Fodor's Expert Review Newport Jazz Festival

The grandfather of all jazz festivals, founded in 1954, takes place over three days at the end of July and/or beginning of August. The festival showcases both jazz veterans and up-and-coming artists, playing traditional and avant-garde styles. Performers in recent years have included Herbie Hancock, Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, Kendrick Scott, Norah Jones, and Diana Krall. The festival is held rain or shine, with open-air lawn seating.