Document Type: FAQ
For: Musicians, venues, and community members with general questions
About Make Music Vermont
What is Make Music Vermont?
Make Music Vermont is a free, outdoor celebration of music on June 21st — the summer solstice and longest day of the year. Part of an international movement in 1,000+ cities worldwide, Make Music Vermont invites everyone to make music in public spaces throughout the state.
Completely different from a typical music festival, Make Music Vermont is open to anyone who wants to take part. From morning to evening, musicians of all kinds — young and old, amateur and professional, every genre — share their music on village greens, restaurants, front porches, farms, and storefronts.
Where did the idea come from?
Make Music Day is based on France's Fête de la Musique, a national musical holiday inaugurated in 1982. It's now celebrated on June 21st in 1,000+ cities across 120 countries.
Who can participate?
Anyone! Amateurs, hobbyists, and professional musicians are all welcome. If you make music, you can participate.
Is this an annual event?
Yes, Make Music Vermont takes place every June 21st.
For Musicians
I want to play. What do I do?
- Register on the Make Music Vermont website
- Create a performer profile with your info and availability
- Browse locations and request performances
- Coordinate with your matched location
Remember: This isn't a traditional festival. Most locations are outdoor public spaces, not concert venues. You'll typically need to bring your own equipment.
Can I create my own performance location?
Absolutely! We encourage musicians to create their own spots, especially if you have a relationship with a space (your porch, your workplace, a friend's business). Register the location on the website and match yourself to it.
Will I be paid to perform?
Make Music Vermont doesn't pay musicians, and musicians don't pay us. Most performances are free. However, artists and venues are welcome to make their own arrangements, as long as events remain free and open to the public.
What if it rains?
If it rains, outdoor performances can move indoors (lobby, storefront) with a door or window open so music is audible from outside. During registration, locations indicate their rain plan.
For Locations
I want to host music. What do I do?
- Register on the Make Music Vermont website
- Create a location profile describing your space
- Indicate what you can provide (electricity, shelter, etc.)
- Browse musicians and request performers, or let them come to you
What kind of spaces work?
Think beyond traditional venues:
- Front porches and lawns
- Business storefronts and sidewalks
- Town greens and parks
- Libraries and community centers
- Farms and farmers markets
- Restaurants
- General stores
What should I provide?
At minimum, most locations offer access to electricity and a glass of water. Beyond that, it's up to you — whatever makes sense for your space and the performers you're hosting.
Event Rules
Can I charge admission?
No. All Make Music Vermont events must be free and open to the public.
Can my event be invitation-only?
No. Events must be accessible to anyone who walks by.
Can I perform multiple times in one day?
Yes! Schedule more than one performance if you'd like — just allow time for travel and setup between locations.
How late can performances go?
Typically, unamplified music can go until 10pm. Amplified performances usually end earlier (8-9pm) depending on location. Check with your local chapter for specific guidelines.
Quick Links
- Website: vt.makemusicday.org
- National: makemusicday.org