The Newport Folk Festival, a cornerstone of American music culture, returns to Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island, from July 25–27, 2025. This year’s lineup is a vibrant mosaic of genres, featuring a harmonious blend of seasoned legends and emerging talents. With tickets selling out in under a minute, the anticipation is palpable for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend.
🌟 Headliners and Notable Acts
Friday, July 25
- Alex G – The indie rock sensation known for his lo-fi charm and experimental soundscapes.
- Big Freedia – The Queen of Bounce brings her high-energy New Orleans hip-hop to the stage.
- Geese – A Brooklyn-based band blending post-punk with art rock influences.
- Goose – The jam band favorites known for their improvisational prowess.
- Hannah Cohen – The singer-songwriter delivering soulful melodies.
- Jack Johnson – The laid-back acoustic rock artist with a devoted following.
- Jessica Pratt – The folk artist known for her ethereal voice and introspective lyrics.
- Kenny Loggins – The iconic singer-songwriter with a catalog of timeless hits.
- Kevin Morby – The indie rock musician with a penchant for storytelling.
- Kim Deal – The bassist and vocalist renowned for her work with The Breeders and Pixies.
- Maggie Rose – The Americana artist with a powerful voice and dynamic stage presence.
- MJ Lenderman – The indie rock artist known for his raw, heartfelt performances.
- Remi Wolf – The genre-blending pop artist with infectious energy.
- Snacktime – The indie band delivering catchy tunes with a playful spirit.
- The Deslondes – The New Orleans-based band fusing country, soul, and R&B.
- Tyler James – The singer-songwriter with a soulful voice and poignant lyrics.
- Yeah Yeah Yeahs – The acclaimed indie rock band known for their electrifying performances.Extra Chill
Saturday, July 26
- Bonny Light Horseman – The folk supergroup blending traditional and contemporary sounds.
- Dan Reeder – The singer-songwriter with a unique blend of folk and blues.
- flipturn – The indie rock band known for their energetic live shows.
- Illiterate Light – The duo delivering a mix of rock, folk, and electronic elements.
- Saya Gray – The emerging artist with a soulful voice and captivating presence.
- Mon Rovîa – The indie pop artist known for her dreamy soundscapes.
- Ken Pomeroy – The singer-songwriter with a knack for storytelling.
- Julien Baker & TORRES – The collaboration between two of indie rock’s most compelling voices.
- Jesse Welles – The artist delivering heartfelt folk melodies.
- Iron & Wine – The folk musician known for his poetic lyrics and soothing melodies.
- I’m With Her – The Americana trio blending harmonies and instrumental prowess.
- Waxahatchee – The indie rock artist with introspective lyrics and melodic hooks.
Sunday, July 27
- Luke Combs – The country music sensation with chart-topping hits.
- Margo Price – The country singer-songwriter known for her authentic storytelling.
- Mt. Joy – The indie rock band with a growing fanbase and infectious tunes.
- BCUC – The South African band blending Afrobeat with rock and funk.
- Dehd – The Chicago-based band delivering a mix of indie rock and post-punk.
- Hurray for the Riff Raff – The folk-rock band known for their socially conscious lyrics.
- Michael Kiwanuka – The British soul singer-songwriter with a rich, emotive voice.
- Stephen Wilson Jr. – The emerging artist with a soulful sound and poignant lyrics.
- Jeff Tweedy – The Wilco frontman bringing his indie rock sensibilities to the stage.Newport Folk FestivalExtra Chill
🎤 All Things Considered Live: A Glimpse into the Past
For those unable to attend in person, NPR Music offers a treasure trove of live performances through All Things Considered Live. These recordings capture the raw energy and intimacy of live shows from venues and festivals across the country. One standout performance is Medeski Martin & Wood’s set at the 2005 Newport Jazz Festival, showcasing their signature blend of jazz, funk, and experimental elements. Their performance exemplifies the festival’s commitment to showcasing the evolution of music, blending tradition with innovation.
🎟️ Join the Waitlist
While general admission tickets for the 2025 Newport Folk Festival have sold out, fans can join the waitlist via the DICE website for a chance to secure tickets if they become available. Given the festival’s reputation for surprise guests and historic performances, this year’s event is poised to be a landmark occasion in the world of music festivals.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Newport Folk Festival 2025 lineup is a testament to the festival’s enduring legacy and its commitment to celebrating the diverse tapestry of American music. From country legends to indie upstarts, the festival offers something for every music enthusiast. As the event approaches, anticipation continues to build, promising a weekend filled with unforgettable performances and historic moments.