Every August, the charming seaside town of Broadstairs in Kent transforms into a vibrant folk‑music wonderland for Broadstairs Folk Week – a week‑long celebration of tradition, performance and cultural connection.
This year marks the festival’s 60th anniversary, making it one of the UK's most enduring and beloved folk events.
With over 400 events across more than 20 venues and more than 160 free shows, Folk Week takes over the entire town – by the sea, on the promenade and throughout the pubs, parks and community spaces.
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| See the Range of Broadstairs Designs >> |
The Origins – From Jack Hamilton’s Folk Show to a Town‑wide Festival
Broadstairs Folk Week was born in the 1960s when English folk revival pioneer Jack Hamilton discovered Broadstairs and launched a twice‑daily Folk Show in Pierremont Park.
With council and society funding from the outset, the festival steadily expanded - adding pub sessions, workshops, dance sides and eventually full camping and marquee venues.
By today, the festival supports the town both socially and economically - an estimated £2.3 million flows into the local economy during the event.
What to Expect – Over 400 Events and Something for Everyone
Broadstairs Folk Week blends ticketed concerts with a huge free fringe programme. Headline acts including Lindisfarne, Martin & Eliza Carthy, Eddi Reader, Flook, Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman and local favourite Tim Edey - who hails from Broadstairs itself have featured on the main stage.
But don’t stop there - side stages and venues host artists from around the world including Khiyo (Bangladeshi fusion), Gonora Sounds (Zimbabwe) and Falle Nioke (Guinea), offering global folk perspectives alongside British roots.
Free Events and Family Fun: Bandstand, Parade & Craft Fair
One of Silver Week’s highlights is the free daily events at the Bandstand in Victoria Gardens, where dance sides, family ceilidh bands and interactive performances entertain seafront crowds.
You can also join in sing‑and‑sign choirs, family dances and morning chorus sessions led by local groups.
The Festival Parade features more than 30 Morris sides and traditional Kentish hooden horses winding down the High Street and onto the promenade.
Right next to the Bandstand is the Craft & Music Fair, open daily from morning until evening. Browse artisan crafts, vintage fashion, handmade instruments, try a craft workshop or relax at the festival bar by the sea.
It’s a perfect spot to mingle, shop local and catch free performances on the BuskStop stage or inside open-air tents.
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| Louisa Bay and Viking Bay, Broadstairs - on a Mug |
Workshops, Children’s Events & Community Participation
Workshops are a core part of Folk Week, designed for all ages and abilities.
You could try ukulele, drumming, African dance, sea‑shanty singing, tai chi or poetry readings.
There's also the Band in a Weekend project encouraging youngsters to form bands and perform. Children can head to the Hobby Horse Club for daily themed activities, storytelling or fancy-dress ceilidhs.
Tips for First‑Timers to Broadstairs Folk Festival
- Book early – accommodation and festival tickets often sell out well in advance.
- Pick up a printed brochure
- Bring layers and waterproofs – August weather can turn quickly, especially by the coast.
- Wander into pubs – many host free gigs in the evenings, extending the folk vibe town‑wide.
- Join a parade, try a workshop or ceilidh – it's a friendly, inclusive festival where everyone is welcome.
A Festival Rooted in Community
Broadstairs Folk Week thrives on the dedication of approximately 250 volunteers each year, who help run everything from ticket desks to minibuses.
It’s a registered charity, reinvesting any income into staging the event.
Beyond music, it’s a genuine community celebration - from local pubs to school fields, and the folk-loving visitors who return generation after generation.
Why Visit Broadstairs Folk Week?
Whether you’re a folk purist, a casual music fan or someone looking for a friendly seaside experience, Broadstairs offers something special:
- A picturesque coastal town – clean beaches, Victorian charm and local pubs serving seafood, pies and Morelli’s ice‑cream nearby.
- A full spectrum of folk – from traditional English dance to global fusion and acoustic storytelling.
- An inclusive community feel – free events, accessible venues and a warm welcoming vibe.
Join In, Join Folk Week
With over four decades of history behind it, and now celebrating 60 years, Broadstairs Folk Week stands out as a festival of tradition, creativity and coastal magic.
Whether you're dancing with Morris sides, learning a new tune at a workshop, enjoying a pint by the bandstand or discovering a global folk act, the spirit of community and song is everywhere.
Intrigued? I’d love to hear: have you been to Broadstairs Folk Week before? What was your highlight - or what would you hope to experience?
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