Reading PorchFest To Commemorate 9/11 Attacks

READING, MA — Reading's Porchfest will be in-person this fall after going virtual last year due to the pandemic. The event, now in its third year, features live bands performing on porches, in driveways and on front lawns across Reading.

The festival will take place Saturday, Sept. 11 from noon to 6 p.m., starting with an observance of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks on the Town Common.

The Reading PorchFest Committee is co-sponsoring a writing contest with the Reading Rotary and the Fall Street Faire Committee for students in grades K-12 to commemorate the 20th anniversary.

Students can submit a poem or essay on the theme "Light in the Darkness." A judging panel will determine a winning essay or poem from the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The winning students will each win $100 and the opportunity to present their writing at the town-wide commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Writing submissions are due Aug. 1. Details can be found at http://www.fallstreetfaire.com/events-and-activities/9-11-20th-anniversary-writing-contest/.

The music festival will follow the town's observance. The day is roughly divided into three time segments:

• Noon – 2 pm
• 2 pm – 4 pm
• 4 pm – 6 pm

The bands do not have to be from Reading. Any band can apply to take part and will donate their time and talents. Bands are asked to keep in mind that this is a family friendly event when choosing their playlists.

Click here for more information about signing up.