SOLD OUT before a single act was announced, the 2025 Newport Folk Festival proved once again that its reputation precedes its lineup. Fans bought up all three days within minutes earlier this year, trusting in the magic that only Newport can deliver. And on Day 1, it delivered in full—sunshine, storms, surprises, and all.

Right as the gates officially opened, Nathaniel Rateliff kicked things off with an unannounced pre-opening set at the Harbor Stage, sending early arrivers into a joyful frenzy. Meanwhile, Rhode Island’s own Tyler-James Kelly was tapped to open the Fort Stage, setting the tone for a day filled with homegrown talent, rising stars, and legendary moments.

With five stages in action—The Fort, Harbor Stage, Quad, Bike Stage, and Foundation Stage—festivalgoers had endless options, and never a moment of silence. Whether you were stretched out on a blanket or stage-hopping on foot, there was music in the air at every turn.

Those tuned into the festival app were rewarded with an exclusive, pop-up set from Langhorne Slim, who delivered a spirited and soulful performance at the Foundation Stage, reminding everyone that the best shows are sometimes the smallest ones.

At the Quad, Philadelphia’s high-energy brass-funk collective SNACKTIME emerged as a breakout favorite, bringing irresistible grooves that had even the most laid-back folkies on their feet and dancing. Over at the Fort, Big Freedia made a triumphant return—this time upgraded to the main stage. Her signature blend of bounce, bass, and boldness had the crowd grinding, twerking, and screaming with joy.

Geese turned up the volume with their indie rock swagger on the Harbor Stage—but Mother Nature had other plans. As a line of powerful thunderstorms rolled over Fort Adams, festival organizers swiftly enacted an emergency shelter-in-place protocol. Fans scrambled into cars, tents, and even the historic fort tunnels, sharing shelter (and snacks) with strangers in true Newport spirit. After 90 tense minutes, the skies cleared, and the music resumed.

With a compressed schedule, both Kenny Loggins and Goose delivered tight but memorable four-song sets, re-energizing the drenched but determined crowd.

The night belonged to Bleachers, as Jack Antonoff closed the Fort Stage in spectacular fashion. True to Newport tradition, the surprises weren’t over: Waxahatchee, Karen Morris, and Rufus Wainwright joined Antonoff onstage, adding harmonies and heart to an already electric set.

Day 1 was a wild ride—part festival, part weather drama, part musical revelation. And the best part? It’s only just begun. Stay tuned for Day 2.