Porches become stages for live music in Carleton Place’s inaugural Porchfest

Carleton Place will turn into a stage on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 1 to 4 p.m. for the town’s first annual Porchfest.

The free event will feature live music performed on porches, driveways, lawns and front yards throughout local neighbourhoods. A rain date is set for the same time on Sept. 20.

Residents and visitors are invited to walk, cycle or dance their way through the streets to hear a mix of folk, country, blues, jazz, rock and more.

Part of a grassroots movement seen in towns and cities across North America, Porchfest brings live music to doorsteps while encouraging neighbours to meet and connect.

Although admission is free, guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or donations for the Lanark County Food Bank – The Hunger Stop. Collection points will be set up along the route.

Organizers are still looking for musicians, porch hosts and volunteers. Performers will be featured on the official Porchfest online map.

“Porchfest is about more than just music,” said organizer Bill Pope. “It’s about neighbours meeting neighbours, artists sharing their gifts, and an entire community coming together – not only to enjoy a great day, but to make a difference for our local food bank.”

The event is supported in part by the Carleton Place Community Enrichment Program.

For more information or to sign up, visit www.carletonplaceporchfest.ca.