Set amid native bush in the idyllic setting of Waiora Scout Camp near Dunedin, Whare Flat is a place where the ancient strains of Celtic music may be heard alongside local waiata, American old-time and bluegrass, as well as folk music from all around the world.

Workshops and dance events ensure there is never a shortage of ways for everyone to get involved, sharing songs, stories and skills - an essential element of the folk music tradition. It is a safe, family-friendly festival that keeps people coming back year after year to camp, play music and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere.

Camping will be open from mid-day December 30th 2022 to January 3rd 2023 (10am).

Whare Flat Folk Festival is more than just a music festival. It’s an event that celebrates cultural identity, the stories and music that are part of who we are.

Sonia & Nigel will be featured as a duo. They will also be performing with Chris Priestley and his band Unsung Heroes, singing songs of Old New Zealand.

Event description:

Run almost annually since 1974, the Whare Flat Folk Festival features four days of music and dance concerts, workshops, entertainment and relaxation in the superb Waiora Scout Camp in the Whare Flat valley just outside of Dunedin. You couldn't choose a better place to chill out after Christmas and welcome in the New Year!

The Whare Flat Festival is unique, as anyone who's been will attest; it's a small, intimate, interactive gathering of international, national and local guests all mixed up with festival-goers from around New Zealand and the world; where the focus is on getting involved. We provide as much opportunity as possible for your participation in workshops, performances and dance. However, if you want to just sit back and take in the talent, there are concerts running all day and every evening. Further information about the different events can be found on the programme as they emerge.

The festival is held each year in the idyllic sylvan surroundings of the hills south of Dunedin at Waiora Scout Camp. The Whare Flat Festival is a self-catering, camping festival. House-trucks, campervans and caravans are most welcome but there are no powered sites. Or you may decide to come and go daily - it's a 15 minute drive back to Dunedin or 10 minutes to Mosgiel.

Cafe and bar facilities run in the main marquee. All events are under cover so are not weather-dependent.

NOTE: Please RAT test before you attend. Please do not attend if you are feeling unwell. We very much recommend & encourage mask wearing.

IMPORTANT: Gates will open MID-DAY 30 DEC 2022. Festival attendees will not be able to access the site before this time.