The Somerville Arts Council is excited to announce PorchFest 2025, the citywide live music event, is returning on Saturday, May 10, from 12 to 6 p.m. (rain date: Sunday, May 11). 

To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized experience for all, this year’s event will feature new safety measures and structural updates designed to enhance the day for both performers and residents. All information is available on somervilleartscouncil.org/porchfest

Key Updates & Changes for 2025: 

Application Process & Deadline:  

• Deadline to submit an application is Thursday, April 10, at 11:59 p.m.   
• Applying does not guarantee participation.  

Event Map to Be Issued Early: 

• A map of the bands and their locations will be available several weeks before the event to make it easier for residents, businesses, and participants to plan ahead.   

Street Limitations:  

• Streets and locations identified by the Somerville Fire and Engineering Departments as being part of a key safety route will not be able to host performances.
• These safety routes have been identified to ensure safe pedestrian and traffic flow as well as emergency vehicle travel.
• Residents on safety routes are encouraged to partner with neighbors on a nearby designated street. 

Block Party Submissions:  

• Block parties must also apply through Citizen Serve to request a block party permit. 
• Applications will be open March 10 – April 10 and will be reviewed based on the street safety restrictions noted above.  

Emergency Management Plan:  

• The Mayor’s Office has convened an Emergency Management Team to oversee a central command station on Porchfest.
• This team includes the Police Chief, Fire Chief, DPW, Emergency Management Department, and Arts Council.

Ambassador Volunteer Program:  

• Volunteers will be stationed throughout event zones to assist visitors, direct people to porta-potty locations, monitor safety, and serve as points of contact. 

Official PorchFest Badges:  

• Approved porches will receive an official PorchFest badge that must be displayed on the day of the event. Ambassadors will help ensure compliance. 

Additional Information: 

Schedule: 

Performances will take place in three two-hour zones across the city:

• West of Willow Street: 12–2 p.m. 
• Willow to Central Street: 2–4 p.m.  
• East of Central Street: 4–6 p.m. 

Event Guidelines and Rules: 

To keep PorchFest safe and enjoyable for all, please follow these rules: 

• Be respectful of porch hosts, neighbors, and residents—do not loiter on non-PorchFest properties 
• Public alcohol consumption is prohibited 
• Use public transportation to reduce traffic and parking congestion 
• Stay on sidewalks to allow cars to pass safely 
• Use designated porta-potties  
• Tip the bands (cash or digital) to support local musicians 

The updates to Porchfest’s safety and organization were shaped with help from the Porchfest Committee, composed of five members of the Somerville community including a business owner, a resident, a musician, a Department of Public Works representative, and a member of the Arts Council staff. 

“PorchFest is one of Somerville’s most popular events, and to keep it going strong, we’ve made some important safety and sustainability updates,” said SAC Director Gregory Jenkins. “We’re limiting performances on key emergency routes and refining the application process to ensure the event stays safe and accessible for everyone. These changes will help PorchFest thrive for years to come, and we need the community’s support to make it happen. I also want to thank the PorchFest Committee for their help creating these recommendations, and everyone who helps bring this amazing event to life.” 

History of Porchfest 

In 2011, the Somerville Arts Council launched PorchFest, a citywide community music event that invites residents to celebrate local musicians by hosting mini-concerts on their porches and stoops, or driveways and yards. Think of it like Somerville Open Studios, but for musicians. Rather than a traditional festival, PorchFest brings neighbors together to share and enjoy live music ringing out from porches across the city.