The Sidmouth Folk Festival has triumphantly returned to its historic seaside town for its 71st year, bringing a vibrant schedule of over 800 performances, workshops, and community events. This year marks a new chapter as the festival operates under its status as a Community Interest Company (CIC), reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and community spirit.
Festival directors Tash Daly and Jason Knight highlighted the invaluable contributions of more than 400 volunteers alongside enthusiastic local businesses and residents. “Whether you’re performing, volunteering, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, your involvement keeps the heart of Sidmouth Folk Festival beating strong,” they remarked.
The official festivities kick off on Friday, August 1, flooding multiple venues with a diverse array of performances ranging from lively concerts to intimate singalongs, storytelling sessions, and dynamic folk dance workshops. The 2025 programme is heralded as one of the festival’s most eclectic, featuring artists from across the UK as well as international talent.
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The week-long celebrations are anchored by community-centered offerings, including free family activities supported by the Keith Owen Fund and a visual arts exhibition located in the sensory garden. Local heritage comes alive through storytelling events and a special performance by the Devon Folk Sinfonietta of “Dances for a Party Medley,” derived from a 1957 Sidbury songbook. For young folk enthusiasts, the Children’s Festival and Shooting Roots workshops provide inclusive opportunities to learn instruments, crafts, and traditional dances.
Beyond the headline acts, festival-goers can discover hidden gems such as the “An Hour or So With…” acoustic sets and late-night storytelling in the charming Old Dissenting Meeting House. To enhance the experience, a free mobile app is available for download on both Apple App Store and Google Play. It helps attendees effortlessly navigate events by performer, venue, or category.
Tickets are conveniently available at the door for most events, with options for multi-day passes and comprehensive All-in-One tickets. For full event listings and performer details, the official programme and the festival website www.sidmouthfolkfestival.co.uk provide all essential information.