Fifty Years of the Folkie: Port Fairy Folk Festival Celebrates a Huge Milestone in 2027 – and Its Lineup Reveal Doesn't Miss a Beat
The countdown to Port Fairy Folk Festival's golden anniversary is on, with a host of major local and international names announced already.
If you ever needed an excuse to reach the end of the Great Ocean Road, the 50th anniversary of Port Fairy Folk Festival is as good, if not better, than most. Returning from March 5–8, 2027, for a landmark edition, this much-loved celebration of music, community and shared memories will once again take over this charming coastal town for what has become one of the world's most respected tributes to folk music.
The festival just made its first artist announcement — with loads more to come — and both serial attendees and first-timers can expect a monumental instalment that does this milestone event justice. Featuring an acclaimed international and Australian lineup that reflects the spirit, diversity and musical excellence audiences have come to expect from the Folkie, it might just be time to start organising your crew.
John Butler. Credit: Nick McKinlay.
Building anticipation for 2027, standout headliners revealed so far include Aussie icon John Butler, who'll bring his virtuosic fingerpicking and ever-growing musical catalogue to Port Fairy alongside his band. Then, leading the international names is Texas-formed Sixpence None the Richer, the American alternative rock and pop band behind mega-hits like "Kiss Me", "There She Goes" and a hugely popular cover of Crowded House's "Don't Dream It's Over". Plus, Kate Rusby, aka the Barnsley Nightingale, will bring her brand of modern folk revival to our shores.
"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. Some coming back for their tenth visit, others on their first voyage to Port Fairy and Australia," says Port Fairy Folk Festival Director Justin Rudge.
Grace Petrie. Credit: Supplied.
Also on the lineup for 2027 are American Grammy-nominated indie folk duo The Milk Carton Kids, long-standing Scottish Celtic rock band Skerryvore, and ARIA-winning singer, songwriter and guitarist Mia Dyson. Joined by Eleanor McEvoy (Ireland), Grace Petrie (England), Alosa (Spain), Tim Easton (USA) and many more, this eclectic affair is bound to be one to remember.
"It's just the beginning — we have so much more in store for our amazing audience," says Rudge. "It's a wonderful chance to reflect on the past and nurture the Port Fairy experience for generations to come. This year will truly have something for everyone."
Mia Dyson. Credit: Anita Coats.
Kate Rusby. Credit: Supplied.
The Milk Carton Kids. Credit: Supplied.
Port Fairy Folk Festival 2026. Credit: Lucinda Goodwin.
Port Fairy Folk Festival 2026. Credit: Lucinda Goodwin.
Port Fairy Folk Festival's 50th anniversary is happening from Friday, March 5–Sunday, March 8, 2027. Head to the website for more information.
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Top image: Lucinda Goodwin.
