Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on July 28th, 2026
•The popular Barnsley Folk Festival is set to return in 2027, and excitement is already building among music lovers. Scheduled to run from Wednesday, 19 May to Sunday, 23 May 2027, the festival promises an array of performances that will celebrate the rich tapestry of folk music. Barnsley Civic, the festival's host, has announced two headline concerts that are sure to draw in crowds.
Headline Acts
The first major event will take place on Friday night, featuring An Evening with The Roberts. This concert is a special celebration of the music of Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman, along with Gilmore & Roberts. Kathryn and Sean are not just any folk artists; they are a celebrated duo known for their stunning performances and masterful musicianship. Having been awarded 'Best Duo' at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards twice, their place in the folk scene is firmly established.
Joining them on stage will be Jamie Roberts, Kathryn's brother, and Katriona Gilmore, both of whom bring their own award-winning talents to the mix. This marks a unique occasion, as it's their first time performing together, and fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable night.
The following night, Saturday, 22 May, will see the much-loved The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican take the stage. Known for their comedic twist on folk music, they are anything but a typical folk group. They have built a loyal following over two decades, performing over 1,400 shows and even sharing the stage at major festivals like Glastonbury and Fairport's Cropredy Convention. Their energetic performances and humorous parodies have made them a staple in the folk festival scene.
A Range of Performances
But the Barnsley Folk Festival isn’t just about the headline acts. The festival will also feature a variety of performances and activities throughout the weekend. Here’s a glimpse of what attendees can expect:
Daytime Free Outdoor Festival on Saturday 22 May: Live traditional music, dance, craft workshops, storytelling, outdoor bar, food vendors, and market.
Multi-Band Evening Concert on Sunday 23 May: Featuring bands such as Shoon, The Hooliemen, Serious Sam Barrett, Parson's Lot, and Glass Ships.
Free Daytime Ceilidh on Sunday 23 May: A traditional dance event open to all.
In addition to the concerts, there will be folk sessions, singarounds, and opportunities for storytelling and theatre. The festival aims to provide a fun and engaging atmosphere for everyone, whether they are die-hard folk fans or newcomers to the genre.
Tickets
Tickets for the festival weekend, as well as individual concert tickets for both headline shows, went on sale starting Monday, 27 July 2026.
Significance of the Festival
The Barnsley Folk Festival has a long-standing history, first taking place in 1986. It has grown to become a significant event in the local cultural calendar, attracting thousands of attendees each year. This year, the festival saw nearly 2,000 people enjoying a weekend filled with concerts, dances, and workshops, proving its continued relevance and popularity.
By hosting such a diverse range of acts, the festival not only showcases established artists but also supports emerging talent, enriching Barnsley's cultural landscape.
