Event Preview and Coverage

By Sarah Coyne

Historic Athens Porchfest will feature more than 200 performers across porches in seven historic neighborhoods this Sunday, Oct. 15 from noon to 8 p.m. (Photo/ Sarah Coyne)

The Historic Athens Porchfest is set to return for its fifth year, hosting more than 200 local performers across seven historic neighborhoods on Sunday, Oct. 15 from noon to 8 p.m.

The annual festival presented by Cafe Racer will provide free admission thanks to hosts, performers and sponsors. The event features more than 200 performers on porches in seven historic neighborhoods including Buena Vista Heights, Boulevard, Newtown, Pulaski Heights, Cobbham, Normaltown and Reese-Hancock.

According to Flagpole’s lineup, the event will kick-off at Nuçi’s Space’s Camp Amped at 738 Cobb St. It closes at 7 p.m. with a performance by Athens-Clarke County’s Mayor Kelly Girtz with Winterville Mayor Dodd Ferrelle and the Wintervillains at 650 Pulaski St.

Historic Athens Executive Director Tommy Valentine oversees the financial administration and programmatic elements of the nonprofit organization. Valentine is responsible for announcing calendars, registration and sign-ups for the event. Which he describes as a “conductor” of an orchestra, to direct the event and make sure it comes to fruition.

“We have been very lucky with the city staff we interact with, they really embrace the event and they help make it possible,” Valentine said.

Valentine said that the event staff works with the local government to ensure that the permit process is followed correctly, and that they coordinate with the Athens-Clarke County office to help hire crossing guards to guarantee safety.

The Office of the Mayor sponsors a porch, as well as presenting the mayor’s show. A “long-running tradition” that is now in its fifth year, will be hosted by Mayor Girtz, featuring Winterville’s Mayor Dodd Ferrelle.

For over 50 years, Historic Athens has worked as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to help celebrate preservation and heritage in Athens. Historic Athens Porchfest was created by Historic Athens in 2019 to celebrate local music, history and community.

Event Coverage