Newport Jazz, Folk Festivals Plan Multi-Day Events Amid Pandemic

NEWPORT, RI — After the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals, music will return to Fort Adams this summer. Because of the ongoing pandemic, the festivals will look a little different this year to follow coronavirus safety guidelines.

Both festivals will be multi-day events, with tickets released in phases.

The Newport Folk Festival will be separated into two, three-day events, July 23 to 25 and July 26 to 28. The events will feature "surprise performances, storytelling, and workshops," the event's organizers said.

The Jazz Festival, meanwhile, will be "focusing on creating three intimate days of amazing jazz performances and surprise collaborations."

Tickets are not on sale yet for either event. Organizers warned prospective attendees to be wary of websites purporting to resell tickets for this year's festivals. When tickets do go on sale, members will have first access, followed by ticket opportunities for non-members after that.

Because of the pandemic, capacity will be limited at both event, and safety protocols will be in place. These are still in development, organizers said, with more information forthcoming.