An annual event which features live music, art, crafts, local food vendors and more is returning for its fifth season in Jefferson City.
Porchfest, which runs from 1-4 p.m. May 7, offers local musicians a place to perform down Fairmount Boulevard, Fairmount Court and Oakwood Drive.
"We're always trying to incorporate new crafts and different projects so we're excited to include a few new things," said Leann Porrello, Cultural Arts Specialist for Jefferson City Parks.
Some of those new things include Little Leaf Essentials, a community group that does succulent planting, as well as a few new poets and authors. There was also the biggest sign-up so far for artists this year, meaning more music to enjoy.
"We noticed with the sign-ups we have a lot of new musicians as well as returning musicians. We have about 45 artists right now, but we have a lot of new people. So what's really fun with this event is that as we continue to grow, we're seeing new artists join us, as well as visual artists," Porrello said.
There will be a few new food trucks among the usuals. Cajun Catfish House will join this time, as well as Ready Popped, Alibi Cookies, Eat Crepe Love, Elisa's Cookies and more.
Don't forget to get photo-ready. The Backdrop, a newer business in downtown Jefferson City, will be there with a selfie station for you to capture the day.
Another new addition is the Mobile Gaming Entertainment Trailer, a place to escape the sun and play some video games.
"You know, one thing I think people enjoy most about Porchfest is the easiness and organicness of it," Porrello said. "It's very casual to just come and wander around, you can hop from porch to porch, you know, see different art types. It's a very safe environment. We make the footprint, so once you're in the festival footprint, you really can just enjoy being there."
Parking will be at McClung Park. This year, in conjunction with Porchfest, the Lori Smith Blues Fest will be held at McClung Park.
"So that's a fun addition too. People will be able to come to McClung Park, park and they're greeted by music there from the blues fest and then they can walk up to the Porchfest area and then have all the variety of musicians," Porrello said.
Porrello added: "All of our artists actually do this for donations only and so we really just want to encourage the community to come out and support them and bring cash for tips as well."