Newark PorchFest is back for its seventh season on Saturday, September 19, 2026, turning the porches, patios, driveways, and historic tree-lined streets of the Forest Hill Historic District into open-air stages and community gathering spots.
Hosted by the Forest Hill Community Association, the free citywide celebration features over 37 musicians, visual artists, and dancers stationed across 32 neighborhood homes. Visitors can explore a rich mix of pop, rock, R&B, Latin, and world music, alongside live DJ sets, dance performances, and locally crafted fine art, jewelry, and goods available directly from creators.
“Newark PorchFest is an example of what makes the Forest Hill neighborhood and the North Ward so special,” said North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. “It brings people out of their homes, fills our neighborhood with music and art, supports local artists and small businesses and gives families a chance to come together and enjoy everything our community has to offer.”
KidsFest Kickoff & Daily Highlights
The festivities kick off early with KidsFest from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Delavan Avenue (between Ridge Street and Clifton Avenue). Sponsored by the TD Charitable Foundation, KidsFest features interactive, hands-on activities, youth entertainment, and a featured performance by the New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players.
The main PorchFest schedule runs from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM across the neighborhood, featuring several signature event hubs:
- Forest Hill FoodFest: Located on Parker Street between Ballantine Parkway and Berkeley Avenue, serving American, Caribbean, Guatemalan, Puerto Rican, Latin, and Portuguese cuisines alongside ice cream and sweet treats.
- Spin City DJ Station: A high-energy hub featuring continuous dance music and an interactive photo booth.
- Art Gallery at Sydenham House: A curated exhibition highlighting participating visual artists, complemented by live music and open-mic sessions.
- Essex County Trolley: Free neighborhood transit offering visitors convenient rides between performance sites, art displays, food vendors, and historic streetscapes.
“Newark PorchFest is an annual celebration of community connection that highlights the incredible artistry and talent brimming right here in the Forest Hill neighborhood,” said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz. “It’s always a day filled with delicious food, lively performances and family-friendly activities everyone can enjoy.”
Event Details
- What: Newark PorchFest 2026 (7th Annual)
- When: Saturday, September 19, 2026
- KidsFest: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Main Festival: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Rain Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Where: Forest Hill Historic District, Newark, NJ
- Admission: Free and open to the public
Newark PorchFest is presented by the Forest Hill Community Association with support from the New Jersey State Council for the Arts, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr., Essex County Parks, Senator M. Teresa Ruiz, North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr., The Newark Teachers Union, Commercial District Services, Mount Prospect Partnership, Essex County Register Juan M. Rivera Jr., The North Ward Center, Lozada Landscaping, and Alpine Nursery.
