Stonehaven Folk Festival – Stonehaven, Scotland 2026
Overview
The Stonehaven Folk Festival is North-East Scotland’s longest-running celebration of folk music, blending traditional Scottish tunes with contemporary sounds in the charming coastal town of Stonehaven. Organized by a dedicated volunteer committee, this annual event promotes the arts through live performances, workshops, and community gatherings, drawing music lovers to venues from historic town halls to harborside pubs amid Aberdeenshire’s rugged beauty.
Expect a vibrant weekend of ceilidhs, singarounds, and educational sessions that honor folk heritage while welcoming emerging talents. From intimate acoustic sets to lively main-stage concerts, the festival fosters camaraderie and cultural exchange, all enhanced by Stonehaven’s picturesque harbor and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must for folk enthusiasts seeking an authentic Scottish musical escape.
Event Highlights
- Main activities and performances: Headline concerts in Stonehaven Town Hall featuring international and local folk artists; informal sessions and singarounds in pubs like the Ship Inn and British Legion; workshops on traditional instruments and songwriting led by performers.
- Special traditions and features: Rooted in Scottish folk heritage since its inception, the festival includes community-driven events like the World Paper’n’Comb Championships; Aqua Ceilidh in the open-air pool; diverse lineup spanning traditional ballads to modern fusions, emphasizing education and preservation.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Scenic harbor walks with pop-up performances; family-friendly fun like the quirky comb contest; opportunities to mingle with artists in cozy venues; ties into local culture with storytelling and dance that capture Aberdeenshire’s spirit.
Why Attend
Attending the Stonehaven Folk Festival means stepping into a living tapestry of Scotland’s folk soul, where ancient melodies meet fresh voices in venues that echo with history and harbor breezes. The intimate scale allows for genuine connections—chat with musicians over a pint, learn a reel in a workshop, or sway to ceilidhs that blur the line between performer and audience. It’s a joyful reminder of music’s power to unite, set against Stonehaven’s golden sands and dramatic cliffs.
For newcomers and die-hards alike, the blend of free events, quirky traditions like the Paper’n’Comb Championships, and the festival’s community heartbeat creates unforgettable moments. Whether you’re escaping city life or diving deeper into Celtic roots, this event recharges the spirit, leaving you humming tunes and eager for more—proving why Stonehaven remains a folk haven year after year.
Date & Duration
Dates: July 10 – July 12, 2026
Duration: 3 days
Venue / Location
The festival spans multiple intimate venues across Stonehaven, with the main stage at Stonehaven Town Hall for headline concerts, Market Square for outdoor gatherings, and pubs like the Ship Inn and British Legion for sessions. Other spots include St Bridgets Hall for workshops, the Open Air Pool for the Aqua Ceilidh, and the Harbour for scenic performances—all within easy walking distance in the town center.
Google Maps address: Stonehaven Town Hall, Allardice Street, Stonehaven AB39 2BU, United Kingdom
Ticket Information
- Tickets are sold online via the official website and at local outlets; some free events, with paid concerts and workshops available on-site at venues if available.
- Admission is a mix of free and paid; many sessions and singarounds are free, while main concerts and workshops require tickets.
- Ticket pricing in USD: Single concert tickets from $13 USD (£10 GBP) to $39 USD (£30 GBP); workshop passes $26 USD (£20 GBP); full weekend passes around $103 USD (£80 GBP).
- Special seating or VIP options: Limited reserved seating in Town Hall for headline shows; no formal VIP, but early bird packages include priority access.
- Minimum ticket pricing: $13 USD for single event tickets.
- Maximum ticket pricing: $103 USD for a full weekend pass.
Booking with Euro Travelo
Planning to enjoy this music festival without the stress? Euro Travelo can help you book tickets, organize travel, and handle your entire trip from start to finish. Whether it’s a vibrant music festival, live concert, or cultural celebration, our team ensures a smooth experience for music lovers across Europe.
Contact Euro Travelo today to secure your festival tickets and travel arrangements.
Contact Information
- Email: admin@stonehavenfolkfestival.co.uk (general inquiries); use for ticket and volunteer questions.
- Phone: +44 7498 297541 (main); +44 7881 480737 (tickets and general, leave message if no answer).
- Website: https://stonehavenfolkfestival.co.uk (See Official Site).
- Social Media: @stonehavenfolkfestival (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, YouTube).
- Key Staff: Committee-led; contact admin for specific roles.
- Press/Volunteers: Email admin@stonehavenfolkfestival.co.uk for press or volunteer sign-up (opportunities include stewarding, setup, and marketing).
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours; English support; tickets not monitored until March 1, 2026; charity SC049859.
Getting There
- Nearest airports: Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) 20 minutes north by car or bus; Edinburgh Airport (EDI) about 2.5 hours south via train.
- Public transport: Trains every 30 minutes from Aberdeen (15 miles north) or Edinburgh/Glasgow to Stonehaven Station, 15-minute walk to center; buses hourly from Aberdeen to Barclay Street drop-off near Market Square.
- Driving: From south via A92 coastal route past Dunnottar Castle or A90 dual carriageway; from north via A90 south from Aberdeen; well-signposted, with parking at Recreation Grounds or station.
- Other options: Bike rentals available locally; walking from station is straightforward and scenic; taxis from Aberdeen ~$30-40 USD.
- Accessibility: Venues like Town Hall have ramps; station and bus stops are accessible; contact organizers for mobility support.
Accommodation Options
- On-site camping: Festival Campsite at Bridge of Cowie run by volunteers, $25-35 USD/night; nearby Camping and Caravanning Club site, book early.
- Glamping: Limited options via local partners; check Visit Scotland for yurts or pods ~$100-150 USD/night.
- Nearby hotels: Number 44 Hotel & Bar and Marine Hotel in town center, $120-200 USD/night; Ship Inn for cozy stays $100-160 USD.
- B&Bs and self-catering: Abundant friendly options listed on Stonehaven Guide; averages $80-140 USD/night; holiday cottages for groups $150-250 USD.
- Other: Hostels via Visit Scotland; book via website or call +44 845 859 1006; many offer festival discounts.
Reviews
- The Town Hall gig was electric—folk legends in a historic hall, with the harbor glow outside; pure Scottish magic.
- Workshops were a highlight, learning tunes from pros while soaking up Stonehaven’s charm—left inspired and humming.
- Quirky fun like the comb championships mixed with heartfelt sessions; welcoming vibes made it feel like family.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What types of folk music and performances feature at the festival?
The lineup spans traditional Scottish ballads, ceilidhs, and contemporary folk fusions, with international artists alongside local talents in venues from pubs to the Town Hall. Expect energetic dance sets, acoustic singarounds, and storytelling sessions that capture Aberdeenshire's heritage. Workshops cover fiddles, Gaelic songs, and songwriting, ensuring variety for all levels. Headline concerts showcase renowned acts, while free pub sessions add spontaneity. It's a curated mix honoring folk's roots and evolution. Dive into the schedule for 2026 specifics.
Are there family-friendly or beginner activities?
Absolutely, with many free daytime sessions in accessible venues like Market Square, plus kid-suitable workshops on simple dances or songs. The Aqua Ceilidh in the open-air pool is a splashy family hit, and the Paper’n’Comb Championships brings laughs for all ages. Stonehaven's beaches and playgrounds nearby offer downtime. Venues are welcoming, and the community vibe ensures inclusivity. Check the program for all-ages events; it's designed to spark young interest in folk traditions without overwhelming.
How accessible are the venues for visitors with disabilities?
Most venues, including Stonehaven Town Hall and Market Square, feature ramps and level access; St Bridgets Hall and British Legion have ground-floor options. The compact town layout minimizes walking, with signposted paths from the station. Parking is available at Recreation Grounds for blue badge holders. Organizers provide assistance upon request via email. The festival's charity status emphasizes inclusivity, so early contact ensures tailored support like reserved seating.
What food and drink can I expect during the festival?
Pubs like Ship Inn and Cafe Neuk serve hearty Scottish fare—fish suppers, haggis, and veggie options—from $10-18 USD, with live music enhancing meals. Festival stalls at Market Square offer street food like Cullen skink and local ales. No outside catering, but venues have full bars; BYO picnics for outdoor spots. Over 10 eateries within walking distance ensure variety. It's casual island hospitality, fueling sessions without fuss.
Can I volunteer or get involved beyond attending?
Yes, the festival thrives on volunteers for stewarding, marquee setup, marketing, and more—sign up via email for weekend or prep shifts. Artists submit for 2026 via the online form; previous applicants are on file. Sponsorship opportunities support the charity. Community roles build connections with locals and performers. It's hands-on fun that deepens the experience; expect a warm thank-you from the committee.
