Ceilidh On: The Story Behind KJ Ceilidhs
Before founding KJ Ceilidhs, Kathryn Johnstone was involved in two other ceilidh bands that helped shape her musical path: Head in the Sand Ceilidh Band and The Dennis Cuddles Starlight Band.
Ceilidh Band in Norfolk | KJ Ceilidhs – Traditional, Lively, Unforgettable
Planning a ceilidh in Norfolk? Whether it's a wedding, barn dance, party, or corporate event, KJ Ceilidhs brings together some of the UK’s top folk musicians to deliver a high-energy, inclusive ceilidh tailored to you.
We specialise in ceilidhs that feel personal and joyful—with expert calling, rich traditional tunes, and a buzzing dancefloor from start to finish.
📅 Ready to Book? Get a Fast Quote Now →
Led by Kathryn Johnstone – Musician, Caller & Ceilidh Expert
KJ Ceilidhs is run by ceilidh musician and bandleader Kathryn Johnstone, who hand-picks some of the best folk musicians in the UK to create a band that’s both musically outstanding and tight-knit. With a strong core team that regularly plays together, every member knows each other’s style inside out—resulting in a truly seamless and energetic performance every time.
Kathryn has performed countless ceilidhs across Norfolk, bringing joyful energy to weddings, parties, and festivals throughout the region. From a high-energy wedding ceilidh in a marquee at a stately home near Diss, to a charming evening at The Golden Pheasant Hotel in Holt, each event has deepened her love for Norfolk’s vibrant ceilidh scene. One unforgettable highlight was headlining the ceilidh at Sheringham’s Lobster Potties Festival. Kathryn is proud to provide lively, top-quality ceilidhs across Norfolk, creating magical memories in towns, villages, and coastal venues alike.
Watch the Magic
The Ceilidh Band Norfolk Loves to Dance With!
At KJ Ceilidhs, our musicians travel all across Norfolk bringing ceilidhs to life in:
Norwich, King's Lynn, Great Yarmouth, Thetford, Cromer, Fakenham, Dereham, Hunstanton, Wymondham, Holt, North Walsham, Swaffham, Diss, Downham Market, Aylsham, Attleborough, and every village in between.
What our customers say
"Great band. We had a superb evening all due to them. Thank you so much"
Rated ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"The band were brilliant and Kathryn was amazing on the bagpipes. We will definitely use this band again and I would highly recommend them to anyone who wants to have a good time "
Rated ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
"They were absolutely fab and everyone loved the ceilidh. It added a really special element to our wedding. Kathryn was also great at communicating with us and I would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a ceilidh group."
Rated ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
The Only Ceilidh Band to be Accredited By The WVSA Wedding Venues & Supplies Association
Let's Get Your Ceilidh Started!
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What’s Included in Your Ceilidh Package?
KJ Ceilidhs offers fully tailored ceilidh packages in Norfolk, designed to suit your event perfectly. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or private celebration, we provide a variety of ceilidh music options to create the perfect atmosphere.
We provide:
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Experienced folk musicians from across the UK
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Friendly and clear calling that works for all ages and abilities
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Optional Highland bagpipes or unique extras
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Customised ceilidh setlists for weddings, birthdays, and more
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A top-quality sound system and party lighting as standard
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DJ set option to keep the party going
Whether you're hosting a rustic barn dance in rural Norfolk, a wedding ceilidh at a stately home, or a community event in a village hall, we’ll provide the music, energy, and warmth to bring everyone together.
How Our Booking Process Work
Booking your ceilidh is easy and secure. Just fill out our form with a few event details, and we’ll send you a tailored quote. Once you're ready to go ahead, you can confirm with secure payment through our online shop – no hidden fees, just expert support and clear communication every step of the way.
✔ Simple process
✔ Fully secure upfront payment
✔ Personal support all the way
Ready to Book?
Get in touch for a quote or fill out our dedicated ceilidh booking form for the most accurate pricing. For all general enquiries, visit our KJ Folk Music contact page.
Why Choose KJ Ceilidhs?
- One of the top ceilidh bands in Norfolk & East Anglia
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Folk musicians who perform at major festivals and events
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Known for innovation, drive, and top-tier professionalism
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Reliable, flexible, and always focused on quality
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Trusted by hundreds of clients across the UK
Searching for a "ceilidh band near me" in Norfolk?
We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in Norwich, Dereham, Downham Market, or the coast, KJ Ceilidhs will bring you the best ceilidh experience possible—one that reflects your style, your guests, and your event.
Learn more: What is a Ceilidh? →
Norfolk Wedding Ceilidhs
Our Norfolk ceilidh weddings are designed to be joyful, stress-free, and unforgettable. We work closely with each couple to make sure the music fits your vision—romantic, fun, laid-back or full of bounce. No prior experience is needed, and our callers are brilliant at getting even shy guests dancing.
We also regularly provide ceilidhs for:
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Private parties and birthdays
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Charity events
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Burns Night & Hogmanay celebrations
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School or community barn dances
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Corporate and team-building events
Get a Quote Now →
Why Choose KJ Ceilidhs?
At KJ Ceilidhs, we take a fresh, innovative approach to ceilidhs. We combine deep musical expertise with a focus on creating the best experience for you and your guests.
The BEST Ceilidhs in Norfolk: Norwich, King's Lynn, Thetford, Dereham, Fakenham, Swaffham, Downham Market, and surrounding areas.
Innovative & Modern Approach
Our ceilidhs are designed for everyone to enjoy, blending tradition with fresh energy. Kathryn, our band leader, has a BA (Hons) in Business Management and Innovation, ensuring we continually improve and adapt to create the best ceilidh experience possible.
Lively, Inclusive Calling
Our expert caller makes sure everyone can join in, whether they're ceilidh pros or total beginners.
Top UK Folk Musicians
Our band features some of the UK’s most sought-after folk musicians – artists who have performed at major festivals and events, and whose talents have been recognised by the prestigious BBC Folk Awards.
Powerful Sound & Lighting
We provide top-quality PA systems and party lights to create the best sound and atmosphere for your event. In addition, we offer DJ services and bagpipes as standard, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your guests! We keep the party going!
Flexible Line-ups
From a high-energy duet to a full band with bagpipes, we tailor our line-up to your event.
Nationwide Coverage
Our musicians and callers are based across the UK, allowing us to deliver the full KJ Ceilidhs experience wherever your event is. By keeping it local to our outstanding team members, we combine national reach with a personal touch.
The Magic Behind The Music:
KJ CEILIDHS BLOG
To learn even more about KJ Ceilidhs and how the magic works, explore our blog. From behind-the-scenes insights and band highlights to ceilidh planning tips and real event inspiration, this is your window into the world of KJ Ceilidhs—where tradition meets innovation, and every event is delivered with precision, passion, and professionalism.
Meet Kathryn Johnstone - The Magic Behind the Music
Kathryn Johnstone is a dynamic and creative folk musician based in Peterborough, performing widely across Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, and beyond. With over 15 years of experience, she brings powerful, heartfelt energy to every event – whether through the rhythmic charm of the diatonic accordion or the commanding sound of the Great Highland bagpipes.
Why Book KJ Ceilidhs Over an Agency Band for Your Corporate Event?
When planning a corporate event—whether it's a team-building activity, office celebration, or milestone gathering—choosing the right entertainment can make all the difference. While ceilidh band agencies offer excellent options, and Kathryn from KJ Ceilidhs still performs with two of these agency bands on a regular basis, booking directly with KJ Ceilidhs offers something more personal, flexible, and tailored to your specific needs.
The Box That Built the Band: An Evening at Ely Folk Festival
Back in July 2024, before KJ Ceilidhs had truly found its feet, I was just trying to find the right sound—and the right instrument to carry it. I didn’t have much money, and everything felt uncertain. But what happened at Ely Folk Festival changed everything.
Why Our Ceilidhs Sound So Powerful – The Innovation Behind the Music
At KJ Ceilidhs, we’re not just another folk band—we’re innovators. Our founder, Kathryn Johnstone, holds a degree in Business Management and Innovation, and that ethos runs through everything we do.
What Actually Happens At a Ceilidh (And Why Everyone Loves It)
When you hear the word "ceilidh" (pronounced kay-lee), you might picture traditional Scottish or Irish dancing—but there’s so much more to it. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate party, or birthday bash, a ceilidh is the perfect way to get guests of all ages on the dancefloor.