Folk Festival Launches

A POPULAR Leigh summer music event will kick off in the Leigh Library Gardens with a ticketed concert from a well-loved local band.
Leigh Folk Festival 2026 will take place between June 26 and 28, promising a weekend of music, art and community engagement.
This year, a special ‘Signature Concert’ will take pale on the Friday, with a headline slot taken up by Canvey band The Long Run, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary with this exclusive and anticipated home-coming.
Lead singer Darren Jones said: “we are extremely honoured to have been asked to perform this Friday concert.
“To be able to celebrate 20 years as a band with everyone is such a beautiful opportunity. We will have friends joining us throughout the evening, so that there’s variety to hopefully bring something special for everyone.”
Formed in 2005, The Long Run quickly built a loyal following across South Essex, releasing five albums.
With a regular gig schedule that takes some across the county and beyond, they are known for a blend of rock, folk and blues, guaranteeing an energetic live stage presence.
The band will also be launching their new album, available exclusively on the night.
With doors at 6pm, this special one off show sees The Long Run joined by friends and collaborators including Emerald Hill, Taylor Del Mundo, Rosie Barrett Dulake, and Bella Rose Manning — with a few surprises planned just for the night.
Age minimum at the gig is 16, with tickets priced at £20 plus booking fee.
Whilst the rest of the festival remains free, organisers say that the addition of this ticketed opening concert will enhance the Leigh Folk Festival while maintaining its free community focused-roots, and help it to bring free arts, culture, and community celebration to the town.
Picture: Concert goers in Leigh Library Gardens
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