Folk Festival Turnaround

THE sun shone on the town for the 34th instantiation of the Leigh Folk Festival last weekend.

Record temperatures bathed Leigh Library Gardens and surrounding areas in warmth as hundreds of visitors enjoyed a weekend of music, spoken word, and dancing talent.

As the UK’s largest free folk festival, the weekend featured a variety of performances across upper and lower stages set to the backdrop of Leigh Library Gardens, as well as in nearby venues of St Clement’s Church, Café Bar Hogar Del Mar, The Broadway pub and The Fisherman’s Chapel.

Everything from shanty singing, magic shows, face painting, workshops and rock and roll entertained young and old alike, alongside a wide range of food options and a large bar.

The weekend kicked off on Thursday June 26th with a prelude, followed by storytelling at St Clement’s Church on Friday, before the full range of events kicked in early on Saturday.

The weekend ensured a diverse array of events across all locations, all of which are carefully selected by Leigh Folk Arts – a regional community charity focused on enabling young artists and talent.

This year also marked a turnaround in the organisation, with donations being introduced to help sustain the event in light of funding problems, with a suggested £5 donation enable the event to continue.

A spokesperson from Leigh Folk Arts thanked all those who had attended and fostered the community atmosphere.

They said: “To everyone who joined us at Leigh Folk Festival – thank you.

“From joyful singalongs and dynamic performances that got people dancing, to traditional and international dance sides, minimalist moments, family fun, and the quiet power of music and the spoken word you brought this festival to life.

“Your creativity, generosity, and community spirit made it a weekend we’ll never forget.

“A huge shout-out to every performer, volunteer, trader, and behind-the-scenes organiser—you are the heart of this festival.

“And to everyone who donated, picked up some merch or bought prize draw tickets to help keep it free and thriving: thank you for sustaining this event.”

John Batch, Leigh Folk Arts Treasurer, who has been involved with the festival since 2017, said “The best thing has been to see so many people coming down and enjoying the acts, but more than anything just talking to one another and sharing the community atmosphere.”

He added: “I would like to thank our volunteers who help make the event possible.”

Picture: Sun shines on 34th Folk Festival

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