February 8, 2010
How To Make The Most Out Of The Newport Folk Festival
Every year since 1959, the Newport Folk Festival has been a wonderful two day music event and epicenter for the folk music scene. It's brought a number of famous musicians into the spotlight and fan's scrapbook pages before they were popular, and continues to be a showcase for talent both old and new. For these reasons, it's considered a great musical destination during the summer. If you're considering folk festivals this summer, here's a few tips I've picked up from the Newport event.
When arranging for travel to and from the event, weight the options of Newport's accommodations very carefully. Parking is available at Fort Adams State Park during the festival, but campgrounds are not offered during the run of this festival. However, other nearby campsites are open, like Melville Ponds, which is held in high regard.
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!
With these tips in mind, there's a strong chance your first a experience with this folk festival will be a great one. Have fun!
Filed under Ballroom Dance Classes by Mary
