Amaidi will perform their neo-trad rave sounds at The National Celtic Folk Festival. Picture: facebook.com/AmaidiMusic

The National Celtic Folk Festival is shaping up to be a massive celebration of Celtic music and culture. From fiery fiddles to foot-stomping folk, the lineup features some of Australia’s finest talent, ready to bring Portarlington to life over the June 6–9 long weekend.

DATES & DEETS

Leading the charge is Amaidí, Australia’s neo-trad rave sensation, fusing Irish and Scottish roots with cutting-edge sounds. Homebru, Tasmania’s Celtic folk powerhouse, promises wild, intricate tunes, while Melbourne’s Tolka blends tradition with award-winning innovation. Anna Scionti brings her electrifying blues and slide guitar, and rising stars Bo’Ness — with their strong Scottish heritage — are set to make a big impact.

Other must-see acts include Sydney’s Arís, a fresh take on Irish trad, the spellbinding harp and cello duo Monique Clare & Loni Fitzpatrick, and the powerful Galician folk stylings of Louzco Fouzco. Rounding out the first announcement are the Mast Gully Fellers, delivering Australiana bar-room folk, and the Melbourne Scottish Fiddlers, keeping centuries-old traditions alive.

And other headliners just announced are Tulua, a young traditional music band from Ireland. Since getting together in 2019, they have garnered a strong following, and before their album release in 2023 they played at some of the biggest festivals in the world, including Milwaukee Irish Fest, la Crosse Irish Fest, CastleFest Holland and TempleBar Tradfest. They are becoming one of Ireland’s finest emerging traditional music bands. 

Also playing is Caoimhín, a producer, singer, and multi-instrumentalist forging a soulful new Gaelic sound, blending elements from the Irish tradition with alternative genres and concepts such as downtempo electronica, nu-disco, psychedelia and nature-based spirituality. 

With a voice like a complex coffee, Gráinne Hunt will enchant audiences with her heart-melting vocals and emotional songs, making her a standout amongst Ireland’s vocalists and songwriters. Her two original records delve into personal experiences, evoking pain and longing, and comparisons have been drawn to Tracy Chapman, Natalie Merchant and Dolores Keane. Gráinne’s latest original album This Secret was recorded in Nashville with Grammy-nominated Thomm Jutz. 

Beyond the musical performances, the festival offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Attendees can participate in workshops, masterclasses, visual arts projects, and themed events. The bustling festival market will feature over 80 stalls, including food trucks, artisan markets, Celtic crafts, and interactive demonstrations. Additional attractions include ancient rituals by open fires, Highland cattle exhibits, and Gaelic football displays, ensuring there’s something for everyone. 

Tickets are now available, and with both free and ticketed components, there’s an opportunity for all to engage with the festivities. 

 For more details and to secure tickets, visit the official festival website.