By Geena Monahan – For the North Star Reporter
A new tradition begins on Saturday, May 17–North Attleborough’s first annual Porchfest.
In conjunction with the first annual Active Minds “Miles for Mental Health” 5K run and walk, Porchfest will take place between 9-11 a.m. Four bands will perform at the high school and along the race route, providing entertainment for both runners and spectators.
Drawing inspiration from Porchfests in Walpole, Somerville and Cambridge, newly-elected Town Councilor Kevin McCarthy, along with fellow North Attleborough resident Zach Johnson, organized this event in about three weeks. McCarthy hopes to make this a yearly event and expand it throughout the entire town.
“I thought it would be a cool thing to bring to North Attleborough, to help promote community spirit and town pride,” said McCarthy.
Porchfest is free to attend, but McCarthy hopes to raise money for a cause as well in future years.
Bands can be found at the following locations on Saturday morning:
● Hit & Run, performing at Beaupre Field, next to the high school.
● Steve Hodgman, performing on the front lawn of Avalti Creations (385 John Dietsch Blvd).
● Reagan Lapointe, performing at Paradis Metalworks (252 John Dietsch Blvd).
● Steve Fritzsche, performing in the driveway of 71 Stoddard Drive.
Active Minds, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health among young adults, partnered with the KyleCares Foundation and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to sponsor the 5K run and walk. Check-in is at 8 a.m., with a fee of $25 for general entry and $15 for students and children.