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36 ‘WE SELL FUN!’
A daytrip on the Spirit of Ethan Allen will leave you high on Mother Nature BY MARIE EDINGER
64 THE RESTAURATEUR WHO NEVER RESTS
The Farmhouse Group's Jed Davis never tires of opening a new place BY MARIE EDINGER
72 TACKLING MICROFIBER POLLUTION
How the Cora Ball is leading the way BY EMILY PARKER
We’ve heard from natives, locals, and tourists alike: There’s no better place to be than in Vermont in the summer. We couldn’t agree more, especially because we’re in the Champlain Valley, with the lake on one side and the mountains on the other. But you can always stay close to home and enjoy what’s down the street. We all have the unique privilege of enjoying everything the season offers.
Speaking of enjoying what’s down the street, we ask that you make an effort to get downtown and support the businesses affected financially by the Main Street construction. Plus, there are new shops to discover and favorites to rediscover. The Gryphon Bistro on the corner is such a nice surprise every time! And Honey Road has its own James Beard Award nominee (more of that in our Meet Me Downtown section).
We’ve got a nice spotlight on the Spirit of Ethan Allen. Y’know, that big, beautiful, blue ship that you keep meaning to cruise the lake on? Your desire is not misplaced. It’s truly something you will enjoy.
We also break down the “Art” of picnics, introduce you to Fetch the Leash and their terrific, unique approach to dog training, give you cool summer reading recommendations from Phoenix books, and catch up with Jed Davis and everyone at the Farmhouse Group.
Please enjoy our issue, and your summer. Remember, the Champlain Valley is the perfect place to be!
John and Robin Gales Publishers
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SUMMER BACKYARD BBQS AND POOL PARTIES
Don’t let cooking for a crowd add undue stress to summer fun. Check out these seven inspired chef tips to reduce stress when cooking for a crowd at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
SUNNY DAYS, GOOD FRIENDS AND GREAT
FOOD
Let’s get the neighborhood together for some summer fun. Visit www.bestofburlingtonvt.com for some party ideas.
Sun’s Out, Tongues Out: Warm Weather Tips for Pets
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, summer opens the door to more adventures with our furry companions. Whether you’re lounging at the lake, planning a road trip, or just enjoying sunny strolls, this season is full of possibilities, and a few pet safety must-knows.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DOG FOR FOR YOU
Summer often inspires new beginnings, including pet adoption. But choosing the right dog means considering more than just the season. Energetic families might love a retriever or shepherd mix, eager to join every hike and game of fetch. Older adults or city dwellers may find a better match in a mellow, lower-maintenance breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a senior rescue dog.
When picking your summer companion, think beyond breed. Factor in:
• Energy level and daily needs
• Grooming and healthcare requirements
• Age and size relative to your lifestyle
Many Vermont shelters offer foster-to-adopt programs. These give you a chance to see if you and your foster are a good fit before making a long-term commitment. Whether you’re adopting your first dog or expanding the pack, summer is a great time to welcome a new friend into your life.
SAFE AND HAPPY SUMMER WALKS
There’s nothing like a golden hour dog walk, but in the summer heat, a few adjustments go a long way.
Walk during cooler times of day, like early morning or late evening, when the pavement won’t burn sensitive paws. If you can’t hold your hand to the pavement for ten seconds, it’s too hot for your dog. Bring water, take breaks, and watch for signs of overheating:
• Heavy panting
• Drooling
• Slowing down or trying to lie down Skip the midday sun, and never leave your dog in a parked car. Even
with the windows cracked, temperatures can rise to dangerous levels in minutes.
Stick to shaded paths or grassy trails, and don’t forget to check for ticks after your walk. A little prep will keep your summer strolls safe and fun.
LYME DISEASE: WHAT PET OWNERS SHOULD KNOW Vermont is tick country, and Lyme disease is on the rise, especially during the summer months.
Dogs are particularly vulnerable, and symptoms can be subtle. Watch for shifting leg lameness, joint swelling, fatigue, or fever. Left untreated, Lyme can cause serious kidney complications. Your best defense includes:
• Using a vet-recommended flea and tick preventative
• Checking your pet (and yourself) after outdoor time
• Talking to your vet about the Lyme vaccine
While cats rarely show symptoms, they can still bring ticks indoors. Keep grass trimmed and avoid tall brush on hikes, especially in areas known for ticks. Quick action and awareness can make all the difference.
DON’T SKIP THE SUMMER VET VISIT
A summer checkup does more than protect against fleas and ticks. It helps set your pet up for a safe and healthy season.
For dogs, core vaccines include rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. For cats, it’s rabies, distemper, and respiratory virus coverage. Pets who visit parks, boarding facilities, or travel often may need additional vaccines, like Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, or feline leukemia. This is also the time to stock up on:
• Heartworm prevention
• Flea and tick treatments
• Travel-friendly pet ID and medical records
Many vet clinics fill quickly in the summer, especially before holidays and vacations. A simple wellness exam can catch early signs of illness and ensure your pet is ready for all the adventures ahead.
On the Local Front: Camp Paw Paw and Yappy Hour
Camp Paw Paw at the Humane Society of Chittenden County is the place for kids who are wild about animals! Camp Paw Paw offers a unique learning experience for children who share one thing in common: their Love for animals!! The kids will learn about care, shelter, animal safety, medicine, homeless animals in our community, and animal-related careers. Visit www.hsccvt.org for more details and other events.
Get ready to splash the day away at Hotel Champlain’s, Yappy Hour Poolside Paws on Saturday, July 26, 3pm to 5pm. For some extra fun, the hotel has arranged for Passion 4 Paws, a local dog rescue, to bring some pups for you to meet and greet.
“There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.”
– Albert Schweitzer
Laser,
Radiofrequency
Intimate
Facial
Lash
Summer Picnics
There are some mighty fine picnicking spots in the parks around Burlington, and they offer a scenic escape for locals and visitors alike. Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, these parks provide stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains during the day and evening, with vibrant sunsets that light up the sky and the water. The shaded picnic tables, and gentle lake breezes create an ideal setting for relaxing afternoons with family and friends. We've included a couple of recipes to inspire you while you enjoy the tranquil charm of the best picnic destinations in our corner of the world.
Lobster Roll Pasta Salad
INGREDIENTS
1 lb. bacon, chopped into half-inch pieces
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
16 oz. lobster meat (tail or claw), chopped
4 cups water
1/2 lb. bowtie, penne or your choice of pasta
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
12 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mayonnaise
1 large lemon, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
2 cloves garlic, grated
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until the fat has been rendered, and the bacon is crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a large bowl.
2. Reduce heat to low, and stir the butter into the bacon grease and cook until butter has melted. Add the lobster and cook until cooked through and firm, about 4 to 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the lobster to the bowl with the bacon.
3. Add the water to the remaining butter mixture in the pan and bring to a boil. Cook the pasta per the package instructions.
4. Stir in celery, onion, tomatoes, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the lobster mixture.
5. Drain pasta and let cool slightly. Add pasta to bowl and toss to combine.
6. Chill for 2 hours, and serve.
NOTE: We recommend an ice pack in your picnic basket to keep this chilled.
Blueberry Lemonade
INGREDIENTS
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
9 lemons
5 cups cold water
1 cup blueberries. plus more for garnish Sparkling water for topping Blueberries for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. For the simple syrup: Heat the sugar and 1 cup water in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat and let cool.
2. Juice the lemons (approx 1½ cups lemon juice). Place the blueberries in a pitcher and muddle. Add ice, then add the lemon juice, 1 cup of the simple syrup, and 5 cups cold water. Stir to combine.
3. Pour the lemonade into glasses and top with sparkling water. Add more blueberries.
WE'VE COMPILED A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE PICNIC SPOTS IN AND AROUND BURLINGTON
WATERFRONT PARK
20 Lake Street, Burlington Open 24 hours
Dogs allowed
AMENITIES: public restroom, picnic tables art/sculpture, bike path accessible, boardwalk
Waterfront Park is located to the west of downtown along Lake Champlain, with the Burlington Greenway running along its eastern side. The event lawn at the north end of the park hosts several music and food festivals in the summer. Alongside the Lake Champlain shoreline, there is no better place to take in the views while enjoying a picnic lunch. You can sit on the big rocks next to the lake, on the boardwalk, the swinging benches, or set up in the spacious grass that wraps around the lake. While picnicking in Waterfront Park, you can also visit the nearby Community Boathouse and Marina, the ECHO Museum, Waterworks Park, the Moran FRAME, and the Lake Champlain Sailing Center.
Please Dont Forget: While you’re exploring Burlington's lovely parks and enjoying your delicious picnics, be sure you take out whatever you bring in! Keep our natural spaces clean by checking for any trash you might have left behind or, better yet, pack your picnic up in reusable bags and containers that you take home with you.
Oakledge Park is located in the South End of Burlington along the shores of Lake Champlain, with beautiful waterfront and sunset views. It includes two beaches, Blanchard Beach and The Cove. There are also two shelters that you can reserve in advance, an accessible playground, charcoal grills, picnic tables, and lots of open grassy areas for you to enjoy your picnic.
North Beach is Burlington's largest beach. With food concessions, a playground, restrooms with showers, picnic tables and grills, North Beach is the perfect picnic spot! And, after your picnic, you can cool off with a jump in the lake. The park and beach are open and accessible by bike or on foot all year, though accessible by car only between May and October.
OVERLOOK PARK
1575 Spear Street, South Burlington
Open 24 hours
Dogs allowed
AMENITIES: picnic tables
Overlook Park is a 1.7-acre park located on the west side of Spear Street. Known for its scenic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, Overlook Park is the perfect spot to spread out your picnic blanket or set up on one of the picnic tables available, and what better place to watch the late summer sunset, than the view from Overlook Park?
MT. PHILO STATE PARK
5425 Mt Philo Road, Charlotte 8AM–5 PM
Dogs allowed
AMENITIES: picnic tables, BBQ grill
Sitting atop Mt. Philo, Mt. Philo State Park is a 237-acre park that became the first Vermont State Park in 1924. With breathtaking views of the Lake Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains, this park is a favorite spot for hikers and picnickers, and includes a small campground.
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BY MARIE EDINGER
Five Lesser-Known Day Hikes Near Burlington
experienced hiker or just
We Sell FUN!
A daytrip on the Spirit of Ethan Allen will leave you high on Mother Nature
You can go on a boat tour in Miami and see celebrity homes. You can take a cruise around Manhattan and see skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty, but only on Lake Champlain in Vermont, can you find true peace, utter tranquility, and a heaping helping of natural beauty. Or at least, that’s how Mike Shea, owner of the Spirit of Ethan Allen, sees it. “It’s just awesome,” he says. “People come off the boat and they’re just dumbstruck by the beauty they see, and they really appreciate it.”
CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE
The Spirit of Ethan Allen is a day cruise line that takes you across Lake Champlain. It offers a variety of cruises, some focused on sightseeing and history, featuring narrated tours to both educate and entertain, while others are centered more on dinner with a view. The line also offer cruise options with live music, or with themes, like murder mystery dinners, and even holiday celebrations. To put it simply, Mike says, “ We sell fun.”
Mike invited us aboard to see for ourselves, and it’s easy to understand what drew him to the industry. We went on a sunny, almostwarm day in late May, and the views of Lake Champlain were breathtaking. The fun facts that accompanied the tour helped guests notice certain mountain peaks, buildings, and other sights that may otherwise have gone unnoticed.
LAKE VIEWS TIMES THREE
The boat is divided based on the experience you’re after. If you just want to sightsee and perhaps order from an a la carte menu, you’ll be on the top deck of the ship. If you’re going for a foodie cruise, you’ll be seated in the middle deck inside—that’s where we were. But whatever deck your ticket is for, you’re free to walk around the boat both before and during the cruise, getting to enjoy the views from all different angles.
SCENIC NARRATED TOURS
Daily scenic narrated tours travel north toward Lone Rock Point, then loop around
Opposite: Beside offering great food and good times with friends, sunset cruises offer a chance to relax, breathe, and enjoy the spectacular scenery as you circle the lake. This page: A catered cheese buffet at a private event. Get an up-close view of the shoreline at sunset through one of the ship's viewfinders.
The ship setting sail on a sunset cruise.
The boat docks at 1 College Street on the scenic Burlington Waterfront, close to downtown, and just a quick stroll from the Church Street Marketplace.
Juniper Island, past Rock Dunder, and into Shelburne Bay. From there, the ship heads back through the South End of Burlington. During your tour, you can enjoy a light bite and a drink at the Ethan Allen Café.
DINING AND THEME CRUISES
The line’s dining cruises combine exceptional cuisine with the breathtaking backdrop of the lake. There are lunch, brunch, and dinner cruise options with names like Lobstah on the Lake, a buffet dinner with lobster, prime rib, and delectable sides, or a brunch cruise with a complimentary glass of champagne or a mimosa and a variety of breakfast favorites, including Grandpa's Blueberry Buckle with crumb topping. Specialty cruises include a Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise and Summer DJ Sunset Series with dancing every Friday and Saturday night through August 30.
SPECIAL OCCASION RENTALS
The Spirit of Ethan Allen offers special rentals, too. If you’re there for an event, Mike’s got a way to make any occasion special. The boat can accommodate a minimum of seventy-five guests, with the flexibility to host more than 350. So whether you’re looking to
book one deck or take over the entire vessel, this exclusive floating venue is perfect for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations.
“We do a combination of corporate events, private events, birthday parties, and weddings,” Mike says, “and then we have our public cruises. People can kayak, they can ride
Above:
Right:
A catered buffet of cheese and deli meats is artfully displayed as part of a private-event luncheon.
the ferry, they can get a rental, that type of thing,” he says, “but we’re the only boat of our size on the lake.”
BOARD IN DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON
As the city grew, the Spirit of Ethan Allen switched locations to go along with the times. It now docks in the heart of Burlington, right along the waterfront. What hasn’t changed, Mike says, is the people. “Vermont has grown more popular as a destination since 1984,” Mike explains. “I would say I had the right idea in the beginning. I just made it better and improved it along the way.”
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE SOEA
Mike’s originally an airline pilot. He started running the Morrisville-Stowe State Airport for a bit, which gave him a chance to learn about business. His folks had a boat in Green Bay, Wisconsin, so he studied the market up there dreaming up entrepreneurship opportunities.
He saw Lake Champlain had a ferry boat that took people across. He says he saw a poorly run private tour boat that lacked
The ship is an excellent venue for conferences, business meetings, or team building events, as it provides ample space to network as well as a wide variety of food and beverages.
focus and direction, and he thought, “I can do this.”
He made the switch from a job in the skies, where people stared at their watches, tapped their feet, and hurried away, to a position on the water, where people could sit back and relax. Forty-two years later, he’s still cruising Lake Champlain.
We got to spend some time in the captain’s quarters, chatting with Captain Carhart. He also enjoys the people on board, though he say the views are hard to beat. Having spent time in the past on a tug boat, and then doing three-week stints on oil tankers, he says cruising Lake Champlain with a boat full of smiling people suits him just fine these days.
EVERYTHING ON THE BOAT IS SHIPSHAPE
Mike began operating the Spirit of Ethan Allen in 1984. It started as a 149-passenger paddle-wheeler. These days, the Spirit is a 363-passenger triple-decker with an onboard galley. This is Mike’s third boat, though he’s technically had four—he tried an overnight cruise boat but decided it didn’t work.
The co-captain onboard the ship told me Lake Champlain is massive and requires a good-sized boat to feel steady on the water. Mike says he’s very happy with where things stand right now. “A lot of boats are known for bad food and smelly toilets,” Mike says. Not his. We can attest; cleanliness was top-notch.
“During every day cruise, every fifteen minutes, there’s an engineer who walks around, making sure the bathrooms are clean and wiped down, and that plenty of the supplies are in there,” he says. “And we have an onboard kitchen and a galley, so our food is fresh. You order something and out it comes!”
FOOD ONBOARD IS DONE JUST RIGHT
On their first boat, Mike outsourced the food through a farmhouse in Ferrisburgh, Vermont. When that family retired, the Spirit got its food from the Raddison. Eventually, Mike decided to buy a catering company with an off-site kitchen. But the new boat has a kitchen onboard, so everything is done right there. “I’m not a chef,” Mike says. “I hire great chefs and then get out of their way. That’s my policy.”
Menus vary depending on the cruise you pick. We went for the Monday lunchtime cruise and got a wide selection of food laid out on a buffet table. There were a few different varieties of salad, including one presented in a roll; pasta; a cheesy Italianstyle baked chicken; and several desserts to choose from. You could also order appetizers separately. We got the crabstuffed mushrooms, which were fantastic. If you’re mostly there to sightsee and grab a quick bite to eat, you’ll still get an impressive menu to choose from. If you want something simple like a pizza or a burger, you’ve got it. If you want something more upscale like a steak or lobster roll, you can have that, too. The newest addition to that menu is the Hippie Burger—a vegetarian option that meat lovers seem drawn to as well.
WHAT’S WITH THE NAME?
So where did the name of the boat come from? Mike says he knows full well lots of people think of the furniture store when they hear the name Ethan Allen. In reality, Ethan Allen was a hero of the American Revolution, responsible for capturing Fort Ticonderoga from the British. He founded the Green Mountain Boys, the group that policed British provinces to protect land in New Hampshire and New York. And most notably for our readers, he’s the founder of the state of Vermont—the one who lobbied Congress for ratification. Vermont’s Air National Guard is still nicknamed the “Green Mountain Boys” to this day in his honor. “We are Vermont because of Ethan Allen,” Mike says. “He had the spirit of Vermont.”
BY REINA ESSER
At the end of the day, training is more than obedience. It's about listening, connecting, learning with your dog, and having fun along the way.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FETCH THE LEASH
Fetch the Leash Building Trust
One Dog at a Time
Maria Karunungan didn’t plan on becoming a dog trainer. But when you talk to her, it’s easy to see how it happened. “All dogs benefit from positive reinforcement training,” she says. “But every dog is different. The training has to match what motivates the dog and what the humans want to achieve.”
Maria is the owner of Fetch the Leash, a Burlington-based training service that focuses on science, compassion, and clear communication. With a doctorate and several professional certifications, she leads a team that brings both knowledge and warmth to their work. Each team member is committed to helping people better understand how to work with their dogs, reach their goals, and build stronger, happier relationships.
“It means we don’t use fear, pain, or intimidation,” Maria explains. “Instead, we use what we know from scientific research to build trust and help dogs learn. Fear gets in the way of learning. Trust opens the door.”
Whether they’re working with a brand-new puppy, a busy teenager, a nervous rescue, or a dog struggling with separation anxiety, Maria’s team helps families figure out what their dog needs to thrive and how they can support that growth.
STARTING SMART
When is the right time to start training a dog? Maria says it’s always a good time. “A lot of skills, like manners or basic obedience, can be taught at any age,” she says. “Older dogs enjoy the challenge and the attention just as much as the younger ones.”
That said, she notes that early puppyhood comes with some important windows. “Things like body handling, vet visits, and getting used to new environments are important to start early,” she says. “It’s a lot to take in when they’re small, so the more you can do gently and early on, the better.”
Maria compares dog training to learning an instrument. “You don’t start with Mozart. You start with scales and short pieces. The same goes for dogs. You build the skills step by step.”
A DIFFERENT APPROACH
One of the most misunderstood issues in dog training, Maria says, is separation anxiety. “It’s not a behavior problem. It’s a panic disorder. These dogs aren’t being bad. They’re scared.” Unlike other training issues, separation anxiety doesn’t respond well to traditional
training programs. “The problem is the person leaving. So, it has to be solved at home, with the guardian involved,” she explains. “I work with families on a plan that builds tolerance slowly and safely. Usually, we work in fifteen-minute sessions, once a day.”
Maria says her job is part trainer, part coach. “This type of work can be slow, and you need someone in your corner reminding you that it’s okay to go at your dog’s pace.”
BREAKING OLD HABITS
Maria is also passionate about debunking long-standing myths. One of the most harmful, she says, is the dominance theory. “The idea that you need to dominate your dog is outdated and not backed by science.”
These methods often involve physical or verbal corrections that suppress behavior without addressing why it’s happening. “It strips the dog of choice and can make them afraid,” she says. “Instead, we teach people
Fetch the Leash graduates and their achievements. First page: Eli, day training. Next page, from left: Blueberry and Cheddar, puppy preschool; Bella, enrichment adventures. Above, clockwise from left: Wren, Discover Burlington Puppy Camp; Oslo, enrichment adventures; and Jim, Discover Burlington Puppy Camp.
how to reinforce the behaviors they want and build reliability and trust through consistency.”
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Good training depends on a strong match between trainer and client. Maria encourages people to ask the right questions. “Ask what happens when the dog gets something right, ask what happens when they get it wrong, and ask if there are gentler options,” she says. “Your trainer should be able to explain clearly and respectfully.”
She also stresses that dog owners should feel supported, not judged. “You’re reaching out because you care. That should always be met with kindness.”
THE EVERYDAY JOY
Maria says every dog she meets teaches her something. “They remind me to enjoy the little things, like the joy of a really great stick.”
That spirit is what sets Fetch the Leash apart. Maria and her team aren’t trying to hand out strict rules or one-size-fits-all routines. They’re there to help people and dogs understand each other a little better.
When asked what new dog owners should focus on first, she smiles. “Show them where the bathroom is. Then let them explore and start to feel safe.”
She encourages people to think about their own preferences. “Do you want your dog on the couch? Sleeping in a crate? Decide what works for your life, then we can make a plan to help you achieve those goals.”
At the end of the day, she says, training is about more than obedience. It’s about listening, connecting, learning with your dog, and having a little fun along the way.
Because when training is done right, it’s not just the dog who grows, it’s the whole relationship.
the Leash 85 Pearl Street Burlington, VT www.fetchtheleash.biz
Fetch
Meet me DOWNTOWN
Everything to know about our vibrant downtown and waterfront areas—shopping, dining, news, and more! Plus a handy map to help you locate where you want to be.
DOWNTOWNNews
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BURLINGTON SQUARE
Burlington City Place, now Burlington Square, is expected to open in the coming weeks. The project, which has been in development for over a decade, includes two buildings with a mix of residential, hotel, and retail spaces. The north building will feature 315 units, including family, student, and affordable housing, along with a hotel and retail/ office space. The south building will house retail, 155 Marriott hotel rooms, and 53 luxury apartments.
SUPPORT OUR DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
Our downtown businesses affected by the construction on Main Street need your support, so PLEASE stop in. Check www.burlingtonvt.gov/323/ConstructionPortal for more information on closures and timelines.
The 35th annual James Beard 2025 Finalists Awards were held in Chicago in June, with added
Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional Cocktail Service. Nominees from Vermont included: for Outstanding Restaurateur, Allison Gibson (top left) and Cara Tobin (center) for Honey Road and The Grey Jay in Burlington; for Outstanding Bar: Wolf Tree in White River Junction; and for Best Chef in the Northeast: Avery Buck for May Day in Burlington.
MEET ME DOWNTOWNShopping
VERMONT DISTILLERS/ SMUGGLERS’ NOTCH DISTILLERY
Vermont Distillers of Marlboro, and Smugglers’ Notch Distillery of Jeffersonville have been working together since 2017 and now have opened their joint venture: Smugglers’ Notch Distillery & Vermont Distillers Tasting Room. Located at 28 Church Street in Downtown Burlington, the shop also sells traditional liquors as well as canned cocktails, supplies, glassware, gift packs, and Vermont-themed merchandise like barrel-aged maple syrup. www.vermontdistillers.com
OUTDOOR GEAR EXCHANGE
NU CHOCOLAT
Located on the Lake Champlain Waterfront in Burlington, Nu Chocolat makes all their chocolate on-site at their Vermont family-owned-and-operated chocolate boutique. Stop in for free samples of their world-class chocolate truffles or sit and enjoy an iced chocolate in their bright and contemporary cafe. You can even watch the chocolatiers creating the finest European-style chocolate confections through their viewing window. www.nuchocolat.com
Outdoor Gear Exchange has been outfitting Vermonters with adventure gear for thirty years. Located at 37 Church Street, they offer everything you need for skiing, snowboarding, biking, hiking, camping, backpacking, trail running, traveling, paddling, and more. Their extensive inventory includes high-quality new, used, and discounted outdoor gear, clothing, and footwear. Be sure to check out their revamped consignment basement for amazing deals. Thanks to their expert staff and service technicians, OGE has been voted Burlington’s Best Outdoor Outfitter for twenty-one consecutive years. www.gearx.com
GOSIA MEYER
Discover timeless style in their handmade everyday pieces and custom-fit permanent bracelets, each design is crafted with care, and meant to last. Walk-ins are welcome for permanent jewelry, Fridays 11-5 & Saturdays 11-3. They are located at 1 Lawson Lane in Burlington, in the aisle behind American Flatbread. www.gosiameyerjewelry.com
COCO GOOSE
KARLISE FINE JEWELERS
At Karlise Fine Jewelers, they craft timeless, exquisite jewelry. As a locally owned, family-run business, they combine meticulous craftsmanship with personal touches, creating unique pieces that reflect individuality and celebrate special moments. www.karlisejewelers.com
Coco Goose offers elevated essentials and effortless style with a curated selection of over 150 brands, including Ulla Johnson, Mother, Veronica Beard, Frank & Eileen, and Nili Lotan. Woman-owned with fifteen-plus years of experience, they bring a personalized boutique experience to every shopper. Visit them in Stowe, Burlington, Manchester Center, Providence, RI or shop online www.shopcocogoose.com.
THE OPTICAL CENTER
One of the Northeast’s few truly independent optical stores, the Optical Center dispenses quality prescription eyewear and a wide range of sunglasses from our unique location in one of the oldest intact structures on Church Street. Come in and see for yourself. Just look for the iconic street clock that hangs outside their door as it has for the last seventy-five years. www.opticalcentervt.com
HOME & GARDEN VERMONT
Step into Home & Garden Vermont and enjoy all the scents and colors of the spring season! With goods inspired by the great outdoors, we are ready to make your home a cozy habitat. Looking for the perfect gift? We’ll help you find that special something for anyone from nine days to ninety-nine years! www.homeandgardenvermont.com
BATTERY STREET JEANS
Located on College Street in Downtown Burlington, Battery Street Jeans Exchange is a local thrift store with tons of secondhand clothing of every kind and size, including shoes, old media, video games, trinkets, local art, jewelry, accessories, and so much more! They also take in clothing and items for store credit to spend anywhere in the shop! Any items not taken will be donated to their local free bin for the community. www.batterystjeans.com
MEET ME DOWNTOWNDining
HONEY ROAD
Tahini hummus and baba ganoush, along with dolmas and fried chickpeas are featured at this Eastern Mediterranean restaurant. www.honeyroadrestaurant.com
BISTRO DE MARGOT
Come enjoy summer at Bistro de Margot. There’s no better way than by feasting on smoked scallop carpaccio, chilled ratatouille, micro greens, confit tomato, and chorizo oil. We hope to see you soon. www.bistrodemargot.com
THE DAILY PLANET
FARMHOUSE TAP & GRILL
The Farmhouse Beer Garden is open Friday–Sunday. Enjoy our full menu in our lush outdoor beer garden with a separate bar, comfortable seating for large groups, and sports on our TV. www.farmhousetg.com
We’re serving dinner seven nights a week and brunch Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday! Experience our award-winning cocktails and locally sourced seasonal cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With over twelve vegan options and even more gluten-free dishes, we have a little something for everyone! www.dailyplanetvt.com
BLEU NORTHEAST KITCHEN
At Bleu, we are excited to offer house-made pasta this summer! We will have multiple varieties on the menu, with the best fresh veggies, local meats, and cheeses to go with it. www.bleuvt.com
THE GREY JAY
The kale salad, chicken shawarma, and crispy fried potatoes are lunch favorites at The Grey Jay on Pearl Street. www.greyjayvt.com
EL CORJITO TAQUERIA
Enjoy tacos at El Cortijo for lunch and dinner daily, with breakfast served on the weekends from 9am–2pm. www.cortijovt.com
PASCOLO RISTORANTE
Pizza is back at Pascolo, with handmade dough and locally sourced toppings! Available for dine-in and takeout nightly. www.pascolovt.com
THE GRYPHON BISTRO
The Gryphon Bistro Downtown was voted Vermont’s best seafood restaurant by Yelp! Please join us for lunch, brunch, or dinner. www.gryphonvt.com
and Entertainment 1. Flynn Theater www.flynnvt.org 2. Burlington City Arts www.burlingtoncityarts.org Dining
Map Key MAP KEY
3. Pascolo Ristorante www.pascolovt.com
4. The Gryphon www.gryphonvt.com 5. Church Street Tavern www.tavernvt.com 6. Black Cap Coffee www.blackcapvermont.com 7. Bistro De Margot www.bistrodemargot.com 9. Honey Road www.honeyroadrestaurant.com 12. El Cotijo Taqueria www.cotijovt.com 13. Farmhouse Tap and Grill www.farmhousetg.com
7 Lily May’s Coffee and Café www.hotelchamplainvermont.com/ dine/lily/
8 Original Skiff Fish + Oyster www.hotelchamplainvermont.com/ dine/skiff/
10 Splash at the Boathouse www.splashattheboathouse.com
12 Spirit of Ethan Allen Dinner, brunch, day cruises all summer www.soea.com
13 Spot on the Dock www.spotonthedock.com 15 The Sweet Spot
1 Courtyard By Marriott Hotel Burlington Harbor www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ btvdt-courtyard-burlington-harbor/ overview/
3 Hotel Vermont www.hotelvt.com
6 Hotel Champlain www.hotelchamplainvermont.com
Nu Chocolate www.nuchocolat.com
Local Motion Bike Rentals www.localmotion.org/bike_rentals Union Station, Amtrak www.amtrak.com ECHO, Leahy Center www.echovermont.org United States Coast Guard & ANT Burlington
BY MARIE EDINGER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FARMHOUSE GROUP
Farmhouse Tap & Grill's BLT, Jericho Settlers Farm tomato salad, and tomato and feta sandwich. Opposite page: Guild Tavern's swordfish, with house-made gnocchi, garlic jus, confit Jericho Settlers Farm tomatoes, Pitchfork Farm kale, and crispy capers.
The Restaurateur Who Never Rests
The Farmhouse Group's Jed Davis never tires of opening a new place
Over the past several years, Burlington has grown to be a top-tier destination for food-focused travelers from all over the country. It wasn’t always that way, but Jed Davis, owner of The Farmhouse Group, a collection of five restaurants specializing in four distinct genres, has had a hand at pushing things in that direction and is largely responsible for putting Burlington on the culinary map.
While opening a restaurant might sound like a daunting task, Jed makes the process sound like no big deal. He says building a restaurant is as much an artistic endeavor as a business venture. “I love the challenge,” he says. “You create a vision of a specific experience and then bring it to life in a physical space. It can be a very rewarding process.”
ALWAYS A GROUP EFFORT
He also loves watching that space become part of so many people’s daily lives. But he emphasizes that he hasn’t done it alone. Over the years, he’s put together a trusted team who’ve helped him achieve his objectives. “We’ve built up a great team over fifteen years,” he says. “We have longtime employees. We have a core group of managers who have been here
Below: Pascolo's chicken Parm with spaghetti. Pappardelle funghi, Right: Special Farmhouse burger, the sales of which benefit a different local nonprofit each month. Opposite page: El Cortijo's elote special taco.
ten-plus years each. It’s not just me running around,” he says, laughing.
Jed grew up in Vermont and worked at an inn in Brandon through high school. He majored in Hospitality Management in college and worked in the restaurant business during his summer breaks. His first jobs after graduating were all in the restaurant business. What ignites the drive in him to keep going and keep creating? “I just find [opening restaurants] a rewarding experience,” he
answers simply. “Restaurants offer a lot of special moments for people, and it’s fun to be part of that.”
FIRST, A McDONALD’S MAKEOVER
In 2010, Jed opened his first restaurant in Burlington, Farmhouse Tap & Grill. “It was a pretty bold move,” Jed says. “It was a rundown, vacant McDonald’s when we took it over.” Ironically, the place still specializes in burgers. “We turned it into a farm-to-table gastropub,” he adds.
If you think the terms “farm to table” and “gastropub” don’t quite align, think again. Jed’s vision for the restaurant was to have a casual menu with gourmet, locally sourced
ingredients. “We wanted to purchase product locally,” he explains. “Burgers were a great vehicle, because there was—and is—a good supply of locally raised meats and all kinds of artisan cheeses, and things to put on top of the burgers. We have wonderful product here, and we can showcase it as best we can.”
Because Jed was born in Vermont, he viewed creating a restaurant like Farmhouse as not just an opportunity, but also an obligation. The menu at Farmhouse Tap & Grill features an entire section of Vermont cheese, served alongside crackers, honey, and preserves. You’ll also find menu highlights like dry-rubbed chicken wings, tuna tartare, meatloaf, mussels, and cavatelli with veggies.
NEXT, A TACO TAKEOVER
Jed’s next venture, El Cortijo Taqueria, a Mexican restaurant, has more in common with his first restaurant than you would guess. (Hint: The word “cortijo” is Spanish for “farmhouse.”)
But that doesn’t begin to tell the story of how Jed went from running a unique burger joint to owning a Mexican restaurant. So how’d it happen? Farmhouse Tap and Grill offered a Taco Tuesday menu that became popular— very, very popular, and the rest is history.
El Cortijo Taqueria offers exactly what you’d expect: enchiladas, taco plates, and burritos, but they also have some surprises on the menu, like a special wet burrito and a variety of tostadas.
El Cortijo also has incredible breakfast options on the weekends, including LatinVermont fusion pancakes with local syrup and cinnamon-sugared plantains.
THIRD TIME’S A CHARM
But Jed and The Farmhouse Group didn’t stop there. A few years after opening El Cortijo, he opened his third restaurant, Guild Tavern, a “high-end, classy tavern” on Williston Road. Once again, the name is a dichotomous description for a restaurant’s identity, which may be why this particular restaurant took
The Optical Center is located in The Church Street Marketplace, just a short walk from the shores of beautiful Lake Champlain! As one of the Northeast’s few truly independent optical stores, we dispense quality prescription eyewear as well as a wide range of sunglasses. Come check us out for a refreshing alternative! Mon-Sat 10:00-5:00 (802) 864-7146 107 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401
Below: Spring cavatelli, with cherry tomatoes, kale, zucchini, Vermont Shepherd Inverino cheese, gremolata breadcrumbs, and crisply quinoa at Farmhouse Williston. Pascolo's verdure pizza, with broccolini, olives, mushrooms, Maplebrook Farms mozzarella, and pomodoro, and Margherita pizza (pomodoro, fresh Maplebrook Farms mozzarella, basil, and olive oil).
some time to get off the ground.
That’s putting it lightly, according to Jed. “It struggled a lot in its first years, to be honest,” he says, the issue being the high cost of serving genuinely good food. “I think there was definitely some sticker shock,” Jed explains. “If you’re going to serve super high-quality entrees and steaks, you have to charge accordingly.”
At first, entrees like wood-grilled swordfish or local farm-raised chicken were priced higher than some folks in the area expected. But, in time, the restaurant found its customer base, and it’s been going strong for over a decade now.
FOURTH, AN HOMAGE TO ITALIA
Jed wasn’t done, though. Next: Pascolo Ristoriante. You guessed it—another pun. Pascolo is Italian for “pasture” or “grazing land.”
In keeping with the Mediterranean theme, the appetizer menu offers things like warm potato chips with truffle oil, Castelvetrano olives with sea salt, and Sicilian anchovy toasts with lemon aioli and a “jammy” egg.
The pasta list is expansive and mouthwatering, with multiple variations of gnocchi or rigatoni with a choice of sauces. Other offerings include limoncello shrimp and
Above: Guild Tavern's steak frites, with hand-cut fries and Jericho Settlers Farm steakhouse tomatoes.
Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Burlington 160 Bank Street
Burlington, VT www.burlington.farmhousetg.com
El Cortijo Taqueria
189 Bank Street
Burlington, VT www.cortijovt.com
Guild Tavern 1633 Williston Road South Burlington, VT www.guildtavern.com
Pascolo Ristorante
120 Church Street
Burlington, VT www.pascolovt.com
Farmhouse Tap & Grill
Willliston
282 Holland Lane Williston, VT www.williston.farmhousetg.com
salmon piccata, both served with polenta and lemon-garlic broccolini. The restaurant also has pizza with gluten-free options.
FIFTH, ANOTHER FARMHOUSE
The newest addition to the group’s portfolio is a second location of their flagship restaurant, Farmhouse Tap & Grill, located in Williston. Jed says they promoted some people from within to help open the new restaurant.
The Williston location features an outdoor patio, where they serve “BrunchLunch” from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays. The menu features favorites such as smoked bacon eggs Benedict and griddled pancakes, along with bar snacks (chicken wings, fries, cheddar ale soup), salads, and burgers. The menu for the rest of the day and the rest of the week is similar to the original location, Jed says.
“Good locations, good product, good people—it’s easy to do in Vermont, and we’ve built up great teams over the years,” Jed says. “We just continue to focus on trying to be great every day.”
Photo: Ryan Bent
Your Summer Reading List
PHOENIX BOOKS HAS GOT YOU COVERED, WHETHER YOU’RE HEADING FOR THE BEACH OR THE BACKYARD
Coram House
By Bailey Seybolt
Sharp Objects meets I Have Some Questions for You in this haunting novel—inspired by a true story—about a crime writer who risks everything as she investigates the mystery of two deaths, decades apart, at a crumbling Vermont orphanage.
On a blistering summer day in 1968, nine-year-old Tommy vanishes without a trace from Coram House, an orphanage on the shores of Lake Champlain. Some say a nun drowned him, others say he ran away. Or maybe he never existed. Fifty years later, the mystery of his disappearance is still unsolved.
Jackal’s Mistress
By Chris Bohjalian
In this Civil War love story, inspired by a real-life friendship across enemy lines, the wife of a missing Confederate soldier discovers a wounded Yankee officer and must decide what she’s willing to risk for the life of a stranger, from The New York Times bestselling author of such acclaimed historical fiction as Hour of the Witch and The Sandcastle Girls.
The Poisons We Drink
By Bethany Baptiste
In a country divided between humans and witches, Venus Stoneheart hustles as a brewer, making illegal love potions to support her family. Love potions is a dangerous business. Brewing has painful, debilitating side effects, and getting caught means death or a prison sentence. But what Venus is most afraid of is the dark, sentient magic within her.
Wild Dark Shore
By Charlotte McConaghy
A family on a remote island. A mysterious woman washed ashore. A rising storm on the horizon.
Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world’s largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers, but with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants, until, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman mysteriously washes ashore.
Sunrise on the Reaping
By Suzanne Collins
As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. In honor of the Quarter Quell this year, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes.
Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.
You can find all of these titles at one of the three Phoenix Books locations: Essex Junction, Burlington, and Rutland, or order online at www.phoenixbooks.biz.
BY EMILY PARKER
Tackling Microfiber Pollution HOW THE CORA BALL IS LEADING THE WAY
Microplastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, with tiny synthetic fibers shedding from clothing and household materials into waterways and the air. While the problem is vast, solutions are emerging to help mitigate its impact. One such innovation is the Cora Ball, an easy-to-use, Vermont-made device designed to reduce shedding and capture microfibers in washing machines before they reach lakes, rivers, and oceans.
Invented by Rachael Z. Miller, CEO and founder of Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean, and her team, the Cora Ball is an example of how individuals, businesses, and policymakers can work together to reduce microfiber pollution. As the product gains recognition, Rachael and her team continue to push the boundaries of sustainability, developing new solutions that make a tangible impact on both human and environmental health.
THE BIRTH OF THE CORA BALL
The inspiration for the Cora Ball came in 2013, when Rachael first read about microfiber pollution in a popular science article. “The problem screamed at us, and right away we set about learning more about it and spreading the word,” she says. Understanding that an immediate solution was necessary, Rachael and her team at Rozalia Project began working on what would eventually become the Cora Ball.
The device was inspired by natural coral, which naturally filters tiny particles from water. Using a similar structure, the Cora Ball is designed to both prevent microfiber shedding and capture fibers that would otherwise flow down the drain. Independent tests have shown that the device reduces microfiber pollution by 26 to 31 percent, even before visible accumulation occurs, making it a significant tool in protecting both clothing and aquatic ecosystems.
Rachael’s work with Rozalia Project, which she founded in 2009, played a major role in the Cora Ball’s development. The Burlington-based organization focuses on four key strategies to combat marine debris: data-driven cleanups, education, technology, and solutions-based research. In 2012, the team conducted an early study of microplastics in the sediment of Lake Champlain. Since
then, they have expanded their research to the Arctic and Antarctic oceans, publishing data that highlights the widespread impact of microplastics on marine environments.
KEEPING PRODUCTION LOCAL: THE VERMONT CONNECTION
From the beginning, Rachael’s organization was committed to manufacturing the Cora Ball in Vermont. “Human connections are powerful, and we found amazing teams of people who shared our goals of sustainability and social responsibility,” she says. These partnerships allowed the team to develop eco-friendly production strategies, such as reusing shipping boxes between manufacturing and assembly facilities to minimize waste.
The Cora Ball itself is made from synthetic rubber that includes recycled materials— including old Cora Balls. Durability was a key
Opposite: The Coral Ball, ithe world's first microfiber-preventing and catching laundry ball. This page left: The Cora Board is made from one plank of naturally antimicrobial Vermont maple wood by Vermont craftspeople. Above and left: The Cora Clip for hanging your laundry.
factor in its design, with the product lasting at least eight years despite the harsh conditions inside washing machines. Additionally, the Cora Ball is repairable—if a piece breaks, it can be replaced rather than discarding the entire unit. At the end of its lifespan, consumers can return used Cora Balls through a take-back program, ensuring that materials are recycled into new products rather than ending up in landfills.
EXPANDING ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY BEYOND THE LAUNDRY
While washing machines are a major source of microfiber pollution, the company recognizes that they are not the only source. One lesser-known contributor is plastic cutting boards, which release tiny plastic particles into food with every use.
To address this issue, the team recently launched the Cora Board, a single-piece, hardwood cutting board free from glues, resins, waxes, and oils. “Studies have quantified just how much microplastic is being introduced into our food from plastic cutting boards,” Rachael explains. “We saw an opportunity to create a solution that is not only better for the environment but also directly impacts human health by making food preparation safer.”
The Cora Board is sourced from Vermont maple trees and crafted in Middlebury, VT, further reinforcing the organization’s commitment to local, sustainable production.
Right: Spot-cleaning with products like soap sticks can help reduce microfiber pollution by keeping clothes clean without needing to wash the whole garment. Below: The Cora Ball can be used in any washing machine.
A COLLECTIVE EFFORT IS ESSENTIAL
Microfiber and microplastic pollution requires solutions at multiple levels. While government regulations, industry changes, and scientific research play a crucial roles, individual actions are also essential.
“We all have a role to play, as this problem requires several solutions that neither fall entirely on consumers
SIMPLE ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE
• Wash clothes in cold water to reduce fiber shedding.
• Spot-clean clothes instead of washing garments after every wear.
• Air-dry clothes whenever possible.
• Shop secondhand before buying new clothing.
• Suppor t legislation that promotes sustainable manufacturing and filtration.
nor exist only upstream in the manufacturing process,” Rachael says. She advocates for laws that require better filtration in washing machines and encourage textile companies to create more resilient, recyclable fabrics. At the same time, she urges individuals to adopt small changes to their daily habits that reduce microfiber pollution.
“Everyone who wears and launders clothing is part of the problem of microfiber pollution,” Rachael notes. “But the good news is that everyone can also be part of the solution.”
THE FUTURE OF MICROPLASTIC POLLUTION SOLUTIONS
As awareness of microfiber pollution grows, Rachael and her team remain focused on expanding solutions that help individuals and businesses take action. With their success with the Cora Ball and the introduction of the Cora Board, they continue to develop products that address both environmental and human health concerns.
Through ongoing research, education, and community engagement, Rachael and her team hope to inspire policy changes, industry improvements, and individual action that collectively reduce the impact of microplastic pollution. By providing practical, sciencebacked solutions, her work ensures that cleaner oceans and healthier lives are within reach.
For more information about the Cora Ball, Rozalia Project, and ways to reduce microfiber pollution, visit www.coraball.com.
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
P.O. Box 75 Granville, VT
www.coraball.com
CORA BALL
FIVE TIPS TO STAY HEALTHY this summer
1. STAY HYDRATED
Sweating can cause you to lose up to 40 percent of your body’s water, so staying hydrated in the summer heat is especially important. Here’s how:
• Aim to drink six to eight glasses of water a day, even if you’re not thirsty. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try adding different flavors to encourage water consumption.
• Eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cantaloupe, or cucumbers to help your body maintain healthy hydration levels.
• Consider electrolyte drinks: If you’re sweating heavily, electrolyte drinks can help replenish what your body loses.
2. PRACTICE SUN SAFETY
Spending time in the sun brings benefits like improved sleep, improved mental health, and a more robust immune system. However, if you’re spending more time in the sun, it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Here are some ways to practice sun safety:
• Wear a hat that provides sun protection for your scalp, face, and neck. Take regular breaks in the shade or indoors.
• Wear long-sleeved, lightweight clothing that
will protect your skin.
• Use sunglasses to protect your eyes and never look directly into the sun. Try to find glasses that block 99-100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation.
• Use sunscreen with at least 30SPF protection or higher. Reapply at least every two hours, especially if swimming.
3. BEWARE OF HEAT
EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both serious conditions. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats, and if not treated, it can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.
Some common symptoms of heat exhaustion include: Heavy sweating, weakness or fatigue, dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, and headache. Symptoms of heat stroke include: High body temperature (above 103 degrees); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; rapid strong pulse; and confusion or unconsciousness.
If you experience any of these symptoms, move to a cooler location, sip cool water, and apply a cool wet cloth to face and body.
If symptoms don’t improve or worsen, seek medical attention.
4. STAY SAFE FROM BUGS
Insects are a part of nature but don’t let that ruin your fun in the sun. Here’s how to protect yourself:
• Don’t apply perfumes and avoid the use of scented soaps, which attract some insects.
• Stay away from stagnant water. Insects, especially mosquitoes, congregate around pools of water.
• Avoid wearing bright clothing and large flowery prints, which attract insects, including honey bees and hornets.
5. LIMIT ALCOHOL INTAKE
While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine on a hot summer day, be sure to drink in moderation. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to dehydration, which can then lead to a variety of medical problems. Symptoms of dehydration include:
• Thirst
• Dry mouth
• Dark yellow urine
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Fatigue
VirtualIn-Person 7 days a week
We’ll help you feel better fast!
With many locations across New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Vermont, our clinics are never far from where you are. We are dedicated to o ering a ordable, compassionate, exceptional care for you and your family. Our centers operate on a walk-in basis and are open seven days a week, with Virtual Care also available every day for your convenience.
BURLINGTON CITY ARTS
135 Church Street Burlington, VT www.burlingtoncityarts.org
JULY 13, 10AM
CLASSICAL: SYLVIA QUARTET City Hall Park
JULY 16, 12:30PM
CONCERT: RED HOT JUBA City Hall Park
JULY 17, 5:30PM
PARTY ON THE BRICKS: MOONBIRD Church Street Marketplace
JULY 18, 12:30PM
CONCERT: TED PERRY TRIO City Hall Park
JULY 18, 4PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ FLAT FLOUR City Hall Park
JULY 19, 2:30PM
SPLASH DANCE VINTAGE:
DAVID ZACHARIS AND UNHAPPY HOUR City Hall Park
JULY 19, 4PM
VINTAGE TWILIGHT BLOCK PARTY: COLD CHOCOLATE WITH EMMA COOK City Hall Park (Contois Auditorium in case of rain)
JULY 20, 10AM
CLASSICAL: BURLINGTON CIVIC SYMPHONY City Hall Park
JULY 23, 12:30PM
CONCERT: LONE QUAIL City Hall Park
JULY 24, 5:30PM
PARTY ON THE BRICKS: THE BLUE DAHLIA Church Street Marketplace
JULY 25, 12:30PM
CONCERT: HOUSE OF HAMILL City Hall Park
JULY 25, 4PM
SPLASH DANCE: MATT HAGEN City Hall Park
JULY 26, 2:30PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ LOVE City Hall Park
JULY 27, 10AM
CLASSICAL: STEVE KLIMOWSKI QUARTET
City Hall Park
JULY 30, 12:30PM
CONCERT: EMALOU AND THE BEAT City Hall Park
JULY 31, 5:30PM
PARTY ON THE BRICKS: THE TENDERBELLIES
Church Street Marketplace
AUGUST 1, 12:30PM
CONCERT: BEECHARMER City Hall Park
SUMMER HAPPENINGS
Sponsored by Champlain Valley Expo
AUGUST 1, 4PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ RAUL City Hall Park
AUGUST 2, 2:30PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ EM_G City Hall Park
AUGUST 2, 4PM
CARNIVALE TWILIGHT BLOCK PARTY: ROBBER ROBBER WITH CRICKET BLUE City Hall Park (Contois Auditorium in case of rain)
AUGUST 3, 10AM
CLASSICAL: MANSFIELD TRIO City Hall Park
AUGUST 6, 12:30PM
CONCERT: VERMONT FOLKLIFE’S SUGAR IN THE PAN City Hall Park
AUGUST 7, 5:30PM
PARTY ON THE BRICKS: RACHEL ANA DOBKEN
Church Street Marketplace
AUGUST 7, 8PM
FLICKS IN THE PARK: SUMMER OF SOUL City Hall Park
AUGUST 8, 12:30PM
CONCERT: ALEX KAUFFMAN
City Hall Park
AUGUST 8, 4PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ CRAIG MITCHELL
City Hall Park
AUGUST 9, 2:30PM SPLASH DANCE: DJ CRWD CTRL
City Hall Park
AUGUST 10, 10AM
CLASSICAL: DUO DOLCE: LAURA
MARKOWITZ & JOHN DUNLOP
City Hall Park
AUGUST 13, 12:30PM
CONCERT: IAN CAMPBELL
City Hall Park
AUGUST 14, 5:30PM PARTY ON THE BRICKS: BARBACOA Church Street Marketplace
AUGUST 14, 8PM FLICKS IN THE PARK: FLOW City Hall Park
AUGUST 15, 12:30PM
CONCERT: SKYLARK City Hall Park
AUGUST 15, 4PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ JUSTIN REMILLARD FEAT DJ CHEETAHTA
City Hall Park
AUGUST 16, 2:30PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ RON STOPPABLE
City Hall Park
AUGUST 16, 4PM TWILIGHT BLOCK PARTY: THE ALBANY SOUND WITH SHEEPSKIN
City Hall Park (Contois Auditorium in case of rain)
AUGUST 17, 10AM
CLASSICAL: CATAMOUNT QUARTET
City Hall Park
AUGUST 20, 12:30PM
CONCERT: SARA GREY AND KIERON MEANS
City Hall Park
AUGUST 21, 5:30PM PARTY ON THE BRICKS: HIGH SUMMER Church Street Marketplace
AUGUST 21, 8PM
FLICKS IN THE PARK: PEE-WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE
City Hall Park
AUGUST 22, 12:30PM CONCERT: THE SPRING CHICKENS
City Hall Park
AUGUST 22, 4PM SPLASH DANCE: DJ MEGALUNA
City Hall Park
AUGUST 23, 2:30PM SPLASH DANCE: DJ BRISTOL
City Hall Park
AUGUST 24, 10AM
CLASSICAL: HELIAND CONSORT City Hall Park
AUGUST 28, 8PM FLICKS IN THE PARK: WONDER WOMAN
City Hall Park
AUGUST 29, 4PM
SPLASH DANCE: DJ DISCO PHANTOM City Hall Park
AUGUST 30, 2:30PM PRIDE SPLASH DANCE: DJ KATE KUSH City Hall Park
AUGUST 30, 4PM PRIDE TWILIGHT BLOCK PARTY: KITBASH WITH BABY FEARN
City Hall Park (Contois Auditorium in case of rain)
IAN CAMPBELL
Sponsored by Champlain Valley Expo
AUGUST 13–15, 7:30PM OKLAHOMA! IN CONCERT Main Stage
2 Church Street, Suite 3B Burlington, VT www.vso.org
JULY 1, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Castleton Pavilion at VTSU 360 South Street, Castleton, VT
JULY 2, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Saskadena Six Ski Area 247 Stage Road, South Pomfret, VT
JULY 3, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center 783 Townshend Road, Grafton, VT
JULY 4, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Shelburne Museum 6000 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT
JULY 5, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Burke Mountain Ski Resort 2559 Mountain Road, East Burke, VT
JULY 6, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Trapp Family Lodge Concert Meadow 700 Trap Hill Road Stowe, VT
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPO
105 Pearl Street Essex Junction, VT www.cvexpo.org
JULY 12 & 13, 10AM NEW ENGLAND’S ODD AND UNUSUAL SHOW
JULY 19, 6:30PM
HIGHER GROUND PRESENTS: PRIMUS
JULY 25–27 WOLFSGART
AUGUST 7, 7:15PM MUMFORD & SONS AND FRIENDS
AUGUST 9 & 10, 10AM
VERMONT PSYCHIC EXPO
AUGUST 22–31
103RD ANNUAL CHAMPLAIN VALLEY FAIR
Monday–Friday, gates open at noon; fairway, 2pm, Sat. & Sun., gates open at 10am; fariway, noon
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY FAIR
AUGUST 13–15, 7:30PM
SUMMER FESTIVAL TOUR 2025
Trapp Family Lodge Concert Meadow 700 Trap Hill Road Stowe, VT
CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE
131 Church Street, #209-211 Burlington, VT www.churchstmarketplace.com
JULY 2–SEPTEMBER 3, 5PM EVERY WEDNESDAY UNA PASSEGGIATA (A STROLL)
JULY 9, 7PM A MOTHER ALWAYS KNOWS: AN EVENING WITH SARAH STROHMEYER
JULY 12, 4PM ERIC RICKSTAND-REMOTE: THE SIX MEET & GREET
JULY 16, 7PM LAST DAY OF MY FACE: JAMES SHEA IN CONVERSATION WITH BIANCA STONE
JULY 28, 7PM
SHARING IN THE GROOVE: AN EVENING WITH MIKE AYERS
AUGUST 6 –10
SIDEWALK SALE
Phoenix Books 89 Church Street
Burlington, VT AUGUST 18, 7PM AN EVENING WITH AMY KLINGER
VERMONT COMEDY CLUB
JULY 2–30, 7PM EVERY WEDNESDAY $5 IMPROV NIGHTS
JAY JURDEN
JULY 5–OCTOBER 25, 5:30PM LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH GOOD CLEAN FUN (FAMILY-FRIENDLY)
JULY 11, 7:30PM EMOJI NIGHTMARE: LIP SYNC LALAPALOOZA!
JULY 12, 7:30PM
EMOJI NIGHTMARE: SNATCH GAME!
JULY 17, 7:30PM
JULY 18 & 19, 7:30PM & 9:30PM JOE LIST
JULY 17, 9:30PM THE ROAST OF NICKELODEON!
JULY 24, 7:30PM
JULY 25 & 26, 7:30PM & 9:30PM VIR DAS
JULY 31, 7:30PM
AUGUST 1 & 2, 7:30PM & 9:30PM ATSUKO OKATSUKA WRITES A NEW SHOW
AUGUST 7, 7:30PM
AUGUST 8 & 9, 7:30PM & 9:30PM BETH STELLING
AUGUST 14, 7:30PM
AUGUST 15 & 16, 7:30PM & 9:30PM JAY JURDEN
AUGUST 14, 9PM WHAT ELSE, WHAT ELSE?
AUGUST 21, 7:30PM
AUGUST 22 & 23, 7:30PM & 9:30PM SHANE TORRES
AUGUST 31, 11AM
ELEGANZA & ESPRESSO: A DRAG BRUNCH!
SEPTEMBER 5 & 6, 7:30PM & 9:30PM LAURA PEEK
Liza Voll
Sponsored by Champlain Valley Expo
OTHER NOTEWORTHY EVENTS
JULY 6, 5:05PM
BIKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME
Centennial Field
86 University Road Burlington, VT
www.facebook.com/events/918160963724504
JULY 7, 7:40PM BUTCHER BROWN
Waterfront Park Burlington, VT
www.facebook.com/events/1898723730960728
JULY 10, 6PM ROALD DAHL’S
JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH
Contois Auditorium City Hall Burlington, VT
www.facebook.com/events/1053255022799780
JULY 12, 6:05PM
NORTH HERA NIGHT WITH THE LAKE MONSTERS
Centennial Field Burlington, VT www.facebook.com/events/4028055104131474
JULY 19, 9AM ANTIQUE BOAT SHOW
Burlington Community Boathouse 1 College Street Burlington, VT www.facebook.com/events/1263557348049125
JULY 23, 7PM
WHISKEY AND WISECRACKS
Hotel Champlain
60 Battery Street
Burlington, VT
www.facebook.com/events/1134424612032218
JULY 26, 3PM HAPPY HOUR: POOLSIDE PAWS
Hotel Champlain
60 Battery Street Burlington, VT
www.facebook.com/events/4025761194378198
AUGUST 3, 8AM 2025 LAKE CHAMPLAIN
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Waterfront Park Burlington, VT www.facebook.com/dragonboatfestival
grilled eggplant
hommus toast
Explore the fresh flavors of grilled veggies and creamy hommus served up on crispy focaccia bread. Loaded with antioxidants and fiber, this crunchy and savory dish is perfect for a warm summer day.
