Frequently Asked Questions

What is Binghamton Porchfest?

Binghamton Porchfest is a free, community-driven music festival that takes place each August on the historic front porches and tree-lined streets of Binghamton, NY’s Abel Bennett Historic Tract. Residents turn their porches, yards, and driveways into impromptu stages, hosting upwards of 150 performances by local and regional musicians - all over the course of one afternoon! 

Since its inception in 2015, Binghamton Porchfest has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural events in the region, with annual attendance in the thousands. Like the many other independently operating Porchfests across North America, we are modeled after a DIY festival hosted by the residents of Ithaca, NY since 2007.

When is Binghamton Porchfest?

Binghamton Porchfest takes place the last Sunday each August from 12-7pm.

Is Binghamton Porchfest family-friendly?

Fun for kids and grownups, too! We strive to ensure that Binghamton Porchfest provides a welcoming atmosphere for participants of all ages. Many of our neighborhood’s youngest residents perform or opt to sell lemonade in their yards - Binghamton Porchfest is for the kids more than anybody! Grownups should do their part to keep Binghamton Porchfest fun for all by obeying all open-container laws, refraining from smoking (especially in crowds), not cussing, not politicking, and not littering.

Is Porchfest dog-friendly?

That depends on how people-friendly your dog is. There will be a whole lot of stimulation during the festival. For your pup’s sake, please consider leaving them at home. If you do choose to bring a dog, please keep them leashed and hydrated, and dress them in an outlandish costume.

Did you say free?

Yes! Thanks to the goodwill of hundreds of volunteers, performers, residents, community sponsors, and donors, Binghamton Porchfest is free to attend. Most performers welcome tips and there will be merchandise and food for sale, so it’s a good idea to bring some cash along with you.

I want to get involved! How can I participate?

Signups generally open in June or July - our facebook page is the best way to stay updated. Binghamton Porchfest takes a mountain of work and that mountain gets bigger every year. If you’d like to spend more hours of the summer than you’d anticipate running a neighborhood committee, we’d love to hear from you: binghamtonporchfest@gmail.com. We could use help with, well, most of it.

Where can I grab a bite to eat?

Packing a picnic is always encouraged, though there will be food vendors dispersed throughout the neighborhood, and there are several great local eateries nearby. We’ll release more info in August!

Will alcohol be served?

We do this on a Sunday for a reason. In order to keep things family-friendly, Binghamton Porchfest does not allow alcohol vending as part of our programming. That said, several neighborhood watering holes have been known to open their doors for thirsty festival-goers. As is the case every day, open container laws are in full effect on public property and violators run the risk of ticketing. Alcohol consumption for of-age individuals is allowed on private property at each host’s discretion. 

Will there be merchandise for sale?

You betcha! We’ll be selling t-shirts, mugs, and assorted swag day-of at official Binghamton Porchfest merch stations. Some bands may opt to sell their own merchandise during their performances - support your local scene!

What if it rains?

Find yourself a big piece of wood to knock on! it hasn’t happened yet. Porchfest is a rain or shine event. In the case of inclement weather, some last-minute scheduling changes may occur.

I really gotta pee.

Worry not, there’ll be porta-potties dispersed throughout the neighborhood. We’ll mark them on a map. 

What should I bring?

Friends, family, a bicycle, water, a picnic, a lawn chair, sunscreen, a bit of spending cash, a hat, a wild costume, dancing shoes, snacks, hopefully not an umbrella, your Sunday-best fanny pack, and a healthy sense of wanderlust.

What if there’s an emergency?

Officers from the Binghamton Police Department and a paramedic will be in the neighborhood ready to help! When in doubt find the nearest volunteer.

Can I bring a golf cart?

There’s no need! We’ll be providing free shuttle service for patrons on specially sanctioned golf carts within the festival perimeter. Unsanctioned golf carts are illegal on city streets and are not welcome within the festival footprint.

Do you need some money?

A lot more than we’d like to be asking for. Binghamton Porchfest is funded through community sponsorship, donations, and grants. This free festival costs a whole lot to produce, and we’d be grateful to accept any help you can throw our way!