Set to feature three days of live music, arts and culture, hosted across multiple venues in the beautiful town of Warburton in the Yarra Valley, River Folk Festival returns in 2021.
One of the very first music festivals to be cancelled last year as the COVID pandemic took over our everyday lives, River Folk Festival event organisers have been tirelessly working on the 2021 event that will celebrate the creative diversity of the region."Continued restrictions and lockdowns have had a severe impact on regional communities such as the Yarra Ranges," the team behind River Folk Festival says.
"We hope to contribute to the cultural reactivation and recovery of the region, supporting local businesses and the creative industries, with the curation of a first class live music festival."
Moving to a new date in spring (22-24 October), away from its original March home, the first line-up announced is headlined by folk-pop stomp rockers The Northern Folk, ARIA Award-nominated folk-jazz-classical ensemble Chaika, and Cigány Weaver who are one of Australia's most exciting gypsy-jazz ensembles with an already dedicated and passionate following.
"River Folk Festival holds a very special place for all of us in Chaika," band member Emily-Rose says.
"Being the festival that we couldn't go ahead with due to COVID in 2020, it is with great joy that we look forward to performing there as our first in person festival since the arts industry all but shut down.
"The organisers of River Folk Festival truly have both musicians and audiences best interests at heart, and all their plans point to an amazing, sustainable live music event.
"We can't wait to feel the warmth and share music and special moments in Warbuton with you all."
River Folk Festival's commitment to support the rebirth of the local arts and music community witnessed the Festival host The River Folk Sessions in Warburton – three separate one-night taster events (two that sold out) staged earlier this year.
"Live events bring people together, are a cause for celebration, and chance to re-connect after length periods of isolation," the Festival says.
"Our Festival will support the local live events and creative industries, and contribute to the activation of our region as a hub of arts and cultural activities."
Alongside the music offerings, River Folk Festival will also showcase the region's best artisan markets and local food vendors while providing engaging workshop opportunities as well as specialised children's events.
Other commitments on River Folk Festival's agenda are:
• Support of local creative industries – programming of local acts, employment of local industry contractors
• Support of local businesses – creatives, food vendors, market stalls, cafes and restaurants, local venues
• Support of emerging local artists – Youth Music Mentoring Program
• Greater than 50 per cent female artists programmed – including the Sisters of Song Women's Showcase, celebrating women in music
Early bird tickets are on sale. More information.
River Folk Festival takes place at various venues in Warburton (Victoria) 22-24 October.
River Folk Festival 2021 Line-up
The Northern FolkChaika
Cigány Weaver
Anna Smyrk
Tinman
Todd Cook
Phoebe Laidlaw
Plus more act to be announced
