North Heights Porchfest is a community-driven music festival held each fall in Joplin’s historic North Heights neighborhood. Inspired by the original Porchfest movement that began in Ithaca, New York, the event transforms neighborhood porches and yards into live music stages, creating a vibrant, walkable festival experience.

What began in 2017 as a small neighborhood gathering has grown into one of Joplin’s most anticipated annual events. Today, Porchfest features 50+ bands performing on 25+ porches alongside local artisans, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Thousands of attendees come together each year to explore the neighborhood, discover local talent, and experience a weekend centered around music, creativity, and community connection.

North Heights Porchfest is organized by the North Heights Neighborhood Group, a local nonprofit focused on strengthening community connections and supporting the ongoing revitalization of one of Joplin’s oldest neighborhoods.