We are looking forward to the 20th edition of Boombalfestival in August 2025!
During the festival you can dance to the best possible balfolk music at any time of the day. In the morning we have workshops, from noon you can enjoy the best balfolk groups that Europe currently has to offer. All night long you can dance to the jams (boeuf), chat by the fire pits and enjoy the cozy atmosphere at the bar.
What’s in Boombalfestival 2025?
Our programming promises a festive experience, packed with memorable moments and artists who’ve contributed to our story over the past 20 years.
Wednesday Opening Night
• Filippo Gambetta, the Italian accordion virtuoso, joins Anouck Sanczuk from Lievegem in a collaboration gifted to us by serendipity.
• Charlie convinced us at Kerstboombal to show her La fille au chapeau
• Lucas Thébaut—a festival regular—will also grace the stage solo.
• Flo & Geronimo: Florian De Schepper (Loogaroo, Broes…) & Jeroen Geerinck (Geronimo, Snaarmaarwaar, Triple X…): two exceptional guitarists will debut a special set crafted just for Boombalfestival’s 20th.
Thursday
• Tom & Aurélie: Tom Theuns was there in the earliest folk evenings in Ghent; alongside violinist Aurélie Dorzée (both members of Balbrozijn), they’re a duo not to be missed.
• Viadeyra: newcomers from Italy combining medieval, Sephardic, Italian, Portuguese, and Scottish influences—a fresh and unique fusion.
• Yanyk: led by acclaimed dancer Mikuláš Bryan, who also give a workshop on the festival. Their distinctive Czech sound is enchanting.
• Hartwin Dhoore, a festival fixture, brings cellist Flavia Escartin and violinist Pavel Souvandjiev in a Belgian–Bulgarian–Catalan–Amsterdam trio with a strong European groove.
• Topette: features folk legend Andy Cutting (Blowzabella) and among others Tania Buisse -expert atmosphere maker who has turned many Boombalfestivals upside down in the past. She will play at Topette for the last time before she fully focuses on her own restaurant.
• Rémi Geffroy: delivering a solo set full of surprises—after his brilliant performance in 2022, he's back to captivate.
• Ballsy Swing: closing the night with accordionist Lucas Thébaut, rock-cello magician Colin Delzant, and violinist Colin Passeri—a lively, danceable finale.
Friday
• Morning set by Brit Andy Cutting (Blowzabella) with Belgian virtuoso Anne Niepold.
• Duo Clercx invite their musical friends for a special set
• Naragonia, alongside Parasol, have never missed an edition—this time reunited with top musicians from 20 years of friendship.
• Bamako Express: returns to its roots at Boombalfestival with a thrilling blend of Malian and Ghent vibes.
• Fleuves: the big name this year—a dynamic fusion of Breton, jazz, rock, and electronica. Expect infectious grooves and boundary-free folk.
• Closes with upbeat Belgian quintet Cardboard Cabin, playful and jazzy—the perfect festival send-off.
Saturday
• Kicks off with Marasc, a brand-new group featuring the accordionist from Cardboard Cabin—fresh, flute-accented folk.
• Belgian Les Kickeuses with accordion, flute and vocals
• North French duo Marie Paulette—eclectic and joyous.
• Cam & Léon: two young talents continuing the legacy of Bargainatt—violin, accordion, and bagpipes.
• Bal O’Gadjo: back for the first time since 2017—perfect for our 20-year celebration.
• Groove Factory: a vibrant mix of trad, hip hop, and electro trad—powered by Stéphane Milleret and Cyrille Brotto.
• Airboxes XXL Belgian all star line-up of accordion and strings—plus surprise guests—for one final folk extravaganza.
Sunday
• Parasol opens with their beloved traditional aperitif concert—present every edition since 2005!
• Loogaroo, a beautiful project by Pablo Golder & Florian De Schepper—bringing our story full circle.
• Organetto a cUkù: Italian duo Frederico & Marco with accordion and ukulele bring charming global touches.
• The Silly Endings, led by -
Boombal musician from the very beginning- Wouter Vandenabeele, offer familiar sounds and warm nostalgia.
• Loogaroo, a beautiful project by Pablo Golder & Florian De Schepper—bringing our story full circle.
• La Soubirane: three voices in Occitan polyphony—perfect for a dreamy close to the afternoon.
• Accordzéâm ignites the evening with a festive set—they play everything from film tunes to Metallica, all in folk style.
• Entre Deux: final send-off with accordion maestro Guus Herremans and bassist Jelle Van Cleemputte, bringing us home in heartfelt style.
Join the Celebration
Whether you're a longtime friend or first-time visitor, our 20th edition is built—literally and figuratively—on the passion of volunteers, the energy of dancers, and the spirit of folk. Come dance, listen, eat well, and treasure every moment with us!
Info: www.boombalfestival.be
Also check out other Entertainment events in Evergem, Music events in Evergem, Festivals in Evergem.
