What is PorchFest?
PorchFest is a free community music festival held annually in November in Historic Springfield, a community just north of Downtown Jacksonville, Florida. 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 our generous 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 to all. Our route is only a few blocks long, and the streets where bands are performing are closed to make this event especially pedestrian, child, and pet friendly. We also host PoochFest, a dog rest area, at the festival each year.
If the streets are closed, where do I park?
Jacksonville PorchFest offers a variety of free parking options and complimentary shuttle service for festival attendees. The festival centers around the Southeast Quadrant of Springfield (from 1st Street to 5th Street, Main Street to Walnut Street). We partner with local organizations to provide parking near the festival and street parking is available as well.
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. Wristbands are available after ID check at beverage tents throughout the festival area.
Please note that the City of Jacksonville prohibits outside alcohol (not purchased from official PorchFest vendors) within the festival area. Support PorchFest by purchasing your food and beverages from our vendors.
What should I bring with me? What should I leave at home?
Bring folding chairs and blankets for seating in front of porches. Most of our vendors accept both cash and credit cards, so bring one or both for food and merchandise purchases. Outside alcohol is not permitted by the City of Jacksonville. If you bring a pet, it must be on a leash.
What about restroom facilities?
Restroom facilities are provided throughout the festival, including ADA-accessible facilities.
Do you have a lost and found?
Yes – found items may be delivered to our Welcome and Merch Tent.
