The Newport Folk Festival was named music festival of the year yesterday at the 27th Annual Pollstar Awards, which are essentially the Grammys of the concert industry.
In his acceptance speech, Newport Folk Festival executive producer Jay Sweet says his festival’s win “means the world” and it’s great to be recognized while being the oldest music festival in the United States.
Other nominees were the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago, the Toronto Urban Roots Festival and the Treasure Island Festival in San Francisco.
Newport Folk took to Facebook Saturday morning to thank the artists and the fans.
We’re happy to announce that Newport Folk Festival has won the Pollstar Music Festival of the Year Award for 2015. Big thanks to our family of staff and volunteers who give so much. Much appreciation to the artists, managers and agents who work so hard to help us deliver unbelievable musical experiences year in and year out. And a special thanks to you, our Folk, who continue to trust us and embrace this festival as your own. We are all so lucky to be a part of this together. Thank you.
The Pollstar awards are hosted annually and honor achievements by companies and people working in the touring industry.
Newport Folk also won Music Festival of the Year for 2012 and 2013. Click here for a complete list of 2015 winners.
The Newport Folk Festival will take place July 22-24, 2016 at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, RI.
cover photo © Brian Lima Photography
