PorchFest 2025: Music Takes Over the Porches of Fredericksburg
- Deborah Newman
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
PorchFest 2025: Music Takes Over the Porches of Fredericksburg
On Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the streets of Fredericksburg will hum with live music, neighborhood charm, and community energy as RappArts presents PorchFest on Bunker Hill Street (and the 2000 block of Charles Street).
This one-day festival transforms ordinary porches into impromptu concert stages, showcasing a variety of local performers — from seasoned musicians to fresh voices — across an intimate, walkable route.
Why PorchFest Is Special
Neighborhood as venue — Instead of a traditional stage or concert hall, performances happen where people live. It gives the city a cozy, grassroots feel and invites listeners to stroll from porch to porch.
Diverse musical styles — Expect to hear country, bluegrass, jazz, soul, rock, pop, and more. This year’s lineup is also layered with both veteran and emerging performers.
Community engagement — Homeowners, musicians, and listeners become part of one collective experience. As one long-time participant, Brian Lyra Brown, puts it: “It’s so cool because you’re literally playing on people’s porches.”
Relaxed, festive atmosphere — Bring your lawn chair, sunscreen, water, and good vibes. The event encourages movement, mingling, and musical discovery.
Logistics & What to Know
Detail | Info |
When | Saturday, August 16, 2025, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. |
Where | Bunker Hill Street and 2000 block of Charles Street, Fredericksburg |
Tickets / Cost | $10 for adults; $5 for ages 11–17; free for children under 10 |
What to bring | Chairs or blankets, sunscreen, water, comfortable walking shoes |
Restrictions / Notes | No alcohol or coolers allowed; wristbands given to re-enter if you leave during the day. |
Plus, cross streets will be blocked for safety — Bunker Hill will be closed at Fall Hill Avenue and Princess Anne; Charles Street at Virginia Avenue. Also, food trucks and portable restrooms will be onsite.
Featured Artists & Highlights
The 2025 lineup includes a rich mix of performers such as:
The Wellbellies (country) at 416 Bunker Hill
Peter Mealy, Laurie R. Griffith & the Toll Booth Buskers at 319 Bunker Hill
Jon Tyler Wiley
Lady Bass & Brittany Frompovich
Heaven Hall
Harry Wilson and Friends
Sandra Magura & Paper Hearts
Brian Lyra Brown
Brother Reggie Carreker
BST Band
Timbre
Alpha Jerk & Ladia
The final sets begin around 4:00 p.m., wrapping up as the afternoon fades into early evening.
Across past years, PorchFest has also offered surprise collaborations, casual talk and community atmosphere, and even dancing in the streets.
Why You Should Go (or Play)
For the listener: It’s a chance to discover new local talent, wander through a lively neighborhood, and enjoy music in a personal, relaxed setting.
For the musician: You can perform nearly “in the wild,” connecting directly with listeners in an open and supportive environment.
For the community: PorchFest strengthens the sense of place — it encourages walking, socializing, and rooting creativity in the everyday fabric of Fredericksburg.
