# PorchFest in San Rafael – September 21, 2025
PorchFest turns San Rafael’s historic Gerstle Park neighborhood into a lively outdoor music venue. Local musicians play sets right from residential porches, which is honestly a sight to see.
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This free event showcases over 75 bands spread across 25 porches. For a day, one of Marin County’s oldest neighborhoods transforms into a walkable festival.
Families are welcome. There are dedicated kids and teen zones, and you’ll hear everything from folk and jazz to Latin and funk as you stroll around.
What Makes PorchFest Special
PorchFest has a vibe you don’t get at regular venues. Music fills the air, and neighbors come together in ways that feel both spontaneous and intentional.
Instead of a big stage, you get to enjoy performances up close while wandering through one of San Rafael’s most charming areas. It feels personal, like you’re part of something local and real.
Community Connection
The festival brings people together by turning private porches into public stages. Residents invite musicians onto their front steps, which makes for a shared experience that blurs the line between audience and performer.
You’ll probably end up chatting with homeowners, musicians, and other folks as you move from one porch to the next.
Musical Diversity
There’s a little something for everyone at PorchFest. The lineup includes:
Planning Your Visit
You don’t need to plan much, but a few tips can help. PorchFest runs from noon to 5 p.m., so you’ve got five hours to catch as many acts as you want.
Family-Friendly Features
Kids and teens have their own spaces. The Kids Zone features activities and performances just for children.
The Student/Teen Zone highlights young, up-and-coming musicians. These areas keep things fun for families with kids of all ages.
What to Bring
Pack for a comfortable day outside:
Getting Around
During PorchFest, Gerstle Park’s streets become super pedestrian-friendly. The neighborhood is easy to walk, so you can wander from porch to porch without a hassle.
Transportation and Parking
Street parking gets tight in Gerstle Park, especially on event days. You might want to try these options:
Important Policies
The event sticks to an alcohol-free policy to keep things family-friendly. That helps make it a safe spot for everyone.
Organizers set up water stations, so bring your reusable bottle and fill up as needed.
Local Context
Gerstle Park stands out as one of San Rafael’s most historic neighborhoods. You’ll see Victorian and Craftsman homes dating back to the late 1800s.
The area’s old-school architecture really adds to the atmosphere and makes PorchFest feel like a celebration rooted in local history.
Supporting the Community
PorchFest is totally free to attend, but it’s also about giving back. Some porches set out jars or boxes for donations to support the musicians or neighborhood projects.
If you want to show some love for the music or help out local causes, maybe bring a little cash along. It’s a small gesture, but it goes a long way.
PorchFest really shows off Marin County’s vibrant cultural scene. Local music, beautiful old houses, and that unmistakable community vibe all come together for something special.
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