Thirty thousand descend on sleepy Port Fairy for long weekend music festival

Kasey Chambers, The Pierce Brothers and Emma Donovan were some of the key acts.

Zara Cuthbertson
March 11, 2026

More than 10,000 people attended last weekend’s Port Fairy Folk Festival, with another 20,000 pouring into town to enjoy the festivities.

Image: Lucinda Goodwin

Large lineup: Hundreds of artists from Australia and overseas, including headliner Kasey Chambers, performed across multiple stages.

Other acts included Paul Dempsey’s Shotgun Karaoke, the Grigoryan Brothers, Mary Coughlan and Iron & Wine.

The Pierce Brothers - Image: Jason Dargan

“Dynamic pricing” for Twelve Apostles tickets could spread the tourism load across year

The landmark attracts around two million visitors annually.

Queenie and Hank - Image: Jason Dargan

Ker-ching: The festival also delivered a boost for local businesses, with accommodation providers, hospitality venues and retailers reporting a busy long weekend.

Robbie Cavanagh - Image: Lucinda Goodwin

2027 will mark the festival’s 50th anniversary.

The Deserters - Image: Lucinda Goodwin

Header image: Kasey Chambers and band - credit: Lucinda Goodwin