FAQs
how does porchfest work?
Porchfest is more of a coordinated-yard-performances than it is a conventional festival. There's no real boss, no specific enclosed or protected area, and everything you see, eat, or experience exists only because someone decided to step up and make it happen. Everything is volunteer-based, making every person involved (either hosting, playing, or attending), a de facto co-creator and real-time manager of the event.
For attendees, all normal rules of law and order apply and, just like any other day, everyone remains responsible for their own behavior and welfare. Wander around, keep yourself safe, and watch out for others. Pretty simple.
When's it happening?
Stay tuned for a final date in 2024.
Where does it take place?
Highland Park is located ~two miles east of downtown Chattanooga, and bounded by Willow and Holtzclaw on the east and west, and McCallie and Main on the north and south.
Who should come?
Everyone! Highland Park Porchfest is family-friendly and open to all, with all kinds of music to suit all kinds of tastes.
Do I need a ticket?
No ticket required. The event is open to all and totally free.
Is there a map or some kind of schedule?
Yes, but stay tuned for 2024 info coming in the summer of 2024.
Is Porchfest accessible for those with disabilities?
It is. We prioritize walking and rolling (including wheelchairs) over motor vehicles in all areas of the event. And, Highland Park has a fairly solid network of accessible sidewalks and curb ramps as well to get you through and around the neighborhood.
We strongly discourage driving. In addition to reducing traffic around more vulnerable visitors, this also ensures that those who absolutely do have to drive (such as those with disabilities) can find adequate parking in close proximity to where things are happening.
Will you be closing streets?
We did not close any streets in 2022 or 2023. We're committed to the sharing of public space and making the effort to accommodate one another. For drivers, this means slowing down dramatically and expecting to find pedestrians, bikes, and crowds spilling out into the street. And for those enjoying the festival, it means remaining vigilant, exercising caution, and recognizing that sometimes people in cars just need to get somewhere. So relax, get out of the way when appropriate (especially in the case of emergency vehicles), and make it work. It's the neighborly thing to do.