Every August, Telemarkfestivalen turns Bø into a meeting place for folk music, dance and musical encounters. Held since 1990, the festival brings Norwegian and international performers to venues in and around Bø town centre.
This guide is for visitors planning a festival break in Mid-Telemark. Accommodation is not normally included in the festival ticket.
When is Telemarkfestivalen?
The festival normally runs for four days in August. The 2026 edition took place from 6 to 9 August. New dates and programmes are published on the official Telemarkfestivalen website.
Dates, venues and concert times vary, so check the current programme before booking travel or accommodation.
What can you experience?
Telemarkfestivalen presents traditional and contemporary folk music through concerts, courses and activities. Recent programmes have used Gullbring Cultural Centre, Bø town square and smaller venues in the area. The free Torgfestivalen has also offered families an accessible introduction to folk music and dance.
- Norwegian and international artists
- Traditional music, new interpretations and collaborations
- Family activities and free events
- Concerts and courses at several venues
Planning your festival stay
Bø is served by train, express bus and road. Many events are in the centre, but individual programme items may use other venues. Check the location on each ticket and allow enough travel time.
Accommodation can fill during festival weekends, particularly for families and groups. Booking early gives you a better chance of staying together.
Stay together in Mid-Telemark
Telemark Guesthouse is a historic holiday home in Ulefoss, near Lunde and the Telemark Canal. With four bedrooms, two bathrooms and space for up to 15 guests, it suits families, friends and small ensembles that want shared living areas and a calm base between events.
Read more about Telemark Guesthouse. We do not organise Telemarkfestivalen; always confirm programme details and tickets with the festival.
Stay nearby
Stay together during Telemarkfestivalen
Space for up to 15 guests: 13 permanent beds and two folding beds across four bedrooms, plus two bathrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, fast fibre Wi-Fi and free parking.
- The group has the whole house
- Shared meals and generous living areas
- Large garden, self check-in and EV charging
Drive time: About 25–30 minutes to Gullbring Cultural Centre and central Bø.