During the afternoon, as many as twenty bands perform on porches throughout this picturesque neighborhood. Food trucks are available, and a variety of craft beers and wines can be purchased. Proceeds from PorchFest support arts-related activities in Jacksonville’s urban core.  Since its inception in 2014, proceeds have funded murals, a sculpture in Klutho Park, painted crosswalks, and additional projects.

Thanks to sponsors, it is presented at no cost to guests. All performers are compensated; thus, purchasing a t-shirt or beverages helps support PorchFest too.

The route is only a few blocks long, with streets where bands are performing closed to ensure the event is pedestrian, bicycle, child, and pet friendly. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Children too— the performances are family-friendly.

PorchFest highlights Springfield’s historic architecture, ongoing revitalization efforts, and showcases Jacksonville's musical talent. 

How did Jax Porchfest begin?  A group of friends and neighbors were gathered on a front porch during the height of the recession discussing Springfield’s comeback and how perceptions about the neighborhood were often outdated.  The need for a rebranding was necessary.  

Elizabeth Augustus, a San Marco resident, attended her first porch festival while visiting upstate New York, the origin of Porch Festival, over ten years ago. Inspired by the experience, she brought up the idea and proposed it for Springfield.

The original intention was to bring people into the neighborhood, countering incorrect perceptions about Springfield and showcasing its beauty and appeal. Having musicians play on porches seemed like an excellent way to combine organic creativity, prevalent in Springfield.

As a nonprofit, hosting a free event presents financial challenges, and PorchFest relies heavily on sponsorships and volunteers. Fortunately, the city is equally invested in the event’s success as SPAR. Since its inception, PorchFest has experienced significant growth—from approximately 5,000 attendees at the first event to an estimated 25,000 each year, supported by nearly 200 volunteers.

Early PorchFests leaned towards traditional rock, jazz, and country, organizers expanded the genres  to appeal to a broader audience, incorporating a rich mix of diverse artists.

A noteworthy detail is how porches for performances are chosen. Rather than limiting to three or four porch stages like similar festivals, Jax PorchFest ramps up with around 20, creating an immersive experience. The selection process includes plenty of volunteer homes, ensuring no shortage of options. “Aligning bands to porches involves considering factors like porch size, as large bands require spacious porches. We also manage sound interference to ensure continuous music throughout the festival footprint, encouraging exploration within the neighborhood,” Michael Haskins, Executive Director of SPAR explained.

Jax Porchfest has more than met original expectations.  Springfield has seen more businesses sprout up because they are now supported by folks from outside the neighborhood, property values have increased and new homes are being built on the few remaining lots.  Developers are adding apartments and mixed use projects.

Jax Porchfest has now become a tradition in Jacksonville – the largest outdoor music event in the city.  People mark their calendars a year in advance and folks travel from other states to attend it.  To Springfielders who were here from its inception it’s like a family reunion and giant birthday celebration all in one!