Folk by the Oak 2011
Folk by the Oak, one of the newest folk music festivals on the scene, is returning to Hatfield Park in Hertfordshire for its fourth year on Sunday 24 July 2011 with another smasher of a line-up.
A festival of folk's finest acts gather in beautiful leafy parkland for one uplifting summer day of music.
As well as a list of stellar folk performances there's plenty for all the family to enjoy at the stalls and activities including a craft tent, workshops, children's activities, storytelling, circus skills, real ale bar, music stalls, recycled gifts and delicious food.
With just seven performance slots, the task of programming this compact festival is one that involves much deliberation and head-scratching.
We really want to present a relaxed event where the audience can enjoy a showcase of the finest folk music of the moment, as well as fitting in one or two acts that are more up and coming. We’re pretty confident that the 2011 line-up will get people excited.
Adam Slough - Organiser
The line-up includes headliner Seth Lakeman - plus Tyde, Show of Hands, Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman, Drever McCusker Woomble featuring Heidi Talbot, Adrian Edmondson and the Bad Shepherds; and Bella Hardy.
Seth Lakeman, widely regarded as the UK’s foremost folk singer-songwriter, returns by popular demand after his 2008 appearance 
at the first Folk by the Oak.
Seth is known for bringing folk music to a new, younger audience and has been widely credited with breaking down perceptions and barriers often associated with folk music and its acceptance (or lack of it) in the mainstream.
His captivating and energetic live show tops the bill of a day of true musical talent, including folk superstars Show of Hands - the triple Albert Hall sell-out band who have headlined at festivals from WOMAD to Glastonbury and have built a huge following for their inimitable music which crosses from folk roots into blues, rock, country, trad and world.
It may be a surprise for some to see Adrian Edmondson, better known for his roles as a comedian in The Young Ones, Bottom, and The Comic Strip Presents, on a folk festival line-up.
No it’s not a gag. He and his band play punk songs on folk instruments - very, very well.
Don’t believe us? Come and see for yourselves!
Folk by the Oak is a relaxed sort of affair.
The organisers are happy for you to bring your own food and drink along and it’s a comfy leafy site with one main stage, so you can pick a grassy spot for the day and kick back.
There’s even a bit of history to absorb yourself in.
The 'Queen Elizabeth Oak Field' where it is held is said to be the very place where, sat underneath one of the ancient oaks, Queen Elizabeth I learned of her accession to the throne.
Look no further for the ultimate laid-back summer Sunday afternoon that the whole family can enjoy!
Tickets can be purchased at the website www.folkbytheoak.com
Or by calling the booking line on 01432 355 416.