Central Ohio Folk Festival 2026

BUDGET-FRIENDLY, ALL AGES MUSIC EXTRAVAGANZA WEEKEND! ROOTS ACOUSTIC MUSIC AT ITS BEST!
The Central Ohio Folk Festival celebrates its 29th year with a NEW location in Lockbourne, Ohio, at the newly developed Bank Run Metro Park event space (former Hoover YMCA Park). It'll be the same family-friendly spirit in the great outdoors and ALL for a very modest admission fee. Over two days, more than 12,000 music lovers from Central Ohio and beyond will enjoy four stages featuring national, regional, and local artists. You’ll hear contemporary folk, bluegrass, old-time, blues, 'upcycled Celtic' and more! Saturday night’s headliner is the Tray Wellington Band, led by one of the most innovative and acclaimed banjo players of his generation. Want to be more actively engaged? Bring an instrument or just your voice! There are genre-specific open jam tents, community song, a close-of-day drum circle each day (no experience needed), and 30 workshops covering a multitude of topics and skill levels, including workshops for the very beginner with loaner instruments available.

NOTE: There is a staffed instrument storage tent on site. Families can enjoy performances and storytelling geared to kids as well as multiple crafts, a participatory festival parade, and the always-popular "Instrument Petting Zoo". Food trucks on site, or bring your own. Nocterra Brewing Co. is our official brewery partner. No alcohol is permitted entering or leaving the festival grounds. We remain committed to being a safe, family-friendly environment.

WHAT DO FOLKS SAY ABOUT US?

"It's been a joy exploring the festival online. It's obvious that there's a true passion for artfulness in music."
“Amazing quality of performers - not a single average act.”
“Jam tent was awesome. Magical how various musicians just ‘walked up’ and started playing!"
“Love it! Awesome way to introduce our kids to folk music.”

Come on out and join the celebration!

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