The fourth annual Princeton Porchfest, held on April 26, brought together the University and local community in a day-long musical event. Organized by the Arts Council of Princeton, the festival featured performances across 15 porches in town and at Maclean House on campus.
Roberto Lugo, a ceramic artist, delivered spoken word pieces as a special guest during the Story & Verse Open Mic at the Princeton Public Library’s Community Room. The open mic series was part of this year’s new offerings alongside an official afterparty on Palmer Square Green.
“Porchfest brings our community together through a shared love of music,” said Melissa Mercuro from the Office of Community and Regional Affairs. She described it as “a true example of community collaboration.”
The Maclean House stage showcased student musicians performing various genres including jazz, bluegrass, rock, and acoustic music. Despite rainy weather, attendees enjoyed performances such as the Princeton University Band’s cover of “Mr. Brightside,” which briefly brought out sunshine.
Rosemary Newsome from SPIA remarked that Porchfest was “worth standing in the rain.” Later in the day, audiences gathered to enjoy bands like Strawberry Milk and Casual Riot on the Maclean House lawn.
Emily Yang, an engineering major from Princeton’s Class of 2026, appreciated how Porchfest engaged both students and residents: “It’s just a very fun afternoon of music and community.”
At the Arts Council of Princeton, visitors were entertained in their parking lot while supporting local arts through merchandise purchases. The Story & Verse Open Mic welcomed poets and storytellers to perform before an audience.
Lugo’s performance at Porchfest was part of a collaboration between several organizations including PUAM where his work is exhibited until July 6.
The afterparty on Palmer Square Green saw three acts performing for a large crowd with The Shaxe marking their 25th anniversary playing for the Arts Council. Local resident Marshall McKnight expressed his enjoyment: “Princeton’s a great place to just walk around…to hear live music is so much fun.”
Shelpuk highlighted finding new favorite bands and noted how families enjoyed games together during the festival: “It’s truly a family event.”
