Auckland Folk Festival Unveils Exciting Lineup for 2026
The Auckland Folk Festival is set to make a vibrant return in 2026, exciting music lovers with a stellar lineup that includes Mel Parsons, Old Man Luedecke, Cassie and Maggie, among many others.
Scheduled over Auckland Anniversary Weekend from January 23rd to 26th, 2026, the festival will take place at the Kumeu Showgrounds. This grand event promises to showcase a diverse mix of both local and international artists, providing the perfect way to close out summer.
Headliners and Performers
New Zealand’s beloved indie-folk artist Mel Parsons will headline the festival. Known for her enchanting voice and sharp humor, she brings a wealth of experience from numerous records and tours. Parsons has been recognized as a finalist for the 2025 Taite Music Prize and received nominations for Album of the Year and Best Folk Artist at the 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards.
Joining her is two-time Juno Award winner Old Man Luedecke, celebrated for his banjo skills and storytelling through music. Additionally, Cassie and Maggie, hailing from Nova Scotia, will showcase their captivating mix of fiddle, piano, and guitar, performing in both English and Gaelic.
More Exciting Acts
The festival will also feature Nordic groups like Dragkroka and Marine/Simonson/Wiskari, as well as the British folk-punk singer Jennifer Reid and the trio Culverake. Aotearoa’s talent will be well-represented by renowned musicians such as Rob Thorne, Turkey the Bird, Hot Diggity, and Bazurka.
Attendees can also look forward to workshops led by Hinekoia Tomlinson throughout the festival.
An Unforgettable Experience
Spanning three days, the festival will boast marquees, onsite camping, a range of food and market stalls, five stages (including one dedicated to children), and various arts and music workshops to engage attendees.
Tickets are available for purchase, offering a chance to experience this enriching celebration of folk music.
2026 Auckland Folk Festival Lineup
Adam & Marika
Bazurka
Butter Wouldn’t Melt
Cassie & Maggie (CAN)
Celtic Ferret
Culverake (UK)
Dragkroka (SWE)
Hinekoia Tomlinson
Hot Diggity
Jeff Davis
Jennifer Reid (UK)
Marine/Simonson/Wiskari (SWE)
Mel Parsons
Mice on Stilts
Miriam McCombe
Old Man Luedecke (CAN)
Olive Mortimer
Parrot in the Pocket
Petty Grass
Sammy Leary
Simon Stanley
Tom Cunliffe
Turkey the Bird
& much more!
Are you excited about the Auckland Folk Festival? What acts are you looking forward to seeing live?
