What is Porchfest?
Porchfest is a free festival of performances on porches, driveways and public spaces across Milwaukie. People are encouraged to walk or bike their neighborhoods, meet their neighbors, and share their talents with the community. Anyone with a performing talent – singers, guitar players, comedians, youth performers and dancers – is invited to participate by performing from their porch, driveway or front yard.
The all-volunteer Milwaukie Arts Committee organizes Porchfest. The event started in 2020 during the pandemic. Because traditional concerts were not possible, Porchfest was comprised of short, informal concerts – decentralized across the city – to encourage people to keep moving in small groups and enjoy an outdoor experience.
How does it work?
Anyone can participate in Porchfest! If you have a porch (or front yard or driveway) and a band, sign up via the forms on this page.
We will add your information to our map of locations. About a week before your concert or show, volunteers will drop off a Porchfest yard sign and door hangers so you can let your neighbors know about your upcoming performance.
I don’t live in Milwaukie. Can I still perform?
Yes! We have various “host porches” (neighbors with front yards or businesses with outdoor space) that will welcome performers. Performers are volunteers and generally must provide their own sound and equipment. If you’d like to learn more about available porches, fill out this form so we can find a place for you.
I’m attending. What should I bring?
Porchfest takes place on people’s lawns and outside their homes. You’ll see lots of attendees bring blankets, folding lawn/camping chairs and snacks. We think the general rule is just be respectful to your neighbors!
How should I get around?
Some folks settle in for one concert in an evening. You will also see people traveling by bike, by foot or by car to visit several locations in a neighborhood. Please drive slowly as many people will be out and about. Roads do not close for Porchfest, but individual locations may have applied for a block party permit to close the street in front of their porch.
Should I tip the band?
All concerts are free to attend, but you might see a tip jar or a Cashapp or Venmo QR code by the band. These bands are all volunteers, so tip if you are able! Artists are also encouraged to sell music and merch at their events.