Góbéfest 2026

Góbéfest, Manchester's original international urban folk festival, is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in style.This three-day event promises an expertly curated lineup of bands and solo artists, folk dance troupes, choirs, and more from Central and Eastern Europe and beyond. Expect the fiery rhythms of csárdás, the soaring sound of fiddles, and the irresistible pulse of Balkan beats, alongside a thrilling blend of genres and crossover styles: from the high-octane energy of gypsy speed folk to the infectious grooves of folk ska, the raw power of folk rock, and the timeless beauty of traditional folk. Add to that a dash of classical sophistication and the improvisational flair of jazz, and you have a vibrant kaleidoscope of sounds that pushes boundaries while honouring our shared roots.Independent food and drink traders will serve up favorites from around the Carpathian Basin and beyond. Think giant pans of paprika-laden goulash, fried sour cream and cheese-topped flatbreads known as lángos, stuffed cabbage, and Transylvanian barbecued chimney cakes. There will also be a Hungarian wine stall and a pálinka (Hungarian fruit brandy) stand.Free family activities include folk art painting, zither workshops and balalaika sessions, drumming workshops, finger puppet making, and gingerbread decorating. Learn to write your name using ancient Szekler runic script, attend a baby music session, and try out different folk dance styles, from Bulgarian, Roma to Lithuanian and Ukrainian. And don’t miss the traditional dance house (táncház), where everyone is invited to join in and experience authentic folk dancing.