PE Porchfest 5-10 — File 25-0845

PUBLIC EVENT/SPECIAL ALCOHOL LICENSE APPLICATION City of Somerville, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Application #: PEL25-000037 File #: 25-007595 Public Event Application for: Somerville Arts Council Organization name: PorchFest 2025 Event name: PorchFest follows a unique, decentralized Description: approach, with bands performing from local porches while guests move through the city, which is divided into West, Central, and East zones. Unlike a traditional festival with a single activated location, this event spans multiple neighborhoods, showcasing Somerville’s musical talent and community spirit. It’s about young kids playing in their yards with family and friends and lifelong musicians getting the chance to perform once again for an intimate crowd. 12:00–2:00 PM – West Zone (West of Willow Ave.) 2:00–4:00 PM – Central Zone (Central St to Willow Ave.) 4:00–6:00 PM – East Zone (East of Central St.) The event takes place on people's porches, Location: yards, and driveways across Somerville. However, this year, we are limiting the streets that can participate. We are following a map from the Engineering Department that identifies the "Street Functional Classes." Bands can only apply if their porch is outside of the streets listed below (applications will still be reviewed on a case-by-case basis). Below are the Restricted streets where performances are prohibited: Broadway Cedar St Central St College Ave Elm St Highland Ave Lowell St Powderhouse Blvd School St Somerville Ave Summer St Walnut St Willow Ave Bands will also not be allowed to play at public parks. 05/10/2025 Date(s): 05/11/2025 Rain date(s): 10:30 AM Setup starts at (time): 07:00 PM Event ends at (time): Live music Entertainment: We will work with the Department Temporary Structures: of Public Works in placing a number of porta potties and extra trash bins around the city. Attendees: Max attendance at one time: 2,000 per zone Total people attending: 6,000 Maximum attendees accommodated: 6,000 Total Somerville residents attending: 4,000 free with Attendee fees or suggested donations: suggested donations/ tips to bands. 3,000 What is your budget for this event: Social or cultural benefits: PorchFest fosters community connection by bringing neighbors together through live music. It provides a platform for musicians of all levels to share their talents, especially those who lack access to traditional performance spaces. The event celebrates Somerville’s diverse music scene, encourages cultural exchange, and transforms porches into welcoming stages that enhance the city’s vibrant arts culture. Financial benefits: PorchFest brings the community out into Somerville’s neighborhoods, increasing foot traffic for local businesses. Many restaurants, cafes, and shops see a significant boost in sales, with some reporting it as their busiest day of the year. The event encourages attendees to explore different areas of the city, benefiting a wide range of businesses and fostering economic activity. Iaritza Menjivar Event Contact: [phone removed] x2985 Event Contact Phone:

Event Information Yes/No If yes, Describe Open to the public? Yes Newsletter, social media, Press Release, posters, flyers. Food served? Yes Caterer used? Alcohol served? No Grill/open-flame device used? No Streets blocked? Yes Sidewalks blocked? No Describe any accessibility features available to attendees/participants We will provide information on how each porch / band host can keep the sidewalks clear for participants. In our form we ask bands to describe if there location is accessible or not. We are also limiting Arrangements: Police Detail: Yes We are working with Police Fire, and the Emergency Management Team. We are working on Incident Action Plans. Parking (for Attendees)? No Restrooms? Yes We are working with DPW to help request and drop several porta-potties across the city. Liability Insurance? No Will any public parks be used? No Has the event occurred in the last two years? Yes May 13, 2023, May 11, 2024 Approved By: CS Mayor, Approved Albert Bargoot, Approved Maureen Lee, Approved with Conditions 3/21/25 Temporary Food License required. Kevin Roche, Approved CS Traffic and Parking, Approved Eric Weisman, Approved Susan Yerkes, Approved Charles Breen, Approved Rico Isidoro, Approved Kimberly M. Wells, Approved