Folk by the Oak is returning with another full day of music and magic.
Set in the scenic Hatfield Park in Hertfordshire, the popular festival will take place on Sunday, July 19, and promises a diverse line-up across two stages, with folk, fusion, blues, and more on offer.
There’s no risk of missing out at this cleverly designed event, as the music alternates between stages, allowing fans to enjoy every artist on the bill.
Olivia Chaney will open the Main Stage, accompanied by violinist Owen Spafford.
Ms Chaney, whose music has featured in the latest film adaptation of Wuthering Heights, has been praised for her “luscious and sophisticated” sound.
Returning by popular demand are Sam Kelly & The Lost Boys, known for their soaring harmonies and infectious energy.
Talisk, a standout act from 2019, will also take to the Main Stage once again.
Adam Slough, festival director, said: "In 2019 they gave an absolutely phenomenal performance and we are thrilled to welcome them back.
"Expect big energy, heavy tunes and another Folk by the Oak performance to relish from one of contemporary Scottish folk’s most celebrated live acts."
The acclaimed folk supergroup Spell Songs will also perform.
Commissioned by Folk by the Oak, the group includes Karine Polwart, Julie Fowlis, Seckou Keita, Kris Drever, Rachel Newton, Beth Porter and Jim Molyneux.
The set will feature live painting by artist Jackie Morris and new material from their third album.
Blues icon Seasick Steve returns for the penultimate Main Stage slot.
Mr Slough said: "In 2021 we were enthralled by this blues icon, who gave us the kind of stand-out performance that we had all been waiting for through the Covid shut down.
"As we were restricted back then to half our usual audience capacity, we knew we had to bring this incredible performer back for all our wonderful audience to enjoy."
The festival will close with a headline set from Black Country, New Road.
Mr Slough said: "With the release of their 3rd studio album Forever Howlong, this Cambridge-bred band really made us sit up and take notice.
"Drawing on influences from folk to prog to baroque pop, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is eclectic, innovative and technically brilliant, we know this will be an ear-opening and virtuosic final set for FbtO26."
Meanwhile, the Acorn Stage will showcase a mix of emerging and established talent.
The London Youth Folk Ensemble will open the stage, continuing a cherished festival tradition and offering a lively start to the day.
Also performing is Highlands songwriter Iona Lane, whose music explores themes of ecology, folklore, and conservation.
She is followed by Rain of Animals, a duo known for their intricate arrangements and instrumental skill.
Jessie Reid, who has surpassed 10 million streams and performed at major festivals including Glastonbury, will bring her percussive guitar style and understated vocals to the stage.
The penultimate set will be “Rooted & Rising,” a project led by composer and percussionist Adriano Adewale and supported by EFDSS and Folk by the Oak.
Mr Adewale, who previously performed at the festival in 2022 as part of the AKA Trio, will be joined by Nancy Kerr, Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, and Kuljit Bhamra.
Mr Slough said: "Electronic-folk fusion band Valtos have a unique, genre defying sound and compelling energy that’s perfect to headline our 2026 Acorn Stage.
"Their talent, innovation, dedication and boundary-pushing artistry continue to impress critics and fans alike, and we are expecting an electrifying finale."
In keeping with the festival’s inclusive and thoughtful layout, audiences can catch every performance throughout the day.
Early Bird tickets are on sale for £56 until March 31, with discounts available for students, UC/ESA recipients and Blue Light Card holders.
More information, including the full line-up and ticket details, can be found at www.folkbytheoak.com.
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