Three years ago, when planners introduced a refreshed edition of the Oxford Folk Festival, concerns arose about its viability.

Those doubts proved unfounded—the event has flourished into a beloved yearly gathering, drawing numerous artists and satisfying hundreds of enthusiasts.

The upcoming edition will continue this momentum as the volunteer-run, nonprofit celebration arrives in the city the following weekend, featuring music, dance, vibrant colors and the sound of bells.

A full schedule of indoor concerts and ceilidhs awaits, with musicians, bands, choirs and dancers taking stages throughout the urban area.

The historic Covered Market serves as the festival’s central location, hosting performances from midday Friday (April 10) through Sunday evening (April 12).

Visitors and locals alike will be treated to an eclectic folk music program spanning traditional and contemporary styles.

A beloved festival tradition continues with a complimentary evening concert at the Market on Saturday at 7.30pm, featuring the Ock Street Band from Abingdon.

Organizers celebrate the return of Aisling, a folk ensemble originating from Leiden, Oxford’s sister city in the Netherlands.

The group will take the stage at a song and dance evening alongside the Oxford Folk Dancers at St Matthew’s Church on Marlborough Road, near Abingdon Road, on Friday at 7.30pm, complete with a ploughman’s supper.

The six-member Dutch act will also perform at the North Parade market, the Covered Market, and fittingly, at Leiden Square in the Westgate Centre.

Additional performance locations encompass Broad Street, Bonn Square, St Giles, Radcliffe Square and Oxford Castle, while indoor shows will take place at the Norrington Room in Blackwells, the Old Fire Station, the Westgate library, the Weston Library at the Bodleian and Modern Art Oxford.

As one organizer notes: “There is plenty on offer to lift the spirits of everyone.” Complete information is available at oxfordfolkfest.org.uk