Since the summer of 1959, the Newport Folk Festival has been a place where people from all walks of life meet to enjoy music and join together as a community. This year marked the 59th anniversary of this iconic American music festival and Mountain Valley Spring Water’s first as the official water sponsor. To say the least, it was a euphoric experience as music lovers from all across the country flocked to Fort Adams State Park to create an atmosphere like none other.
Upon entering the festival grounds, everyone was greeted with a large banner that read, “We’re Stronger When We Sing Together.” Those Pete Seeger lyrics perfectly sum up the energy we felt throughout the three-day event; swinging, swaying with some of America’s most symbolic artists.
To keep the festival goers hydrated and musical idols’ thirsts quenched throughout the three days, Mountain Valley Spring and Sparkling Water were served by all the food vendors as well as in the VIP and artist Anchor tent. Our premium American spring water was enjoyed by all, including multi-talented Amanda Shires, the Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter who wowed the audience on opening day, while taking sips from our iconic green glass bottle.
We also had the opportunity to listen to an amazing variety of talented acts perform. This included Amanda’s husband, Jason Isbel, Lukas Nelson, Margo Price, the husband and wife duo Tanya Trotter and Michael Trotter Jr., Gary Clark Jr. and so many more. Each artist who graced the four festival stages put on an awe-inspiring show along with surprise performances from David Crosby and Mumford and Sons. Yes, folk is in the name of the festival, but artists from all genres performed and the crowd—including us—sang along to it all.
As an American born and bred company, Mountain Valley is proud to have had the opportunity to partner with Newport Folk Festival. The organizers, artists, and attendees were a prime example of how, despite our many differences, we can all come together to celebrate our shared roots and inspiration. Here’s to another 59 years of unity and harmony.
