Energetic live shows, an extensive musical repertoire, and organized chaos: the award-winning folk band Rapalje embodies all of this and more. For over 31 years, they have been taking audiences along into the world as they see it: a place where strangers become friends and where people enjoy the small things in life.
They started out as street musicians, but have since toured all across Europe and even in Brazil and the Dominican Republic. They also organize several festivals of their own, giving bands from both home and abroad a stage in order not only to keep the folk scene alive, but to help it flourish. Despite all this, the band has remained true to itself and its fans. They always make time for a chat, a photo, and an autograph, and they still keep full control over recording their albums, creating the artwork, and developing their merchandise.
The group is no stranger to Castlefest, yet they manage to surprise every single time. A fiery bagpipe, a T-shirt cannon, crowd surfing on an inflatable unicorn; if you were there, you’ll never forget it. This time, the performance is extra special because bagpiper David Myles unfortunately cannot be there. But no worries: he isn’t the only one in his family with musical talent. His younger brother Denny Myles (known from the successful bands Scrum and Flannery) will take over David’s role during Castlefest; on bagpipes, flute, and as an energetic bouncing ball of enthusiasm. Of course, William(vocals, gitouki, mandolin, bodhrán, tea-chest bass), Macéal(vocals, harmonicas, gitouki, bodhrán, tea-chest bass), and Sebastiaan (vocals, violin, mandolin) will also ensure an incredible folk party.
Whether you enjoy well-known sing-along songs like Wat Zullen We Drinken and Whiskey in the Jar, or prefer to be moved by more heartfelt pieces such as Caledonia and the new Motherland: Rapalje guarantees an unforgettable live experience.
Be Easy and Free!
2 August 2026
Forest stage
