Further artists announced for English Folk Expo 2026

English Folk Expo 2026 returns from Wednesday 18th March to the early hours of Saturday 21st March and we’re proud to introduce Sheelanagig, Blair Dunlop, Katie Spencer, Emily Portman & Friends and Maz O’Connor to the line-up!

Showcases will take place at some of the city’s most beloved venues, including Band on the Wall, Hallé St Peter’s, New Century Hall, The Stoller Hall, Night & Day Cafe, The Castle Hotel and Hallé at St Michael’s.

Artists already announced are: Fairport Convention, Seth Lakeman, The Young’uns, Angeline Morrison, Shovel Dance Collective, Skinny Lister, Rachael McShane & The Cartographers, Frankie Archer, Daudi Matsiko, Bella Hardy, Anna McLuckie, Ed Blunt, Lucy Grubb & Filkin’s Drift.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

For nearly two decades, Sheelanagig have brought their array of foot-stomping folk tunes to audiences around the world. Putting the groove into traditional and original European folk music from medieval times to the present, the quintet’s impeccable technique and exhilarating dance medleys are a sight to behold.

Having toured widely for over 15 years as a bandleader, with The Furrow Collective and in a duo with Leveret’s Rob Harbron, award-winning singer and songwriter Emily Portman & Friends will be performing in support of her first solo album release in a decade.

Two of the folk scene’s most spellbinding singer-songwriters and accomplished guitarists, Blair Dunlop and Katie Spencer, promise to captivate audiences with their intricately crafted, melodically sophisticated songs. Elsewhere, Maz O’Connor, described by The Observer as a “highly individual singer-songwriter,” will support The Young’uns with her haunting, poetic songs inspired by literature, folklore and mythology.

Delegate passes are available now. See HERE for more information.