What is the Newport Folk Festival?

Established in 1959, the Newport Folk Festival initially began as a counterpart to the Newport Jazz Festival, but it quickly shifted into a platform for both folk and emerging artists to showcase their talents and celebrate their love for the genre. Over the years, its intimate setting and emphasis on acoustic instrumentation has made the festival synonymous with authenticity and artistic expression. Each year, the festival curates a lineup that reflects the evolution of folk music, featuring contemporary folk, traditional ballads, blues, bluegrass, Americana, and beyond. But the music isn’t the only thing that takes center stage at this event. The Newport Folk Festival also promotes and inspires a unique sense of community as attendees form connections with each other and the artists.

When is the Newport Folk Festival every year?

The Newport Folk Festival is traditionally held during the final weekend of July—this year being July 26th through 28th, 2024.

What kind of artists play at the Folk Festival?

Each year, the Newport Folk Festival lineup features bands and artists that span generations and genres. Past lineups have featured notables such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, Joni Mitchell, and Johnny Cash, alongside contemporary acts like The Decemberists, Fleet Foxes, The Avett Brothers, and Brandi Carlile. On the docket for this year is Adrianne Lenker, Allison Russell, Hozier, Billy Bragg, Briscoe, Brittany Howard, Dropkick Murphys, Sierra Ferrell, The Breeders, poetry readings by Joan Baez, and more.

Do I have to buy tickets for the Newport Folk Festival?

Yes! The Newport Folk Festival is not only a highly accessible and inclusive event, it’s also a very popular one. Locals and visitors alike flock to Fort Adams State Park to partake in the activities of the weekend. Because of this, securing tickets in advance is highly recommended (if not necessary), as the festival often sells out well in advance. There are various ticket tiers available, including single-day passes, weekend packages, and parking passes, so you can opt for what works best with your schedule and budget.

Where is the best place to stay during the Newport Folk Festival?

When it comes to accommodations, Newport offers some great options for every type of traveler. However, one place tops our list. Hammetts is a boutique hotel that embodies quintessential modern luxury and is designed for comfort and conversation. Nestled right in the center of Newport’s vibrant waterfront community, the hotel offers open-air spaces to relax and unwind after a full day of music and culture. Enjoy the famous sunset views from the decks along the water or wander over to the variety of nearby shops, top-notch restaurants, and trendy bars. Because it is located right in downtown Newport, it provides easy access to the festival while offering an array of dining and entertainment options, though this convenience doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice serenity and scenic coastline views. Rich with way more than maritime history, Hammetts Hotel is the most stylish place full of heart and soul.