The UK’s Festival Calendar’s Best-Kept Secret!

The Boutique Festival in York that champions women in music, supports local independent businesses, and has ambitions to introduce more young people to the magic of folk and acoustic music from across the globe.

The Magpies Festival, 9th–10th August 2024

One of my favourite festivals; it feels like the start of something extraordinary. Blair Dunlop

The Magpies Festival will take place in Sutton Park, York, this summer, boasting a stellar lineup of folk and Americana acts, including Molotov Jukebox, Jesca Hoop, and Jim Moray. Now in its fourth year, Magpies has seen a steady increase in ticket sales as word gets out and is fast becoming one of the UK’s best-kept secrets on the festival calendar.

This year’s event will host some of the world’s finest folk, acoustic, and Americana artists, including Molotov Jukebox, Jesca Hoop, Jim Moray, The Turbans, Rusty Shackle, NATI., Gary Stewart’s Graceland, Chris While & Julie Matthews, Charm of Finches, Suntou Susso, and festival hosts The Magpies, plus many more.

The independent two-day festival is run by Yorkshire-based transatlantic folk band, The Magpies. The young, female management team is committed to championing gender equality in the music industry, achieving gender parity in both the line-up and staff, and providing a safe and comfortable environment for female musicians and festivalgoers. The Magpies Festival is partnered with the feminist charity Girls Friendly Society (GFS), which has spent almost 150 years supporting girls and young women from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Rooted in the band’s native Yorkshire, the local community is central to the festival's ethos. The event aims to support local businesses and provide opportunities for emerging local musicians.

Festival Director Holly Brandon
We are so excited to put on The Magpies Festival this summer. We’ve been over the moon at the response so far. The community spirit and high energy the audience has brought along have been amazing.

With a family ethos and activities to keep even the youngest of revellers entertained, the festival’s ambition is to introduce young adults to the world-class folk music that makes it so special. Camping is hosted on the grounds of Sutton Park Stately, and food, drinks, and market stalls are all supplied by independent local suppliers.

Tickets are on sale now from £32.50 with day/ weekend options and camping ticket options. Children under 5 go free. Tickets are available from www.themagpiesfestival.co.uk