by Lauzon Photography, courtesy of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce Garlic Town, USA returns this Labor Day weekend, celebrating 30 years of garlic, community, and Vermont tradition! Since 1995, the event has showcased regional farmers, producers, and artisans, offering a one-of-a-kind day of entertainment and everything that makes Vermont special.
President and Publisher
Jordan Brechenser jbrechenser@reformer.com
Editor
Ahmad Yassir ayassir@benningtonbanner.com
Designer
Cicely M. Eastman ceastman@reformer.com
Windham County
Sales Manager
Lylah Wright lwright@reformer.com
Account Executives
Richard Lolatte rlolatte@reformer.com
Richard Battista rbattista@reformer.com
Bennington County
Sales Manager
Susan Plaisance splaisance@benningtonbanner.com
Account Executives
Gabriel Schatz gschatz@manchesterjournal.com Vermont
Stock up on garlic and more — Garlic Town’s shopping makes every season delicious.
Taste before you buy — over 50 artisanal samples await your taste buds!
Photos courtesy of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Lorianna Weathers Photography.
Two milestones, one unforgettable festival — Garlic Town and Vermont’s 250th.
Garlic Town USA:
A Flavorful Tradition in Bennington
Celebrating 30 Years of Garlic Goodness
By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine
From the moment you arrive at Garlic Town USA, you feel the warmth of Vermont’s hospitality. Whether you’re arriving by bus, walking from one of the local downtown inns, or just taking in the crisp air as you stroll to the festival grounds, there’s an undeniable sense of community that greets you. It’s in the smile of the volunteer who checks your ticket, the aroma of garlic that fills the air, and the joyful energy that surrounds this beloved event. And it’s been this way for 30 years.
The Birth of a Southern Vermont Tradition
It all started in 1995 in Wilmington, Vermont, when co-founders Steve Wrathall and Joy Powell set the foundation for what would become one of the most iconic food-centered festivals in New England. The Southern Vermont Garlic & Herb Festival began as a small, intimate gathering that drew local farmers, herb growers, and food lovers from the surrounding areas. But what started as a modest community celebration quickly became a regional favorite.
In 2008, as the festival continued to grow in popularity, it was sold to the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce. For more than a decade, it remained known as the Southern Vermont Garlic & Herb Festival—affectionately called “Garlic Fest”—drawing thousands of visitors to Bennington each year. In 2020, the event underwent its biggest transformation yet, rebranding as “Garlic Town USA” and ushering in a new chapter that built on its rich history while adding a fresh, downtown-focused experience.
Celebrating 30 Years of Garlic, Community, and Vermont Spirit
Fast forward to 2025, and Garlic Town USA is celebrating its 30th anniversary. But it’s not just about the garlic—this festival is a living testament to the dedication of over 100 local volunteers who pour their hearts and souls into making this event truly special. These volunteers, who are the backbone of the festival, are the first faces you see when you arrive, offering a warm welcome and a genuine desire to ensure you have the best festival experience possible.
Three decades strong! Garlic Town USA marks 30 years of bold flavors, family fun, and festival tradition.
Vermont’s signature stink. Gets bigger and better every year, don’t miss out!
What started in 1995 as a small gathering of garlic farmers has grown to become Vermont’s signature event 30 years later.
“Over 100 volunteers make this event happen, and they do it because they love Bennington, they love Garlic Town, and they want everyone to feel the same way,” says Mikaela Lewis, the event designer and manager for the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “The moment you step onto the grounds, you’ll feel the care and attention from these volunteers who make the festival so memorable.”
From helping you buy your ticket to guiding you to a favorite vendor you may be looking for, the volunteers are there every step of the way. It’s this hospitality that makes Garlic Town USA stand out from other festivals. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, you’re treated like family. “It’s Vermont at its best,” says Lewis. “Everyone here just wants to make sure you have an amazing experience, you leave with a smile on your face, and you’re eager to come back next year.”
years!
A Food Lover’s Paradise
For foodies, Garlic Town USA is an absolute haven. Vermont is known for its rich agricultural heritage, and this festival showcases the very best the state has to offer. Imagine a farmers’ market times a million, where you can taste before you buy and discover new culinary trends that will inspire your cooking for the rest of the year.
With over 100 curated vendors, you’ll find everything from fresh garlic-infused jams and pickled produce to Vermont-made cheeses and artisanal breads. Whether you’re stocking your pantry or looking for the perfect gift, you’ll find ingredients that elevate every recipe and every meal. Local farmers and food makers pour their passion into their products, and the result is a stunning array of items that celebrate Vermont’s bountiful harvests.
A Festival for the Whole Family
Garlic Town USA isn’t just about the garlic—it’s about bringing people together to celebrate food, community, and fun. For families, the festival offers a wide range of activities. Kids can enjoy themed art projects, engage with magicians, or take part in tractor wagon rides through the downtown area. There are even special activities designed to introduce them to the world of garlic, with hands-on experiences that make learning about food and farming both fun and educational. The festival also features chef demonstrations throughout the day, where local chefs and food experts share their tips on everything from cooking with garlic to creating delicious garlic-infused desserts. And of course, no festival would be complete without garlic ice cream—an event favorite
Garlic Town roots run deep — some farmers have been part of the fest for more than 10
More Than Just Food: A True Vermont Experience
Garlic Town USA is an immersive experience for all the senses. With live music playing throughout the day, you can tap your feet to local bands while savoring bites from food trucks offering everything from international dishes to classic fair food, all with a garlic twist. The food trucks are more than just vendors—they’re a celebration of regional culinary diversity, offering a fusion of flavors that reflect the creativity of the state’s chefs and food artisans.
For those with a taste for spirits, the cocktail and beer tents are the place to be. Featuring Vermont craft beers and garlic-themed cocktails, these tents offer a chance to relax and enjoy the festival while sampling some of the best drinks the state has to offer.
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a special appearance by Miss Vermont or Miss South Vermont, or rub elbows with some of Vermont’s most influential foodies and bloggers. It’s all part of the fun at Garlic Town USA!
A Legacy of Sustainability
In addition to the rich culinary offerings, Garlic Town USA is committed to sustainability. The event has long been a leader in eco-friendly practices, and 2024 saw the festival save over 4,000 pounds of food waste and garbage from being sent to the landfill, turning it into rich compost instead. As part of its zero-waste event efforts, Garlic Town USA continues to find ways to minimize its environmental impact, offering handson eco-friendly experiences and activities for all ages.
“We want to make sure that Garlic Town is not only fun, but also educational,” says Lewis. “It’s important to us that people leave not only with full bellies but with a greater appreciation for sustainability and the impact we all can have on our environment.”
Looking Ahead: A Celebration of Garlic and Community
As Garlic Town USA celebrates its 30th anniversary, there’s much to look forward to. With online tickets going live on May 1st, the festival promises an even bigger celebration in 2025 with limited edition merchandise, giveaways, and a special lineup of entertainment. Long-time vendors will be highlighted, and the festival will continue to grow, bringing even more people together to enjoy the magic of garlic and Vermont’s incredible food culture.
So whether you’re a garlic connoisseur or a first-time visitor, Garlic Town USA is the place to be this summer. From the smiling faces of over 100 volunteers to the rich, flavorful dishes and the unique sense of Vermont hospitality, Garlic Town USA is an experience you won’t forget.
Come for the garlic, stay for the community
Buy your ticket early and check all the updates and 30th anniversary journey by following Garlic Town USA on social media and on GarlicTownUSA.com.
Feeling Free at Catamount BMX
By Danielle M. Crosier, Vermont Country Magazine
Vermont’s only bike motocross organization, Bennington County’s Catamount BMX, is back in full operation.
For frequent Catamount BMX participants, the track offers a feeling of pure and utter exhilaration.
“BMX is so much fun. When I’m on my bike, I feel free. I can fly over jumps – and go as fast as I want,” said Deegan Durkee, age 11. “It’s so much fun racing my friends and trying to get better. Even when I crash, I still want to get back up and do it again. I have made so many new friends –near and far – and look forward to traveling every year to see them."
Although the Catamount BMX track has existed for nearly 30 years – since 1996 – current track manager Andre-Anne Chenaille noted that the facility and organization were in
need of some real repairs post-COVID.
While the reintroduction of the Catamount BMX track programming took a lot of work, interest in the track has grown exponentially in just the past few years, especially under Chenaille’s leadership.
“BMX racing is a unique sport in that the entire family can participate in a single event,” said Chenaille, her face lighting up. “The age classes start with the Striders Program, which is as soon as you can walk. And, the age classes go all the way up – so, we say, ‘zero to 99.’ You could be 80 years old, and you could be racing.”
In BMX racing, there is the novice class, the intermediate class, and the expert class.
“Kids kind of progress faster,” stated Chenaille, adding that a rider must accomplish 10 wins in the novice class to progress to the intermediate class and then accomplish 20 wins to move to the expert class. “And, the people you get put with,
At the starting gate, and getting ready to fly.
Photo by Zach Clinchy of Clinchy Creative
According to Andre-Anne Chenaille, track manager of Catamount BMX
riders is from, “zero to 99.”
aren’t necessarily your age.”
For 10-year-old Schwaner, that is a bonus, “I like that I get to race different kids, and that they have age groups up to adults, so I can race for the rest of my life.”
For Jennifer Knapp, who participates with her son, the experience is about bonding, but it is also about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
“BMX is the best full body workout around,” stated Knapp.“I started when I was in my early 40s , and I am in the best shape of my life now at 50. Catamount BMX is the closest track for me and my son, and it’s a beautiful ride into Vermont. Besides being a great track to ride, the volunteers are amazing, and everyone there feels like family.”
The path to bring the Catamount BMX facility and organization back into the regional fold was “a bit of a struggle.”
The track sat between 2017 and 2019 with little oversight, as the track operator before Chenaille had children who had outgrown the sport, and she had expressed interest in wanting to move on. Away from the area and fresh out of college at the time, Chenaille was unaffected and largely unaware of the situation.
“I like that I get to race different kids, and that they have age groups up to adults, so I can race for the rest of my life.”
10-year-old Schwaner
“There wasn’t somebody at that time that wanted to step up and take over. So, 2017 was the last full season. 2018 and 2019, it sat. Nobody maintained
it,” explained Chenaille, who had been active in the organization back in her high school days. Then, COVID hit.
“I raced at Catamount for the first time when I was 8 years old,” said Chenaille, laughing as she remembered her own youth. “I was mostly racing boys and I wasn't that good, so I kind of got out of it. Then, in 2011 when I was about 16, I kind of got back into it. I felt like BMX was really a big part of my life, even when I wasn’t racing. I wasn’t ever into your typical sports, like soccer and basketball; for some reason, I just wasn’t attracted to them. I’ve just always been into things like snowboarding and BMX, and stuff like that.”
“It was in 2016 that I got back into it –heavy,” continued Chenaille. “I was on a team, mostly traveling, and the Moto tracks at this track were really low –and I just didn’t really have anyone to race. Then, the Catamount BMX track closed.”
Photo provided by Catamount BMX
in Bennington, the ages for BMX
MIDDLE:
Image by Zach
In BMX racing, a rider must accomplish 10 wins in the novice class to progress to the intermediate class, and then accomplish 20 wins to move to the expert class.
The Moto tracks are built on the age and the skill level – and Moto groups are built based on who is there on a specific day, to build those race groups. As of now, the facility is operating at about 20 Moto groups, but back in 2016, the organization was dwindling.
Chenaille said that it was then that she started thinking, “Hey, wait a minute. I don’t have to travel. We have this perfect opportunity to have this awesome track right here. And, that’s kind of when I started to figure out how I could take it over –and I just kind of did.”
The track was in terrible condition, but USA BMX, the sanctioning body that Catamount BMX had been insured under, stepped up, “They sent us their professional track builder, Billy Allen, and we had to basically rebuild everything.”
The project was daunting, and took several months to complete. The professional track builder “roughed in” the layout. From there, local and regional volunteers arrived to commit to the heavy labor.
“The track surface has to be super smooth,” explained Chenaille. “It’s not like a dirt bike track where you can have ruts. It basically needs to be as smooth as a table, and hard packed. We first got it hand raked, and then packed. It was a lot of hard work. I mean, [the professional track builder] came in June, but our first day back wasn’t until August 30 – so months of hard work.”
Locally, businesses assisted as needed. HNB in Bennington donated heavy machinery for a week. According to Chenaille, Joe Mintroni helped with paving and Steve Tatro of Tatro’s
Photo by Zach Clinchy of Clinchy Creative Riders 63, 2, and 42 compete at the Vermont State BMX Championships.
Photo by Zach Clinchy of Clinchy Creative At the starting gate.
Photo by Zach Clinchy of Clinchy Creative
To many, the sense of freedom they experience while BMXing is exhilarating.
Photo provided by Catamount BMX
A large portion of the participants at Catamount BMX are youth.
Clinchy of Clinchy Creative
Concrete Construction also assisted. From outside the local area, BMX families and individuals came to assist with labor and expertise. One of those was Scotty Doland of Schenectady, whose maintenance knowledge, Chenaille said, was “monumental” to the efforts to restore the facility.
While the rebuild was begun several years ago, portions of the track remained dirt until May of 2023 when it was determined that the maintenance of the two dirt 180 degree turns was not sustainable, largely due to the rate of erosion. After any heavy rain, the turns and the track became unusable until repairs were made.
“So that was one of our huge projects after the main rebuild,” said Chenaille, adding that paving the starting gate was also a major endeavor for the group. “Paving is no joke. That was really hard work. Keegan Nelson from out of Central New York – he’s from a super BMX family and they used to come to the track a lot as kids – was literally using a plate compactor on the turns, and that’s what he used to compact the whole thing.”
The track has held its integrity since then, taking the team only about a month to get the track ready after the following winter seasons. Last year the track was ready mid-May, and Chenaille said she hopes for the same this year.
Of the growing popularity and engagement in the sport, Chenaille is very pleased with where the organization is headed.
As the first and only BMX track in the State of Vermont, Cat-
amount BMX hosts the Vermont State Championships each October. During their first year back in action, in 2021, the facility hosted 120 qualified riders for the State Championship titles.
The 2025 State Championships are scheduled for October 18 and 19, with the Vermont State Qualifiers on July 13.
Each BMX season Catamount BMX holds races every Saturday from mid-May to the end of October, or early November, depending on the weather. Evening practices are held on Wednesdays. And the track is open to the public at all times.
“Regarding getting more girls and women into BMX racing, a few local women have started a BMX team called ‘Mother Pumpers.'”
Andre-Anne Chenaille
“Regarding getting more girls and women into BMX racing, a few local women have started a BMX team called ‘Mother Pumpers,’ which is generally comprised of BMX moms of kids who race. The idea is, ‘we are at the races anyways, so we might as well race,’” said Chenaille.
The Mother Pumpers team is owned by Samantha Durkee, who said, "It’s never too late to try something new. I love racing BMX because it allows me to be on the track alongside my kids, sharing their excitement and pushing myself in ways I never thought possible. And it’s not just about racing – it’s about growing, bonding, and proving to ourselves that we are capable of more than we imagined.”
Proving themselves is also motivating for the youth involved in the sport. For Chenaille, seeing the joy that young riders who race at Catamount BMX experience is fulfilling enough.
“Watching kids arrive on their first day at the track, and seeing them progress – even through a single race season – is an amazing thing,” said Chenaille. “Operating the track is a lot of work, but seeing the smiling face of even a single kid on
race day makes it all worth it.”
"So many wonderful memories have taken place at Catamount BMX,” said Mary Pleasant, BMX mom and Fearless BMX team owner. “Catamount has always been our son's ‘happy place.’ He'd go there to hang out, work on the track, spend alone time, and of course – race. My heart was always in my throat as he flew around each berm. I absolutely loved watching him race, cheering him on, seeing his eyes light up when he'd see a racer he admired, or holding those trophies he worked so hard to achieve.”
While Pleasant’s son no longer races, and “his torch has been passed to other young racers,” the family still enjoys the sport so much that they have their own BMX team, “It's a lot of work, but it's totally worth it,” said Pleasant. “BMX is more than just a sport, it becomes your life. Every weekend will be consumed, your car will be filthy, you will wear the track home – and you'll be excited to do it all over, again and again.”
For Chenaille, Pleasant’s statement says it all.
“I was born and raised in Bennington, and I had an amazing childhood here,” said Chenaille, noting that the world she grew up in has changed considerably over the years. “But, something that I don't want to change is the opportunities for kids and families to have a great time together in Bennington. Every kid deserves the opportunity to have a place to go where they feel safe and get to have fun. Catamount BMX is exactly that.”
Catamount BMX is a non-profit “run by volunteers for the love of the sport and the love of the community.”
More information can be found at www.catamountbmx.org.
“I have never before liked a bank, but I love this one!”
Shaftsbury
Image provided by Catamount BMX Andre-Anne Chenaille, track manager of Catamount BMX in Bennington, hands out water at an event.
Taconic Music 2025 Concerts Series
Taconic Music’s 9th Annual Summer Festival runs from June 16–July 14, bringing old favorites and new faces to BBA’s Riley Center for the Arts (143 Seminary Ave., Manchester Village). The festival comprises four Chamber Music Saturdays concerts (June 21, 28, July 5 and 12); a pair of Young Artists concerts (Mondays June 30 and July 14), and a special joint benefit concert at Dionondehowa Wildlife Sanctuary and School in Shushan, NY (Sunday, June 29).
Chamber Music Saturdays concerts feature new and returning faculty of Taconic’s Chamber Music Intensive: Joana Genova and Heather Braun, violins; Ariel Rudiakov, viola and conductor; Tom Landschoot and Hannah Holman, cello; and Drew Petersen and Willis Delony, piano. They will be joined by featured guests including harpist Rachel Clemente, flutist Matthew Lee, cellist Tommy Mesa, and pianist Gili MelamedLev, in programs that include works by living composers alongside classical pieces from across the eras. Saturday Concerts start at 7:30pm. General admission is $30 for adults; students/kids free. Reservations are recommended, season
Image by Bernd from Pixabay
Provided photo
The Bandwagon Summer Series offers the very best of summer in the Green Mountain State: great live music, family and friends, and Vermont food and cocktails.
Taconic Music faculty and guest artists return to BBA’s Riley Center in Taconic’s 9th Annual Chamber Music Festival. Photo by Brooke Champine.
passes are available, and all admission includes an informal pre-concert reception in the lobby.
Monday Young Artists Concerts will start at 7pm. The concerts feature resident students from Taconic’s full-scholarship Chamber Music Intensive, performing classical and contemporary works for strings and piano. There is a suggested donation at the door of $15 for adults (students/kids free). In addition to live performances at the Riley Center, all Chamber Music Saturdays and Young Artists Concerts will be livestreamed on Taconic’s YouTube channel.
The Dionondehowa benefit concert continues a tradition begun by Geoffrey Ovington and Bonnie Hoag of bringing music to Dionondehowa Wildlife Sanctuary and School. This year’s concert is a celebration of Dionondehowa’s 30th year, and will feature special programming to be announced.
For ticket links, concert details, and information about Taconic Music’s year-round concerts, youth music instruction, and seasonal programming, visit taconicmusic.org.
Ariel Rudiakov and Joana Genova Artistic Directors
9th Annual
Summer Festival
Riley Center for the Arts at Burr and Burton Academy Manchester, Vermont
CHAMBER MUSIC SATURDAYS
June 21, 28, July 5 and 12
YOUNG ARTISTS CONCERTS
Mondays June 30 and July 14
DIONONDEHOWA BENEFIT CONCERT
Sunday, June 29
Dionondehowa Wildlife Sanctuary and School, Shushan, NY
BENNINGTON COUNTY
Bennington’s Mayfest Celebrates its 38th Year
By Gabriel Schatz, Vermont Country Magazine
In a state where winter lasts half the year, spring demands to be celebrated with extra gusto. And no one is more excited for the return of warm weather than Vermonters. Every Memorial Day weekend, downtown Bennington bursts to life as it hosts the beloved annual Mayfest Arts & Crafts Festival. Now celebrating its 38th year, this spring tradition transforms Main Street into a bustling celebration of arts, music, food, and entertainment. On Saturday, May 24, 2025, Mayfest invites residents and visitors alike to celebrate renewal and the returning of the light in the best way we know how—with good food, live tunes, big crowds, and abundant smiles.
Walking down Main Street during Mayfest means stepping into a whirl of color and creativity. Stretching from one end of the street to the other, the festival showcases an impressive array of local and regional artisans. This year’s event will feature more than 130 vendors lining Main Street and School Street, each hand-selected for producing their own handmade, homemade, designed, or homegrown products. From beautifully crafted pottery and intricate jewelry to handmade clothing, woodworking, and unique home décor, every booth holds a treasure waiting to be found.
Some standout vendors include Oat's Barkery (handmade dog treats), Chef Tim Foods (specialty gourmet goods), Vermont Wildlife (nature-themed art and décor), Golden Leaf Designs (jewelry), Ardent Flame (candles and aromatherapy), and Serenity Bamboo Flutes (handcrafted instruments).
But the festival’s charm isn't limited to arts and crafts alone. Mayfest offers a treat for the taste buds, with food vendors serving everything from classic festival snacks like fried dough and lemonade to fried cheese curds, BBQ, and even Jamaican cuisine. New food trucks will also join the festival this year, dishing up fresh local flavors and festival favorites. Whether you're craving savory comfort food or sweet indulgences, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
The three live event stages at Mayfest keep festival-goers entertained between bites and browsing. This year’s musical lineup includes Hidden Angel Records, All Ten & John, Cosby Gibson & Tom Staudle, J2, The Ukulele String Ensemble, and The Woodwind Trio, with even more acts to be announced soon. Expect everything from acoustic folk to energetic covers to fill the streets with rhythm and joy.
Vermont Country file photo
Community members enjoy Mayfest in Bennington.
Vermont Country file photo Last year's Mayfest in downtown Bennington drew roughly 7,500 attendees.
Terry Williams, of Reggae Boy Cafe in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., fires up barbeque chicken near the eatery's food stand on School Street.
Beyond music and shows, children and families will find endless fun in the dedicated Kid’s Zone. New this year is a petting zoo from New England Party Animals, where kids can meet bunnies, hamsters, guinea pigs, ducklings, chickens, goats, and lambs. (Please note: personal pets are not allowed in this area for the safety of the animals and attendees.) The Kid’s Zone will also feature interactive games, face painting, crafts, and activities that guarantee smiles all around.
The heart of Mayfest lies in its ability to capture the essence of Southern Vermont, a region defined by its commitment to community. Neighbors meet neighbors, friends reconnect after long winters, and visitors quickly feel at home amid the friendly faces and festive atmosphere. The sense of community pride shines brightly as people gather to support local creators, small businesses, and performers, emphasizing what makes Bennington such a special place.
As Jeanne Mintrone, Executive Director of the Better Bennington Corporation, proudly notes, Mayfest brings "big-city festival excitement" to the Green Mountain State. “Every vendor is hand-selected,” she says, “which makes this event a perfect opportunity to support small businesses directly.”
Keith Carey, president of the BBC Board of Directors, adds: “It’s an incredible day to experience Bennington — to shop local, eat local, and enjoy local talent.”
There’s no need for extensive travel or complicated plans— just stroll down Main Street for a day filled with art, music, food, family, and fun. Join the celebration on May 24 and experience firsthand the joy, creativity, and community pride that makes Mayfest a beloved Southern Vermont tradition.
Free parking is available throughout downtown, including lots at TD Bank, behind the Town Offices, near the Bennington Theater, and along Union Street.
For updates, full schedules, and more, visit betterbennington.com or follow the Better Bennington Corporation on social media.
Photo by Jim Therrien
NBOSS Returns for its 28th Season
By Gabriel Schatz
Vermont Country Magazine
Public art has a way of shaping our relationship with place—it invites curiosity, sparks conversation, and turns ordinary moments into encounters with something unexpected. In North Bennington, that invitation arrives every summer in the form of welded steel, carved stone, recycled materials, and the occasional upside-down tree.
As the lilacs fade and the sun starts to set later, the village of North Bennington transforms into one of Vermont’s most unique art destinations. With sculptures sprouting from lawns, gardens, sidewalks, and museum grounds, the town becomes a walkable gallery. This is the North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show—better known as NBOSS (pronounced N-Boss). In 2025, it returns for its 28th year of free, open-air creativity.
Every year, artists are selected through an open call that welcomes newcomers and professionals alike, resulting in an eclectic and diverse collection.
Founded in 1997, NBOSS began with the goal of bringing art out of the gallery and into the streets. The first show, organized by Bennington College student Anthony Cafritz and village residents, featured just a handful of sculptures displayed on village lawns. Nearly three decades later, NBOSS has grown into the longest-running outdoor sculpture
exhibition in Southern Vermont, with more than 50 works scattered across the town, and a dedicated following of artists, locals, and curious visitors.
This year’s show will kick off on Saturday, June 28, with the Opening Reception and outdoor party from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at 48 Main Street at the Vermont Arts Exchange campus. Expect live music, mingling with artists, food from local vendors, and an exuberant, all-ages crowd. It's part art opening, part neighborhood block party, and the sculptures are the guests of honor.
Curated for the 13th and final time by sculptor Joe Chirchirillo, the 2025 show will be both a celebration and a send-off. Chirchirillo, a seasoned artist whose own work spans steel and water-based installations, helped shape NBOSS into what it is today: an open,
Photo by Idena Beach (2021)
Rain or shine, the North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show (NBOSS) opening reception draws hundreds of art lovers to support the region’s largest outdoor exhibition.
inclusive platform for sculpture in all its forms. Under his guidance, the show has featured everything from polished stone abstracts to kinetic wind-driven forms, and site-specific installations that invite interaction or contemplation or both.
Every year, artists are selected through an open call that welcomes newcomers and professionals alike, resulting in an eclectic and diverse collection. In 2024, that meant welded metal forms alongside found-object totems, treehung mirrored mobiles, and tributes to notable figures of the town’s past, like Shirley Jackson. Some pieces were deeply meditative; others, delightfully odd. All invited you to slow down, look closer, and enjoy the show.
Sculptures are installed across the village—on lawns, near storefronts, in parks, and at local landmarks. NBOSS also partners with the Bennington Museum, where additional works are featured throughout the summer on the museum’s ten-acre campus. Visitors can pick up a map or explore on their own, discovering art where they least expect it: tucked near a train depot, rising from a garden, or perched beside a quiet trail.
A large part of NBOSS’s mission is their community-first approach. The show is free, it’s outdoors, and it’s woven into daily life in North Bennington. Organizers have made it their mission to keep the show grounded in local collaboration. Artists help install the work, volunteers assist with logistics, and the public gets to enjoy a summer of sculpture without ever needing to step into a gallery (Although we still recommend visiting Vermont galleries whenever the chance arises!).
And while the show honors the village’s sculptural heritage—North Bennington has long been home to artists like David Smith, Anthony Caro, and Isaac Witkin—it’s also looking toward the future. This year’s lineup will once again highlight underrepresented voices, with a continued emphasis on welcoming BIPOC and LGBTQ+ artists into the fold.
So whether you’re an art lover, a casual stroller, NBOSS 2025 promises to be a highlight of the summer. Come walk the village, meet the artists, and discover the power of public art.
For maps, artist updates, and event info, visit nbossvt.com or follow @nbossvt on social media.
for longtime curator
— his 13th and final year curating this beloved community event.
Photo by Dan The Photo Man NBOSS 2025 marks a milestone
Joe Chirchirillo
Photo by Dan The Photo Man
“Girly Girl” by Susan Gilmore is one of the featured sculptures at NBOSS 2024.
Photo by Dan The Photo Man Detail of Vessel #1 by Joe Chirchirillo, shown at the 2024 North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show.
A Taste of Vermont, Straight from The Apple Barn
By Gabriel Schatz, Vermont Country Magazine
When someone says “Vermont,” the Apple Barn might be exactly the image that comes to mind: a bright red barn on the side of a small state highway with the scent of warm cider doughnuts drifting out the doors and picnic tables waiting out front.
Originally opened in 1973 by Harold Albringer as a roadside farm stand for Southern Vermont Orchards, the Apple Barn has remained a favorite stop for travelers and a weekend tradition for locals. Ownership passed through several hands over the decades before landing with Sarah Albright in 2022. Sarah brings a background in farming and food, along with a strong affection for the community she’s serving. The apples still come from the orchard just across the road, and the mission remains the same: supporting the local community by showcasing the incredible range of products—both agricultural and artisan-made—that are grown and crafted right here in Vermont.
Inside the barn, the shelves are lined with Vermont goods: maple syrup, jams, pickles, local cheeses, honey, and more. The bakery turns out fresh apple pies, maple-frosted cookies, and the famous cider doughnuts—made daily, served warm, and paired perfectly with a cup of hot cider or a maple creemee in the warmer months. You’ll also find sweet treats like apple cider donut whoopie pies, candy apples, and homemade fudge.
There’s a casual rhythm to the space that invites you to linger: try a bite, ask about the maple syrup supplier (it's Armstrong Farm), or assemble a gift box with sharp cheddar, local apples, and a jar of preserves. The Apple Barn also stocks Vermont-made beer and wine, espresso drinks, and gifts ranging from postcards to packaged goods ready to be shipped across the country.
The Apple Barn further sets itself apart with its calendar of events and seasonal happenings. Spring kicks off with
maple season, often celebrated with sugar-on-snow tastings and limited-batch maple treats. In summer, berry picking and shaded picnic tables give way to themed weekends like the Blueberry Festival, with blueberry bake-offs, live music, scavenger hunts, and local vendors.
New this year is the Pickle Festival, planned for September. It will be a celebration of all things brined and delicious, complete with live music, a homemade pickle competition with a $300 grand prize, tastings, pumpkin painting, and a mini doughnut eating contest (mercifully, the donuts will NOT be pickle flavored). Rumor has it you might even spot a giant pickle costume meandering through the crowd. Other events throughout the year include a food truck rally, craft markets, and, for the daring, what is said to be Vermont’s oldest haunted corn maze.
Autumn, of course, is peak season. The barn is surrounded by pumpkins, chrysanthemums, and the kind of flaming colors you only get during a New England foliage tour. It’s hard to beat the simple pleasure of biting into a soft, steaming cider doughnut while the hills blaze red and gold around you.
The Apple Barn stays open through Christmas, making it a perfect spot to stop in and warm up when frost starts creeping into the air. Pop in for a cup of hot cocoa and leave with your holiday shopping list significantly shortened. Seasonal offerings at the Apple Barn include Christmas trees, wreath-making classes, cookie decorating workshops, and a special indoor holiday market. It’s a festive and meaningful end to the year—a time to celebrate the magic of winter in Vermont with neighbors, friends, and visitors alike.
For those chasing an authentic taste of Vermont, the Apple Barn remains a standout. Find updates and event listings at facebook.com/theapplebarnvt or on Instagram@theapplebarnvt.
Monument Arts & Cultural Center: A Summer Gem of Southern Vermont
By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine
The newly revitalized Monument Arts & Cultural Center is quickly becoming a cornerstone of live entertainment and creative expression in the tri-state region. Under the passionate leadership of Executive Director Kristine Lewis, supported by a dynamic board and an ever-engaged community, the center has re-opened its doors with an electric sense of purpose—and audiences are taking notice.
This isn’t your average small-town stage. From the moment the curtain rises, every production at Monument Arts delivers a level of professionalism and heart that leaves audiences stunned. Their recent run of South Pacific drew in visitors from Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts, continuing the legacy of smash hits like Annie: The Musical and Million Dollar Quartet last winter. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this theater never fails to impress.
But the magic doesn’t stop when the lights go down. Monument Arts & Cultural Center is a full-spectrum destination for arts and culture lovers. Enjoy live music on the sunlit patio, stroll through rotating gallery exhibitions, or participate in immersive visual arts workshops led by nationally recognized artists. The center also embraces healing through art with specialized wellness programs that foster creativity and inner peace.
This May, don’t miss their signature annual event—the “Let Us Entertain You” Gala—May 18th a festive celebration of talent, community, and performance ending the evening with Liz Larsen & Sal Viviano In TWO FOR THE ROAD … This husband and wife team boast Tony, Drama Desk, Broad-
way World, and Helen Hayes awards, plus an Outer Critics Circle nomination and more. Liz and Sal weave stories and songs in an often funny, always lively musical journey of their lives on the Broadway stage. It’s the perfect reason to dress up, come out, and support the arts in style. May 25th brings back Broadway & Hollywood royalty Maxwell Caulfield with his USA premiere of a sold-out performance of his oneman show from London’s Ellen Terry Barn Theatre. A lovely Tea and Q&A with Maxwell and his wife Juliet Mills. Tickets for all the events are on our website www.monumentcentervt.org.
Young performers are also getting their chance to shine through the center’s Music Camp, Musical Theater Camp, and the highly anticipated youth production of Into the Woods Jr. These camps give aspiring actors a unique opportunity to learn the ropes of the stage and perform in front of a live audience, guided by professional mentors.
Whether you're into classic theater, contemporary musicals, fine arts, or family-friendly programs, Monument Arts & Cultural Center is a must-visit summer destination. With its vibrant energy and diverse offerings, it’s more than just entertainment—it’s a cultural heartbeat for Southern Vermont. Don’t forget “Jersey Boys will light up our stage in July.
So, do you love theater? Crave creativity? Seek connection through the arts? Then make your way to Monument Arts— where every show, song, and story invites you to be part of something truly extraordinary. Support Bennington’s lovely nonprofit theatres.
South Pacific at Monument Arts & Cultural Center.
Photos provided Sound of Music at Monument Arts & Cultural Center.
The West Townshend Country Store
Good food. Great company. Unbeatable small-town vibes.
Tucked into the rolling hills of West Townshend, VT, the West Townshend Country Store operated by the West River Community Project is where good things—and good neighbors—gather. We’re a nonprofit with a simple goal: keep the community strong, full, connected, and maybe even dancing.
We have a donation based cafe with a pay it forward program designed to help feed those in need. A thrift store full of finds you didn’t know you needed (until you do). A commercial kitchen that’s a launchpad for small business startup food dreams. And for all your shipping needs we’ve got the community’s beating heart in our Post Office.
Join in our weekly lineup:
Tasty Tuesday Burgers and live music—casual, cozy, always good.
Friday Farmers Market & Wood Fired Oven Pizza straight from our cob oven and live music with local produce, bread, meats, crafts, and more.
Roots Jam Sundays open jam session—bring an instrument or just your ears.
The WRCP is a homegrown effort powered by volunteers, neighbors, and a love of this place we call home. Whether you need a warm meal, a place to gather, or a reason to dance—we’re here.
Come, come whoever you are.
6573 VT Route 30, West Townshend, VT
| 802-874-4172 westtownshend.org
| Mon, Thurs, Sat: 8AM – 4PM
| Tues & Fri: 8AM – 7PM
| Sun: 10:30AM –3:30 PM
West Townshend’s Historic Post Office built in 1848.
Taft Hill Farm at the Townshend Farmers Market.
The Brattleboro Farmers’ Market:
A Taste of Vermont, Every Saturday
By Gabriel Schatz, Vermont Country Magazine
Fresh bread, fiddle tunes, and tamales under the trees— Saturdays in Brattleboro hit different. From May through October, the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market transforms a quiet park along the Whetstone Brook into a weekly celebration of food, music, and community.
Now in its 50th season, the market is the longest-established farmers’ market in Vermont, originally founded on Elliot Street in 1974. In 1980, it officially incorporated as a nonprofit—and it’s been growing ever since. To mark the milestone, the market will host a Customer Appreciation and Anniversary Celebration on May 17, starting at 1 PM. Expect music, memories, and cake.
Kicking off its 2025 season on May 3, the market runs every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 570 Western Avenue, just past the Creamery Covered Bridge. With more than 50 vendors, the market brings together Windham County farms, regional artisans, and a wide variety of locally produced food.
Seasonal produce is the heart of the market—expect spring greens and herbs, summer berries, tomatoes, root vegetables, fall squash, and more. Alongside fresh fruit and veggies, you’ll find maple syrup, honey, cheeses, meats, fresh-pressed juice, brewed chai, and Vermont-made beverages including beer, cider, wine, and spirits. A mushroom vendor and local forager bring wild and cultivated mushrooms, plus foraged herbs and seasonal surprises. Shoppers can also browse handmade
crafts, from pottery and textiles to herbal body care and natural remedies.
Food is a major draw for both locals and visitors. Breakfast options include savory crepes, bagel sandwiches, coffee, doughnuts and more. A local taqueria serves tacos made with meat and vegetables they raise themselves, and if you come on the right day, you’ll find soul food favorites. There’s plenty of room to sit and enjoy lunch under the trees while live music fills the air.
Whether you come for the produce, the food, the music, or the milestone, the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market is not to be missed this summer.
For vendor updates and weekly highlights, visit brattleborofarmersmarket.org.
Brattleboro Brewers Festival Returns with Craft Beer and Local Flavors
By Gabriel Schatz, Vermont Country Magazine
Brattleboro knows how to throw a beer festival. Now in its 16th year, the Brattleboro Brewers Festival is back on Saturday, May 31, 2025, promising a full afternoon of top-shelf craft beer, food, live music, and games. Taking place at the Guilford Fairgrounds, just minutes from downtown Brattleboro, the one-day event has become a can't-miss tradition for locals and beer lovers across the region.
Founded in 2010, the Brattleboro Brewers Festival has grown into a regional staple, attracting attendees from Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and beyond. The festival’s laid-back, local vibe has remained central to its charm, even as it’s expanded to include over 30 breweries, cideries, and local vendors.
The main draw, of course, is the beer. While the full 2025 lineup is still being finalized, previous festivals have featured favorite brewers like Lawson’s Finest Liquids, 14th Star Brewing, Whetstone Station, and Branch & Blade, alongside emerging and small-batch brewers from across the Northeast. Past years have offered over 100 taps of craft beer and cider, with styles ranging from classic IPAs and lagers to sours, saisons, and ciders made with Vermont-grown apples. Attendees receive a souvenir tasting glass and 8 pour tokens with admission, giving them plenty of opportunities to sample the offerings. Festival-goers can vote for their favorite brew in the annual People’s Choice award, a competition that adds a little extra excitement to the sipping.
31ST
Beyond the beer tents, the festival offers a full afternoon of entertainment and activities. This year’s music will be headlined by Groove Prophet, a Brattleboro-based band known for their danceable blend of rock and R&B. Live music has always been a highlight of the event, adding a relaxed but energetic atmosphere as guests move from booth to booth. Food vendors from around the region will also be on hand, dishing up hearty eats like barbecue, sausages, wood-fired pizza, sweet treats, and more. Local restaurants and food trucks regularly participate, giving guests a taste of Brattleboro’s culinary scene between tastings.
Festival-goers can also try their hand at oversized lawn games like giant Jenga, cornhole, and Connect Four, or cheer on contestants in the annual keg toss competition, a crowd-favorite that blends strength, silliness, and pure
Vermont enthusiasm. Organizers have teased the addition of new games and contests for 2025 as well—follow the festival on social media and be sure to check their website for more updates!
The setting this year—the Guilford Fairgrounds—offers plenty of open space, fresh air, and scenic views. On-site parking is free, and the festival runs from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM, rain or shine. General admission tickets are $40 in advance and include the tasting package. A limited number of designated driver tickets will be available for $15 at the gate, which include complimentary soft drinks but no alcohol sampling. The event is 21+ only, and organizers strongly encourage attendees to buy tickets in advance, as the festival often sells out.
a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, the festival offers a little something for everyone. The beer is excellent and so is the company!
What makes the Brattleboro Brewers Festival stand out is its strong community feel. It’s organized by locals, staffed by volunteers, and attended by both longtime residents and first-time visitors. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast eager to try the latest small-batch release or just looking for
To learn more, purchase tickets, or see the updated brewery lineup, visit www.brattleborobrewersfestival.com. If you’re traveling from out of town, don’t forget to check out the festival’s lodging suggestions—rooms tend to fill quickly once the taps start flowing.
WINDSOR COUNTY
The 45th Quechee Balloon Festival: A Vermont Tradition Lifts Off
Every year, the summer skies above the Quechee Gorge come alive with color during the Quechee Balloon Festival—a beloved New England tradition now celebrating its 45th year. Hosted by the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce, the festival has grown since its humble 1979 start into a three-day celebration that draws national and international visitors.
But the festival is more than just the balloons – it’s a full community celebration made possible by dozens of local volunteers. Attendees can browse handmade goods from regional artisans, enjoy craft beers and local spirits, and take in live music and entertainment throughout the day. The festival stays affordable with weekend tickets at just $25
and support from sponsors like the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation allows hundreds of local students to attend free.
Plan Your Visit
The 45th Quechee Balloon Festival will take place June 20–22 at the Quechee Green, just off Route 4. Tickets are available online or at the gate, though balloon rides sell out quickly. For the latest updates on schedules and weather, check quecheeballoonfestival.com.
WINDHAM COUNTY
Food, Family & Foliage:
Brattleboro’s Street Food Festival Returns
By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine
Mark your calendars and bring your appetite — the New England Street Food Festival returns to the Brattleboro Common on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., promising a lively, family-friendly celebration of local flavor.
Now in its seventh year, the free festival, organized by the Brattleboro Reformer, is a community favorite — drawing locals and visitors alike for a day of incredible eats, live entertainment, and small-town charm set against the backdrop of southern Vermont’s early foliage.
“This event started as a way to bring people together and celebrate our community,” says festival coordinator and Reformer advertising rep Bud Lolatte. “It’s become a tradition. Great food, great music, and zero cost to attend — that’s something everyone can enjoy.”
This year’s returning vendors include Newton's Curve-
Children’s activities, food trucks, live music, and community spirit fill the Brattleboro Commons during a lively local celebration.
ball Concessions, Frisky Cow Gelato, Cross Road Tacos, Curbside Cafe, Green Mountain Ramen, Vermont Lemon Wheel, and Amaru.
The Street Food Festival has become more than just a culinary event — it’s a celebration of togetherness. “We want people to step away from their routines and just enjoy the day,” Lolatte adds. “Even if life’s hectic, this is one day to come out, eat something amazing, and connect with your community.”
Bring the family, your friends, and your appetite — and discover why this annual Brattleboro tradition keeps growing year after year.
Photos by Kristopher Radder, Vermont Country Magazine.
The Brattleboro Reformer’s New England Street Food Festival will take over the Common with food and entertainment in 2025.
Southern Vermont DRINK & DINE
Pangaea: A
Beloved North Bennington Dining Destination Reopens for a New Era of Vermont Hospitality
By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine
In the heart of Vermont’s most charming little village, there’s a restaurant where community connection, creative food, and summer nights on the deck come together like nowhere else — welcome to Pangaea in North Bennington.
Now, after months of thoughtful renovations and an exciting rebrand, co-owners Lani DePonte-Disorda and Nick Disorda are ready to welcome locals and visitors alike into a refreshed, reimagined Pangaea — one that stays true to its roots while offering a whole new way to experience Vermont dining.
A New Chapter, Built on Community Love
Originally founded by Bill Scully in 2002, Pangaea has always been more than just a restaurant. It's been a gathering place, a North Bennington landmark, and a proud collaborator with Bennington College, local farmers, artists, and countless community partners. Lani and Nick met at Bennington College and live in the Village of North Bennington with their two children and three cats. When they purchased the business, their vision was clear: honor Pangaea's legacy while opening its doors even wider.
“We like to call it 'Nice Dining' now,” Lani says with a smile, “not Fine Dining like before. It's casual when you want it to be, but can feel special too.”
Pangaea's new space reflects that vision beautifully. The former Prospect Coffee House has been fully reimagined as Pangaea Café — an all-day hub for breakfast, lunch, casual dinners, and community gatherings. In the evening, the restaurant side provides a warm, welcoming dining experience where Vermont-sourced ingredients meet global inspiration, while the café remains open for diners to pick up takeout, or sit and eat in a more casual atmosphere if there isn’t space in the restaurant.
Where Vermont Flavor Meets Village Charm
For summer visitors, Pangaea is exactly the kind of place that makes small-town Vermont so unforgettable. Their outdoor deck, a longtime favorite for al fresco dining, remains one of the best spots in Bennington County to enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by flowers, music, and the gentle buzz of the stream nearby.
From maple-glazed pork chops to creative vegetarian plates, the menu leans into fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. Expect a thoughtful selection of Vermont beers, natural wines, and craft cocktails, too.
Photo by Idena Beach | Studio on Main Refresh with a chilled, smooth cold brew at Pangaea Café — perfect for any time of day.
An Invitation to Slow Down and Stay Awhile
More than just a meal, Pangaea offers a Vermont experience rooted in hospitality, creativity, and connection. The Café side has become a gathering place for art shows, music nights, and readings for writing residencies. The restaurant side provides both a casual setting for regulars from the village but also that intimate, elevated dining feel—perfect for a date night or a celebratory meal—without feeling stuffy or exclusive.
“We want people to feel like they can just come as they are,” says Nick. “Whether you're here in hiking boots or dressed up for an anniversary, you're welcome.”
For those planning a summer trip to Vermont, North Bennington is a village worth wandering. Grab a coffee and pastry in the morning, stroll the nearby trail or explore the sculptures scattered throughout the village. Then settle in at Pangaea for dinner on the deck, soaking in that perfect mix of casual and classy that defines this new chapter.
Pangaea Café is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and casual take out dinners, while the restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are encouraged for dinner but walk-ins are always welcome.
This is Vermont dining at its best: locally inspired, deeply personal, and always welcoming.
Southern Vermont DRINK & DINE
Photo by Lani DePonte-Disorda.
Live music with Sam Clement and Carling Berkhout at Pangaea, offering a fresh mix of acoustic tunes.
Photo by Idena Beach | Studio on Main
Whether you prefer a dirty martini, rich port wine, or a refined Leese-Fitch Pinot Noir, Pangaea has the perfect drink to complement your night.
Photo by Idena Beach | Studio on Main
Pangaea’s braised short rib, slow-cooked to perfection and topped with a rich rosemary demi-glace for an unforgettable flavor.
Photo by Idena Beach | Studio on Main
One of Pangaea’s mouthwatering burgers, made with the freshest ingredients and cooked to perfection, a standout classic on the menu.
Photo by Idena Beach | Studio on Main Lani, always the gracious host, makes every guest feel at home as they walk through the doors of Pangaea.
From Beehives
How Barr Hill Gin is Stirring Up Vermont’s
Craft Spirit Scene
By Bob Audette, Vermont Country Magazine
MONTPELIER — Caledonia Spirits, the makers of Barr Hill Gin, have lovers of the juniper-based spirit buzzing with delight with the help of honey bees that could be flying around your neighborhood right now.
DRINK & DINE
"We were co-founded in Hardwick by a beekeeper, Todd Hardie, and a fermentation specialist and homebrew store owner, Ryan Christiansen," said Patrick Amice, director of hospitality at Caledonia Spirits in Montpelier. "Todd wanted to connect cocktail culture with agriculture and he wanted to do it with honey or pollinators because of how important they are in the food system."
Partnering with Christiansen in 2011, Hardie created Barr Hill Gin, made with hand-crushed juniper berries, finished with raw local honey.
"Neutral-grain spirits are distilled with juniper in the distillery in Montpelier, with no other botanicals," said Amice. "We then add the honey when we are completely done with the process. The honey is never heated, cooked, or caramelized so the botanical structure remains. It's juniper forward, with bright citrus and pine and the honey balances it perfectly with these soft, wildflower aromas."
Amice was introduced to Barr Hill Gin as a spirits manager in a wine shop in Princeton, N.J.
"It was a perfect fit for the small-spirits section of our shop."
Amice became such a fan of Caledonia Spirits and the bar in Montpelier that he moved to work there four years ago.
"We have a great crowd of long-time supporters from a lot of the surrounding towns," said Amice. "And we get quite a lot of visitors in the summer. A lot of people who are coming here for vacation already know the brand. We have this brand that they have already sipped. They can come tour the facility, pretty much anytime, and get a cocktail and food."
Caledonia Spirits hosts a live music series during the summer and does special pop-ups throughout the year, such as holiday Ginter Wonderland and a maple festival.
"No matter what time of the year they visit, there is a lot of fun stuff to do here at Barr Hill," said Amice. "You might even catch a maple syrup chugging contest."
Caledonia Spirits also hosts workshops and tastings throughout the year, which include cocktail lessons, Whis-
Nate Canan-Zucker prepares for a shift
Guests enjoy the Bar at Barr Hill.
Beekeeping- Barr Hill Gin finished with raw local honey.
to Barstools
key Wednesdays to learn about their newest release, Phyllis Rye Whiskey, and regular "Meet the Maker" get-togethers with local artisans and producers. In the winter, it plays host to the Montpelier Winter Farmers' Market.
While Barr Hill Gin is their "flagship," said Amice, they also make a barrel-aged version called Tom Cat Gin and a vodka made 100 percent from raw local honey.
"New to us is a whiskey named Phyllis. It's named after our biggest still and Ryan's grandmother."
The whiskey is made from 100-percent Vermont-grown grains and contains 84 percent rye, all from co-founder Todd's farm, Thornhill Farm, in Greensboro and 16 percent local barley.
Caledonia Spirits seats 100 people, indoors and outdoors, and has a full-service bar, where folks can try out a specialty cocktail, such as Barr Hill Penicillin, Smoked Maple Old Fashioned, Swampwater, and the Meow Tai.
Pairing the craft liquor with food is under the purview of Chef Brandon Arms, who prepares "locally inspired, vermont style tapas" made with local produce, fruit and eggs and dairy products.
Menu items include, depending on the season, a mushroom crostini, crispy potatoes with garlic lemon aioli, hummus, maple-roasted carrots, corn bisque, and beet salad.
Caledonia Spirits does what it does so well it was named one of five national finalists in the 2024 James Beard Awards in the outstanding bar category.
"Being one of only two distilleries recognized is a testament to what is so amazing about our team," said Amice. "While other bars have every ingredient at their disposal, we get to really focus on just a few world-class spirits that are made here in Vermont."
Caledonia Spirits, which conducts tours of the distillery most anytime it's open, also has a retail section where visitors can find spirits distilled on site, goods from local purveyors, apparel, glassware, shakers and of course, honey.
VisitourDistilleryBar
andexperienceAmerica’s mostawardedgin
Anniversary 2586- Tonya Martel, bar manager, shows a tour through the barrel aging room at the distillery.
at the Bar at Barr Hill.
Photos submitted by Caledonia Spirits
TÖST: From Manchester, VT, to the Global Market
Southern Vermont DRINK & DINE
Töst is full of natural flavor and sparkling refreshment — perfect for toasting
TÖST is a sparkling beverage crafted to offer the complexity of a fine wine without the alcohol. Designed for celebrations, quiet nights in, and everything in between, it’s become a favorite among those seeking a buzz-free way to raise a glass.
TÖST’s distinctive appeal lies in the care its creators and team members put into everything from flavor profile to label design. Made with healthy, natural ingredients like elderberry, white tea, ginger, white cranberry, and agave, TÖST is lightly sweet, effortlessly balanced, refreshingly dry, and low in calories. It provides a satisfying drinking experience whether enjoyed straight from a chilled bottle or mixed into a cocktail.
Shortly after TÖST launched, a cultural shift began sweeping through
TÖST has become a frontrunner among non-alcoholic adult beverages, carving out a unique identity that stands proudly on its own as a new category of beverage.
Millennials and Gen Z—generations which, according to recent studies, are consuming less alcohol than their parents and grandparents. TÖST entered the zeitgeist at the perfect moment, offering an alternative that resonated with health-conscious consumers seeking a social alternative to alcohol that they could feel good about drinking.
At the helm of the company today is CEO Brooks Addington, steering
the company from its headquarters in Manchester, Vermont. Under Addington’s guidance, TÖST has become a frontrunner among non-alcoholic adult beverages, carving out a unique identity that stands proudly on its own as a new category of beverage.
At first available exclusively in bottles, TÖST expanded their range at the beginning of this year, introducing convenient canned versions of their two flagship flavors: TÖST Original and TÖST Rosé. This addition allows consumers the flexibility to tailor their beverage choices to their lifestyle—whether savoring a can nightly over the week or opening a bottle for a dinner gathering. Today, consumers can TÖST the moment in bars, arenas, restaurants, or at home from 750ml bottles, four-packs of single-serve 250ml bottles, or sleek 12-packs of
Photos provided by Töst
under sunny skies.
8.4-ounce slim cans.
The company is not stopping their forward momentum at new drink containers though; TÖST will unveil a much-anticipated third flavor this summer, promising another bright and refreshing addition to their lineup.
TÖST’s values are rooted in inclusion and community, so it’s no surprise that they have practiced those values both within and outside of their retail operations. Chie Addington, Brook Addington’s wife and CAO at TÖST says, “We believe every child deserves a chance to learn, grow, and thrive. That’s why we’re passionate about supporting the cause of children’s education and health. Our community has always shown up for our three children, and we would like to give that support back wherever possible.”
TÖST has supported the Stratton Foundation, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, among other local and national organizations.
Progress and innovation continue to define TÖST’s journey, and adapting to new technology is part of that promise. In 2024 they launched an AI-powered microsite, "TÖST Maker.” This creative tool crafts personalized toasts for any event imaginable. Users simply input details like the event, the guest of honor, and contextual information, and TOST Maker generates a memorable speech guaranteed to impress your guests.
Currently distributed in all 50 states and ten countries, TÖST’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. Their growth underscores a broader cultural shift towards mindful, inclusive consumption—one where everyone is invited to celebrate.
With new flavors on the horizon, continued innovation, and an unwavering commitment to community, TÖST is making space at the table for everyone, glass raised, buzz optional.
Southern Vermont DRINK & DINE
Raise a can of Töst — because every moment is worth celebrating.
Southern Vermont DRINK & DINE
Manchester Restaurants with Outdoor Seating NORTHSHIRE DINING
By Gabriel Schatz, Vermont Country Magazine
The Reluctant Panther
The Reluctant Panther in Manchester offers one of southern Vermont’s most refined dining experiences. With a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and an atmosphere that is both intimate and elegant, the restaurant
has earned its place as a culinary cornerstone in the Northshire region.
Executive Chef Sigal Rocklin leads the kitchen with a farmto-table philosophy that’s deeply grounded in Vermont’s agrarian culture. Signature dishes like the lobster and brie fondue and Switchback Ale-braised short ribs reflect a menu that evolves with the seasons and celebrates local producers. Plant-based dishes—like spring ramp pasta or Japanese-style eggplant—are crafted with the same care and flavor-forward creativity.
The setting is just as memorable as the food. Diners can enjoy a meal in the main dining room, the cozy Panther Pub, or on the outdoor terrace with views of Mount Equinox.
A Wine Spectator-awarded wine list featuring nearly 150 labels complements the dining experience, and the knowledgeable staff are quick to offer pairing suggestions.
With glowing reviews wherever you look it’s no surprise that The Reluctant Panther is frequently named among the best restaurants in the region. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just passing through, it’s a place where exceptional food, great service, and beautiful surroundings come together to create a meal worth remembering. For more information visit reluctantpanther.com.
39 West Rd., Manchester, Vermont
The Dormy Bar and Grill
Open seasonally from Memorial Day through October, Dormy Grill is the casual outdoor dining option at The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa in Manchester. Located at the resort’s golf clubhouse, the grill overlooks the ninth hole and the surrounding Green Mountains, offering open-air seating with one of the best views in town.
While it’s a natural stop for golfers, Dormy Grill is also
to Visit This Spring DESTINATIONS Southern
open to the public—no tee time or room key required. Guests can order lunch on the deck, then settle into an Adirondack chair or patio table for an easygoing meal with a scenic backdrop.
The menu leans into summer staples: lobster rolls, wings, and a lineup of sandwiches, including burgers, hot dogs, cheesesteaks and more. Lighter options include salads and a selection of snacks and shareables. Local beer, lemonade, and house cocktails are available at the walk-up bar.
Dormy Grill keeps a relatively short service window, typically open 12PM to 5PM, Thursday through Sunday (beverages only on Thursday).
For travelers or locals looking to experience the North Shire in style, it’s an easy place to drop in and stay a while. For more information visit equinoxresort.com or call 802-362-7838.
3567 Main St., Manchester Village, Vermont
Mulligans - Manchester
Diverse and eclectic menu features fresh lobsters, flamegrilled steaks, fish, salads, nightly specials and homemade desserts served in a converted 19 th century Victorian. Friendly staff, easygoing atmosphere and uncommonly fine family dining.
Children’s menu. Enjoy our lovely patio, spring, summer and fall. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Major Credit Cards accepted. www.mulligans-vt.com
For hours and the full menu, visit mulligans-vt.com or call 802-362-3663
Local musicians are finding places to play their tunes and connect with audiences.
"Every year, I feel like I see more and more things," alt singer/ songwriter Allegra Larson of West Dover said.
One Saturday night, she noticed live music booked up and down Route 100 in her town and Wilmington. In Manchester, she plays at Union Underground and Haig's Restaurant & Sports Bar.
Larson, who plays solo and in the bands Liquid Light and Allegra & the Daydreamers, tries to tailor her sets based on feelings from the crowd.
"I try to read the room," she said, seeing if people might prefer 90's alternative rock or Grateful Dead covers. "I always sprinkle my own songs in there."
Some nights, Larson might take a risk and play all original music.
"I think that it's really cool that is getting fostered by a lot of
Vermont Local Talent
these venues," she said. "They don't just want Top 40 covers, they don't just want crowd pleasers. It's cool that artistic development matters. It's not just about making money and selling alcohol and selling food."
Having a person playing instead of a jukebox provides a "much more connected, authentic experience," Larson said.
"It's something when I go to other restaurants or other resorts, I'm really pleased to see it," she said.
Larson said she feels local musicians are all "super supportive of each other." She's excited to see support for female musicians and the emergence of new bands, such as The Maids and Unqualified, on the scene.
Since July 2022, Donald McCullough of Brattleboro has been running the Local Music Showcase. Performances currently are being held at Bar 580 in Brattleboro.
"I wanted to break into the music scene but after moving here and getting to know the area a little bit, it was just very apparent to me that there's an incredible wealth of talent that lives
Oriana Barros and Dave Schottland make up the duo Hazelnuts.
Southern Vermont DRINK & DINE
and works around here," McCullough said. "And I don't feel like there are enough places that really highlight the local people so that was sort of my goal, to give them, the local talent, a platform to show themselves off."
McCullough said he initially met musicians at open mics then through hosting his weekly showcase. Performers are booked from within an approximately 30- to 40-mile radius of Brattleboro.
An estimated 60 to 70 different musicians have participated in the showcase.
"I still feel like I've only scratched the surface," McCullough
said, as he continues to cross paths with musicians he's never met or heard before. "We have a lot more talent here than we have venues to showcase them. I'm just trying to do my part."
Acknowledging the area has a decent number of venues supporting local musicians, McCullough said it's still a difficult landscape for those who want to play full time or close to full time as it requires a lot of traveling. At the time of the interview, he was looking into places where he could host "showcase rooms," where live music is the sole focus. He also was organizing "Forest of Melody" at the Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center for June 8, where musicians will be at 10 to 12 stations for the crowd to visit as they walk through the woods. Shows are announced on lmsbratt.com and social media pages listed as LMS Bratt.
"I think like any kind of trade or line of work, the more people you meet who are involved in the scene, it kind of helps your cause and gets you more gigs because you have a bit more credibility every time you do a gig. "
Dave Schottland
Musician Dave Schottland of East Dummerston said the showcase is "great," as McCullough is open to booking different artists. If the performers get a good response in a set of 45 minutes to an hour, they may get booked for a full two-hour show.
"I think one of my first times playing solo was at one of his showcases," Schottland said. "That has been, I think, very helpful for our music community."
In high school and college, Schottland played in bands. While living in the New York City area, he played bass and mandolin in a couple of bands that gigged around. In 2019, he moved to Vermont and started playing at the open mic at the River Garden Marketplace in Brattleboro. Now, the space has reopened as Marigold, and brought back an open mic hosted by Kevin Parry and concerts.
Schottland described the open mic as "a kind of a reintroduction into music for me."
"It's a very supportive and welcoming music community," he said.
Schottland and Oriana Barros went on to create the duo Hazelnuts, which first performed at River Garden Marketplace then played countless other gigs in the area. When Barros
Dave Schottland plays solo gigs under the moniker Old Fashioned.
couldn't always make a show, Schottland started booking solo dates under the moniker Old Fashioned.
"Over the last few years, I think I really made it a point to seek out other places and get some face time with owners of places, meet them, not convince them to have me or have music but to help them see how music might look at their place," Schottland said. "I think like any kind of trade or line of work, the more people you meet who are involved in the scene, it kind of helps your cause and gets you more gigs because you have a bit more credibility every time you do a gig. You are not just prepping ahead of time. You are trying out material on the spot and crafting your set right then and there, seeing what works, seeing what the audience is into and what they're not into."
Hosting live music almost every night of the week is New American Grill in Londonderry. The bar/restaurant also has regular open mic and trivia nights.
"It really is incredible how many fantastic artists call our small corner of the world home," the business posted on social media in March. "We host musical acts from 14 to 84. Solos, duos, garage bands, and soon to be famous ones like Dead Guy Fashion!!!"
Union Hall in Newfane began hosting monthly concerts showcasing local musicians last year. Carefully curated by organizers, the performances match artists together on bills and introduce them to new audiences.
Allegra Larson is an alt-musician from West Dover.
As the sunset sets over the Sunset Lake Cannabis farm, owner Sam Bellavance shows off the trellising system which provides some extra support to their cannabis plants. The farm is situated in a windy area which keeps the plants dry and helps to prevent mold and fungus growth. The trellis system helps to brace the plants against the wind which would otherwise knock them over.
Sunset Lake Cannabis Vermont’s Only Climate Neutral Certified Cannabis Farm
By Ahmad Yassir Vermont Country Magazine
This article was previously published by GreenMountain Cannabis News.
South Hero, VT – Sunset Lake Cannabis, a farmer-owned cannabis cultivator and manufacturer in South
Hero, VT, is proud to announce it is Climate Neutral Certified for the second year in a row! Sunset Lake Cannabis is part of a growing movement of socially responsible companies achieving the Climate Neutral Certified standard by measuring its greenhouse gas emissions, setting actionable
carbon reduction plans, and compensating their brand footprint with eligible-verified carbon credits.
“We’re proud to be Vermont’s first Climate Neutral Certified cannabis farm and to recertify for a second year,” says Sam Bellavance, owner of Sunset Lake Cannabis. “Because cannabis is such a
A bird’s eye view of the cannabis field at the Sunset Lake farm with Lake Champlain in the distance. The farmers put sustainability are the center of every decision they make in order to preserve the natural beauty of this land and to preserve it for generations to come.
CannabishasnotbeenanalyzedorapprovedbytheFoodandDrugsAdministration(FDA). Forusebyindividuals21yearsofageandolderorregisteredqualifyingpatientonly.KEEPTHISPRODUCTAWAYFROM CHILDRENANDPETS.DONOTUSEIFPREGNANTORBREASTFEEDING.Possessionoruseofcannabismay carrysignificantlegalpenaltiesinsomejurisdictionsandunderfederallaw.Itmaynotbetransportedoutside ofthestateofVermont.Theeffectsofediblecannabismaybedelayedbytwohoursormore.Cannabismaybe habitformingandcanimpairconcentration,coordination,andjudgment.Persons25yearsandyounger may bemorelikelytoexperienceharmtothedevelopingbrain.Itisagainstthelawtodriveoroperatemachinery when under theinfluenceofthisproduct.NationalPoison ControlCenter (800)222-1222.
Looking down a row of maturing cannabis plants at the Sunset Lake farm you’ll see many large, top flower clusters known as “colas.” When it comes time to harvest, these colas will be cut from the main stalk and hung to dry before going on to be cured and trimmed, and eventually turned into smokable flower, prerolls, gummies, tinctures, topicals, and more.
new industry in the state, we have a real opportunity to address greenhouse gas emissions and climate change right now. We think Vermont’s Cannabis Control Board has done a great job laying the groundwork for us. Now, it’s our turn to make sure we minimize our carbon footprint.”
Climate Neutral Certified is the leading consumer label for climate neutrality. It’s earned by organizations and businesses that have chosen to be accountable for the greenhouse gas emissions generated in the production, operations, and shipping of their goods and services.
“Climate Neutral Certified companies are demonstrating immediate action on climate change is possible and essential,” says
Austin Whitman, CEO of The Change Climate Project. “Climate Neutral Certified brands have built a powerful movement that gives companies and consumers meaningful ways to act on climate—today. They are leading the way, taking immediate voluntary action to address their carbon emissions, and engaging their consumers around this important issue like never before.”
“We view Climate Neutral Certification as an extension of our agricultural practices, really,” says Cy Kupersmith, Director of Sales & Sustainability at Sunset Lake Cannabis. “Growing cannabis in the soil, under the sun and rain—it not only makes for great bud, but it also makes environmental sense. From day one we have been committed to regenerative farming practices of cover-cropping, using minimal and shallow tillage, and eliminating insecticides–all with a focus of preserving and building healthy soils, protecting native pollinators, and keeping excess nutrients out of Vermont waterways. Climate Neutral Certification is another way for us to leave things a little nicer than we found them.”
The Change Climate Project’s certification label builds on internationally recognized standards for carbon measurement and
Sam Bellavance, owner of Sunset Lake Cannabis, smelling a Bermuda Triangle cultivar in their field. Bermuda Triangle is prized by Vermont cannabis connoisseurs and provides the user with an uplifting and adventurous experience thanks to a high CBG and Terpinolene content.
neutrality. All certified brands must measure cradle-to-customer greenhouse gas emissions each year to maintain certification. Then, a brand must commit to reduction action plans to cut future emissions within a 12-24 month timeline, reporting progress on those plans annually. Finally, certified brands must invest in eligible-verified carbon credits to compensate for all of their emissions, directing investment into critical projects that remove and avoid emissions. The brand’s certification data is publicly available on The Change Climate Project’s website, and the process is repeated annually when companies must recertify. Learn more about The Change Climate Project and its community of certified brands at changeclimate.org.
About Sunset Lake Cannabis
Sunset Lake Cannabis is a farmer-owned cannabis cultivator, manufacturer, and retailer. The team at Sunset Lake Cannabis is passionate about sustainable sungrown cannabis and preserving their land for future cultivation. Sunset Lake Cannabis has
partnered with environmentally-focus organizations including the Green Mountain Club and The Change Climate Project to ensure that Vermont maintains a healthy & vibrant landscape. Visit their retail location, Lake Effect Vermont, in South Hero, and find their Climate Neutral Certified products at a Vermont dispensary near you! For more info, visit sunsetlakecannabis.com
About The Change Climate Project
Founded in 2019, The Change Climate Project (TCCP, previously Climate Neutral) is a 501(c)3 tech nonprofit aiming to accelerate global decarbonization. TCCP offers a climate certification, The Climate Label, and a suite of accessible GHG analysis and management tools. Responding to the planet’s need for urgent climate action, TCCP works to accelerate the transition to net zero by setting a high standard for climate leadership, and using sophisticated digital tools to make it easier to launch and grow climate initiatives. To learn more, visit changeclimate.org.
Since Sunset Lake Cannabis never sprays pesticides on their plants, Monarch butterflies are frequent visitors at the farm. Instead, the cultivation team relies on Integrated Pest Management (IPM), using natural predatory insects like Trichogramma wasps and Assassin bugs to combat pests.
Perfectinvestment.Choosewhichflat youwanttolive inandhavea bitof income, OR...considerthis a longterm investment!
Sucha speciallocation and a huge yard. Considerdevelopingmore apartments inthebackofthehouse,andrentout the40x40steelframebuilding...OR developintoyourdreamworkshop andletthe rentalshelppayf or your fun.Rentalsarebelowmarketforthe convenienceofthe owner, butcouldbe greaterif youdecide youneed a greater profit.Please,respectthetenantswith a 48 ho ur not ic ea nd beprep aredto removeyourshoes.
You choose! Suchaversatileproperty...investin 2 rentals...live ineitherunitand renttheother...maybe developthebarnintoanotherunit,homebusiness, workshop..(chec k with Zoning).Justshor t ofan acre(.86)thelandisthebig,bigseller....thehuge, mostlylevelbackyardisalreadylushwithflourishing fruittreesandblueberrybushes.Thereisagarage/ gardeningshedforyourlawntractorandgardening equipment,ortuneitupandgiveyourcollectable caranewhome.Ageinplace!Everythingyouneed onthefirstfloorwithbed,bathandlaundry.Newly renovated,this onesparklesandshines.There are stillsometouchesforthenewownerinthewarmer weathertocomplete, but you canmoverightin,start collecting rentfrom the4room apartment in therear, range,fridge,w/dincluded.$850amonthandthey paytheirutilities.Greatforincomeorgenerationx interimhousing! Apartmentshown on 2ndshowing andwith48hournotice.
Here is ac hanceto own a homedirectl yacrossthestreetfrom theprivate HermitageSkiClubwitheasyaccesstotheresort,snowmobiletrails,theMount Snow ski resort,nearby countr y villages forshoppinganddining, and gorgeousarea lakes.Thislovelyrenovatedchaletsitsonalevellotwithampleparkingthankstoa circulardriveway,winterexposuretoHaystackMountainPeak,ashedforoutdoor gear,skilocker,woodstorage,andlargedeckwithhottub.Insideisavaultedgreat room withlargewindows for great natural light,aScandinavian circular wood stoveforuniqueambiance, large updatedkitchenwithstainlessappliancesand kitchenisland,mainfloorbedroomwithensuitefullbath,alargesecondstoryloft foroverflowsleeping,potentialplayspace,andmorevaultedceilings,alowerlevel familyroomwithpooltableforfunafterskiing,twoadditionalguestbedrooms, twomorefullbaths,andalargemudroomforgreatgearstorageandeasyaccessin andoutofthehousenomattertheweather.Amplespacetospaceoutyourgroup, butstillcozyenoughtoenjoyyourtimewithguests.
