Sounds of summer fill the air at NDG Porchfest

MONTREAL – Never mind spring. Saturday in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) was what summers in the city are all about.

A bit of music, some sunshine, a little bit of dancing and hanging out on the porch with some friends.

Except today, you could actually take in local musicians while chitchatting on complete strangers’ porches and lawns without getting any funny looks.

That’s because NDG is hosting Porchfest, a two-day friendly neighbourhood music festival.

According to Mario Manillo, who kindly lent his porch to some musicians, the festival is a chance for little-known bands to get some exposure.

What makes the festival so unique, according to event organizer Aurora Robinson, is that the music is happening where people live.

“It’s part of the community,” Robinson said. “It’s free, it’s open to everyone. Not only to go to, but also to participate in.”

Aside from shining the spotlight on local talent, the festival also offers people the opportunity to give back to the community.

All money raised at Porchfest goes to Head and Hands‘ J2K after-school music program.

Robinson says the event, now in it’s second year, has had a great response from the community.

“Everyone has really embraced it,” Robinson said, “From shop owners, to families and even politicians. Surprisingly!”

A complete list of performers and a map of participating porches is listed on the group’s website.