Burlington, VT is far from a boring place. With four seasons of events packed in throughout the year. Bike, walk, take the bus or drive to these regular events:
Penguin Plunge: Celebrate the cold weather as the penguins do with a cold morning in the lake! This annual event supports the Special Olympics in addition to making all observers glad for thick winter coats.
VT Burlesque Festival: This festival showcases talents in the local burlesque community as well as from beyond.
Winter Lights Festival: Dark winter seems less long during the Winter Lights Festival, when new installations illuminate the Church Street Marketplace
March – April
Magic Hat Mardi Gras Parade: Sponsored by local Magic Hat Brewing Company, Mardi Gras in Burlington has all the beads, floats and moon pies you want on Fat Tuesday
Burlington Irish Heritage Festival: Irish traditions are strong during this festival of music, dance, history and cultural events surrounding St. Patrick’s Day
Spring Essex Craft Show: Crafts and artisans bring all kinds of goods for sale for this conveniently scheduled craft show. Conveniently takes place before the Mother’s Day holiday.
Vermont City Marathon: Memorial Day weekend brings thousands of runners to the streets of the Queen City! Whether you run, cheer, or are trying to get around, this is a key event to know about.
Burlington’s Discover Jazz Festival: Beginning the 1st week in June, the Jazz Fest is wildly popular event that brings visitors and locals alike out into the freshly warm weather in Burlington.
Burlington Wine and Food Festival: With a rich history of farm-to-table in our state, this wine and food fest prizes this connection between good local eats, pairing the best Vermont has to offer with world-class wine.
Leddy Beach Bites: Every other Wednesday evening from May 31 to Sept 6, you will find food trucks, activities and entertainment at Leddy Park.
July – August
Independance Day Fireworks: Burlington shows off in style to celebrate our nation’s independance on July 3 each year, lighting up the night sky over Lake Champlain by Waterfront Park.
Vermont Brewers’ Festival: One of the most popular summer events, the Vermont Brewers Association brings the finest brewers from the state and surrounding areas for a weekend to enjoy the best beers around.
Lake Champlain Maritime Festival: Lake Champlain is such a big part of life in Burlington, VT. The Maritime Festival is a weekend of boats and all kinds of activities on the lake’s edge.
Dragon Boat Festival: Local teams compete for the title as they speedily row on the lake in skinny dragon boats each summer. Whether you get involved or watch from the shore, it’s always an exciting day by Lake Champlain!
Summervale: July through August, food, drink, music and more can be found at the Intervale Center every Thursday evening. Kid and family friendly.
Festival of Fools: Street performers, comedy, and music all rolled into one busy weekend is sure to get a few laughs and make a few memories.
Yoga on Church St: Whether you’re a guru or a novice, breathe deeply and join the crowd in a free community class taught by local instructors.
Old North End Ramble: Community events in Burlington’s Old North End spill into the streets during the Ramble, when residents of the neighborhood connect.
Champlain Valley Fair: Come one, come all to the Champlain Valley Fair in neighboring Essex Junction. Fried dough, creemees and local food specialties can be found in between rides and activities at the Fairgrounds.
Bark and Brew at the Humane Society: Bring your dog to the local Humane Society on Kindness Ct. in South Burlington for social evening! Dogs can sniff and get social in the fenced in yard while owners enjoy local brews and dinner.
September – October
Vermont Comic Con: Vermont’s only comic convention brings everyone out once a year. Check out the artists, vendors and exhibits.
Burlington Criterium -The Green Mountain Stage Race is the largest pro road stage race on the East Coast and occurs across the state. Stage 4 brings cyclists into the Burlington area for the final day of the race.
South End Art Hop: Art is the word during the annual Art Hop, when local galleries, artist studios and shops open their doors to showcase works of art. Food trucks and events keep attendees busy and fueled while hopping from one location to the next.
Pride Parade and Festival: One big party, the Pride Festival is a time to celebrate Vermont’s community of LGBT and allies.
Stride for Pride: This 5k run or walk event follows the Island Line Bike Trail along Lake Champlain and kicks off Burlington’s Pride Weekend.
Grand Point North: Started by local Vermont artist Grace Potter, Grand Point North is a weekend of live music, food and festival vibes on the Waterfront.
Oktoberfest Vermont: This Bavarian-themed festival takes place at Waterfront Park and is a true blend of Vermont and Bavarian activities.
Fall Foliage Festivals: Get out of town for a day exploring the Northeast Kingdom during its Annual Fall Festival. Towns throughout the Kingdom rotate hosting activities during early October, allowing visitors to experience many different vistas and leaf-peeping opportunities.
Vermont International Film Festival: A great change of pace, the Vermont Film Festival screens quality films that traverse different styles and themes of cinema.
November – December
Fall Essex Craft Show: Featuring local artists, artisans and crafters of all kinds, the Fall Craft Show is the perfect venue to get a jump start on holiday gift ideas.
Trotting of the Turkeys: Whether you join or not, participants carry frozen turkeys down Church St for local causes.
Church Street Marketplace Tree Lighting: As the sunsets on the Friday of Thanksgiving, the Church Street Marketplace dazzles with tree lights and festive decorations for the upcoming winter holidays.
Small Business Saturday: Forget online shopping – hit the bricks and support local shops for Small Business Saturday in downtown Burlington
Women’s Festival of Crafts: This show focuses on women crafters and artisans from the area. From fine wares to household goods, and paper crafts to jewelry, there’s a little bit of everything.
Church St’s North Pole Experience: Weekends in December bring new wonders to Church St: from miniature pony rides, to our own Polar Express, and live reindeer!
Warren Miller on World Tour: Ski bums and film aficionados alike will enjoy Warren Miller’s latest touring film, “Line of Descent’.
First Night: Welcome in the New Year with activities, shows, music and more during the annual First Night event in Burlington. Family friendly, and full of fun!