Libertarians and liberty lovers of all stripes will gather in Gilford, New Hampshire in June for the 5th annual Porcupine Freedom (and Music) Festival (aka PorcFest).
As the premier event of the Free State Project (FSP), PorcFest welcomes pro-liberty activists from across the nation to see why New Hampshire was selected by FSP’s membership to be the destination for those who are willing to work effectively in a concentrated effort towards “Liberty in Our Lifetime.”
The vision of the Free State Project “is an effort to recruit 20,000 liberty-loving people to move to New Hampshire. We are looking for neighborly, productive, tolerant folks from all walks of life, of all ages, creeds, and colors who agree to the political philosophy expressed in our Statement of Intent, that government exists at most to protect people's rights, and should neither provide for people nor punish them for activities that interfere with no one else.”
This libertarian-sounding message, though it is from an officially non-partisan organization, has resounded loudly in LP circles. Many organizations in New Hampshire, including the state LP, have already benefited from the first 500 “Free Staters” who call NH home.
Free State Project activists have been very active and vocal advocates for libertarian approaches to public policy issues. From cutting taxes and spending to decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana possession, to fighting motorcycle helmet and automobile seatbelt laws, the FSP early movers have joined forces with the LP and other liberty-leaning interest groups on issues before the state legislature as well as at the local level.
Beyond politics, policy and ideology, though, PorcFest is simply a fun way to enjoy a summer vacation, see some great scenery, and enjoy camaraderie with like-minded folks who, like you, understand and cherish freedom.
Scheduled June 9-15, 2008 at the Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford, NH, the festival is expected to draw over 400 attendees. There will be live bands performing on Friday and Saturday, along with workshops and guest speakers. Throughout the week, attendees will enjoy bus tours around the state, shooting range trips, a road rally, hiking treks, camping, and more. In the evening, those who choose to stay at the campground will enjoy campfires, pro-liberty movies, social activities and “open-mic” singing performances. Visitors who prefer not to camp have many nearby hotels and motels available.
The porcupine was chosen as the FSP’s mascot because besides being indigenous to New Hampshire, it is a gentle, peaceful creature, but you don’t want to step on one!
The Free State Project invites New Jersey Libertarians to come to New Hampshire and discover new freedoms, new friends, and a successful approach to achieving liberty in our lifetime.