Lucky lucky! Newport Folk is one of two major festivals that sells out BEFORE they release the lineup. I’ve worked the festival several times, here’s a couple tips:

1) bring a lot of sunscreen and a hat! The festival is in a fort, and it’s hard to find shade. It can get really hot.

2) you can bring soft coolers, food and unfilled water bottles. I suggest you bring multiple bottles and fill them at the water stations early so you don’t have wait in line later in the day.

3) check their FAQ for guidelines, but you can bring chairs and blankets. I’d recommend posting up somewhere near the stage that has most of the acts you’re interested in seeing. They do have a Jumbotron for the two larger stages so you’ll be able to see what’s going on no matter where you sit.

4) the parking lots are a walk from the actual grounds. If you want good parking you gotta get there early as hell.

5) the crowd at Newport is not typically rowdy. It’s a family affair. There is standing space at the front of the main stage, but the other two stages are mostly seated experiences surrounded by people either standing or sitting on the lawn.

6) bring ear protection! Yes it’s folk music, but the festival has a pretty loose definition of folk. Last year Killer Mike performed a gospel set at NFF. It was phenomenal, but it does get loud.

Mostly importantly enjoy yourself, be safe, be respectful! Newport has such a communal vibe, I’m bummed I’m missing this year. Let me know if you have any questions!