This calendar highlights Vermont events with strong photographic interest. If you know of an event that should be featured, please share it here.
June 13
Vermont Days: Free admission at all Vermont State Historic Sites!
Vermont Highland Games: The Vermont Institute of Celtic Arts and the Highland Center for the Arts is hosting this event. Scottish music session, Highland dance contest, sheep herding, adult Gaelic language workshop, youth Gaelic language workshop, Celtic storytelling, harp and fiddle performance, Cape Breton step dance workshop, historic bagpipe presentation, whisky tasting, drum major workshop, Scottish country dancing, children’s games, kilt making discussion, bodhran workshop, Highland clans, and Celtic vendors. $25. Time: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Highland Center for the Arts, 2875 Hardwick Street, Greensboro, VT
Scots Day at Fort Ticonderoga: Discover the heroic stories of Scottish soldiers in the British Army serving at Ticonderoga and North America through the campaigns of the 18th century. Musket demonstrations, clothing, and tactics of the red-coated Scottish soldier. Merchants selling kilts, crafts, and other gifts will join Scottish organizations from across the East Coast to greet visitors with information on all aspects of their rich heritage. Lively performances include Vermont Highland Dance, the Leatherstocking District Pipe Band, and the Fifes and Drums of Fort Ticonderoga. Scots Day programming is included with a general admission ticket. $30/adult; $28/senior; $14/child. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Fort Ticonderoga, 102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY
June 14
Vermont Days: Free admission at all Vermont State Historic Sites!
June 19
46th Annual Quechee Balloon Festival: The festival features hot air balloons, live music, family-friendly shows, food vendors, and unforgettable views. A weekend pass is available for $25/adult; $5/children 4-12. Time: 3:00 p.m. gates open; 6:00 p.m. balloon launches; 8:30 p.m. balloon glow. Location: 70 Village Green Circle, Quechee, VT
June 20
46th Annual Quechee Balloon Festival: The festival features hot air balloons, live music, family-friendly shows, food vendors, and unforgettable views. A weekend pass is available for $25/adult; $5/children 4-12. Time: 6:00 a.m. balloon launches; 6:00 p.m. ballon launches; 8:30 p.m. balloon glow. A full schedule of events throughout the day. Location: 70 Village Green Circle, Quechee, VT
June 21
46th Annual Quechee Balloon Festival: The festival features hot air balloons, live music, family-friendly shows, food vendors, and unforgettable views. A weekend pass is available for $25/adult; $5/children 4-12. Time: 6:00 a.m. balloon launches; 6:00 p.m. balloon launches. A full day of events scheduled in between. Location: 70 Village Green Circle, Quechee, VT
July 3
Burlington’s Annual Independence Day Celebration on the Waterfront: Vermont’s largest fireworks display takes place along the waterfront the evening before the Fourth. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Champlain. There will be multiple food trucks and local vendors and live performances on the lawn. Time: 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Fireworks begin at dusk. Location: Burlington Waterfront Park
Brandon Independence Day Celebration: Free events are planned all day. Activities include the grand parade, bands in the parks, contests, beer garden, auction, street dance, and fireworks at dusk. Time: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Location: Central Park, 20 Park Street, Brandon, VT
Real Time Revolution Signature Reenactment Event: Fort Ticonderoga will celebrate the 250th anniversary of Independence Day with a three-day reenactment event, recreating the Northern Continental Army’s preparations to defend its new nation, as the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The “Return of the Army” celebration and reenactment will bring to life the events occuring in the North during this critical time. Return of an Army programming is included with your general admission and tickets are valid for two consecutive days. $30/adult; $28/seniors; $14/child. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Fort Ticonderoga, 102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY
July 4
Birthday Party for America and President Calvin Coolidge: The historic village of Plymouth Notch celebrates America’s 250th birthday and the 154th birthday of President Calvin Coolidge. It’s a full day of activity jointly hosted by the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site and the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation. Click the link to see a full schedule of activities. Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location:
4th of July Reading of the Declaration of Independence: Hear at reading of the Declaration of Independence and celebrate 250 years of Independence at Calvin Coolidge, Chester Arthur, Chimney Point, Hubbardton Battlefield, or Mount Independence State Historic Sites. Time: 11:30 a.m. Bennington Battle Monument will have a noon reading.
Colchester Parade and Fireworks: Kick off the morning with a community parade and close the day with a fireworks display along the bay. For the parade, find a seat near Lavigne Road for easy access to parking after the event. Parking for fireworks is available at Colchester High School, Colchester Middle School, and Malletts Bay School. Time: 7:30 a.m. 5K Fun Run, 10:00 a.m. parade, and fireworks begin at dusk. Location: Bayside softball field (fireworks and 5K Fun Run); Parade starts at Cochester High School.
Manchester 4th of July Fireworks: An evening of fireworks celebrating Independence Day. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m. In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the same location and time on July 5th. Time: 9 p.m.-10 p.m. Location: Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park, 340 Recreation Park Road, Manchester Center, VT
Essex Junction July 4th Celebration: The fairgrounds at Essex Junction come alive with carnival-style activities and a fireworks finale. Live music and stage shows, games, face painting, inflatables, and food stalls. Time: Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Location: Champlain Valley Fairgrounds, Midway Lawn, Essex Junction, VT
Celebrate America 250 in Morristown: A full day of Fourth of July festivities in the heart of Lamoille Valley. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy a patriotic parade at 11:00 a.m., followed by community activities, local food, and small-town charm throughout the day. The celebration continues at Oxbow Park starting at 5:30 p.m. with live music by Red Hot Juba, vendors, family-friendly fun, and a fireworks display at dusk. Location: Oxbow Riverfront Park, 257 Portland Street, Morrisville, VT
Real Time Revolution Signature Reenactment Event: Fort Ticonderoga will celebrate the 250th anniversary of Independence Day with a three-day reenactment event, recreating the Northern Continental Army’s preparations to defend its new nation, as the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The “Return of the Army” celebration and reenactment will bring to life the events occuring in the North during this critical time. Return of an Army programming is included with your general admission and tickets are valid for two consecutive days. $30/adult; $28/seniors; $14/child. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Fort Ticonderoga, 102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY
July 5
Real Time Revolution Signature Reenactment Event: Fort Ticonderoga will celebrate the 250th anniversary of Independence Day with a three-day reenactment event, recreating the Northern Continental Army’s preparations to defend its new nation, as the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The “Return of the Army” celebration and reenactment will bring to life the events occuring in the North during this critical time. Return of an Army programming is included with your general admission and tickets are valid for two consecutive days. $30/adult; $28/seniors; $14/child. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Fort Ticonderoga, 102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY
July 11
Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment: This living history weekend encampment honors the 249th anniversary of the July 7, 1777, Revolutionary War battle fought here. Scores of reenactors portray the American, British, and German soldiers. Tactical military and other special demonstrations, camp life activities, guided tours, talks, and children’s activities. Opportunities for all ages. Call (802)273-2282 for details. $8 adults, $1 children ages 6-14, under 6 free. Begins at 10 a.m.
July 12
Battle of Hubbardton Revolutionary War Encampment: This living history weekend encampment honors the 249th anniversary of the July 7, 1777, Revolutionary War battle fought here. Scores of reenactors portray the American, British, and German soldiers. Tactical military and other special demonstrations, camp life activities, guided tours, talks, and children’s activities. Opportunities for all ages. Call (802)273-2282 for details. $8 adults, $1 children ages 6-14, under 6 free. Begins at 7:45 a.m.
July 25
Mount Independence 250: The Mount Independence State Historic Site honors the 250th anniversary of its name day, July 28, 1776, with this homecoming commemoration. Many activities for all ages. Reading of the Declaration of Independence, roll call of regiments that served here in 1776, discussion with descendants of Mountain Independence soldiers and others, music, guided walks, stations with period skill demonstrations, food, laying out a regiment, info booths with Vermont patriotic organizations, Orwell Library Tale Trail, talks, and more. Call 802-948-2000 for details. Time: 10 a.m.
August 1
Homestead Inauguration Reenactment: The Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, in collaboration with the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, will reenact President Coolidge’s 1923 inauguration. This famed event took place at the Coolidge’s family home in Plymouth, VT on August 3, 1923 at 2:47 a.m. following the sudden death of President Warren G. Harding. Amateur actors will portray the oath of office ceremony. Following the reenactment, museum visitors are invited to enjoy celebratory moxie floats, a favored beverage of President Coolidge. Time: 2:47 p.m. Location: Calvin Coolidge Historic Site
August 15
Bennington Battle Day: Join living historians at the Bennington Battle Monument to learn about the importance of this critical battle of the American Revolutionary War. Living historians will be demonstrating drill technique, camp life, and music. There will also be cannon firing demonstrations. For more information, call 802-447-0550. Time: 10 a.m. Location: Bennington Battle Monument
August 16
Bennington Battle Day: Join living historians at the Bennington Battle Monument to learn about the importance of this critical battle of the American Revolutionary War. Living historians will be demonstrating drill technique, camp life, and music. There will also be cannon firing demonstrations. For more information, call 802-447-0550. Time: 10 a.m. Location: Bennington Battle Monument
September 5
Soldiers Atop the Mount: Reenactors honor the 250th anniversary of the 1776 building and garrisoning of Mount Independence during this living history weekend. Saturday’s popular interactive Baldwin Trail Walkabout, 10:30 to 1:30, features experts at trail stations bringing history to life. Demonstrations of military tactics, skills, and camp life. Annual reading of the Declaration of Independence, Sunday oration from October 20, 1776, children’s activities. Call 802-948-2000 for details. $9.00 adults, $1.00 ages 6-16, under 6 free. Time 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location: Mount Independence
September 6
Soldiers Atop the Mount: Reenactors honor the 250th anniversary of the 1776 building and garrisoning of Mount Independence during this living history weekend. Saturday’s popular interactive Baldwin Trail Walkabout, 10:30 to 1:30, features experts at trail stations bringing history to life. Demonstrations of military tactics, skills, and camp life. Annual reading of the Declaration of Independence, Sunday oration from October 20, 1776, children’s activities. Call 802-948-2000 for details. $9.00 adults, $1.00 ages 6-16, under 6 free. Time 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m., followed by auto tour, site open through 5 p.m. Location: Mount Independence
September 19
31st Annual Northeaster Open Atlatl Championship: Participate in or watch this annual atlatl championship testing skills in accuracy and distance at Chimney Point State Historic Site. The sport of using the atlatl to throw darts is based on the ancient hunting technique. Newcomers to experts welcome. Flint-knapping demonstrations and lessons, and traditional basket making, throughout the day. Pre-registration for competitors required. Call 802-759-2412 to register. Time: 10:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Location: Chimney Point State Historic Site
September 20
31st Annual Northeaster Open Atlatl Championship: Participate in or watch this annual atlatl championship testing skills in accuracy and distance at Chimney Point State Historic Site. The sport of using the atlatl to throw darts is based on the ancient hunting technique. Newcomers to experts welcome. Flint-knapping demonstrations and lessons, and traditional basket making, throughout the day. Pre-registration for competitors required. Call 802-759-2412 to register. Time: 10:30 a.m. until the tournament ends. Location: Chimney Point State Historic Site
October 3
Heritage, Harvest, and Horse Festival: The full day of autumn fun will be set in the midst of the King’s Garden heirloom apple trees and the beautiful landscape of the mountains and Lake Champlain. Guests are invited to discover the historical importance of horses and other working animals during exciting demonstrations, meet a friendly oxen duo, stroll through Fort Ticonderoga’s farmers’ market featuring local food, beverages, and crafts, participate in family fun activities, and tackles the six-acre Heroic Corn Maze. Included with general admission $30/adult; $28/senior; $14/child. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Location: Fort Ticonderoga, 102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY
October 24
Gilfeather Turnip Festival: This is America’s best turnip culinary event, showcasing Vermont’s state vegetable! Join the whole town for Gilfeather turnip soup, turnip flavored treats, farmers’ market, craft vendors, children’s games, 1000+ lbs of turnip, library book sale, and turnip seeds. Also on sale are turnip-themed gifts, and much more. Parking $5 donation. Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Location: Main Street and Wardsboro Town Hall, Wardsboro, VT
October 28
The Mount’s Finest Day: Mount Independence commemorates its finest day, 250 years ago, on October 28, 1776, when the strong showing of forces and defenses of the Northern Army’s garrison caused British Gen. Guy Carleton to turn around his fleet and head back to Canada for the winter. Site interpreters will be on hand in the museum to talk to visitors about this special effort and how it gave General George Washington and the Americans time over the winter to prepare for the next efforts of the British. Visitors are encouraged to walk the trails and envision this busy day. Refreshments. Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 802-948-2000 for details. Location: Mount Independence State Historic Site, 472 Mt. Independence Rd, Orwell, VT