BROADSTAIRS FOLK WEEK - What's on for 2025?
Broadstairs Folk Week is celebrating 60 years with its biggest programme yet
Perched on the cliff-tops and watched over by mischievous Hooden Horses, Broadstairs Folk Week (@broadstairsfolkweek ) is celebrating 60 years with its biggest programme yet—more than 400 events between 8th - 15th August 2025.
What began in 1966 with Jack Hamilton’s Folk Show has grown into a town-wide celebration, spanning more than 20 venues and welcoming generations of music lovers.
Folk Week is far more than a typical festival in a field - it takes over the whole town. With a mix of ticketed concerts and 160+ free events in pubs and parks, there's something for everyone. Choose a full-week pass with camping, buy individual event tickets, or simply wander in and soak up the fun.
This year’s line-up features big names in folk like Lindisfarne, Martin Carthy, and Eddi Reader, along with global sounds from Zimbabwean street performers Gonora Sounds and Bengali fusion band Khiyo. Expect lively ceilidhs with top dance bands like Banter and Whapweasel, and even a pirate-themed party with The Captain’s Beard. Folk icon Peggy Seeger joins via Zoom, and workshops range from songwriting to Caribbean folk music and clog dancing.
The printed festival brochure is a must-have for all event listings - especially as phone signals in the area can be patchy.
Special anniversary highlights include a nostalgic 1960s-style Folk Show picnic, the 60 Years of Folk Week exhibition at Pierremont Hall, a massive parade with 35 Morris sides, the Shine Like a Diamond fancy dress ceilidh, and a new ‘BuskStop’ stage at the craft fair.
Families will love the daily themed activities at the Hobby Horse Club, and you’ll find pirates, fairies, Morris dancers, and music at every corner.
We’re also proud to launch the new Pierremont Park Community Hub, supported by Arts Council England and Broadstairs & St Peter’s Town Council. This free space offers relaxed gigs, family sessions, and a Young Folk Introducing stage to showcase rising talent.
