By Marlena Ballinger / PHOTOS from Facebook

Here is a preview of the bands Hardintucky, Riley Creek Strummers and Two of Hearts, which are scheduled to play in Bluffton for the 2026 Play Music on the Porch Day (a.k.a. PorchFest) on August 29. Play Music on the Porch Day is a worldwide movement featuring live music performances in neighborhood settings.

This is the third year for the event locally, with 30 bands signed up to perform in and around Bluffton. A performance map and schedule will be provided closer to the event.

Hardintucky
Hardintucky is a family band located in Ada, Ohio. The four-member band plays songs from several genres, including southern rock. You may recognize the dad in the group as a member of A.W.O.L., a band previewed at 2026 Porch Fest preview: Tea Set, 50 for America's 250 and A.W.O.L. Hardintucky played last year and said, “[We’re doing it] just for fun, we’re going to give it a go y’all.”

The Riley Creek Strummers
Perhaps one of the largest groups performing this year, The Riley Creek Strummers is a dulcimer group comprised of 10 (or more) members playing beautiful melodies in unison. The songs will take you back to a simpler time. The strummers formed in 2012 after a Learning Retirement program at Bluffton University. The band was originally called “Rainbow Dulcimers” when the fledgling group met in a private home. As the band has grown, they have performed in other venues, including the Bluffton Senior Center and Bluffton Public Library. Instruments used include lap and hammer dulcimers, guitars, a bowed psalter, a band jammer and harps.

Two of Hearts
Returning for a third year are the very talented Coco McLaughlin and Courtnee Morris as the duo Two of Hearts. They play a wide range of music with a focus on country and Christian. Coco has played at large music venues, including Country Concert 2026 in Fort Laramie, was featured as an opening act for the band Niko Moon during its Back to My Roots tour, and has sung the National Anthem at large venues such as the Mud Hen’s stadium. The other half of this duo, Courtnee Morris, performs at a local church camp.

See also 2026 Porch Fest preview: Blanchard Creek Band, Conner Raines and AJ Knepper.