How to Plan a Weekend at the Fishguard Folk Festival

The Fishguard Folk Festival, based in a historic town on the Western edge of Wales, boasts a distinctive atmosphere. Growing out of weekly pub gathering of the local folk club, where music and merriment mingled together spontaneously and anyone was welcome, the festival has retained the same emphasis on audience interaction.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Visit the Fishguard Folk Festival website (see Resources). Check out the programme for the forthcoming event. Most of the action is centred on the historic Royal Oak pub. As well as the concerts, there are many workshops and jam sessions held throughout the weekend. If you need background information about any of the performers, there is an Artists Info page.
2. Pack your instrument. The Fishguard Folk Festival’s not like other festivals. You’re welcome to start strumming away alongside the pros. If you get a note or two wrong, no one’s going to jump on you. You’ll also find many master classes and tuition sessions during the festival weekend. Expert musicians will give tips on how you can improve your play. No need to fret if you can’t play an instrument, though. You’ll be able to join in the singing or perhaps even learn to play the spoons!
3. Find yourself somewhere to stay. There is a camp site in Tregroes Touring Park about three-quarters of a mile from the centre of the festival. Call 01348 872316 to make inquiries. Alternatively, cheap hostel accommodation also is available in the town (see Resources).
4. The Fishguard Folk Festival is free, so just turn up. If you want to contribute to the festival’s running costs, you’re welcome to make donation. For many of its organisers, the festival is a labour of love, and they’ve even been known to dip into their own pockets to keep it going.
5. Plan your trip. The Visit Pembrokeshire website can help you with some travel tips (see Resources).