Wandering through the streets of Arcata, a deep thump thump baseline intertwines with melodic flute, reggae music, and distant jazz. It’s a common occurrence to run into some sort of artistic performance in the college town where performing arts thrive. However, today there is a buzz in the air that indicates something truly special.
The Sunny Brae Porch Fest is an annual event held in Arcata. The festival concept started in the town of Ithaca, New York, when a conversation between two neighbors sparked the idea for a community-oriented music event. Bands and individual performers played on porches, lawns, and sidewalks in what would soon become a network of nationwide events. Relying on the generosity of friends and strangers, the festival is meant to highlight local musicians and create a space that fosters connection.
This is only Arcata’s second year hosting the festival. Despite the adolescence of the Sunny Brae Porch Fest, flocks of people gather to hear the heart of Humboldt’s music scene. In a world that often trivializes the importance of art, it’s refreshing to see so much enthusiasm and active participation from the community. Over 70 bands played at this year’s event.
The event was completely free, making it accessible and inviting anyone to be a part of the festivities. This also means that every musician donates their time and talent to the public. They rely on the generosity of audience members to toss a couple of bucks into the jar that says “Tips for the Band :).”
Sponsored by the Arcata Playhouse and Humboldt Hot Air, Porch Fest was made possible through support from local organizations. Performing and visual arts require active input and participation from the community in order to flourish. Likewise, as people, we have an inherent need for creativity in our lives. This cyclical trend acts as a positive feedback loop in our community. When we give resources to artistic pursuits, we are more fulfilled and connected as people, allowing for ideas to prosper and strengthening ties between each other.
Young and old alike are drawn together by music. The diverse range of genres reflects the range of ages, backgrounds, and social groups in both performers and spectators. From abrasive punk to experimental ambient music made with whale songs, there truly is something for everyone.
Sunny Brae Middle School held its annual performance on Beverly Drive, which was closed to traffic to reserve a space for pedestrians and performers. Beginning music students showed off their skills to a large audience of family and friends. This introduction to music might shape the lives of some of the children who continue to seek these experiences later in life.
“One of my first experiences out here in Humboldt was going to a show. That’s where I met a lot of people in my life. So, yeah. It’s definitely branched out more experiences in my life,” senior Tafari Dodd said.
The Porch Fest also promotes alternative modes of transportation. Piles of bikes are visible from the street, and hundreds of pedestrians roam the neighborhood. The emphasis on eco-friendly travel is just another perk to the community event.
“You can easily get to downtown Arcata by walking or even by bike without requiring a car,” Sunny Brae local John McGrath said, who has lived in the area for over eight months. He moved from the Bay Area, searching for a change of pace. McGrath notes the unique qualities of Arcata that distinguish it from many other towns.
“There’s no doubt that music offers a lot of opportunities to bring people together,” he said. “Seeing people who are playing uplifting music together is a great way to keep people engaged and maintain tightly knit communities.”