New Bedford Folk Festival logo 2013The New Bedford Folk Festival, formerly known as the Greater New Bedford Summerfest, is one of the Northeast’s most pleasant, refined and enjoyable music festivals. Slated for July 6-7, 2013 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, the festival takes over the cobble stoned streets of this historic New England port city –which is part of the New Bedford Whaling National Historic Park. Visitors will soak in the area’s rich maritime history as they stroll its streets while listening to world-class contemporary and traditional acoustic performers under tents set up along them and in the air-conditioned comfort of the fabulous New Bedford Whaling Museum’s auditorium and, new this year, the Zeiterion Performing Arts Theater — where the popular Celtic Extravaganza closes out the festival on Sunday night.

As in years past, this year’s schedule includes a wealth of talented performers, many of them performing in song-swap style workshops with folks whom they may have never even met, making for unique musical pairings. It also poses a dilemma of choices that will prompt attendees to consider running from one stage to another nearby one to catch certain artists.

The Kennedys (Photo: Jeremy Lebled)

The Kennedys (Photo: Jeremy Lebled)

There will be seven sound stages, ranging from intimate ones with seating for 100 or less to much larger ones. Among the more than 50 featured performers are Roy Book Binder, Benoit Bourque & son, Kevin Burke, Antje Duvekot, Finest Kind, Beppe Gambetta, John Gorka, The Grand Slambovians, Kim & Reggie Harris, The Kennedys, Jeremy Kittel, Lori McKenna, Anais Mitchell & Jefferson Hamer, Mustard’s Retreat, Ellis Paul, Sally Rogers, Vishten, Cheryl Wheeler, John Whelan Trio and Brooks Williams.

In addition to the music, some 90-artisans and arts and crafts vendors will set up booths along the streets, as well as inside the Whaling Museum.

Admission to the festival is quite affordable at $25 for the weekend or $20 for one-day. Children under 12 will be admitted free with an adult.

While in New Bedford, you also can enjoy fresh seafood and sample tasty cuisine at one of the whaling city’s many Portuguese restaurants. Parking is free at the municipal garage.

For more information, visit www.newbedfordfolkfestival.com.