South Jersey’s local music scene comes alive this weekend with two standout events celebrating community talent and live performance. Downtown Haddonfield debuts the Autumn Sounds Concert Series, while Collingswood hosts its eighth annual Porchfest, featuring hundreds of performances spread across homes and public spaces throughout the borough. Both events highlight the region’s vibrant music culture and offer free or low-cost entertainment for families, residents, and visitors.
The Haddonfield Autumn Sounds Concert Series runs from Thursday, September 25, through Saturday, September 27, across multiple venues in downtown Haddonfield. Headlining performances will take place on the steps of Borough Hall, with additional sets at the King Court Gazebo, the Haddonfield Masonic Temple, King’s Road Brewing Co., and the Haddonfield Public Library. Friday, September 26, features Red Desert Motel performing from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the Masonic Temple steps, blending rock, alt-country, and “cowpunk” influences. Saturday highlights include Sug Daniels, whose Americana and ukulele-driven sound will be featured at the Haddonfield Farmers’ Market in Kings Court. Other acts include April Mae & The June Bugs, known for roots-inspired jazz and blues, and The Garden Roads performing at King’s Road Brewing Co. The festival’s lineup spans rock, indie pop, bluegrass, alt-country, Americana, and jazz, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.
Meanwhile, Collingswood Porchfest, now in its eighth year, transforms the borough into a sprawling outdoor stage on Saturday, September 27. The free, family-friendly festival will feature 115 acts performing at 80 homes and locations across town from noon to 7:00 p.m. A related kickoff event, “PorchWEST,” takes place Friday, September 26, at Collingswood Sound Music Lessons, setting the tone for the weekend. Notable performances include OMS at 6:15 p.m. on Park Avenue, along with appearances by The Naked Sun, Banda Dags, The Classic Brown, Candy Volcano, and The Unstoppable Hack Beats during the festival and after-party. Maps and performer schedules are available through the Collingswood Porchfest Facebook page and the borough’s official website, helping attendees plan their musical journey through the community.
Both events emphasize local talent and accessibility. Haddonfield Autumn Sounds introduces audiences to emerging and established musicians in a variety of genres, while Collingswood Porchfest showcases a unique approach to community performance, turning porches and yards into vibrant stages. Together, they highlight South Jersey’s commitment to live music, arts, and neighborhood engagement.
Haddonfield’s music events are part of a larger fall calendar of activities, including the Haddonfield Fall Festival on Saturday, October 4, featuring a juried craft show, pumpkin painting, scarecrow stuffing, and live performances. Additional seasonal events include “Witchy Walk: Girls’ Night Out” on October 9, Haddy’s Birthday Party on October 12, Diwali celebrations on October 18–19, the fourth annual Halloween Night Market on October 24, Halloween crafting at The Candy Laboratory on October 25, and the annual Halloween Parade on October 30. November and December bring Small Business Weekend (November 29–30), the holiday Tree Lighting and Santa Parade on November 28, and Christmas-themed crafting events on December 20.
For those eager to explore live music and local culture across South Jersey and beyond, both the Autumn Sounds Concert Series and Collingswood Porchfest offer immersive experiences that celebrate community, creativity, and seasonal festivities. Music lovers can find further updates, schedules, and entertainment highlights on Explore New Jersey’s entertainment coverage.
