Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What, when and where is Porchfest?

Porchfest is a community-based music festival that brings neighbors and musicians together for a day of free concerts on front porches and lawns throughout a neighborhood. Started as a grassroots initiative, Porchfest has now become a popular tradition in many cities around the world, providing an opportunity for local artists to showcase their talent and for residents to enjoy a day of live music in a relaxed and informal setting. Whether you’re a music lover, a performer, or simply looking for a fun and unique way to connect with your community, Porchfest offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the power of music to bring people together. 

We’re excited to be bringing Porchfest back to Easthampton for the fourth time this year. Our mission is to bring people together and blur the lines between what is considered public and private spaces. We’re expanding this year’s festival to three neighborhoods, and anticipate a great day full of music, fun, sharing space, meeting your neighbors, and celebrating all that is great about Easthampton! 

Easthampton’s Porchfest will be held on the porches, driveways, and backyards of your neighbors in the New City, Maple, Park, and Mt. Tom neighborhoods!

Porchfest is completely free and you don’t need a ticket to attend. It will take place on

Saturday October 3rd from 12-5pm. 

Curious to learn more about Porchfest?

Check out some other examples of Porchfests across Massachusetts.

https://www.shelburnefallsporchfestival.com/

https://somervilleartscouncil.org/porchfest 

https://www.porchfestquincy.org/#home-section

Is there a rain date?

No, there’s no rain date this year.

If the event is in fact impacted because of weather, we will let everyone know what the backup plan will be the morning of the 3rd. Some of our locations are weather-proof and will be able to go on with no disruption, while others will not. That being said, there is no rain in the forecast so we anticipate a beautiful day!

Why did you choose these neighborhoods?

Originally, we initially chose New City since it is easily walkable, has a unique history, and is close to parking and downtown. We add new neighborhoods due to interest! We also take into account walkability, traffic, and the number of locations near each other. 

Where can I park?

There is plenty of street parking in all four neighborhoods (first-come, first-served). We can’t guarantee readily available parking spots, so we encourage you to walk, carpool, or bike over!

Please be respectful of the neighborhood and don’t park on grass, block fire hydrants, or block driveways. 

Is there bike parking?

 The Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail are partnering with P'Fest this year to provide a bike valet service at the Parson St. parklet in New City. 

How can I volunteer to host and/or perform this year?

We are not taking any more location or performer submissions at this time, but we encourage you to sign up next year!

What kinds of performers or music will be offered?

One of the unique aspects of Porchfest is that it is open to all genres of music, so you can expect to hear a diverse range of styles throughout the day. From folk and bluegrass to rock, jazz, hip-hop, and beyond, you’re likely to encounter something new and exciting around every corner. Porchfest aims to provide a platform for all types of music and all kinds of performers (big bands, small bands, solo acts, singer/songwriters, dad rockers, opera singers, etc.), giving everyone a chance to share their art with the community. 

Can I bring food and drink?

You are welcome to bring your own food and beverage, and we encourage you to bring what you would like and need! We request that if you do bring food/drink, please follow the ‘carry in carry out’ rule. Remember that these venues are people’s homes and private spaces, so please make sure you pick up and clean after yourself. 

Can I bring alcohol?

Public drinking is not allowed. Porchfest takes place in individually owned yards and spaces, and public streets and sidewalks in between. When in public, you are subject to the usual laws regarding alcohol consumption. 

Are there bathrooms?

There are a few public restrooms in Easthampton, including:

Easthampton Safety Complex at 32 Payson Ave

Millside Park, off Ferry Street

Easthampton Public Library at 9 Center Street

Will the streets be closed?

No, roads will not be closed so please take care when moving between one space and the next. 

Are dogs allowed?

Different homeowners will likely have different preferences when it comes to dogs on their property, so please be aware of and sensitive to that. If you bring your dog, please keep it leashed, on public space, and be prepared to pick up after your dog if needed. 

I want to support Porchfest but I am not a musician and I don’t have a space. How can I support Porchfest? 

We have launched a crowdfunding initiative to help support Porchfest. This is called TIP (Tippng Improves Porchfest).

The way it works is that 100% of funds raised through this (in addition to the funds we raised at our crowdfunding concert earlier this year) will be split between performers. 

Click here to donate!

Can I donate to the performers?

Yes, see above. We also encourage tip jars and their use, so you may be able to donate directly to performers on-site. 

Is there a hashtag or social media?

Follow us on Instagram at @easthamptonporchfest

You can use this hashtag: #EasthamptonPorchfest

A few extra notes:

No public consumption of alcohol in the streets 

No loitering in neighbors’ yards or driveways 

No blocking streets (stay on sidewalks and areas of the road that will allow car passage)

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