Pete Seeger
How To Make The Most Out Of The Newport Folk Festival
Since the Newport Folk Festival first began in 1959, it’s been the launching pad for a number of now-famous musicians and a fan favorite. Each year, it hosts a number of popular contemporary performers and long standing favorites. Subsequently, it’s a very much-desired musical travel destination every summer and should be considered for any folk music fans’ scrapbook pages. Here’s some advice for visiting this festival that should prove useful.
As far as travel arrangements are concerned, Newport offers a range of accommodations, including hotels and campgrounds. Unfortunately, the Fort Adams State Park, where this festival is held each year, does not offer camping on-site. There is another campground nearby called Melville Ponds that has been reviewed positively.
To get to the Newport festival, driving, bicycling, taking a bus, or taking a water shuttle are all workable options. A parking pass is affordable and can be purchased with tickets ahead of time. Bicycles aren’t allowed into the festival premises, but can be kept and locked in one of many bike-friendly areas in the park. Since so many people drive to the festival, taking a bike or a mass-transit option is probably faster.
There’s a larger list of restrictions on this festival’s website for what is and is not allowed during the two-day event, but to quickly summarize: glass containers, alcohol, pets, and audio and video recording devices should all be left at home. These restrictions are pretty common for concerts and music festivals, so even if you don’t visit the website, please keep in mind a little festival common sense. Additionally, beach umbrellas should be left at home, but accommodations can be made by event staff if you have a medical condition that requires more limited sunlight.
As for recommended items, definitely bring something to protect you from the sun. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat can make life a lot less uncomfortable at the festival. In the middle of the summer, the sun can cause a lot of skin damage. On that note, have a good supply of water with you. Bring some money for the many good food vendors. Clothing should probably be loose, and footwear should be something versatile, like leather brown boots, and will hold up under whatever weather conditions arise.
Besides the regular musical attractions, there are a number of shops and gear demos that are taking place outside of the stage areas. One a few years ago was demoing a takamine acoustic guitar and allowed amateur songwriters to show off their stuff. Very exciting!
Whether you decide to go to both days of this fine festival, or just one, have fun and be safe at Newport!
Pete Seeger on “The Johnny Cash Show” complete and uncut
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