September Sunday afternoon, bright sun, cool breeze, leafy trees, beautiful porches, and music everywhere? What could it be other than Mapleton Hill PorchFest? The twelfth annual event celebrating and building culture and community will return on Sunday, September 22, from 12 noon to 4 p.m. PorchFest was founded in late 2011 by a group of neighbors and music lovers who came together to create an annual event modeled on the original in Ithaca, New York, founded that same year. At last year’s free Boulder event, an estimated 1500 people enjoyed performances by more than 40 bands on two dozen porches. Music from a broad range of genres, including blue grass, rock, classical guitar, and jazz, continued the tradition of offering something for everyone.

The music is the highlight of the event, of course, but the unsung (pun intended) heroes are the generous Mapleton residents who open up their yards and porches to host musicians. Some of those neighbors have been with the event every year since its first outing in 2012. Among those stalwarts is Marybeth Emerson, who has regularly hosted two bands for the afternoon. Her leafy green yard on regularly attracts hundreds of people lured by the music—and the popcorn and lemonade stand. “Hosting is such a joy,” says Marybeth, a prominent realtor in town and long-time supporter. “Just seeing the smiles on the faces of neighbors and guests from all over reminds me why I’ve always done this and why it’s such a great thing for our community.”

A quieter but equally satisfying venue is Pat Lehman’s historic home. Pat has also hosted two bands every year since the first Mapleton PorchFest. She is also one of the founding members of the organizing committee that plans and executes the event. “It’s a must-do on my personal calendar. I particularly enjoy arranging for the food trucks that make the day a real celebration. Enlisting those local businesses is another way we help build community. That’s the Boulder way!”

PorchFest 2024 will be bigger and better than ever. This year there will be a kick-off event at noon, with three sets of music starting at 1 p.m. See the website: mapletonhillporchfest.org for details, latest porch and band lineup, and how to participate. Mark your calendars, invite your friends and family, and don’t miss this uniquely Mapleton celebration.