Music is something that can bring many of us together, but if there is one that stands out more than many others, it’s folk music. The twang of acoustic guitars teamed with the raspy yet delicate voices of the singers makes it one of the most popular choices for many. Here are the best folk festivals in the world to give you the fix you need.
Newport Folk Festival, Rhode Island
If you want to spend two days enjoying some of the best folk music on offer without the worry of having to rough it out in a tent for a week, then look no further. The Newport Folk Festival has been home to some of the biggest names over the years, before they were even stars, including Jose Feliciano, Joan Baez, and Bob Dylan. However, if you want to enjoy the camping experience than thankfully there are several campsites close by that will give you the full festival vibe – tents and all.
Cambridge Folk Festival, UK
Thankfully, the UK have their own answer to a folk festival. The Cambridge Folk Festival goes one step further. As well as being one of the best places to head as a family thanks to the intimate festival grounds, the event has also begun to host a variety of musicians who are taking the mold of folk music and bending it to include rock and reggae, too. This festival is said to be one of the most iconic in Europe, and many have enjoyed seeing it grow from a stage in a field to the size it is today over the last five decades.
Jacob’s Ladder, Israel
Believe it or not, but just two event organizers have been running Jacob’s Ladder since it first took off in 1978. However, they now have the help of many volunteers and their children to bring it to life, too. The festival began in a stone building, and the lack of electricity was no issue for the hosts as they used lanterns to light the arena. As Jacob’s Ladder grew to become so popular, the event organizers decided to host it not once but twice a year to keep up with the demand for folk music in the area.
Calgary Folk Fest, Canada
This festival started as a small event before it grew to include thousands of people from all around the world. Calgary Folk Fest now sees more than 52,000 fans flock to the area where they can enjoy four days of their favorite music. One of the biggest appeals of the festival is the addition of jams. Ever wondered what it would be like for various folk groups to all play music at the same time or even try their hand at playing one another’s songs? Now is your chance to find out.
Folk music is something that many of us have fallen for over the years, and it looks as though it’s not just us. Now, we can enjoy the tune of the music everywhere we go thanks to the best folk festivals in the world.
