Rhode Island Readies For Some Semblance Of Normal This Summer

NEWPORT, RI — As Rhode Island starts to look past the coronavirus pandemic, the state is preparing for the beginnings of a normal summer. Starting in May, event organizers can start holding events with up to 1,000 people, with even larger events possible by mid-summer.

Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor said Thursday that event organizers can start reaching out to the department now to plan events with up to 1,000 people starting May 1, as long as the event venue remains below 10 percent total capacity. The department will work with the Rhode Island Department of Health on a case-by-case basis to make sure participants can maintain social distancing, and may require extra safety measures such as coronavirus testing all attendees in advance.

After July 15, the Department of Business Regulation will start allowing events with more than 1,000 people.

Organizers of the Newport Folk and Jazz festivals, the highlight of the summer for many Rhode Islanders, said they looked forward to bringing the events back this year.

"We are thrilled to be bringing music and artists back to Fort [Adams,]" event organizers said in a statement. "We are working hand in hand with state and local government and various health officials to ensure that what we present will set a benchmark for safety and transparency through our protocols and communication."

Gov. Dan McKee and Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, the director of the Rhode Island Department of Health, both said they look forward to a safe, fun summer in Rhode Island.

"There will be music in Newport this summer," McKee said.

More information about the Newport Jazz and Folk festivals is expected to be announced in the coming months.