First, the bad news: Bob Marley is sold out; now the good news: we still got PorchFest

Harrison Thorp 8:58 a.m.


First, the bad news: Bob Marley is sold out; now the good news: we still got PorchFest

Eventgoers dancing in the streets during last year's PorchFest. (Rochester Voice file photo)

ROCHESTER - With new occupancy guidelines for restaurants and movie theater it's no surprise that Maine comedian Bob Marley's performances set for next weekend at the Rochester Opera House are already sold out.

Marley's five shows set next Friday and Saturday were first announced late Wednesday afternoon, so the new normal now extends to putting in your reservations as early as possible next time a show is scheduled at Rochester's most storied performance arts venue.

It's not all bad news from the Rochester Opera House, however.

Next Sunday's highly anticipated PorchFest is still on track. PorchFest is a free outdoor music festival featuring more than 30 bands of all genres that will perform on on outdoor stages throughout the downtown.

Attendees can walk around and hear a little bit of everything. There will also be food, vendors, and dancing in the Union Street parking lot.

Last year's Porchfest brought thousands to the city's downtown throughout the day, infusing it with an energy and exuberance that was intoxicating, eventgoers agreed.

The venues stretch from Studley's Flower Garden on Wakefield Street to Tri-City Bicycles on South Main to Stitches Alterations and Needlework on North Main to City Hall.

Participating restaurants and shops will be offering specials and discounts to attendees wearing all-access bracelets, which cost $10 and can be purchased online or at the main booth on Union Street.

Bracelet wearers will also get free access to an after party at The Garage.
Proceeds raised will support music scholarships for under-served students at the
Rochester Performance & Arts Center, which is sponsoring the event along with the Rochester Opera House.

Event information as well as band and sponsor signups forms are available at http://www.rochesteroperahouse.com/uploads/3/9/7/2/39725166/forms.pdf