The biggest folk festival in Scandinavia and the Baltics is revealing the first highlights of its 2026 programme. The initial artists announced are Shetland pianist Amy Laurenson (GB), the Polish-Ukrainian ensemble HrayBery (UA), and the Estonian special project Duo Ruut³.
The thirty-third edition of the Viljandi Folk Music Festival will take place from 23–26 July 2026 in Viljandi, Estonia. Over four days, the legendary festival will present nine stages and around 60 artists from around the world, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors each summer for a vibrant folk-music weekend filled with performances, workshops, and a lively fair – all wrapped in the youthful atmosphere that fills the town.
The theme of the XXXIII Viljandi Folk Music Festival is “To Each Their Own Instrument,” which has inspired the organisers to seek out artists featuring both unique and traditional instruments.
First among them is award-winning Scottish pianist Amy Laurenson from the Shetland Islands, whose style moves fluidly between traditional, classical, and jazz influences. “The piano is not a particularly common instrument in traditional folk music, but in Shetland it is used extensively, shaping there a playing style that is uniquely captivating,” says Festival Director Ando Kiviberg, who adds that he is especially pleased to welcome musical guests from Shetland again after many years. ”To Each Their Own Instrument is a wonderful theme! With it, we hope to inspire as many people as possible to pick up an instrument, learn to play, and take pride in the musical heritage of their ancestors.”
The Ukrainian-Polish ensemble HrayBery originates from Galicia – a musically rich border region where Poles, Ukrainians, Jews, and Roma have lived side by side for centuries. Festival Programme Director Tarmo Noormaa recalls how the group left a deep impression on him during their performance at this year’s Tallinn Music Week. “HrayBery’s performances are wild, their songs truly captivating, and we absolutely want to share that atmosphere with our audience,” Noormaa notes.
The beloved Estonian group Duo Ruut will appear as Duo Ruut³ - an expanded version, created exclusively for next year’s festival. Members Ann-Lisett Rebane and Katariina Kivi, known for performing together on a single string instrument, will be joined by a rhythm section of electric guitar, bass, and percussion. Their new and larger sound dimension will lead the audience onto familiar yet completely fresh musical paths, and is sure to make them move.
Ticket sales for the XXXIII Viljandi Folk Music Festival, as well as camping, glamping, and caravan spots, will begin on 1 December 2025. More information about the programme and tickets is available on the festival’s website viljandifolk.ee.
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