TO Guest Niney, I have to disagree with your reading. As I interpret it, Conrad seems to object to "paid" festivals on principle - he seems to think they take away from the essence of folk music (although taking it in context with his other threads, my own conclusion is that he just objects to paying for anything, whether that's music or beer).

He may have a point, although the existence of large festivals with professional performers does not detract in any way from the existence of smaller, more intimate (and often free) folk events. However the larger festivals are able to present a greater range and higher quality of music, in a safer and more comfortable environment. I think they do more to bring folk music to more people than the sort of event Conrad advocates.

It is perfectly possible to hold a festival of the sort that he prefers, and even to make it free to visitors. However it cannot be done at no cost without freeloading off others' generosity, or ignoring health and safety, insurance, licensing and similar considerations. That's not sustainable as a model for festivals in general.