This page shows some of the wonderful free events on offer during the 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 is programmed and run by Joe Sartin, and includes a host of exciting local and regional acts.
Children’s Folk Festival
Children of all ages (and their grownups) will find free activities and entertainment from at the Gill Nethercott Centre – the home of the Children’s Folk Festival.
Lunchtime choir concert
Friends of the festival, community folk choir Andover Museum Loft Singers, presented a popular lunchtime concert again in 2026.
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 is always a popular one 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
This year, we were entertained throughout the morning and early afternoon, by stunning dance displays from Sarum Morris, Winchester Morris Men and Whitchurch’s very own Mayfly Morris.
Longparish Mummers
The ever popular Longparish Mummers performed their plays full of legend and drama for our amusement.
Pop-up dance workshops
Lots of fun was had trying out Southern Stepping; an informal, creative style of step dancing local to Hampshire.
Performances from local youth music groups
We enjoyed musical performances from the fabulous Testbourne School Folk Group and Folk Active Youth Ensemble.
Sessions
Many enjoyed the atmosphere of traditional folk music session at the White Hart Hotel, run by Will Sartin, all were welcome to join in or just listen and enjoy!
