2026 Signups ARE CLOSED
Welcome Performers!
Thanks for signing up to perform at the 2026 Play Music on the Porch in San Juan Bautista! Here’s how the event works, along with a few tips to help you have a smooth and successful performance.
How it works
Sign up below
Fill out the form with your name, address, musical style and preferred set time. We'll confirm your spot.
Set up your stage
Your porch, your rules. Bring your own gear, invite friends, decorate — make it yours.
Play for your neighbors
On the day of the event, open your door and play. The community will come to you.
2026 Performer tips
Tips for Porch Performers
Saturday, August 29, 2026 · 15-minute sets
Thank you for being part of Play Music on the Porch! Here are a few tips to help keep the music flowing and the day running smoothly.
Keep it to 15 minutes
Please plan your set to fit comfortably within 15 minutes, including any talking between songs. Aim for about 12–14 minutes of music so you have a little breathing room.
Choose your songs ahead of time, plan your performance
Have your set list ready before you arrive. For most performers, 3–4 songs will fill a 15-minute slot, depending on song length.
Arrive 15 mins early
Tune your instrument, organize music and charts and take care of other prep before your scheduled set whenever possible.
Keep setup simple
Porch performances work best with a simple, flexible setup. Bring everything you need for your instrument and performance, and avoid equipment that requires a lengthy setup or teardown.
Introduce yourself
Take a moment to tell the audience your name or group name. You can also briefly introduce a song — but remember that your introductions count toward your 15 minutes.
Watch the clock
Consider having one band member keep an eye on the time. If you're running long, it's better to skip your final song than make the next performer start late.
Be ready for the outdoors
Plan for sun, breeze and warm weather. Bring water, sunscreen, clips for sheet music and anything else you'll need to perform comfortably outside.
Support the other musicians
Stick around if you can! Listen, applaud, meet other performers and enjoy the variety of music happening throughout the day. Join us at the jam at The Hideaway, rock out and hang out!
Most importantly — have fun and get to know your host
This isn't about putting on a perfect concert. Play Music on the Porch is about sharing music, bringing people together, and creating a joyful community experience.
Thanks for sharing your music with us!
Performer FAQ
Do I need to be a professional musician?
Not at all. Play Music on the Porch Day SJB celebrates all levels — from beginners to seasoned performers. If you love music and want to share it, you belong here.
What styles of music are welcome?
Everything. Rock, folk, jazz, classical, mariachi, country, hip-hop, bluegrass — if it's music, it's welcome.
Do I need to provide my own equipment?
Yes, performers are responsible for their own instruments and amplification. Keep volume neighborly — this is a community event.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. Performing is completely free. Play Music on the Porch Day SJB is a community event, not a commercial one.
Do I need to be a San Juan Bautista resident?
You should have a connection to the community — living, working, or having strong ties to SJB. Reach out if you're unsure.
Are dogs welcome?
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome at outdoor stops. Please clean up after your pet and be considerate of other attendees. If a stop is at or near a commercial business, check that dogs are allowed before entering — when in doubt, ask first. You are responsible for your dog at all times, and porch owners and businesses have the right to refuse entry to any animal.
Join the 2027 Interest List
Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch to confirm your spot.