Central Ohio Folk Festival 2026
Join us for an incredible two-day event, where the magic of music comes alive across four vibrant stages. This family-friendly festival features a variety of musical performances, featuring folk, roots, bluegrass, and old-time in both traditional and contemporary forms. Experience engaging jam and workshop tents, a wide array of youth crafts, and festival store creators. Families will love the Instrument Petting Zoo, and everyone can enjoy some of Columbus’ favorite food trucks and Nocterra, a local craft beer brewer.
The festival attracts 12,000+ over two days and the artist roster includes national, regional, and local performers.
If you've attended in the past, please note a few changes. It has a new date; it is now the first full weekend in June. The festival's new home is BANK RUN METRO PARK in Lockbourne, Ohio (the park is in its final phases of construction and not currently open to public). This year the festival is bigger and better, and has more convenient parking! It also now has a modest admission fee. The festival sells Nocterra beer at its concession stands. At the new location, you can enjoy your brew anywhere on the festival grounds while listening to music. NOTE: You are not permitted to bring your own alcohol onto the festival grounds. We remain committed to being a safe family-friendly event.
HEADLINER
TRAY WELLINGTON BAND
Tray Wellington is an acclaimed banjo innovator whose genre-defying approach bridges folk, bluegrass, jazz, and contemporary roots music. Recognized for his fearless exploration of the banjo’s possibilities, Tray has been honored with some of the most prestigious accolades in acoustic music, including the 2024 Steve Martin Banjo Prize and 2019 IBMA Momentum Instrumentalist of the Year. He can be found on stages across the world, has been featured at premier festivals and has earned recognition from leading media outlets, including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Billboard, and NPR.
Tray leads the Tray Wellington Band, a dynamic ensemble that brings his compositions to life. Together, they transform his compositions into immersive, high-energy performances that engage both traditional and contemporary audiences.
WHAT DO FOLKS SAY ABOUT US?
"It's been a joy exploring the festival online. It's obvious that there's a true passion for artfulness in music. "
“Amazing quality of performers - not a single average act.”
“Jam tent was awesome. Magical how various musicians just ‘walked up’ and started playing!"
“Love it! Awesome way to introduce our kids to folk music.”
TICKETS & MORE INFORMATION
PRE-SALE General Admission tickets are $10 (ages 18 and over).
ON-SITE General Admission tickets are $15.
HEADLINER PREFERRED SEATING tickets are $20 and include General Admission.
Tickets cover both days. Under 18 is free. To purchase tickets, visit https://columbusfolkmusicsociety.org/festival at the GET TICKETS link. We cover the ticket service fee IF you purchase BEFORE March 21.
The festival is proudly produced by the Columbus Folk Music Society and co-sponsored by WCBE 90.5 FM.
Event Links
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3477991-0
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3477991-1
