folk musicians from across Canada and beyond. Past performers have included internationally-renowned acts like Bobby McFerrin and Emmylou Harris, as well as up-and-coming artists who are sure to delight.
Vancouver Folk Music Festival
Now in its 41st year, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival is one of the most popular and longest-running festivals in Canada. The festival takes place every July in beautiful British Columbia and features a wide variety of folk, world and roots music. With over 100 performers on 20 different stages, there is something for everyone at this massive event.
Conclusion
All in all, there are a lot of great options for folk music fans to check out this year. No matter what your preference, you’re sure to find something that fits your taste. So get out there and enjoy the wide world of folk music!
