Grab a few friends, book your tickets and pack the picnic blanket for Canberra's very own outdoor music festival - it's fun, affordable and the perfect excuse to visit or stay for the Easter Long Weekend.

Everyone is welcome at the National Folk Festival (Thurs 9 - Mon 13 April), with food, wine, markets, music, dancing, comedy and theatre for the young and young at heart.

It really might be Canberra's best-kept secret (though it can't be easy keeping a secret that involves 50 000 attendees, 1 400 volunteers and 16 hours a day of entertainment in more than 20 venues!).

There's just so much to do! Learn to dance, play an instrument, join a workshop or just enjoy the incredible variety of music - from traditional & contemporary folk to blues, jazz, swing, world music, acapella, dance, country & western and even rock 'n' roll.

You don't have to be a music buff to enjoy the Festival either. As a celebration of all aspects of Australia's culture, the program includes street theatre, dance performance, films to watch, poetry recitals, comedy shows, as well as the ever-popular village bazaar with its assortment of Australian-made handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, art, ceramics and much more.

A true feast for the senses, the National Folk Festival will also satisfy your appetite with gourmet food from around the world and a wide selection of quality wines, local and imported beers.

And if you'd like to bring the family, a dedicated Kid's Festival, circus skills workshop and on-site child care will keep them safe and busy for hours.