What is PorchFest?
PorchFest is a free event held in Historic Springfield, a community just north of downtown Jacksonville, FL on the first Saturday of November. During the afternoon, dozens of bands perform on porches throughout this beautiful neighborhood. Food trucks are plentiful and a variety of craft beer and wine is available for purchase. Proceeds of PorchFest support arts related activities in Jacksonville’s urban core.
Is PorchFest really free?
Yes – thanks to numerous sponsors and hundreds of volunteers, we are able to present this event at no cost to our guests. To help keep this event free, please consider purchasing a T-shirt and beverages to support PorchFest. Donations are always welcome.
Is PorchFest walkable? And is it pet and child friendly?
Yes – our route is only a few blocks long, and the streets where bands are performing are closed to make this event especially pedestrian, bicycle, child, and pet friendly. Learn more about our dog-friendly amenities on our PoochFest page.
If the streets are closed, where do I park?
Jacksonville PorchFest 2023 offers a variety of parking options for festival attendees. The festival itself is just west of Main Street and just north of 8th Street. We have partnered with a number of local organizations to provide parking near the festival and street parking is available as well. For more information on parking, including our shuttle service, please see our Parking and Shuttle Service page.
Is alcohol allowed? How can I purchase beverages?
PorchFest is an event permitted by the City of Jacksonville. We have obtained all the necessary licenses to sell alcohol within the festival area. You may consume alcohol in package and plastic cups within the road closures.
The State of Florida will not allow alcohol consumption outside of the boundaries of the festival. Everyone consuming alcoholic beverages must obtain and wear an official PorchFest wristband. These are available after ID check at beverage tents throughout the festival area.
PLEASE NOTE: The City of Jacksonville prohibits any outside alcohol (not purchased from official PorchFest vendors) within the festival area.
Please help support PorchFest by purchasing your food and beverages from our vendors.
What should I bring with me? What should I leave at home?
We advise you to bring folding chairs and blankets for seating in front of porches.
As noted above, NO alcohol (except what is being sold by SPAR) is allowed by the City of Jacksonville.
Most of our vendors accept both cash and credit cards, so bring one or both for food and merchandise purchases.
If you bring a pet, it must be on a leash.
What about restroom facilities?
Restroom facilities information can be found on the 2023 Event Map.
Do you have a lost and found?
Yes – found items may be delivered to our Welcome Tent location at 8th and Pearl.
