Folk music fans from across the country will be flocking to Fort Adams State Park in Rhode Island for the Newport Folk Festival July 25-27, 2025.

Every year, Rhode Island hosts the Newport Folk Festival, a venerable event that has stood the test of time for six decades. This renowned festival brings together a diverse group of musicians who are united by a shared love for folk music. Guided by the spirit of kinship and tradition, the festival showcases a lineup that embodies the rich tapestry of the genre.

The Newport Folk Festival has a storied history of fostering collaborations among artists, who join forces to create music that pays tribute to contemporary social justice causes. This commitment to using music as a platform for advocacy has earned the festival a well-deserved reputation. Additionally, the festival's tickets are in high demand, selling out rapidly each year, thanks in part to its tradition of surprising attendees with unexpected artists and special collaborations.

In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about this year’s events.

Newport Folk Festival Location and Dates

The Newport Folk Festival 2025 is going to be held at Fort Adams State Park, as it has been since 1985. The festival runs from Friday, July 25th, through Sunday, July 27th. The festival features four stages where world-class musicians perform.

Newport Folk Festival 2025 Lineup 

Friday, July 25th 

• Alex G

• Big Freedia

• Geese

• Hannah Cohen

• Jessica Pratt

• Kevin Morby

• Kim Deal

• Maggie Rose

• Maren Morris

• MJ Lenderman

• S.G. Goodman

• SNACKTIME

• The Deslondes

Saturday, July 26th 

• Bonny Light Horseman

• Dan Reeder

• flipturn

• Illiterate Light

• I'm With Her

• Iron & Wine

• Jesse Welles

• Julien Baker & TORRES

• Ken Pomeroy

• Lukas Nelson

• Luke Combs

• Mon Rovîa

• Obongjayar

• Saya Gray

• Waxahatchee

Sunday, July 27th 

• BCUC

• Dehd

• Hurray for the Riff Raff

• Jeff Tweedy

• Lucius

• Margo Price

• Michael Kiwanuka

• Mt. Joy

• Sammy Rae & The Friends

• Stephen Wilson Jr.

• Tom Odell

Norfolk Folk Festival History

1. It's One of the Oldest Modern Music Festivals

• Started in 1959 in Newport, Rhode Island, by music promoter and pianist George Wein.

• Created as a sister event to the Newport Jazz Festival.

• It played a huge role in the American folk music revival of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

2. Historic Performances Changed Music History

• Bob Dylan went electric at Newport in 1965—an event that shocked the folk community and became a defining moment in music history.
  
  

• Other legendary artists who have played include Joan Baez, Johnny Cash, Pete Seeger, and Joni Mitchell (who made a surprise return in 2022 after a long absence from live performances).

3. It’s Not Just "Folk"

• While rooted in folk traditions, the lineup often includes indie rock, blues, gospel, country, and even hip-hop.
  
  

• Acts like My Morning Jacket, Brandi Carlile, The Decemberists, Phoebe Bridgers, and Mumford & Sons have taken the stage.

4. The Setting is Stunning

• Held at Fort Adams State Park, it offers ocean views, sea breezes, and grassy spots perfect for lounging.
  
  

• It’s a more relaxed, scenic festival compared to massive, high-intensity events.

5. Collaborations and Surprises Are a Big Deal

• Artists often appear on each other’s sets. These collaborations often lead to meaningful conversations among artists.

• Secret guests and surprise performances are a hallmark of the festival (Brittany Howard, Paul Simon, and Dolly Parton have all made unannounced appearances).

6. Tickets Sell Out Fast

• It’s a non-corporate, non-profit festival with a limited capacity.
  
  

• The vibe is intentionally small and community-oriented—meaning tickets usually sell out within hours.

7. It Embraces Social Causes

• Run by the Newport Festivals Foundation, which supports music education and artists year-round.
  
  

• The fest often features programming that highlights diversity, activism, and musical heritage.

8. You Can Even Watch from a Boat

• Some fans skip tickets entirely and watch from sailboats and kayaks just outside the fort's shoreline!

Getting to The Festival

The Newport Folk Festival, rain or shine, takes place at Fort Adams State Park. Fort Adams itself is conveniently located at 90 Fort Adams Drive, Newport, RI, 02840. Positioned in Narragansett Bay, the fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of Newport Harbor.

Fort Adams State Park can be reached within approximately 1.5 hours from Boston and 3.5 hours from New York City. For precise navigation, you can input the following address into your GPS: 90 Fort Adams Drive, Newport, RI, 02840. 

​​Tips for Festival Campers:

• Book Early: Campgrounds fill up quickly during festival weekends, so it's advisable to make reservations well in advance. 

• Transportation: Consider using local ferry services or rideshare options to get to Fort Adams, as parking can be limited during the festival. 

• Festival Policies: Note that the Newport Folk Festival has a no re-entry policy, so plan accordingly for the day. 

Taking an RV Trip to the Festival

An RV road trip is indeed an excellent way to embark on the journey to Fort Adams State Park for the Newport Folk Festival 2025. Traveling in an RV allows you the freedom and convenience to enjoy the road trip experience while having your accommodations on wheels.

As you make your way to Fort Adams State Park, you can relish the scenic routes and picturesque landscapes along the journey, from the charming towns of New England to the beautiful coastal vistas. An RV road trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the region at your own pace.

Although attendees aren’t able to camp at Fort Adams State Park during the festival, there are numerous campgrounds that provide alternative options for accommodation during the Newport Folk Festival 2025. Attendees should be aware of the various travel and accommodation options available.

Nearby Campgrounds

There are several campgrounds conveniently located near Newport, Rhode Island, offering a range of amenities and facilities. These campgrounds allow festival-goers to stay close to the action while enjoying the natural beauty and outdoor experience that camping provides.

Some of these options include:

• Second Beach Family Campground

• Paradise Park

• Fort Getty Park

• Burlingame State Park 

• Newport RV Park

• Fisherman’s Memorial State Park

• Melville Ponds Campground

While attending the Newport Folk Festival, consider staying at one of these nearby campgrounds to enhance your festival experience and create lasting memories. Be sure to check availability, make reservations in advance, and familiarize yourself with any specific campground rules or regulations.

By taking advantage of the campgrounds in the area, you can enjoy the festival to its fullest while immersing yourself in the natural surroundings and camaraderie of fellow festival attendees.

Benefits of RVing for the Newport Folk Festival 2025

There are several benefits to RVing for the Newport Folk Festival 2025, including: 

Built-in Accommodations

RVing provides the convenience of having your accommodations and your transportation. With your RV, you have a comfortable living space, complete with a bed, bathroom, kitchenette, and storage. This eliminates the need to book hotels or find alternative accommodations, saving you time and effort.

Affordability

RVing can be a cost-effective option for attending the festival. Instead of spending money on hotels or rentals, you can bring your own accommodation, potentially reducing accommodation costs significantly. Additionally, you have the flexibility to cook your meals in the RV, saving money on dining out.

Proximity to the Festival

RVing allows you to stay in close proximity to the Newport Folk Festival. By parking your RV in a nearby campground, you can get close proximity to festival grounds, minimizing travel time and maximizing your time at the event. This convenience enables you to fully immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere and catch all the performances.

Comfort and Convenience

RVing provides a comfortable and convenient experience during the festival. You have the freedom to relax, rest, and recharge in your own private space whenever needed. The amenities and facilities in your RV, such as air conditioning, comfortable bedding, and personal hygiene facilities, contribute to a more enjoyable and stress-free festival experience.

Flexibility and Independence

RVing offers flexibility and independence throughout your stay. You have the freedom to come and go as you please, explore the surrounding area, and tailor your experience to your preferences. Whether you want to extend your stay, venture out for sightseeing, or simply enjoy the campground atmosphere, RVing provides the flexibility to customize your festival experience.

Overall, RVing for the Newport Folk Festival 2025 offers the convenience of built-in accommodations, affordability, proximity to the festival, and a comfortable and independent experience. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a seamless and immersive festival experience while enjoying the benefits of RV travel.

Extend Your Visit with These Fun Attractions

1. Fort Adams State Park

Beyond hosting the festival, Fort Adams offers guided tours of its historic fortifications, panoramic views of Newport Harbor, and the scenic 2.5-mile Bay Walk, perfect for sunset strolls. ​

2. Newport Cliff Walk

This 3.5-mile coastal trail combines natural beauty with architectural grandeur, passing by iconic Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers and Marble House. 

3. Ocean Drive

A 10-mile scenic route offering breathtaking ocean views, historic landmarks, and access to Brenton Point State Park, ideal for picnics and kite flying.

4. Newport Mansions

Explore opulent summer "cottages" from the Gilded Age, including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, showcasing exquisite architecture and history. 

5. Bowen's Wharf & Thames Street

These bustling areas feature cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining, capturing Newport's vibrant coastal charm. 

Notable Dining Spots

Seafood & Waterfront Dining

• The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar: Renowned for its fresh seafood and harbor views, offering a quintessential Newport dining experience.
  
  

• The Reef: Features waterfront dining with real palm trees and panoramic views of Newport Harbor.

Casual & Local Favorites

• Brick Alley Pub: A lively spot known for its diverse menu, including seafood, burgers, and an extensive salad bar.
  
  

• Corner Café: Popular for hearty breakfasts and brunches, offering a cozy atmosphere and generous portions.

International Cuisine

• Mamma Luisa Ristorante Italiano: Offers authentic Italian dishes in a charming setting, perfect for a romantic dinner.
  
  

• Bar 'Cino: Serves Italian-inspired cuisine with a modern twist, featuring a variety of small plates and entrees. ​

Sailing & Harbor Tours

Experience Newport from the water with sailing excursions or harbor cruises, offering unique perspectives of the coastline and historic landmarks. ​

Museums & Cultural Sites

• International Tennis Hall of Fame: Explore the history of tennis through exhibits and memorabilia in a historic setting.

• Touro Synagogue: Visit the oldest synagogue in the United States, rich in history and architectural beauty. ​

Outdoor Recreation

• Brenton Point State Park: Ideal for picnics, kite flying, and enjoying expansive ocean views.

• Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge: Offers scenic trails and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation.

Enjoy the Festival with an RV Rental 

If you are attending the Newport Folk Festival in 2025, reserve an RV rental from Cruise America today. Cruise America offers quality RV models for travelers to rent from over 120 convenient locations. Get in touch today to reserve yours for your festival road trip!