Following their Tram Sunday triumph, hats off to Fleetwood once more for punching above their weight to put the Folk & Blues Festival together. Taking place Friday 2 Sepember – Sunday 4 September 2016 in various venues around the town, this is the event’s second year and it has already doubled in size, boasting eight live folk, acoustic and blues music venues, together with the return of the popular craft fair, workshops and traditional dancing.
The weekend features artists from across the UK including eight-piece North West born folk-rock band Merry Hell, BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award Nominee 2012 Sunjay, modern-day troubadour Reg Metros and French singer Flossie Malavialle, performing alongside the best local talent plus festival favourites like Ian Gartside and Scold’s Bridle. Getting around what you want to see is going to be a problem!
Weekend organiser, Rachael Bailey, said:
“Womping (word of mouth promotion) has been vital in the success reached this year, building positive relations with artistes, festival directors and local supporters alike. I am so pleased with the support I’ve had, which has been humbling; it’s a real reminder of how precious Fleetwood finds its heritage.”
Now it’s time to get to the event and make all of Rachael’s teams’ work worth it, for this year as well as in securing the event for 2017.
The North Euston Hotel will be the event’s three day nerve centre, hosting the information desk, craft fair, workshops, meet and greets and live music. Fleetwood Bowling Club will be the main concert venue. The Mount Hotel will provide the acoustic stage and The Queens will also host a number of North West acts. Fleetwood Museum will be providing traditional heritage stories, music, songs and walks. The Bug on Lord Street is the new musicians’ session venue. Fringe venues will include the Strawberry Gardens and The Steamer.
Weekend tickets are £65 with day tickets at £27, these can be bought at www.fleetwoodfolkandblues.com.
Workshops, Fleetwood Museum and Chorley Slow and Steady Session entry is available for £3 per person whilst Fringe events, the craft fair and dancing are free with donations welcome.
Camping is available at Farmer Parr’s Animal World. Permits can be bought in advance or at the information desk.
For more information, email info@fleetwoodfolkandblues.com or call 01253 873964 or 07979 932779.
