The New Bedford Folk Festival offers an impressive line-up of the best in contemporary, Americana, traditional, blues and Celtic folk music with more than 75 performances on seven stages over two days. At the heart of the festival are the workshops, themed jam sessions with multiple artists, many playing together for the first time, for a unique, never-to-be-seen-again show.
Escape to a fully air-conditioned lounge with private restrooms, enjoy prime seating at both theaters, save with exclusive discounts at select food court locations, and more.
While the full music festival is a ticketed event, several areas are free for the public to enjoy. Join us for lunch or dinner, listen to the sounds of the Southcoast Stage, or peruse the extensive artisanal marketplace.
On Purchase Street in the Food Court & Beer Garden
The Southcoast Stage is the only stage that is free and open to the public! Located near the Food Court & Beer Garden, this stage offers tunes from Southcoast’s best musicians.
Located in front of the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center on Purchase Street
Additional treats at the Carter’s Parking Lot Snack Bar on William Street.
A list of vendors and their locations is on the way. Sign-up to our email list to receive updates on food vendors, artisan vendors, and more!
Peruse an array of handcrafted goods, apparel and more!
A list of vendors is on the way. Sign-up to our email list to receive updates on food vendors, artisan vendors, and more.
New Bedford is a great place to learn, explore, and have a blast! So why not make your Folk Festival experience even more meaningful and stay awhile? Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to spend the day at sea, New Bedford offers a variety of attractions and activities to suit all interests. From the largest museum in America devoted to the whaling industry, to the first free home of Frederick Douglass, New Bedford’s museums and attractions are sure to inspire, intrigue and delight.
New Bedford is also home to the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the only National Park addressing the history of the whaling industry. Want culture? Visit the New Bedford Seaport Cultural District, comprised densely of businesses and cultural attractions all within a short walking distance!
Travel down a cobblestone path. Comb the beach. Shop antiques. See history come to life. And, while you’re here, we hope you experience everything that makes us proud to call this incredible City “home.”
For a full listing of downtown’s eateries, galleries and retail locations, please visit Downtown New Bedford Inc – our non-profit downtown organization charged with promoting its district!