Favorite Seasonal Burlington, VT Events

Ice bar

March 3-4, 2023

Vermont’s winters are justly famous for their length and snowfall and the temptation to stay inside by the fire may be great. But for those brave souls willing to venture outside, Hotel Vermont’s Ice Bar is a two-night outdoor festival featuring Vermont artisans, and food & beverage producers. This event is for those 21+ to enjoy.

Maple Open House Weekend

This year, there will be two Maple Open House Weekend! Mark you calendars for March 25-26 & April 1-2, 2023

Vermont is the nation’s top producer of maple syrup…and the best (if we do say so ourselves!). Curious how it’s made? Want to see a sugar shack? The Maple Open House Weekend offers visitors the chance to visit sugaring operations across the state. Ready to sample some of Vermont’s finest? Take a drive and explore this unique (and delicious) treat!

Restaurant Week

TBD, Spring 2024

Vermont has become known as something of a foodie destination and Restaurant Week offers diners the chance to sample creations from some of the best restaurants around. Special prix fixe menus at over 100 restaurants ensure you’re never at a loss for choices! Bon appétit!

Vermont City Marathon

May 28, 2023

For almost 30 years, the Vermont City Marathon has offered runners a scenic course through the city of Burlington and alongside the lake. With its beautiful scenery, enthusiastic crowds, and mostly flat course, this marathon is a perfect choice for both first-timers and seasoned athletes.

RunVermont’s 17th annual Half Marathon Unplugged will return on Saturday, April 8th, 2023!

Burlington Discover Jazz Festival

June 7 & 11, 2023

For ten days this spring, Church Street transforms into an open-air stage for local and visiting jazz musicians. Enjoy performances around the downtown area and attend Meet-the-Artist sessions for personal interaction with the performers.

Vermont Quilt Festival

June 21-24, 2023

This is the oldest and largest quilting festival in New England. Join us in Essex Junction for a long weekend packed with exhibits, presentations, classes, contests, and of course, shopping! Learn about the history, creativity, and beauty of this unique artwork.

Burlington Wine & Food Festival

Saturday, June 24, 2023

Sample an array of carefully curated wines and inspired local food during this annual event. Talented sommeliers and some of the Burlington area’s best chefs and producers promise an unforgettable experience.

Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival

Dates TBD, 2023

Up, up, and away! Launch your summer getaway with a fun family-friendly event; witness over 25 colorful hot air balloons soar through the skies and enjoy a variety of activities, entertainment, food and drinks. Admission is $10 (free for kids under 12), hot air balloon rides are $300 per person.

Vermont Brewers Festival

July 21-22, 2023

Celebrating the state’s craft breweries (there are at least 30!), the Vermont Brewers Festival is sure to please every palate. Dubbed the “Disneyland of Beer,” the festival is a popular event and tickets sell out quickly!

Stowe Classic Car Show

August 11-13, 2023

A full weekend dedicated to oldies-but-goodies, don’t miss Vermont’s 66th Annual Antique and Classic Car Show! Held each year on the second weekend in August. Described as a cherished Vermont tradition with thousands of attendees each year, guests will enjoy the different contests, flea market and car corral, automobile parade, dance party, and so much more!

Festival of Fools

August 4-6, 2023

Downtown Burlington welcomes local, national, and international street performers for a weekend of circus arts, music, and comedy for all ages. All performances are family-friendly and free!

Vermont Cheesemakers Festival

August 13, 2023

With more cheesemakers per capita than any other state, Vermont is rightly famous for its artisanal cheese. The 13th Annual Vermont Cheesemakers Festival invites you to sample cheese, local food, wine, and beer, shop, and learn with the cheesemakers at the stunning Shelburne Farms Coach Barn (20 minutes from Burlington). Fodor’s Guide has ranked the Vermont Cheesemakers Festival one of the “Top 10 U.S. Summer Food Festivals”. An event not to be missed!

ArtsRiot Truck Stop

Every Friday Night from May 27-September, 2023

Every Friday afternoon beginning at 4:30 pm food trucks from across Burlington gather to ply foodies with diverse and eclectic options. This year’s truck lineup isn’t available yet, but last year’s included Dolce VT, the Hindquarter, Southern Smoke, Hawker Stall, Bessery’s, Nikos Soulvaki, Phantom Food Truck, and Wooden Spoon Bistro. Live music and numerous local beer offerings make for a casual and delicious experience.

Summervale at the Intervale Center

Thursday nights July-August (Start/End Date TBD 2023)

A family- and foodie-friendly event, Summervale celebrates the best of summer at the Intervale Center, a local farm and community food systems nonprofit. Every Thursday from 5:30-8pm, Summervale features local food, live music, activities for both kids and adults, and more! Free admission; food for purchase.

Champlain Valley Fair

August 25-September 3, 2023

This annual fair offers all of the usual carnival rides and attractions, livestock and craft exhibitions, food vendors from around the state, and music (this year’s headliner TBD!). Fun for all ages!

Pride Festival & Parade

September 2-10, 2023

Celebrating Vermont’s LGBTQA community and raising awareness of enduring challenges to equality, the Pride Festival draws people from all over the state. The parade begins on Church Street and ends at Battery Park with a carnival, local food and craft offerings, and activities for all ages.

South End Art Hop

September 8-10, 2023

Burlington’s South End is a destination for arts’ lovers with studios and galleries galore! The three-day Art Hop invites visitors to explore our vibrant local art scene, meet with artists, and enjoy events including the popular STRUT Fashion Show. Most events are free and open to the public, though some require advance tickets. Check the website for more information!

Grand Point North Festival

September 2023 (TBD)

Burlington’s beautiful Waterfront Park hosts the annual Grand Point North Festival this September. 2021 featured one of Vermont’s musical luminaries, Grace Potter, the festival boasts an impressive line-up of local and visiting musicians on two stages.

Green Mountain Book Festival

September 29-October 1, 2023

Activities for all ages and literary inclinations, including readings, workshops, and panel discussions, are on offer during Burlington’s Annual Book Festival. All events are free and open to the public.

Vermont International Film Festival

October 20-29, 2023

Since 1985, the Vermont International Film Festival has delighted audiences with feature-length films and shorts from around the world. The festival features panel discussions, special events, and a Vermont Filmmakers’ Showcase to celebrate local filmmakers. Many screenings are free.