Folk by the Oak

Folk by the Oak is a beloved one-day folk festival set in scenic Hatfield Park, Hertfordshire. Bathed in sunshine beneath ancient oak trees, it brings together music lovers of all ages. The festival showcases uplifting folk, roots, and acoustic performances while blending a warm, friendly community vibe with the park’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a lifelong folk fan or just seeking a fun family outing, Folk by the Oak offers a welcoming, joyful festival experience.

The festival lineup includes both beloved folk legends and exciting new talents. On the open-air main stage you’ll hear lively dance tunes and soulful ballads, while an intimate tent (the Acorn Stage) hosts quieter acoustic sets. Because shows don’t overlap, you can wander between stages and catch every act. Music spills across the field as people break into impromptu dances and sing along, creating a communal soundtrack under the oaks. Each set is meant to be savored, so the mix of styles ensures there’s always something new to enjoy.

But Folk by the Oak is about more than music alone—it’s a full day of family-friendly fun. Craft stalls and artisan markets pop up around the grounds, offering unique handmade goods to browse between sets. Interactive workshops let visitors try out traditional instruments or join a folk dance. A dedicated Family Area provides kid-friendly activities, so children can paint, play and explore while parents relax nearby. From impromptu dance circles on the grass to peaceful moments listening to fiddle tunes under the trees, there’s always something new for everyone to discover.

A beloved tradition at the festival is its picnic-friendly policy: attendees can bring homemade picnics and soft drinks to enjoy under the trees. If cooking isn’t your thing, a variety of food stalls is on site serving hot meals, snacks and sweet treats, as well as local ales, ciders, wines and cocktails. Whether you’re lounging on the grass with fish and chips or sipping something cold from a picnic table, sharing food and drink in this lively outdoor setting adds to the festival’s charm.

Above all, Folk by the Oak has a warm community spirit that keeps people returning year after year. Strangers quickly become friends, joining hands for a song or swapping stories about the day’s highlights. Many say the festival feels like one big family reunion. Importantly, the event gives back: part of ticket proceeds supports the Willow Foundation, a charity that grants special days to young people with serious illnesses. This spirit of togetherness is what makes Folk by the Oak so special.

With its one-of-a-kind atmosphere, Folk by the Oak offers a perfect escape from daily life. Imagine lying back on the grass after a day of dancing, watching clouds drift between the oak trees, and humming your favorite tunes. Pack a blanket and your favorite picnic, gather your friends and family, and make your way out to Hatfield Park for Folk by the Oak — a joyful celebration of music, community, and summer in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside. For one perfect summer Sunday, fill it with music and memories at Folk by the Oak — an experience you won’t soon forget.