Porch Host FAQ

When is Porchfest?
Porchfest is on August 15.
The rain date is August 16.

Do I need to own my property to sign up as a porch host?
Tenants are welcome to host, but the property owner must complete the town waiver and Porchfest registration. This is an insurance requirement, and your porch will not be listed until the owner completes the waiver.
How long will the performance be on my porch?
Performances range from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
We aim for a good flow in each neighborhood, so some sets may be shorter than requested. Porchfest is about community, not individual events.

Do I need to live in Belmont to be a host?
The property must be in Belmont, but the property owner can live anywhere.

Do I have to find performers myself?
No. Register your porch and we’ll match you with performers.

I’m a performer — can I play on my own porch?
Absolutely. Register your porch first, then select your address from the dropdown when registering as a performer.

Can my friend’s band play on my porch?
Yes. Once you register your porch, they can select your address.
If they registered before you, let us know in the “Anything else we should know?” section of the form.

If I asked to be matched, how will I know who’s playing on my porch?
After registration closes and matching is complete, we’ll connect you with your performers so you can plan together. Expect an email in mid-July.

Do I need to provide water, refreshments, or food?
Water and a bathroom for performers are appreciated.
Anything beyond that is entirely up to you. Some hosts offer snacks, drinks, chairs, or blankets — but none of it is required. Do what feels right.

Do I need to provide parking?
No. But please discuss parking with your performers. They may need to unload equipment before parking elsewhere. Recommend nearby options if you can.

How will people know my porch is hosting?
You’ll receive a Porchfest Here sign for your yard.
Also: tell neighbors, invite friends, and post on social media. Tag the Belmont Porchfest Facebook and Instagram pages.
A map and schedule will be on our website in early September.

Can I decorate? Can my kids set up a lemonade stand?
Yes and yes.

Accessibility
Let us know if your venue has any accessibility challenges so we can share that information with attendees.
Please provide only the details that help people assess whether your porch is accessible and comfortable.

What about rain?
Light rain won’t stop us.
Talk with your performers about where they’ll set up and who can provide a canopy if needed — someone usually has one.

The rain date is August 16.
If we switch to the rain date, we’ll announce it on the website’s home page by 10 a.m. on August 15.

Once Porchfest begins, there is no alternate rain date.

If there is an adverse weather event, please prioritize safety.
Such an event marks the end of Belmont Porchfest 2026.