The countdown has begun for the long-awaited fourth Bridport Folk Festival, which is returning to the town in August.

Expect and enjoy dancing and music over the weekend of August 13, 14 and 15.

Chris Deacon, festival director, said: "The programming for this spectacular three-day event has been an extremely long and complex journey, but the work and dedication of the organising committee has been fantastic."

Fundraising

A vital fundraiser for the folk festival will be held on Sunday, July 25 on Bridport Millennium Green from 1pm. Entry is free but those attending are asked to support the festival through donations.

The 'Friday Replays' busking held in Bucky Doo Square throughout June and July have been a great success so far. The buskers, local musicians, have agreed to donate proceeds of their busking, as have those performing for the Saturday 'cusks' hosted by Groves Nurseries and Parkdean in West Bay.

Dance

Chris added: "As always, the event is brought alive with the vibrant colour music and dance of the many Morris and related dance sides/troupes that will prove a rhythmic element to the folk festival.

"An expected 24 dance sides with accompanied musicians will number about 270. These dancers bring the flavour of ancient and traditional dances plus the inclusion of national dance provided by our friends from overseas that has proved so popular in previous years."

Music performance

The three-day festival program has been scaled down and 63 music acts will perform across four stages.

This is mainly a free festival and there are no entry fees, but access to the main stages are admission by programme, which costs £3.

Programmes will be on sale from August 2 and available from Bridport Tourist Information Centre.

Chris said: "A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed in any way to bring the Bridport Folk Festival 2021 to fruition.

"It's been a tough 18 months but now it's time to bring colour, music, dance and enjoyment back to our beautiful town."

To find out more about Bridport Folk Festival, visit bridportfolkfestival.com

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