Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival

Organised by a small group of dedicated music lovers, the festival continues to thrive through the work of volunteers and artists whose contributions over more than two decades have sustained its focus on artists, programming, and community participation.

A vital part of Dorrigo’s special atmosphere comes from its patrons, who travel from all walks of life and across generations to share in the community of music. Their presence helps sustain the cultural life and sense of place that make the festival such an important part of the Plateau. As a folk festival, it provides a platform for engagement, participation and creative expression, and this year it will welcome a vibrant mix of performers from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The program features singer-songwriters offering distinctive perspectives on the world today, some of the country’s finest young bluegrass players, performers from the United States at the forefront of the genre, and folk duos, groups and bands of remarkable virtuosity and range. There will also be old-time dances and hoedowns, participatory vocal and instrumental workshops, a festival choir and a beginners’ bluegrass group. Visitors can learn how to write a protest song, join an old-time jam, enjoy the talents showcased in the Eight String Social Club, hear the insights of singer-songwriters and much more.

Children will have their own dedicated space, with stories, festival bunting, scarves, singalongs and workshops led by Shake Shake Theatre, which will also present a new play. Places are still available at this year’s Old-Time Music School and the inaugural Beginners Bootcamp.

Music will also spill into the cafés on Saturday and Sunday mornings, as the festival shares some of its highlights with the town, while the Local Made in Dorrigo Market promises a few surprises of its own. In the lead-up to the festival, generous contributions from some performers will also be shared at local schools and with residents at the Multi Purpose Centre.

With festive grounds, seated and accessible venues, delicious food, stalls and camping, the festival offers a warm welcome to all. Visit the website to explore the performers, check the program, sign up for pre-festival workshops and start planning a visit. The festival looks forward to welcoming you!

What Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival Where Dorrigo Showground When 23-25 Oct Tix dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au