Back at Fort Adams State Park for Day 2 of the sold-out Newport Folk Festival, the sun was shining, the humidity dropped, and a salty sea breeze carried the sounds of music across Narragansett Bay. With five stages—The Fort, Harbor, Quad, Bike, and Foundation—pumping out music all day long, fans were spoiled for choice, and the energy never dipped.

Ken Pomeroy opened the Harbor Stage with hauntingly beautiful lyrics and a voice that immediately hushed the crowd. At the Quad Stage, high-energy duo Illiterate Light got fans on their feet early, dancing their way into the day. Over at the Fort Stage, local favorite Tyler Ballgame opened up with a waterfront set as boats bobbed in the background and the morning mist burned away.

Throughout the day, Newport once again proved it’s a genre-fluid haven, blending traditional folk with indie, hip-hop, experimental, and country. First-timer Saya Gray brought a unique and mesmerizing presence, while Bonny Light Horseman, now Newport veterans, delivered a sweeping and emotional set with the skill and synergy that comes from years of collaboration.

Obongjayar captivated the Harbor Stage with a genre-defying performance, his dynamic vocal range and emotional storytelling drawing in curious ears. Over at the Quad, Florida indie rockers Flipturn made their Newport debut, visibly moved by the honor and clearly connecting with the crowd—a young band in a legendary space, rising to the occasion.

A jam-packed set from Iron & Wine was a major draw, overflowing with fans as Sam Beam celebrated his birthday with a rousing, crowd-sung “Happy Birthday.” His set wove together warm storytelling, soft harmonies, and longtime fan favorites in true Newport spirit.

One of the day’s biggest highlights was Remi Wolf, returning with a full slate of cover songs performed alongside friends—a rotating cast that included Jeff Tweedy, Saya Gray, John C. Reilly, Maren Morris, and more. The audience didn’t just listen—they sang along with every word, turning the entire set into one giant, joyful collaboration.

I’m With Her closed the Harbor Stage with their signature three-part harmonies and heartfelt musical camaraderie. Meanwhile, the Quad Stage ended on a high-energy note as hip-hop legends Public Enemy brought a full-on dance party to the field—no chairs allowed. The crowd rapped, shouted, and danced in a wild burst of energy that rewrote what “folk” can look like in 2025.

To close out the day at the Fort Stage, country superstar Luke Combs offered a rare acoustic performance to start, sitting with his band for an intimate, stripped-down set before plugging in and turning it electric. It was a powerful ending that matched the emotional and stylistic range of the day.

And just like that, two unforgettable days down, with Sunday still to come. If the first two days have shown us anything, it’s that Newport still holds surprises up its sleeves.

Stay tuned—Day 3 awaits.