Welcome to the 2026 NERFA Annual Conference
Welcome to the 2026 NERFA Annual Conference, where music, community, and collaboration come together under this year’s theme: Stronger Together.
In a world that continues to shift and evolve, one thing remains constant. The strength of our folk community lies in connection. Artists, presenters, venues, agents, managers, and industry partners each play a vital role in sustaining the music we love. When we gather, share, and support one another, we are stronger together.
The NERFA Conference is more than an annual event. It is where:
- Artists are discovered and careers take shape
- Presenters and venues find new voices for their stages
- Booking relationships are built and tours begin
- Ideas are exchanged in workshops and hallway conversations
- Late-night jams turn into lifelong collaborations
Whether you are a seasoned member of the NERFA family or attending for the first time, this conference is your space to learn, connect, and grow.
In 2026, we come together with renewed purpose. We will celebrate the power of live music, strengthen our professional partnerships, uplift emerging voices, and ensure the future of folk music remains vibrant and inclusive.
Bring your songs. Bring your stories. Bring your openness to connect.
Because when we gather as a community, we are stronger together.
We cannot wait to welcome you.
Countdown to NERFA 2026
News!
Following the conference, Caffè Lena is inviting everyone up the road for an afternoon show at our historic venue! Come decompress from the weekend in our listening room and experience what has made Caffe Lena one of the most prominent folk venues in the Northeast for more than 60 years. This show will feature sets from Great Aunt, Carolyn Shapiro and Sweet Petunia.
Beth Nielsen Chapman talks about her upcoming schedule at NERFA 2026! Watch the video here.
For those planning on arriving to NERFA 2026 on Wednesday November 11th, NERFA in partnership with The 8th Step will host a free Community Sing, led by touring folk singer, songwriter, Folk DJ Hall of Fame radio host and community sing leader Matt Watroba. This special evening will begin at 7pm and will be held at the Desmond Hotel in Albany. The event is free and will also be open to members and friends of the 8th Step.
COMING TO NERFA 2026 – NERFA 2026 is proud to present a screening of the new documentary “Newport & The Great Folk Dream”. The screening for registered attendees of NERFA 2026 will take place on Friday November 13th at 1pm. Tentatively, we will have a short question and answer with the film’s producers following the screening.
Click here to see the preview video.
Click here to see the current NERFA Registrants List.
If you do not see your name it is because you clicked “do not share my name and contact with attendees”.
This information will be updated every few days.
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