The Philadelphia Folk Festival will be in full swing at Old Pool Farm this weekend (Aug. 14-16), bringing with it another exciting lineup of live music, food and activities for all ages to enjoy.
The historic and family-friendly occasion got its start in 1961 and was known as the longest continuously running outdoor music festival of its kind in North America, before taking a hiatus in 2023. The PFF is also the primary fundraising event for the Philadelphia Folksong Society, established in 1957, which offers different programs of presentation, participation and education throughout the Philadelphia area and the country.
As their website states, these programs present a cultural history of society and provide enjoyment to thousands of people of all ages, while also preserving a wide variety of musical styles and historical perspectives. What also makes the society unique, however, is the fact that it’s solely operated by dedicated volunteers.
For its 63rd annual celebration, the festival will get an early start on Thursday, Aug. 13, with the return of its exclusive kickoff concert for festivalgoers camping on-site. Taking over the Camp Stage, local acts Lazy Villains, Roberta Faceplant and Ben Arnold & The 48 Hour Orchestra will set the tone for the weekend with an evening of live music.
For Roberta Faceplant, the Thursday night performance marks a particularly special occasion.
“We are so honored to be included in Folk Fest this year,” says Katie Feeney of the band.
It will be Feeney’s first time both attending and performing at the longtime festival, and the group is ready to bring its signature sounds to the experience.
“Roberta Faceplant is so excited to help kick it off and get all the campers fired up on Thursday night with a heavy dose of Outlaw Americana.”
Once the festival gets fully underway, attendees can expect a packed schedule spanning folk, Americana, bluegrass, roots, zydeco and beyond. This year’s lineup features acclaimed performers like Leftover Salmon, Tom Rush, Mary Gauthier, Eddie 9V, Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience, Big Richard, RUNA, Damn Tall Buildings, Sam Bush and more.
The weekend will also spotlight a strong batch of regional talent: Philadelphia’s own John Flynn will take the Main Stage both as a performer and MC, while Adam Ezra Group, Robbie Fulks, Jaimee Harris, Robby Hecht and John Francis O’Mara are among the many additional artists set to perform.
Tickets range in price based on age (some children’s tickets are just under $10) and days you wish to attend. For more information on the 2026 Philadelphia Folk Festival at Old Pool Farm (1323 Salford Station Road, Schwenksville,), including ticket sales, lineup announcements, and volunteer opportunities, visit folkfest.org
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