Napa Valley Music Alliance presents Saint Helena Porch Fest for local musicians

The St. Helena City Council meeting on June 24, 2025, highlighted the upcoming Napa Porch Fest, a community music event organized by the newly established Napa Valley Music Alliance. Co-founders Alex Weeks and Rachel Clark presented their plans for the festival, which aims to celebrate local music and foster community engagement.

The Napa Porch Fest, which began in 2011, is designed to showcase a variety of musical genres performed by local bands across residential porches. This year, the organizers are seeking to secure 15 porches, with 12 already committed, and plan to feature 21 bands. The event emphasizes local talent, ensuring that all performers are based in Napa County. Weeks noted that the festival's smaller scale compared to previous years in Napa aims to enhance the experience for both musicians and attendees.

The organizers have engaged with local authorities, including the St. Helena Parks and Recreation Department and the Fire and Police Departments, to ensure safety and community support. They are also working on logistical details such as food vendor placements, waste management, and restroom facilities, with a focus on maintaining cleanliness and accessibility throughout the event.

Public comments during the meeting reflected strong community support for the Porch Fest. Residents expressed enthusiasm for the event's potential to strengthen local connections and celebrate the arts. Many emphasized the importance of keeping the festival community-oriented and manageable in size to ensure a positive experience for all involved.

As the Napa Valley Music Alliance continues to finalize preparations, the council's support and the community's engagement will be crucial in making the Porch Fest a successful celebration of local music and culture. The event is anticipated to not only provide entertainment but also to enhance community spirit and pride in St. Helena.