Photos from Porchfest 2026
When days get shorter, family vacations are over and Washington University students return – many a Skinker DeBaliviere resident know it’s festival season.
Rags to Riches is first up in early September as residents search their basements, attics and closets for treasures that may be of value to returning students and bargain hunters. PorchFest quickly follows on the third Sunday in September, while the holiday-themed WinterMarkt wraps (literally and figuratively) things up in early December.
Rags to Riches
This year, Rags to Riches enjoyed a resurgence after slumping a bit in the aftermath of the pandemic. The number of yard sellers doubled from last year and the number of vendors selling wares increased to 22 versus seven.
Andy Cross (6000 block of McPherson) spent countless hours promoting the event and unveiled new promotional artwork. His own yard sale brought in $3,000, which he donated to the nascent dog park effort.
Porchfest: Rocking the Neighborhood
Last month, 68 bands, twice as many as a year ago, rocked 62 porches at PorchFest. From DeGiverville to Parkview and from Pershing to Washington and all points in between – including Greg Freeman Park – PorchFest delivered.
“We had our largest attendance this year and PorchFest STL keeps growing,” said co-chairs Jim Fuchs (6200 block of Pershing) and Molly Rater. “St. Louis loves Porchfest STL!”
Accompanying the smoking hot riffs were some equally hot temperatures and an eclectic music assortment that offered something for everyone. Genres ranged from Americana folk and jazz to classical guitar and classic rock. One band, Honeybrew, even featured Cafe Video Game covers.
“Every year is a little different, but the spirit remains the same: music, neighbors, families, friendship, community and fun,” said Stephanie Lewis (5900 block of DeGiverville), who served on the Porchfest organizing committee. “PorchFest has become a celebration that people look forward to year after year – and I am looking forward to doing it all over again!”
The afternoon wound up with a second line and the Red and Black Brass Band marching into Four Corners and unleashing a spirited set of horn- and percussion-intensive tunes. The Steve Ewing Duo closed out the day and brought the crowd to their feet.
“It was amazing to see so many people from all over the area come to Skinker DeBaliviere to listen to music, walk our streets and experience the atmosphere and people that make this such a special place to live,” said long-time resident Karleen Hoerr (6100 Kingsbury). “The energy and the music were off the charts.”
Wintermarkt Up Next – Saturday, December 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wintermarkt kicks off the neighborhood holiday season at Four Corners, located at the intersection of Kingsbury and Des Peres Avenues.
Regional crafters, bakers and artists showcase their wares at St. Louis’ original open air Christmas market. Carolers serenade visitors as they browse and visit.
“Wintermarkt is a great time to get out, see neighbors and pick up some unique gifts before people start hibernating inside during the winter,” said one local resident.
Currently, organizers are looking for vendors, sponsors and volunteers. Vendor registration closes on Friday, November 27. Those interested in participating can email wintermarkt@skinker-debaliviere.com.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, November–December 2026.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
