This page shows some of the wonderful free events on offer during this year’s festival!

This free programme of music, dance and arts events runs throughout the morning, afternoon and evening in parallel with the main line up (for which a festival ticket is needed).

Fringe Stage at The Kings Arms

A packed and diverse programme of acoustic, indie-folk and folk-adjacent bands and musicians will be performing in the pub garden. The stage has been curated by Joe Sartin, and includes a host of exciting local and regional acts. Nearer the festival, further information will be posted on the Line-up page.

Children’s Folk Festival

Children of all ages (and their grownups) will find free activities and entertainment from 9am until late afternoon, at the Gill Nethercott Centre – the home of the Children’s Folk Festival. View the children’s programme so far!.

Lunchtime choir concert

Friends of the festival, community folk choir Andover Museum Loft Singers, present a lunchtime concert.

Maypole Dancing

Celebrate Spring and try your hand (and feet!) at maypole dancing, under the expert tuition of Folk Active’s team of leaders. Suitable for adults and children over 8 years. This will be popular so arrive early to avoid disappointment!

Jack in the Green Parade

A traditional celebration not to miss! The parade will weave through the town led by the Jack in the Green – complete with costume made with help from children during the morning craft workshops at the Gill Nethercott Centre. Join in or watch the colourful, musical spectacle.

Morris Dance Displays

Be entertained throughout the morning and early afternoon, by stunning dance displays from Hook Eagle Morris, Cornucopia Appalacian Dancers, Bampton Morris, Winchester Morris Men and Whitchurch’s very own Mayfly Morris.

Longparish Mummers

Watch the Longparish Mummers perform their plays full of legend and drama for your amusement.

Pop-up dance workshops

Have fun having a go at Southern Stepping; an informal, creative style of step dancing local to Hampshire.

Performances from local youth music groups

Enjoy musical performances from the fabulous Testbourne School Folk Group and Folk Active Youth Ensemble.

Sessions

Drink in the atmosphere of traditional folk music sessions at the White Hart Hotel, all are welcome to join in or just listen and enjoy!