Somerville Porchfest 2024, organized by the Somerville Arts Council, was a massive hit this year, turning the charming city of Somerville, Massachusetts, into a vibrant, open-air music venue. The event took place on Saturday, May 11, 2024, with a rain date set for the following day. From 12 PM to 6 PM, more than 300 bands across various genres performed on porches, yards, and stoops, creating an atmosphere of community celebration and musical discovery.
Porchfest is a decentralized music festival that originated in Ithaca, New York, in 2007. The concept has since spread to many cities, with Somerville hosting its own version since 2011. The idea is simple: local musicians perform free concerts from residential porches, transforming neighborhoods into dynamic stages where residents and visitors can enjoy live music in a casual, intimate setting.
This year, Somerville was divided into three zones, each hosting performances during designated time slots to manage the flow of attendees:
Screengrab via Concerts (in the) Hub (left); via Guster Facebook
One of the unique aspects of Porchfest is its eclectic mix of music. This year’s lineup included everything from classical and jazz to rock, electronica, and even stand-up comedy—a first for the event. The inclusive and diverse nature of Porchfest ensures there is something for everyone, making it a beloved tradition for music lovers of all ages.
A major highlight of this year’s Porchfest was the surprise performance by Guster, a renowned alternative rock band with deep roots in Somerville. Formed by three friends from Tufts University, Guster has become a significant name in the indie rock scene. Their set, which started at 3:30 PM on Aberdeen Road, drew an overwhelming crowd, creating a sense of nostalgia and homecoming for both the band and longtime fans (SomervilleMA) (Time Out Worldwide) (L4LM).
Unfortunately, Guster's performance was cut short due to a medical emergency in the crowd, highlighting the challenges of managing large, spontaneous gatherings. Despite this, the band's set was memorable, featuring both original songs and a cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams" (Time Out Worldwide) (L4LM).
Porchfest is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Residents open their homes and yards to host performances, fostering a sense of togetherness and mutual appreciation. The event encourages exploration of Somerville’s neighborhoods, allowing attendees to experience the city's unique charm and hospitality.
Given the large crowds that Porchfest attracts, safety is a top priority. The Somerville Arts Council and local authorities worked together to ensure the event ran smoothly, emphasizing the importance of respecting private properties, staying on sidewalks, and following traffic signals. Attendees were also reminded that public consumption of alcohol and marijuana is prohibited, and portajohns were distributed across the city for convenience (SomervilleMA) (Boston Calendar).
Somerville is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse community, and historic charm. Porchfest offers a perfect opportunity to explore this dynamic city. Here are a few things to check out while you’re in town:
Somerville boasts a wide array of dining options, from cozy cafes to gourmet restaurants. Some local favorites include:
Somerville Porchfest 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together residents and visitors for a day of music, community, and celebration. With its diverse lineup and welcoming atmosphere, Porchfest continues to be a highlight of Somerville’s cultural calendar. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this event offers a unique way to experience the vibrant spirit of Somerville and its rich musical heritage.
