After a beautiful autumn, the weather has turned, which can only mean one thing. The National Celtic Folk Festival is coming to Portarlington!
Every winter, the charming coastal town of National Celtic Folk Festival comes alive with music, culture, and community spirit as visitors from across Australia gather to celebrate all things Celtic.
Held across the King’s Birthday long weekend, the festival has become one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most loved events, bringing together world-class musicians, dancers, storytellers, and performers for an unforgettable long weekend.
The festival is much more than entertainment, it delivers a major boost to the local community and economy. Cafés, restaurants, wineries, and local businesses welcome thousands of visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the town.
Families, music lovers, locals and visitors alike enjoy the relaxed coastal setting while immersing themselves in traditional and contemporary Celtic culture. With live performances, workshops and family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy – including culinary experiences!
Following the success of last year’s program, the Celtic Kitchen series returns in 2026 with an expanded offering, celebrating the culinary traditions of Celtic culture through immersive, hands-on experiences.
Highlights include a special masterclass with acclaimed Irish chef Declan McGovern and a Celtic Cook Off – a spirited showdown between an Irish chef and a Scottish chef hosted by Simon Toohey.
For ticketed events visit the festival website or you can come along and enjoy the many free activities including market and food stalls.
For those travelling to the festival, staying locally makes the experience even better. Portarlington Holiday Park offers convenient camping options as part of festival packages. Festival ticket and accommodation bookings can be made via the National Celtic Folk Festival website.
