242 Main, an all-ages venue in Burlington, was a cornerstone of the local punk and hardcore scene for over 30 years. Despite its legacy, the space was often dominated by male acts, creating an unwelcoming environment for many women. This disparity led Rae Murphy and Morgan Vespa to form the band Burly Girlies in 2021, aiming to foster a safer space for femme artists and fans.

In response to their experiences, they established Femme Fest, a biannual event exclusively featuring bands with femme-identifying members. The upcoming Femme Fest IV: Punk Prom on May 9 will showcase acts like ShyGodwin, theWorst, and Hissy Fit, alongside Burly Girlies, promoting not just music but community and representation.

Inspired by a Femme Fest in Philadelphia, Vespa expressed how the event develops a shared atmosphere of camaraderie and empowerment. The project serves as both a celebration and a rebellion against the status quo, aligning with Murphy’s belief in connecting with diverse individuals while also venting frustrations about the world.

The show coincides with the release of Burly Girlies’ new EP, “Puss,” reflecting their growth from an intentionally raw band to a polished four-piece, highlighting their evolution in sound. The band actively supports aspiring female musicians by distributing a zine at Femme Fest, titled How to Start a Band, which provides vital resources on music theory and social media.

Murphy noted the impactful feedback from women feeling comfortable in mosh pits at their shows, illustrating the event’s success in creating an inclusive punk community. Femme Fest represents not just a musical event but a movement toward change and empowerment in the punk scene. Tickets are available at highergroundmusic.com.