Reading PorchFest 2025: music, community, and connection shine through the rain
(4 minute read)
Despite a soggy start, the skies couldn’t dampen the energy and enthusiasm of the 2025 Reading PorchFest, held on Saturday, June 28. The town was alive with sound as more than 90 musical acts performed across 40 stages - porches, lawns, public spaces, and even local businesses - turning Reading into a townwide concert for all ages.
Now in its sixth year, PorchFest has grown from a grassroots initiative into a beloved community tradition, where music serves as a common thread connecting neighbors, friends, and visitors alike. From jazz and sea shanties to folk, classic rock, and experimental sounds, the day offered a little something for everyone.
While the morning began with rain, the weather didn’t stop performers or audiences from showing up in full force. “Some wet weather didn’t deter performers or listeners,” said Harriman Avenue host Gena Pilyavski, who welcomed three diverse acts throughout the day. “The audience braved the elements, coming and going over the course of the day. Some were friends, some were neighbors, some were familiar faces seen throughout town.”
A festival for all
The range of musical styles was matched only by the warmth of the community spirit. Jasmine Im, a local artist and performer, shared her joy in participating:
“I had so much fun performing at Reading Porchfest! It’s always amazing to have the opportunity to play for other people, and I love the idea of bringing communities together through music! I also love how PorchFest highlights local artists and is an opportunity for everyone to share their talents!”
The crowd at Harriman Ave swayed along with Jasmine’s guitar-backed originals and pop covers, having earlier danced to the high-energy sets of Alice and the Groove Diggers and the chiptune stylings of The Apsychalypse. “Lawn chairs were quickly abandoned,” Pilyavski recalled, “to satisfy the urge to shuffle one’s feet, sway hips, and sing along.”
From the front porch
Hosts, too, found themselves swept up in the PorchFest magic. Red Gate Lane’s Mary Christine Paxton and her family welcomed back The Sniveling Norburys for a second year.
“There was no question we’d host again this year after their amazing performance... [W]e were filled with joy listening to the talented performers, watching kids run around in excitement, and witnessing neighbors meeting for the first time and forging connections. Porchfest is a must for our family, friends, and Sniveling Norburys superfans!”
Organizers reflect on growth and resilience
PorchFest co-organizers Ace and Alan Foulds reflected on the day’s highlights - including a moment just before the official start, when a child poked their head out of a front door and shouted “Happy PorchFest!” at passing volunteers.
“It made our day. All worries of the weather just disappeared.”
This year, organizers noted a growing use of public venues in addition to private homes - ranging from the Reading Public Library to restaurants, the American Legion Hall, and even a new business, Presence&Co. Though wet conditions forced a few adjustments (like relocating a conservation area performance to a nearby home), quick thinking and community support kept music going.
The night before PorchFest, Jon Taubman of Reading School of Guitar helped kick off the weekend with an outdoor Open Mic Night on the Town Common - featuring some of Saturday’s artists in a warm-up set that added to the celebratory tone.
Looking ahead
Even as musicians wrapped cords and hosts packed up chairs, thoughts were already turning to 2026. Organizers received useful feedback on setup timing and stage transitions and were thrilled to hear that many participants are already planning for next year.
“Every year since 2019, Reading PorchFest has grown. We started with 36 bands. Now we have about 100.”
If you missed the performances, RCTV captured highlights, available now on their Youtube playlist.
PorchFest may only happen once a year, but its spirit of inclusion, creativity, and community lingers long after the last note fades.
