Becoming a member of Huon Folk Inc is a great way to support the Cygnet Folk Festival and to stay informed of the progress of the Huon Folk Inc association, as well as get voting rights at our general meetings.
From modest beginnings in 1982, Cygnet Folk Festival has grown to become a hugely popular and highly acclaimed Tasmanian cultural event.
We are a not for profit organisation registered with the Australian Charities and Not For Profits Commission.
Every dollar we make is re-invested into bringing you next year's Festival.
We are over 98% self funded and bring over 400 performers to Cygnet from around Tasmania, Australia & overseas every year, and all of this is done by only two part time staff members plus our army of devoted volunteers!
We also work hard to do good things for the world by supporting young performers, cultivating Australian artists and creative works, keeping the Festival eco-friendly and working with local community groups to help them prosper.
Any donation from $1 is most welcome & donations over $50 will be credited with your name on our website for 12 months (you may remain anonymous - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
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Please read the Ticketing Terms & Conditions before purchasing your tickets.
Ticketing Terms and Conditions
Ticketing Terms and Conditions
Tickets are non-refundable (except in the circumstances outlined in part 5 below).
You may transfer (give or sell) your ticket to another person at any time (subject to part 3 below).
If you choose to sell your ticket to someone else, please be aware that this is at your own risk. Huon Folk Inc cannot be held responsible for issues relating to the private sale of a ticket.To minimise the risk of on selling your tickets we recommend you do so through Humanitix directly.
If you feel unwell with cold or flu-like symptoms prior to or during the festival period, please do not attend the event. You may give or sell your ticket to someone else (as outlined in parts 2 and 3).
If the Festival is postponed or cancelled entirely by government authorities, you may choose to donate the cost of your ticket to the festival to support us in ensuring that we are able to survive the cancellation and plan for a future festival or you may contact our ticketing team and ask to receive a 90% refund, we will retain 10% to cover cost already incurred.
General Terms and Conditions
All tickets incur a booking fee of 2.5% on top of the ticket price. 100% of the profits from the Booking Fees are being donated to the Humanitix Children’s Education Programs. Find out more about where your donation is going here: https://www.humanitix.com/au/our-impact/room-to-read
Infants & children aged 4 years and under may attend for free and do not require a ticket.
Weekend passes are from 5:00 PM on Friday 9th January - midnight on Sunday 11th January (not including masterclasses).
Concession is available to holders of a senior’s card, full-time student card or current health care card, concession holders will be required to produce the valid card and photo ID at the box office to receive an entry wristband.
Tickets are for general admission to Festival venues, but do not guarantee a seat in a particular concert at a particular time. We advise patrons to arrive early to avoid missing out if the venue is deemed full.
Festival Management reserves the right to change or amend the entertainment program at any time.
Please bring you ticket to the festival Box Office and collect your wristband before going to the Festival Campground or venues.
Camping
Please remember that if you are camping in the Festival Campground in Burtons Reserve and you are bringing a vehicle into the campground you will need a Vehicle Pass and you will need to know your registration number when you get to the Box Office. You can purchase your Vehicle Pass at any time via our ticketing page.
Please note that we do not accept self-contained RV’s (own toilet and shower) or RV’s over 7m in length into the Burtons Reserve Campground. You may wish to purchase a ticket to the Self-sufficient Camper Parking located on the Cygnet Primary School Oval on Louisa St.
The Self-sufficient Camper Parking located on the Cygnet Primary School Oval on Louisa St is a parking space only, we do not provide toilets, showers, water or power. You must collect your grey water and take it with you. Dogs are not permitted on School grounds including the oval.
There are no landfill rubbish bins in Burtons Reserve or Cygnet Primary School Oval, please treat it like a national park and take your rubbish home with you.
Parking
Vehicle Passes are required for caravans using the Festival Campground.
Vehicles entering the Festival Campground at Burtons Reserve or the Self-sufficient Camper Parking located on the Cygnet Primary School Oval cannot be moved during the festival.There is to be no vehicle movement in either space from 9:30 PM Friday – 2:00 PM Sunday.
If you are not camping or wish to use your vehicle during the festival, please follow signage to the Festival Day Parking located behind Cygnet Town Hall, where you can park for $5 and may come and go throughout the weekend.You can pay for your parking via our ticketing page.
Accessible parking can be found on Mary st and George st.
Please be mindful of our local community by ensuring that you park in the Festival Campground, the Festival Day Parking area or in an accessible parking space within the township.
Environment
Cygnet Folk Festival is a zero-waste event. There are no rubbish bins at the festival for landfill items, please take your rubbish home with you.
All packaging at the festival is compostable or recyclable, please place those items in the correct bins provided.
Bring your own reusable water bottle, cup, crockery and cutlery for use at the campground and around the festival site.
Children's tickets are available (5 to 12 years of age). Children under 5 are free. Youth tickets are available for those aged 13-17, and there are also concession prices for students, seniors card holders and health care card holders.
Can I buy a day ticket?
Yes, a limited amount of day tickets are available. Please book early to avoid disappointment.
Can I change my ticket or get a refund if I change my mind?
All tickets are non-refundable. If you cannot attend the festival you are welcome to on-sell or give away your ticket. See our ticketing page for a full list of our ticketing terms and conditions.
Do tickets to the Festival sell out?
Yes. Tickets can sell out and we recommend you purchase your ticket as early as possible.
Does my ticket guarantee me a seat at a particular concert?
Our venues in Cygnet have limited seating capacity. Tickets are for general admission to Festival venues, but do not guarantee a seat in a particular concert at a particular time if that venue is deemed full by Festival organisers.
Patrons are advised to get to their chosen venue early. If no seat is available in a particular venue, other venues/concerts will be available.
How can I purchase a Festival Ticket and when do they go on sale?
Tickets go on sale on the 1st of August via our website.
I need to bring a carer to assist me - do they need to purchase a ticket?
The Festival supports the Companion Card program. Show us your card and you and your carer can come for the price of a single ticket.
Please see our Access page on the Festival website for further information.
I've lost/forgotten my ticket - can I get a replacement?
to reissue the tickets to your email address. Then bring a print out or electronic copy with you to the box office.
Is there an early bird discount?
Yes, a limited amount of discounted early bird tickets are available on the website from 1st August until sold out.
Where do I pick up my ticket/exchange my paper ticket for a wristband?
All paper tickets are exchanged for a wristband at the Festival Box Office. Paper tickets are not valid at the venues. Bring your paper ticket to the Festival Box Office.
Are there banking facilities in Cygnet?
A Bendigo bank Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) is located outside Bendigo Bank and a multipurpose ATM is available at Farah's IGA supermarket at 28 Mary St. A Commonwealth ATM is located on Mary St next to the Laundromat.
Cygnet has a Bendigo Bank branch at 43 Mary St, it is open 9am - 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9am - 5pm Fridays.
A Commonwealth Bank branch is located at 17 Mary St and is open from 10.30am - 2.30pm Monday to Friday.
Are there medical services available during the Festival?
First Aid are on call 24/7 during the Festival. See a crew member or visit the first aid centre in the St James Catholic Collage Quadrangle.
Are there public toilets?
Toilets are available in all venues. Public toilets are located at Loongana Park, Burtons Reserve, the football oval and Lymington Road near the sailing club.
Are venues undercover?
Yes, all ticketed venues in Cygnet are undercover. There are some free open air concerts in Loongana Park.
The Festival Green is outside with some limited cover.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes, you may bring a camera, however, audio or video recording of concerts and workshops is not permitted.
Can I bring my dog the the festival?
The festival is held around the township of Cygnet, where dogs are permitted, if they are on a lead. However, because the festival is a very busy environment, we recommend leaving your dogs at home.
In Loongana Park there is a free music stage and marketplace, it is a public park where dogs are permitted if they are well behaved and on a lead.
Please note that dogs are not permitted in any festival venues, within the school grounds (where the box office, workshop rooms, marketplace and auditorium are located) or at Burtons Reserve (festival campground).
If you do choose to bring your dog, please be aware that the festival is a noisy environment with crowds, small children, and food. Please ensure that you clean up after your dog. January in Tasmania can see some extreme weather temperatures, never leave your dog unattended, locked in your car or on the back of a Ute.
How do I get to Cygnet?
You can get to Cygnet by private car and public bus, however we also run a festival bus!
The Cygnet Folk Festival Committee are excited to be able to offer a festival bus service between Hobart and Cygnet for Day Ticket holders attending the festival on either Saturday or Sunday! Head to our website to book your Festival Day Ticket or Festival Green Day Ticket and add the bus ticket to your order.
The bus departs from Hotel Grand Chancellor on Campbell Street in Hobart and arrives at the bus stop behind Cygnet Town Hall, then you'll need to head to the festival box office to get your wristband.
Is there mobile phone coverage?
Telstra and Optus both have reliable coverage in the area, but this can be affected during the peak periods during the festival weekend. We strongly advise that you download the electronic festival programme and your tickets to your phone before leaving home.
Is there parking in Cygnet?
Please follow signage to the Festival Day Parking area where you can park for $5. You can pay for your parking in advance via our ticketing page or pay with cash only at the gate.
Accessible parking can be found on Mary St and George St.
If you are camping in Burtons Reserve and parking near your camp site, you will not be able to move your car during the Festival.
If you do not wish to park your vehicle in the Festival Campground you may drop off camping equipment at the entrance to Burtons Reserve or site your caravan before parking your vehicle elsewhere without purchasing a Vehicle Pass.
Please be mindful of the community by ensuring that if you choose not to park in the Festival Campground that you park your vehicle either in the Festival Day Parking area or in a legal parking space within the township.
Is wireless internet coverage available?
Yes, Telstra and Optus both have internet coverage of the area.
What should I wear?
The weather during the Festival can vary so come prepared for a bit of rain, warm/hot sunny days and cool nights. Don't forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
When are the masterclasses?
The masterclasses are held on the Friday of the festival weekend from 11am-3.30pm in classrooms at St James Catholic College, at 25 Mary St Cygnet, follow the steps up from the main car park on Mary St. Masterclass tickets are sold separately to weekend festival tickets. See the tickets page to purchase a ticket to one of the masterclasses.
When is the Festival held each year?
The Cygnet Folk Festival is held on the weekend beginning with the second Friday of January each year.
Where is Cygnet?
Cygnet is located in Tasmania, which is an island state to the south of Australia. Cygnet is approximately 55 km (about 50 minutes drive) south of Hobart - the capital of Tasmania. Please see the Getting to Cygnet page for more information.
Are there any festival bars?
The festival will be running bars in the Festival Green, Auditorium and Carmel Hall.
Our bars will stock limited local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and we prefer electronic payment.
Are there many food outlets?
Cygnet is known as a gourmet food lover's destination, with a number of restaurants, cafes, takeaway shops and pubs in Cygnet drawing on the abundant variety of ingredients grown by local producers.
The Cygnet Folk Festival Market offers a number of outstanding temporary food vendors. These food stalls and vans can be found in Loongana Park, Tin Pan Alley (St James School grounds), Paved Paradise (opposite the Town Hall) and the Festival Green.
V GF and Veg options will be available.
Can you drink the tap water in Cygnet?
Tap water in Cygnet is drinkable. We recommend you bring a refillable water bottle.
What do I need to know about the consumption of alcohol?
Some of the ticketed venues sell alcohol. You will be refused entry if carrying alcohol and no refund will be given.
Please note, in Tasmania it is an offence under the Police Offences Act to have possession of an opened container of liquor in a public street or to consume liquor in a public street.
Are tents available for hire in the Festival Camp Ground?
No, you will need to bring your own tent and camping equipment.
Are there any commercial accommodation in Cygnet?
Accommodation in and around Cygnet is heavily booked around the festival time. Please search using the common accommodation sites, you could be lucky!
Are there powered camp sites available in the Festival Camp Ground?
No, there are no powered sites or electricity available at the Burtons Reserve Festival Camp ground. There are limited powered sites at the commercial Cygnet Holiday Park.
Can anyone camp in the Festival Camp ground?
Camping at the Burtons Reserve Festival camp ground is only available to holders of a weekend Festival ticket and a camping ticket. Please see our Camping page for details of facilities. Camping tickets are limited and usually sell out, so book early.
Can I bring a campervan or caravan to the Burtons Reserve campground?
Yes, small RV and caravans are allowed. We ask that you keep your footprint to a minimum and not extend any bulk awnings. Also please note there are no powered sites available, no dogs are allowed in Burtons reserve.
Please note that we do not accept caravans or EV's over 7m in length, in this case if your camping set up comes with your own toilet and shower you may purchase a ticket to camp in the Self-sufficient Camper Parking, located at the Cygnet Primary School Oval on Louisa st. This parking space does not offer toilets, showers, rubbish collection, water or power and you must collect hyour own grey water and take it with you.
Can I bring my dog to Burtons Reserve?
No, Burtons Reserve is a bird sanctuary and pets of any kind are not allowed.
When do the Festival camp grounds open?
The Burtons Reserve Festival camp site opens on the Thursday prior to the Festival. The gates close at 10am on the Monday after the Festival and camping cannot be extended beyond this time.
Where can I camp in Cygnet?
Weekend festival ticket holders can camp in the Burtons Reserve Festival camp ground by purchasing a camping pass.
Commercial camping is also available in the Cygnet Holiday Park but this is always busy at Festival time and may book out. Early booking is highly recommended.
Camping on private and public land throughout Cygnet is strictly advised against without prior consent from the land owners.
Are disability parking spots available?
Yes, some spaces in the carpark near the LINC library on Mary St, near the entry to Loongana Park on Mary St and in George St, behind St James school.
What services are available for people with a disability?
Please see the Access page for more information. Disability toilets are available in all our venues and in Tin Pan Alley.
Are there any blackboard concerts at the Festival?
Yes, there are a number of venues around Cygnet where you can find blackboard concerts. Please check the programme for locations.
Are there sessions at the Festival?
Yes, some venues will be hosting programmed and impromptu sessions.
Applications to perform can be made through the online application form on the Festival website. Applications open 1 March and close 30 April each year. We cannot accept applications outside of this time
Do I get a free ticket for volunteering?
Volunteers who contribute 12 hours of work are entitled to a free adult weekend ticket. Please see the Volunteers page for more details.
How do I apply to volunteer at Cygnet Folk Festival?
Applications are now open and close on November 30. The application form will be available on the website during this time.
Is there a reserved car park for volunteers?
No, you will be competing for parking with the public and may have to walk to your venue or volunteer centre to sign on, so please allow time for this.
Are there any performances that feature AUSLAN?
There will be Auslan Interpreters at the festival, check back closer to the event to find out which shows they will be at.
The Cygnet Folk Festival is one of Australia’s most iconic folk music festivals. Very highly regarded by musicians and festival-goers from all over Australia and overseas, competition to come to Cygnet is at an all time high amongst performers, and last year we had a record number of applications! The Festival is a showcase of eclectic music genres featuring both local and international talent, dance, poetry, masterclasses, film, kids' entertainment, food, wine, art and local handicrafts all set in the breathtaking scenery of Tasmania's Huon Valley.
Musicians and volunteers plan their annual holidays around coming to Cygnet in January each year and many come from interstate and overseas especially to be part of this wonderful event. The incredible talent of local and visiting musicians is celebrated over the January weekend and we are proud that so many amazing performers and festival goers take part in what the Festival has to offer each year.
The Cygnet Folk Festival began in 1982 and is a not-for-profit community event organised by a volunteer management committee (Huon Folk Inc), a paid Festival Manager & Art Director and many dedicated people volunteering their time and expertise. Huon Folk Inc is open to membership as an incorporated association: to become a member please click here for the online form.
Cygnet has a population of less than 1,600 people and for such a small community, the Festival is impressive in its size, scope and quality.
The Festival attracts thousands of visitors every year. A rich cultural community event, the Festival provides entertainment to a wide audience of Festival attendees, making people smile, providing opportunities and a springboard for young musicians, opportunities for local businesses, and new friendships.
The aims of the Festival are:
to offer folk, ethno, world, singer-songwriter, roots and acoustic music, dance, poetry and workshops from local, national and international artists.
to encourage interest in and awareness of folk music and associated activities to people of diverse ages and backgrounds.
to provide support and opportunities to young musicians.
to foster mutually beneficial relationships with the local community, businesses and associations.
Download or view the Huon Folk Inc Constitution (Rules of Association)
Cygnet is located just 55 km (about 50 minutes drive) south of Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, Australia’s beautiful southerly island state.
How to Get to Cygnet
You will need to take a flight, or catch a ferry from the mainland of Australia.
Hobart Airport to Hobart
The Hobart International/Domestic Airport is located 19 km (about 20 minutes drive) to the east of the city of Hobart.
Hire cars and taxis are available at the airport.
The Skybus service will take you from the airport to Hobart city. Please check their website for details on how to book.
Hobart to Cygnet
Cygnet is an easy 50 minute drive from Hobart through some of the world's most unspoilt, picturesque countryside and coastal areas.
If you are driving, you can choose to drive through the beautiful Huon Valley or along the stunning coastal Channel Highway.
Festival Bus
The Cygnet Folk Festival Committee are excited to be able to offer a bus service between Hobart and Cygnet for Day Ticket holders attending the 2025 festival on either Saturday or Sunday! Head to our website to book your Festival Day Ticket or Festival Green Day Ticket and add the bus ticket to your order.
The bus departs from Hotel Grand Chancellor on Campbell Street in Hobart and arrives at George St in Cygnet, close to the festival box office to get your festival wristband.
If you would like to be picked up / dropped off in Huonville please go ahead and secure your ticket and then contact the festival: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to let us know you’ll be catching the bus in Huonville.
The Spirit of Tasmania overnight ferry service operates between Melbourne and Devonport on the north coast of Tasmania.
During the summer months there are additional day-time sailings. The Spirit of Tasmania carries cars, motor bikes, trailers, trucks and other vehicles.
Devonport is approximately 4.5 hours drive from Cygnet taking you through scenic Tasmanian landscapes and historic towns. Car hire is available in Devonport.
Things to Do While You are Here
The Huon and Channel regions are some of the loveliest parts of our island. Take some extra time to visit the many attractions in this beautiful, unique area and experience Tasmania's fine food and cool climate wines. Plan a holiday and stay for a week or two!
The Huon Trail is the perfect touring route to take you around the area to the south of Hobart. In just a 20-minute drive, you will find a world of extensive and serene waterways, wild coastlines, quiet farmlands, boutique vineyards, and rugged but accessible World Heritage wilderness. The Huon Trail leads you to ideal places for a relaxing holiday or short break, offering an inspiring mix of outdoor adventures, accommodation to suit all budgets, delicious food – especially cheeses, cherries, stone fruits, berries, meats and the freshest of seafood – top class cool-climate wines, a rich maritime, forest and rural heritage, and friendly, creative people.
There are four areas along The Huon Trail – the Huon Valley, the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, Bruny Island and the remote and wild Far South. Each of these areas offers unique experiences and attractions ranging from towering sea cliffs, dramatic mountain peaks, ancient forests, wondrous underground caves, pristine waterways, native flora and fauna and truly sensational landscapes.
