MEET YOUR MAPLE BOURBON MAKER A LOOK AT VERMONT DISTILLERS’ ASTOUNDING SUCCESS
VERMONT BREWERS ASSOCIATION SALUTES THE SUMMER OF 2025
STICK SEASON IN VERMONT
ENJOY THE QUIET BEAUTY BETWEEN FALL AND WINTER
SEE YOU NEXT SUMMER!
THANK YOU for supporing another amazing year at the 2025 CHAMPLAIN VALLEY FAIR!
Welcome craft brew lovers and cannabis connoisseurs to the latest issue of BrewView Vermont. We hope you’ll enjoy this edition, where we run down a few new releases, check in on the Vermont Maple Bourbon maker Vermont Distilleries, and provide a full event calendar, Vermont crafters map, and tasting spreadsheet.
On the cannabis side, we check in with a few dispensaries and get answers to a few salient questions. Plus, you’ll find a dispensary map, and a flower review.
We also pay homage to Stick Season, a unique time in Vermont that holds its own kind of charm, and we find out what the Vermont Brewers Association was up to during the summer of 2025.
And for fun, we take a look at the revitalization of Waterbury, VT, home of craft beers, incredible dining options, and historic flair.
We hope you’ll enjoy our issue, and please reach out with story ideas, fun facts, or just to say
Cheers everyone!
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The holidays are a time of giving, and there are few better ways to spread joy than by giving back to those in need in your community. Consider these impactful ways to support local shelters and make a difference. Learn more at www.brewviewvt.com
Serve your guests in style: Learn how charcuterie boards are perfect for holiday entertaining or everyday at www.brewviewvt.com.
Fest Bier! 5.3%
This festive offering is inspired by the lagers served at Munich’s Oktoberfest. Toasty, biscuit notes from German malts complement the earthy, floral tones of noble hops, making this a Prost-worthy pint with a finish as crisp as the Vermont air. www.lawsonsfinest.com
Night Raven 5%
This dark lager might just elevate the scene with its brooding, bold flavors. The taste will linger, watching you as the last bit of moon disappears behind Earth’s shadow. www.4qbc.com
Oktoberfest 5.8%
Our yearly release of Oktoberfest! This German-style Marzen lager was brewed with a blend of Vienna, Munich, and Caramel malts to give big notes of caramel candy, toasted multigrain bread, and dark honey. It was fermented with our house lager yeast, low and slow, and then lagered for an additional four weeks at near-freezing temps for a crisp, clean, snappy finish. It is incredibly drinkable and is one of our favorite beers of the year. www.goodmeasurebrewing.com
Feats of Strength Festbier 5.9%
Black Flannel’s new festbier has the aroma of light sourdough bread, earthy noble hops, and malty flavors that fade to fresh dough with a clean finish. www.blackflannel.com
Fresh-Hopped Amber 7%
It’s Harvest Ale season at Ten Bends! Since 2014, we’ve brewed with freshly picked Vermont hops, and today we partner with @champlain. valley.hops, harvested just hours before hitting the kettle. Annually, in early autumn, we source local fresh hops, and within hours of their harvest, we use them to brew Ten Bends’ Harvest Ale. Each year, this results in a unique ale highlighting the freshly harvested hop variety’s characteristics and the growth region’s terroir. www.tenbends.com
Oktoberfest 5.8%
Our Oktoberfest is a loving celebration of autumn in Vermont, the perfect accessory for your leafpeeping adventures. The dark, malty flavors of this beer, along with the crisp, cool fall air, hint at the upcoming ski season. This artful Märzen Lager strikes a perfect balance between richness and refreshment, with flavors of sweet and toasty malt, refined German hops, and crisp mountain water.
www.northchair.com
Magic Carpet Ride 5%
Our award-winning wines are crafted by the Brooks family on land that’s been in the family since the 1600’s.
Hop on the Magic Carpet Ride, a session IPA so light, you’ll float from first sip to last. This new beer is hopped with Nelson Sauvin, Mosaic, and Comet hops, giving it a sweet and spicy nose with a full-bodied mouthfeel. Notes of black cherry, citrus, and cotton candy will take your taste buds on a ride straight to the top of the bunny hill. www.snowrepublicbrewery.com
Rock the Pink 4.5%
Stowe Cider is proud to once again partner with @rockthepinkofficial in support of their mission to end breast cancer for everyone. This year’s specialty cider blends hibiscus and rose hip for a bright, floral, semidry sip. Recently, Stowe Cider donated a portion of the proceeds from the sales of every can to Rock the Pink and the @americancancersociety. Together, we’re raising cans, raising funds, and raising awareness. www.stowecider.com
The Pinto Cocktail 18.67%
We recently discovered the Pinto cocktail and got hooked! The unlikely pairing of cherry liqueur and Fernet-Branca liqueur comes together to create a fruity, herbaceous, and tart cocktail that is greater than the sum of its parts. Shake one up and let us know what you think!
www.vermontdistillers.com
This recipe is adapted from the book Pioneers of Mixing at Elite Bars: 1903-1933.
1 oz Metcalfe’s Cherry Liqueur
3/4 oz Fernet-Branca
1 tsp lemon juice
Dash Angostura bitters
Shake ingredients thoroughly with ice to chill and dilute. Doublestrain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with an orange peel.
PERFECT PAIRING: Any Hill Farmstead Brewery beer Farmhouse Tap & Grill’s Meatloaf is a hearty, farm-totable favorite crafted with LaPlatte River Farm beef and Vermont Heritage Grazers pork. Served with roasted potatoes, tender baby carrots, and finished with rich mushroom gravy, it’s comfort food elevated with local flavor. www.farmhousetg.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Foam Brewers’ In the Garden We’re a casual mountain pub located just outside downtown Stowe. We’ve got a long list of beers on tap, and great food, including our old-school calamari, with lemon, basil and olive oil, and lentils and mushrooms with poached Vermont chilies. www.docponds.com
PERFECT PAIRING: White Cosmo with Green Mountain Organic Cranberry Vodka
Sink your teeth into our PieCOWso Burger. Made to order, it’s everything it should be: a bold, flavorpacked creation crafted for true burger lovers. This mouthwatering masterpiece starts with locally raised ground beef, grilled to juicy perfection, and topped with our handpicked toppings of the day. Of course, it’s always served with our fresh-cut french fries or side salad (if requested). www.piecasso.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Prohibition Pig Brewery's Little Fluffy Clouds American Pale Ale
Waterbury’s own Pro Pig is where smoked meats meet fresh brewed beer meet incredible local cocktails. And speaking of meats, gather a group and order the “Buy the Farm” platter; there’s a little bit of everything for everyone! www.prohibitionpig.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Ask them to make you a Daybreak El Cortijo’s Western Omelet is a savory breakfast favorite, packed with tender carnitas, fresh peppers, and onions, then topped with zesty salsa roja for a flavorful kick. Enjoy this delicious omelet as part of El Cortijo’s breakfast menu, available every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 2pm. www.cortijovt.com
PERFECT PAIRING: One of our local hard ciders
The Pizza Funghi at Pascolo Ristorante features truffle whipped Champlain Valley Creamery ricotta, fresh mushrooms, onions, Maplebrook Farm mozzarella, and parsley. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a pizza with rich, earthy flavors and a fresh finish. www.pascolovt.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Fiddlehead IPA
Our crunchy Caesar wrap, packed with grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing, is the ultimate post-shopping lunch on Church Street. Pair it with a side of golden sweet potato fries, and you’ve got perfection on a plate! www.tavernvt.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Guy Mardon Touraine Sauvignon Blanc
You’re going to love the hamachi crudo salsa verde, with local tomatoes, olives, and chili crunch. It’s an incredible combination that will leave your taste buds dazzled! We look forward to making your evening out memorable. www.oakesandevelyn.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Chinon, Loire Valley, Cabernet Franc, "Cuvée Terroir", 2021 for Charles Joguet
Enjoy a delightful autumn evening at Bistro de Margo with a specially crafted fall dinner. Savor the local Boyden Farm oxtail “crisp,” perfectly complemented by a rich braising jus reduction. The meal is served with fresh frisée lettuce and a vibrant salad of seven-day pickled vegetables, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that celebrate the season.
www.bistrodemargot.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Switchback Ale
Our wood-fired, brick-oven pizza is second to none! We have specialty pizzas, or you can custom order your favorites, 12- and 16-inch. While you’re enjoying our delicious pizza, check out our fabulous location: a Barre City firehouse, built in 1904. www.ladder1grill.com
PERFECT PAIRING: Weird Window Botany Bay
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
BY KRISTIE L. SMITH NIKITIN
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID SEAVER AND VERMONT DISTILLERS
Ed Metcalfe Jr., onetime owner of what was, at the time, the only winery in Vermont, has been in the libation business more than once. He has a degree in economics from Bryant University and has held positions in finance but seems to gravitate toward liquid gold. Ed, supported by wife Linda and joined by sons in the family business, definitely demonstrates that variety—or is it maple bourbon—is the spice of life.
The year was 1985, bacon was $1.65 per pound, and Ronald Reagan was president of the United States. Coke introduced a new formula, and Ed decided to open the North River Winery. At the time, North River was the only winery in Vermont, and was best known for its hard cider and fruit wines. Ed sold the winery in 1997, but after an eleven-year hiatus, he decided to launch Vermont Distillers. “It was something I always wanted to try since I sold the winery,” Ed says.
In 2008, Ed entered a business plan competition sponsored by the Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation and won the $10,000 grand prize. Initially, Vermont Distillers only produced three products. Today, they have six cordials, two
bourbons, vodka, and a few seasonal offerings. The vodka is Catamount, and the others retail under the name of Metcalfe’s.
Ed says, “I have done many things over the years, from banking to managing a large liquor store.” He has sold wine, made wine, and managed a natural history museum.
Let’s not forget that stint as a hot air balloon pilot.
He is a dive-right-in kind of guy. So when he began both the winemaking and spirit-making adventures, he started at square one.
“Since I did not have much experience in either product, wine or spirits, it started
7755 Route 9 East
West Marlboro, VT
www.vermontdistillers.com
out with a lot of experiments to get the products the way we wanted them,” says Ed. Good thing he did time as a high school science teacher to brush up on conducting experiments.
As proprietor and president of Vermont Distillers, Ed is chief cook and bottle washer, as they say. Everything from the books to the production schedule falls under his purview; he has even been known to pour at tasting events.
Joined in the business by sons Augustus (Gus) and Dominic, the three divide and conquer the workload. Gus and Dominic are bringing to the family business what they learned in college and at other gigs.
Gus is a graduate of Vermont Technical College with a major in horticulture. He works at the distillery in Marlboro, operating the still and managing all things under the production umbrella. Dominic, a UVM grad, has a degree in studio art focused on graphic design and a minor in music. He now works daily at the distillery with his father and brother.
Even though he has trusted help, Ed would like to have more free time. “I
don’t have any spare time. I would like to semi-retire.”
Many things surprise entrepreneurs. Selling about six thousanad cases of liquor totaling more than $1M is definitely
breathtaking. But what shocked Ed even more is “How popular our maple bourbon has become. The market exploded.” While Gus is astounded by” the amount of different kinds of [liquor] we can make. The possibilities are almost endless.”
All three have ideas for expanding
the portfolio. Ed and Gus would like to see a gin under their label, and Dominic says they just released their first ‘unflavored whisky.’ “I love our maple and honey bourbons, but I am excited about our new straight bourbon whiskey, Hogback Reserve, a double-oaked, cask-strength bourbon, coming in at 125 proof.”
Another recent release is their third batch of Pommeau. This French-style aperitif is distilled from Vermont apples, then blended with fresh cider and aged in a used bourbon barrel. The most recent batch is a blend of six-year-old and threeyear-old Pommeau barrels.
Where’s the best place to find Catamount Vodka or any of Metcalfe’s offerings? For sure, in the tasting rooms or the Hogback Mountain Gift Shop. Some of the varieties are available only in New England, and in some cases, only in Vermont or at the tasting rooms. Their website, www.vermontdistillers.com, does a great job of highlighting the different varieties and detailing where they can be purchased. As for Ed, his next act is anyone’s guess; there’s a good chance he will stumble on yet another venture whenever he retires.
OCT. 28 & 29, 2025
FEB. 24 & 25, 2026
MAR. 24 & 25, 2026
MAY 11 & 12, 2026
TICKETS ONLY AT
We asked our friends at the Vermont Brewers Association to give us a recap of the events the association took part in last summer. If you missed any of these, mark your calendar for next year. Cheers!
Last July, thousands of beer lovers gathered on the shores of Lake Champlain for the 2025 Vermont Brewers Festival, a beloved annual celebration of the state’s vibrant brewing scene. Held at Burlington’s Waterfront Park, the two-day event featured more than fifty breweries from across Vermont and beyond, offering everything from hazy IPAs and fruited sours to crisp lagers and farmhouse ales.
This year’s event held special meaning for the Vermont Brewers Association, which marked its 30th anniversary in 2025. To celebrate, the Vermont Brewers Association launched a statewide collaboration beer project involving over thirty
breweries and two custom hop blends. Each beer was a unique expression of Vermont’s creativity, independence, and sense of community.
The Fermentation Tent returned as a popular feature of the weekend, offering casual speaker sessions with brewers, food producers, and fermentation experts. Topics ranged from spontaneous fermentation to the trials and tribulations of dealing with fermentation and food pairings, giving attendees a chance to deepen their knowledge between pours.
In a surprise moment, Jordan Klepper of The Daily Show made an appearance to film a live segment highlighting the importance of Canadian tourists to Vermont’s local economy and to celebrate the shared love of beer across the border. With Burlington just a short drive from the Canadian border, the segment underscored the vital connection with our closest neighbors t o the north.
Whether you came for the beer, the scenery, or the people, this year’s festival delivered. It was the perfect place to raise a glass to thirty years of brewing together.
On a mild summer evening at Centennial Field, members of the Vermont Brewers Association gathered for a night of baseball, community, and cold beer at a Lake Monsters game sponsored by our friends at Country Malt Group and Lallemand Brewing. Brewers from across the state came together in the stands to enjoy great company and celebrate the connections that make Vermont’s brewing community so strong.
It was the perfect setting to unwind mid-season, cheer on the home team, and share stories over a few pints. Events like this are a reminder that while we may work in different corners of the state, we’re all part of the same team.
A huge thank you to Country Malt Group and Lallemand Brewing for making the evening possible and for their continued support of Vermont’s brewers, both on and off the field.
The Vermont Brewers Association was thrilled to showcase Vermont craft beer at the Champlain Valley Expo, bringing together a rotating lineup of VBA
member breweries to serve samples and sell four-packs to go. With tens of thousands of visitors attending the fair, it was an incredible opportunity to introduce new audiences to the quality
and variety of beer being brewed across the state.
Our presence helped shine a spotlight on the talent and passion of Vermont brewers, who produce everything from classic styles to creative small-batch releases. Thank you to all the participating breweries who helped make it a success!
The Vermont Brewers Association was proud to take part in Siptember, a lively beer festival that brings together breweries from across the state, alongside some truly adorable adoptable dogs. We had a great time connecting with festival-goers, celebrating Vermont beer, and selling merch to support our mission. It was a fine fall day filled with local pours, wagging tails, and great conversations.
Enjoy the quiet beauty between fall and winter
When most people think of Vermont, they picture vibrant autumn foliage or snowcovered ski slopes. But tucked between these two iconic seasons lies a lesser-known chapter: Stick Season. This transitional period, stretching from late October to early December, offers a unique experience for those willing to embrace its quiet charm.
Stick Season begins after the fiery reds and golds of fall have faded and before the first heavy snowfall blankets the Green Mountains. During this time, deciduous trees stand bare, their skeletal branches reaching skyward—hence the name “Stick Season.” The landscape transforms into a muted palette of grays and browns, creating an atmosphere that feels both serene and introspective.
While it may lack the postcard-perfect scenery of peak foliage or winter wonderlands, Stick Season has its own appeal:
Fewer crowds: With the tourist rush over, Vermont slows down. You’ll find open tables at popular restaurants, space at the bar in your favorite brewery, and quiet roads perfect for scenic drives.
Lower prices: Lodging and attractions often offer off-season discounts, making this an affordable time to explore Vermont's many quaint towns and villages..
Local flavor: Towns host craft fairs, farmers’ markets, and early holiday events. It’s a great time to connect with Vermont’s artisans and farmers.
Here are a few ways to enjoy Vermont during Stick Season:
Take scenic drives and hikes. Without dense foliage, the views open up, revealing rolling hills and mountain silhouettes. Trails are less crowded, and the crisp air is invigorating.
Browse boutiques, consignment shops, and cozy cafés. Your visit helps sustain small businesses during this quieter season.
Finally, Stick Season invites you to slow down. Whether you’re sipping cider by a wood stove or walking through open fields, there’s a meditative quality to this time of year.
BY MARIE EDINGER
Waterbury has been a proud part of Vermont since its charter in 1763. It’s named for the first European settlers, who came largely from Waterbury, Connecticut. Before then, Native Americans enjoyed the region for the plentiful water, timber, and soil. James Marsh is credited as the city’s first permanent settler in 1783. Now, the town of Waterbury is making great strides to promote its economic, social, and historic vitality.
Today, the Vermont Downtown Program, a group dedicated to supporting growth and
strength in the state’s historic downtown areas, has named Waterbury one out of twenty-three “Designated Downtowns” and has partnered with the local nonprofit Revitalizing Waterbury, which is coordinating some of the initiatives.
So far, Waterbury’s revitalization has focused largely on the downtown area, but the revitalization efforts are already visible in the broader community: A new skate park is opening up in town, thanks to a community initiative.
Roger Clapp, executive director of Revitalizing Waterbury, says the group is planning to expand its efforts to include
Waterbury Center and other surrounding communities.
Roger and his wife have lived in Waterbury since 2000 and raised their two boys there. He served as president of the Waterbury Winterfest Committee for several years. When he retired from his position at a civic engagement nonprofit called PH International, he took over Revitalizing Waterbury.
REVITALIZING WATERBURY PO Box 473
Waterbury, VT www.revitalizingwaterbury.org
Roger describes Waterbury Center as the “gateway to the Waterbury Reservoir” and an “absolute jewel” of a recreational area, featuring picnicking, camping, a swimming beach, a nature trail, and boat rentals.
“Access to the Waterbury Reservoir is a key feature for a lot of residents who like to go kayaking or paddle boarding in the summer,” Roger says. “It’s a really picturesque state park; a nice spot for swimming and ice fishing and skating in the winter.” Also, Waterbury Center has direct access to the mountains, which makes it attractive to cross-country and backcountry skiers, as well as mountain bikers and snowshoers.
“Waterbury Center is fairly well known to the traveling public,” Roger says, “but it’s also a great place to live.” It’s also a safe place for families because it has no rowdy nightlife scene.
Roger points to a few new things in the area, like Zenbarn on Guptil Road, which has musical entertainment a few nights a week, the Hope Davy Park disk golf area, and a couple of marijuana dispensaries.
At the same time, Waterbury Center is trying to preserve its historical heritage.
“What is interesting about the Center is that it’s at the quieter end of Waterbury, with the potential of redefining how it functions as a village center,” Roger says. “I think there is a lot of interest in creating more of a hub of activity, with residents taking more control of their future.”
The town filed for a grant with the Vermont Department of Transportation to make Waterbury Center more walkable, safer, and more connected, so that it can be a more vital community. Roger says it’ll be a year-long planning process, but it will result in the development of pedestrian walkways and other ways to better connect the village.
“The village is a bit disjointed right now because there’s the historical center facing the Grange Hall Cultural Center,” Roger explains, “and then there’s the commercial center with Cold Hollow Cider Mill along Route 100.”
So the question is, how to better connect those, as well as develop walkable access to the recreation area at Waterbury Reservoir.
The Better Connections Grant is bringing
in different community organizations and businesses to help with the planning. So far, it’s been largely a grassroots effort.
Owen Sette Ducati, the economic development director of Revitalizing Waterbury, has played a major role. Waterbury Center residents Duncan McDougall and Kati Gallagher have been spearheading community involvement.
The Grange Hall Cultural Center, for instance, holds theatrical performances
throughout the year and participates in the planning process. Roger says Artisan Coffee and Tea just established a new roasting facility and café a little north of the center, adjacent to Evergreen Gardens, a popular landscaping and garden center. They’re also contributing to the plans to connect the community.
Waterbury’s rich history is one of its major points of pride, and the Grange Hall is one of its hubs. The building was constructed in the 1850s and now serves as an emerging cultural center for the village.
A Methodist church built in 1833 that anchors Waterbury Center is on the National Register of Historic Places. Twenty years ago, Revitalizing Waterbury led the restoration of the Waterbury Railroad Station, built in 1875, which is now home to Black Cap Coffee and Bakery, which hosts thousands of travelers each year. They also refreshed the Visitors Center at the Waterbury Train Station, which now has artifacts and vintage décor on display, along with some newly crafted features.
A local nonprofit called MakerSphere established a studio in the Green Mountain
SALT & RIND, where local draft beers, wines, and cocktails are on the menu, along with oysters, cheeses, and charcuterie. www.saltrindevents.com
BLACKBACK PUB, serving up craft beer and great food! Beer selections change constantly. Small plates like cod cakes, sticky maple gochujang shrimp, and Korean vegetable pancakes are on the menu. www.theblackbackpub.com
PROHIBITION PIG, offering twenty-plus craft beers on tap, old-fashioned cocktails, and southern-style small plates and BBQ. The duck fries are amazing! They have a Liquor Society, offering 3 oz flights of your favorite hooch, and more. www.prohibition.com
THE RESERVOIR & BIG TREE BREWING, featuring over thirty beers on tap, along with local farm-to-table comfort food. Big Tree Brewing is its own nano brewery, offering beer available on draft and in cans. Need an event space? They can accommodate parties of up to 50 guests. www.waterburyreservoir.com
HEN OF THE WOOD, where you’ll find craft beers, local cocktails, and a fine wine list. They have Oyster Hour from 5pm to 6pm at the Lower Bar, Thursday–Saturday. The menu changes based on the premium local ingredients sourced from the Green Mountains and the Champlain Valley. www.henofthewood.com
GALLUS HANDCRAFTED PASTA, where they serve classic cocktails and an array of delightful wine. Here, they celebrate the artisan craft of fresh pasta. Their pasta is handcrafted every day and served with fresh, local ingredients. Pork Milanese, campanelle, and stuffed pappardelle are just a few of the local dishes. www.gallushandcrafted.com
Seminary, which dates back to 1869, and now offers art and trade classes for all ages. They’re also remodeling an old ambulance facility to serve as a workshop in Waterbury Center.
“There are some distinctive historical elements that anchor Waterbury Center as a picturesque New England village,” Roger says. “At the same time, it’s got a definite twenty-first-century vibe with fresh community interest.”
BY REINA ESSER
If you grew up in Montpelier, chances are you have memories inside the Capitol Theatre. For nearly a century, it has been the city’s place for movie magic, laughter with friends, and first dates shared under the glow of the big screen.
The building’s story is as dramatic as the films it has shown. When it opened in the late 1920s as the Playhouse, it was
the pride of downtown. Then came the disasters: first a fallen elm tree in 1938, followed by a fire that nearly destroyed it the next year. What could have been the end became instead a fresh start. Using what remained of the original walls, builder K.R. Beard and carpenter Nelson Paxman reconstructed the theatre in 1939, giving Montpelier the Capitol Theatre.
With more than six hundred seats and a sweeping balcony, the Capitol became
the kind of place where the whole town gathered.
By the 1960s, the Cody family owned it, along with Burlington’s Flynn Theater. Later, Fred and Mary Bashara took it on as a family project, transforming the single screen into a multi-auditorium space. They restored old seats with red upholstery, hung bright curtains, and expanded to five auditoriums. The Capitol quickly became a hub where locals came not only to see films but also to socialize. Then the floods came. In March 1992,
Montpelier filled with water, and the Capitol filled with it too. The sprinkler system burst, and the seats and floors were ruined. “Everywhere we looked was soaking wet,” remembers Cyndy BasharaGolonka. It was heartbreaking, but the family knew they would rebuild.
Three decades later, disaster struck again. The summer rains of 2023 sent floodwaters through downtown Montpelier. This time, Cyndy was there with her husband, children, and father, pulling out carpets and hauling ruined seats to the curb. Neighbors streamed in as well. “We had about twenty-five community members come down to help us take out the seats. All five hundred of them lined the front of our buildings,” she says. “Some people asked how they could help. Others just acted.”
Piece by piece, the theatre was stripped down to its bones. Walls were
opened to the studs, floors pulled up, and blowers running day and night to dry the space. Yet amid the wreckage, there was vision. Old film reels discovered in the balcony were saved and now hang on the walls as décor. The wainscoting was preserved and returned to its place. A new concession stand was built to echo the one that had been lost. Even the couches were reupholstered again, giving them another chance to welcome guests.
Six months later, the lights dimmed and the Capitol was back in business, reopening with the latest Hunger Games movie. Families filled the seats once more. “When people walk in now, they see the original colors: red, navy, and purple,” Cyndy says.
“It feels like the Capitol again.”
The return has been emotional. Customers stop to share their memories and thank the family for bringing the theatre back. Parents introduce their children to the thrill of the big screen. “You can’t get that excitement at home,” Cyndy says.
For Montpelier, the Capitol Theatre is more than a building. It is proof that even after fire, flood, and hardship, some places are simply too important to lose. “If you build it, they will come,” Cyndy says with a smile. And in Montpelier, they always do.
Next time you’re at the Capitol Theatre, taking in a movie, get there a little early and enjoy a local brew or canned cocktail while you admire the theatre’s beautifully renovated interior.
Many of your favorite brands, such as Zero Gravity, Barr Hill, Fiddlehead Brewing, and more are available. Capitol Theatre owner Cyndy BasharaGolonka says that Sip of Sunshine IPA by Lawson's Finest Liquids is their best seller.
Try one of these local brews next time you visit.
Conehead IPA
Fiddlehead IPA
Gin & Tonic Canned Cocktail
Little Sip IPA
Sip of Sunshine IPA Unified Press
BY MEREDITH MANN
MothaPlant proudly serves Franklin County as its premiere craft dispensary. They are committed to providing the highest quality cannabis products with an educational approach to support the needs of their customers. Their team is committed to supporting the healthy growth of the cannabis industry in Vermont. www.mothaplant.com
CULTIVATOR: Oski Cultivation
STRAIN: Nitro Fumez
BREEDER: Bloom Seed Co.
GENETICS: Motorbreath 15 X Candy Fumez
THC: 26.9%
TAC: 31.5%
TERPS: Terpinolene, Limonene, Myrcene, Beta Caryophyllene
Oski Cultivation grows with 100 percent organic input. They believe in aroma and flavor over THC content, with Oski, their dog, guarding the grow so they can bring the fire!
Nitro Fumez, a hybrid strain bred by Bloom Seed Co., is made from a genetic cross of Motorbreath 15 x Candy Fumez.
This strain provides balance and an uplifting experience while calming the nerves. Nitro Fumez brings it home with the terpinoline, a gassy and bright flavor with lingering and subtle sweet notes.
The first aromas upon opening the jar were fruity, gassy, sweet, and floral essences. While looking at the bud with the hand-held jewelers’ loupe, the color was a range of light and dark greens, with tightly trimmed or crimped red hairs. Looking pretty and uniform, these nuggets may have been machine tumbled and trimmed, suggested by the less than bulbous and loose trichomes that coated the flower. These tight buds exposed a sea of small non-bulbus trichomes and deliciously big calyxes. The visibly bulbous trichomes were visible when we cracked open the nuggets, showing us it was ready for the picking, just reaching early maturity.
Lighting the joint, we tasted a sweet and tangy lemon with a black licorice twist on the back of our tongues, almost like a clove cigarette, with lavender lingering. The flavors reminded us of Pakistani hash paired with a cup of chai tea. Deep conversations ensued about enlightenment, followed by heart belly laughs about hash while we enjoyed the sweet peppery notes on the final puffs of the roach, so sticky and resinous, it glistened in the light on the outside of the joint. This strain left no question in our minds. Happy and high, we headed right to the oven as the timer dinged for our dinner: pulled pork and mac and cheese local pie!
CULTIVATOR: Yellowbird
STRAIN: Double Love
BREEDER: N/A
GENETICS: XXX x LA KUSH
THC: 21%
TAC: 25.1%
TERPS: a-Pinene, Limonene, Myrcene
Double Love is a sativa-dominant hybrid strain (70 percent sativa/30 percent indica), created through an unknown combination of other tasty hybrid strains.
As we opened the jar, a waft of potent, peppery aroma bellowed from the container. Visually dark in the jar, plum and purple piqued our interest, followed by an enticing lemon aroma and a peppery twang in the back of the throat. Nonbulbous, fully intact trichomes heavily coated the nug. Cracked open, we saw more beautiful purple hues, more bulbous trichomes than outside, as well as Trichomes on the red pistils. The smell reminded us of a citrus picatta or a lemon ricotta, something delicious and Italian, with an essence of lemon rind. Sweet on the grind, the peppery essence also shone through. Fluffy, but not sticky on the grind, we easily rolled up fatties. We were loving the zingy taste on the lips with the flavorful, pungent and memorable dry hits.
Peppery on the first draw of smoke, with notes of hoppy and soapy strains, a familiar flavor profile. We laughed about the nose-tingling Beta-Caryophyllene terpene and noted the dankness. Not for everyone, but to those who appreciate it like we do, think of that offensively delicious skunky smell stoners adore. It tasted harsher towards the end, potent and heady the whole time, finally leaving an earthy linger in the back of the throat and floral scent in the nose. A crispy classic sativa high, eye-opening, wake-up kind of weed! We found this strain to be super fun and social.
CULTIVATOR: The Florist STRAIN: Punk Rock Girl #2
BREEDER: DNA Crew
GENETICS: Dante’s Inferno x Gas Face
THC: 27.4%
TAC: 31.8%
TERPS: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene
Dessert time! If you like dessert, here is another sweet strain, with a fruity draw and citrus kick that permeated our noses upon opening the jar.
The flower is a pleasant light green with purple tones and has a bit of a unique structure. With so much sugar on the leaves, we wanted to savor each one. Sugary and glistening in the sun, the jar, not just the buds, were covered with trichomes. When we cracked open the bud, we exposed even more milky, bulbous, delicious-looking trichomes.
The bud was crumbly and dry, falling easily out of the grinder. The more we ground, the more the sweet essence of the plant shone through. Upon smoking, earth tones started to come through about one-third of the way through the joint, grounding and warming us like the sun. We reminisced about fruit-striped gum as we lit our joints and commented on how similar the flavor profile was while lamenting that the flavor of the gum doesn’t last as long as the flavor of this flower.
We enjoyed the smoke, relaxing, as our eyes became heavier. Punk Rock Girl #2 is a perfectly ripe, cured flower that hit the spot in more ways than one. It’s definitely a dessert worth treating yourself to!
Locally and family owned and operated
Cannabis has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). For use by individuals 21 years of age and older or registered qualifying patient only. KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN AND PETS. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING. Possession or use of cannabis may carry significantlegalpenaltiesinsomejurisdictionsandunderfederallaw. It may notbetransportedoutsideofthestateofVermont.Theeffectsofediblecannabismaybedelayedby twohoursormore.Cannabismaybehabitformingandcanimpairconcentration,coordination,andjudgment.Persons25yearsandyoungermaybemorelikelytoexperienceharmtothedevelopingbrain.Itisagainstthelaw todriveoroperatemachinerywhenundertheinfluenceofthisproduct.National Poison Control Center (800) 222-1222. We have one of the largest Bud bars in Vermont with a wide variety of products from bud to glass and everything in between!
Everything you want to know about the cannabis dispensing business in Vermont
Q. What do you like best about being part of a cannabis dispensary in Vermont?
Patricia E., owner, Sunday Drive Dispensary: The people, from the fabulous people who keep the day-today operations of Sunday Drive running smoothly to the wonderful Vermonters who cultivate and manufacture the products we offer to our amazing customers. The people are the best part of owning Sunday Drive. I have met so many great people since opening Sunday Drive three years ago, and I am thankful for all of them.
Megan Clendenin, storefront general manager, Dome City Dispensary: The customers! It’s been amazing to get to know so many people from all walks of life who come together to enjoy the plant. Vermont has such a mom-andpop, hometown feel compared to the hustle and bustle of Colorado—it’s been refreshing to be part of such a close-knit community.
Drew Smith, owner and operator, Cannabis Maximus: What I like best about being a dispensary in Vermont is the sense of community and connection. Vermonters genuinely care about each other and about supporting local, responsible businesses. Cannabis here isn’t just an industry—it’s a shared passion rooted in wellness, nature, and authenticity. Being able to provide safe, legal access to a plant that has truly changed my life is both humbling and deeply fulfilling.
Zack Lighterman, general manager, Lake Effect Vermont: What I like best about working at a dispensary in Vermont is the strong focus on locally grown cannabis and supporting small farmers. By offering products from farms across the state, including those right here in the Lake Champlain Islands, we can provide every customer with a unique experience, whether they are visiting from out of state or just down the road. It feels rewarding to offer quality craft cannabis grown near the store while supporting the local farming community.”
Q. What questions do you ask someone when they’re not quite sure what they’re looking for?
Sunday Drive: When somebody comes into Sunday Drive and is unsure what they’re looking for, we usually first ask how they are looking to feel and their preferred method of consumption, and the conversation flows from there.
Dome City Dispensary: I start by asking about their preferred consumption method and what kind of experience they’re hoping for—whether it’s to sleep, relax, or stay active.
Cannabis Maximus: I always start by asking what mode of consumption they prefer: smoking, vaping, edibles, drinks, concentrates, tinctures. Next, I ask about their goals with cannabis, whether it’s for relaxation, pain relief, creativity, or just
Mindfully curating Green Mountain cannabis products to provide the best quality offerings from our state The Teahouse is minority + women owned
’til midnight Thursday Friday,
Saturday!
enjoyment. These two questions open the door to meaningful conversations about lifestyle and comfort, helping me guide them toward the best experience for their needs.
Lake Effect Vermont: When a customer isn’t sure what they’re looking for, we ask about the effects they want to feel, their experience with cannabis, and their preferred method of consumption. This helps us guide them and curate an experience based on the products we have available. Some customers prioritize taste, others potency, and some are searching for a specific cultivar they enjoyed years ago. We provide as much information as they want, whether it is about terpene profiles, cannabinoid combinations, or the lineage of our cultivars. Every customer is unique and looking to experience the plant in their own way.
Q. What’s the most pleasant and not-so-pleasant surprise you’ve encountered since opening?
Sunday Drive: The most pleasant surprise since opening Sunday Drive is how many locals I have met! My other business, Clover Gift Shop, in the village of Woodstock, is mostly tourist-driven, so I was unsure how many locals we’d have shopping at Sunday Drive. We have the greatest local customers who support us, and many have become friends—people from all walks of life, and they all inspire me. When weed brings people together, the world is a happier place. Also, Vermonters grow amazing weed and have so much passion! I love working with passionate cultivators and being part of the journey as they perfect their craft. Not so pleasant: I’m surprised how difficult Vermont legislators make it to operate an efficient, profitable cannabis business. The hoops that we must jump through and the many ways the
rules have changed since the market opened just three years ago are very discouraging and make running a small business difficult, when Vermont is capable of a clean, sustainable, thriving cannabis market.
Dome City Dispensary: The most pleasant surprise has been how easygoing and supportive our customers are. It’s been incredible watching our loyal customer base grow—and fun to see how many people are still discovering us. On the not-so-pleasant side, navigating the challenges of compliance and everchanging regulations has definitely kept us on our toes.
Cannabis Maximus: The most pleasant surprise has been my team. From our general manager to our budtenders, they are a group of people we truly like, trust, and respect. That culture is everything. When your employees are happy and proud of what they do, it shows in the customer experience. Our mission is value-driven, rooted in quality, fair pricing, and how we treat people. I couldn’t be prouder of the team we’ve created.
The not-so-pleasant surprise has been the lack of accessible resources for cannabis businesses. Because the industry remains federally illegal, we’re limited to a handful of niche—and often expensive—vendors for banking, payroll, merchant services, and insurance. It’s frustrating to support both state and federal taxes while being denied equal access to basic business tools. Passing federal banking reform would open the door to fair competition and muchneeded relief for operators like us.
Lake Effect Vermont: One pleasant surprise has been the wide range of customers we see, from seniors in their nineties looking for sleep or
pain relief to young adults visiting dispensaries to celebrate their twentyfirst birthday. We even have a “Where Are You From?” map in the store, and so far we’ve had visitors from forty-six states, including Alaska and Hawaii. It’s always surprising how far people have traveled to experience what makes Vermont cannabis unique. However, a less pleasant surprise is how many people focus only on potency. Some won’t even try a product if it doesn’t hit a certain THC percentage, overlooking the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and the unique benefits different profiles offer.
Q. When you’re not at the dispensary, how do you spend your time?
Sunday Drive: When I am not at Sunday Drive, I am usually with my family; my husband, kids, and our three rescue dogs. We often can be found skiing or swimming up in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, where we love to be!
Dome City Dispensary: I spend most of my time with family, enjoying Vermont’s incredible live music scene, and, of course, smoking a little cannabis.
Cannabis Maximus: When I’m not at the dispensary, I love spending time with my wife, son, and our Boston Terrier, Oreo. I’m an avid golfer and lifelong hockey fan, especially when it comes to the Bruins! Family, sports, and time outdoors keep me grounded and grateful.
Lake Effect Vermont: I enjoy hiking local trails, taking day trips, visiting local markets, and cooking with fresh ingredients. I also love traveling both within the country and internationally to experience new cultures and regional foods, which often inspire my cooking. These experiences keep life interesting and inspire me to continue exploring.
1.Dome City Dispensary, Winooski
2.Milton Remedies, Milton
3.Lake E ect Cannabis, South Hero
4.Vermont Bud Barn, Brattleboro
5.Cannabis Maximus, Brattleboro
6.Down to the Roots Dispensary, Chester
7.Emeraldrose Grows Dispensary, Bristol
8. Winooski Organics, Winooski
9.Vermont Good re Cannabis Dispensary, Waterbury Center
10.Something Wicked Cannabis, Bethel
11.MothaPlant Dispensary, St. Albans
12.Northeast Kannabis, St. Johnsbury
13.Kingdom Boys , Derby
14.Kushie's , Derby
15. Theory Wellness, Brattleboro
16.3J's Cannabis, Milton
17.Float On Dispensary, Burlington
18.Green Leaf Dispensary, Burlington
19.Dome City Dispensary, Winooski
20.Little City Greens, Vergennes
21.Castle Cannabis, Johnson
22.Sunday Drive Dispensary, Woodstock
Harvest Brewing Benningtonwww.harvestbrewing.netThu–Sat
Madison Brewing Benningtonwww.madisonbrewingco.com
Bent Hill Brewery Braintree www.benthillbrewery.comFri–Sun
Foley Brothers Brewing Co.Brandon www.foleybrothersbrewing.com
Red Clover Ale Brandon www.redcloverale.comThu–Sun
Snow Republic Brattleboro www.snowrepublicbrewery.com
Long Trail Brewing Bridgewater Common www.longtrail.com
Bobcat Brewery and CaféBristol www.thebobcatcafe.com
Hogback Mountain BrewingBristol www.hogbackbrew.comCheck
Burlington Beer CompanyBurlington www.burlingtonbeer company.com
Foam Brewers Burlingtonwww.foambrewers.com
Queen City Brewery Burlingtonwww.queencitybrewery.netTue–Sun
Switchback Brewing Co.Burlingtonwww.switchbackvt.com
Vermont Pub and BreweryBurlingtonwww.vermontbrewery.com
Zero Gravity Craft BreweryBurlingtonwww.zerogravitybeer.com
House of FermentologyCharlotte www.houseoffermentology.com
Green Empire BrewingColchesterwww.gebrew.com Fri–Sat
Red Barn Brewing Danville www.redbarnbrewingvt.comFri–Sat
Dirt Church BreweryEast Havenwww.dirtchurchvt.com Tues, Thu–Sun
1st Republic BrewingEssex Junction www.1strepublicbrewingco.com Tue–Sun
Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling Company Essex Junctionwww.blackflannel.comTue–Sun Check websiteYCheck website
Hill Farmstead BreweryGreensborowww.hillfarmstead.com Wed–Sat Y NEvents only
Frost Beer Works Hinesburgwww.frostbeerworks.comFri–Sun N NEvents only
Ten Bends Beer Hyde Parkwww.tenbendsbeer.comFri–Sun Check websiteNEvents only
Lot Six Brewing Jeffersonville www.lotsixbrewing.comWed–Sun Outdoor areasYN
Red Leaf Gluten-Free Brewing Jeffersonvillewww.facebook.com/redleafgfFri–Sun Check websiteCheck websiteCheck website
Beer Naked BreweryMarlboro www.facebook.com /BNBrewery Thu–Sun Y YEvents only
Drop-In Brewing CompanyMiddleburywww.dropinbrewing.com7 Days (Summer)Y YEvents only
Rock Art Brewery Morrisvillewww.rockartbrewery.comMon–Sat YCheck websiteEvents only
Soulmate Brewing CompanyMorrisvillewww.soulmatebrewing.comThu–Sun N YCheck website
Kingdom Brewing Newport www.kingdombrewingvt.comThu–Sat Outdoor areasYWeekly
Good Measure Brewing Co.Northfield www.goodmeasurebrewing.com 7 Days N YEvents only
Kraemer & Kin North Herowww.kraemerandkin.comFri–Sun Check websiteYN
Norwich Inn Norwich www.norwichinn.com 7 Days Y YEvents only
Stone Corral BreweryRichmondwww.stonecorral.comTue–Sun Y YCheck website
Rutland Beer Works Rutland www.facebook.com/rutland beerworks Wed–Sat Check websiteCheck websiteEvents only
14th Star Brewing Co.Saint Albanswww.14thstarbrewing.comTue–Sun N YCheck website
Mill River Brewing Saint Albanswww.millriverbrewing.com Wed–Sat N YCheck website
Whirligig Brewing Saint Johnsburywww.whirligigbrewing.comWed–Sun Check websiteYCheck website
Fiddlehead Brewing Co.Shelburnewww.fiddleheadbrewing.com 7 Days N YCheck website
Weird Window BrewingSouth Burlington www.weirdwindowbrewing.com
Two Heroes Brewery South Herowww.twoheroesbrewery.comThu–Sun
Upper Pass Breer Co.South Royaltonwww.upperpassbeer.comTue, Fri, Sat,
Alchemist Beer Stowe www.alchemistbeer.com Tue–Sat
NEvents only Idletyme Brewing Co. Stowe www.idletymebrewing.com 7
Von Trapp Brewery and Bierhall Stowe www.vontrappbrewing.com7 days
website Brocklebank Craft BrewingTunbridgewww.brocklebankvt.comFri–Sat Y NCheck website
Hired Hand Brewing Vergenneswww.hiredhandbrewing.comWed–Sun
Cousins Brewing Waitsfield www.facebook.com /cousinsbrewing Check website
Lawson’s Finest LiquidsWaitsfieldwww.lawsonsfinest.com 7 Days
Big Tree Brewing Waterburywww.waterburyreservoir.com 7 Days
Prohibition Pig Waterburywww.prohibitionpig.com 7 Days
Next Trick Brewing West Burke www.nexttrickbrewing.comFri–Sun
Snow Republic Brewing Co.West Dover www.snowrepublicbrewery.com 7 Days
Kickback Brewery Westfordwww.kickbackbrewery.comCheck
Backacre BeermakersWeston www.backacrebeermakers.com N/A
River Roost BreweryWhite River Jct.www.riverroostbrewery.comThu–Sun
Goodwater Brewery Williston www.goodwaterbreweryvt.com
Harpoon Brewery Riverbend Taps Windsor www.harpoonbrewery.com /breweries-windsor/
Four Quarters BrewingWinooski www.4qbc.com
Saxtons River DistilleryBrattleboro www.saxtonsriverdistillery.com
Mad River Distillers Burlingtonwww.madriverdistillers.com
Hooker Mountain Farm and Distillery Cabot www.hookermountainfarm.com
Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling Company Essex Junctionwww.blackflannel.comTue–Sun
JEFFERSONVILLE, VT
MONTPELIER, VT
WAITSFIELD, VT
MIDDLEBURY, VT
BRATTLEBORO, VT
ST. JOHNSBURY, VT
SMUGGLERS’ NOTCH GLUTEN FREE VODKA
Unparalled quality with a hint of sweetness and smoothness. Certified organic.
BARR HILL GIN
The juniper-forward botanicals are brought to a perfect balance by the floral depth of raw honey.
MAD RIVER BOURBON WHISKEY
Wonderful deep aroma of Vermont-grown corn. Smokiness on the palate with a smooth aromatic finish.
PAPILIO AGAVE
Very Clean and pure with muted tequila flavor overlaid with smoky sweet notes of maple syrup.
PERC COFFEE LIQUEUR
Specialty grade Arabica Coffee is infused with exceptionally pure liquor and lightly sweetened.
PIRATE DAN’S VERMONT RUM
Handmade in custom stills. This triple distilled rum is uniquely smooth.
BRENDAN’S SPICED RUM
Has a flavor profile that balances well with many unique spices, and a delightful orange finish. * Both Rums are distilled at the St Johnsbury distillery.
Wayside Restaurant, Bakery & Creamery 1873 US Route 302 • Montpelier, VT • Since 1918 Open Dailly • 7:00AM to 8:30PM • Waysiderestaurant.com
winery.com
vineyards.com
Lincoln Peak WineryNew Haven www.lincolnpeakvineyard.com
Putney Mountain WineryPutney www.putneywine.com 7 Days
Shelburne Vineyard Shelburnewww.shelburnevineyard.com 7 Days
Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery South Herowww.snowfarm.com 7 Days
Fable Farm FermentoryBarnard www.fablefarmfermentory.com Saturdays
Little City Cider Co. Benningtonwww.facebook.com/ LittleCityCiderCo Thu–Sat
Citizen Cider Burlingtonwww.citizencider.com 7 Days
Windfall Orchard Cornwall www.windfallorchardtvt.comSat–Sun
Chapin Orchard Essex Junctionwww.chapinorchard.comCheck website
Vermont Cider Lab Essex Junctionwww.vtciderlab.comWed–Sun
Hall Home Place Isle La Mottewww.hallhomeplace.comFri–Sun
Woodchuck Cider Middleburywww.woodchuck.comWed–Sun
Boyer’s Orchard Monkton www.boyersorchard.com 7 Days
Eden Specialty CidersNewport www.edenciders.comCheck website
Champlain OrchardsShorehamwww.champlainorchards.com 7 Days
only
NEvents only
only
NEvents only
NEvents only
Stowe Cider Stowe www.stowecider.com Mon, Thurs–Sun On patio NSaturdays 4–7
Shacksbury Vergenneswww.shacksbury.comWed–Sun
NEvents only
Flag Hill Farm Vershire www.flaghillfarm.comBy schedule onlyN NEvents only
Tin Hat Cider Waitsfieldwww.tinhatcider.com Mad River Taste Place, Mon–Sat
NNo Cold Hollow Cider MillWaterbury Centerwww.coldhollow.com 7 Days
only
TROMBONE SHORTY
30 Center Street, Rutland ,VT www.paramountvt.org
NOVEMBER 7, 7:30PM
STORY OF A SONG: A 90's UNPLUGGED EXPERIENCE
NOVEMBER 13, 7:30PM DARK STAR ORCHESTRA
NOVEMBER 14, 7PM
STEVE-O: THE CRASH AND BURN TOUR
NOVEMBER 15, 7PM
TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE
NOVEMBER 17, 7PM A NIGHT WITH CODY JINKS & WARD DAVIS
NOVEMBER 18, 7:30PM KEB’ MO’
NOVEMBER 21, 7PM CAITLIN CANTY
NOVEMBER 29, 7PM
CHAMPIONS OF MAGIC: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
DECEMBER 7, 3PM VSO: HOLIDAY POPS
DECEMBER 19 & 20
THE NUTCRACKER
122 Hour Glass Drive Stowe, Vermont www.sprucepeakarts.org
NOVEMBER 12, 7PM
NATALIE MERCHANT WITH ERIK DELLA PENNA
NOVEMBER 14, 7PM
VSO PRESENTS: MADE IN VERMONT WITH THE MOTH RADIO HOUR–SPRUCE PEAK
NOVEMBER 20, 7PM
SPRUCE PEAK UNPLUGGED: AN EVENING WITH LIVINGSTON TAYLOR
NOVEMBER 21, 5PM & 8PM
WARREN MILLER’S SNO-CIETY
DECEMBER 3, 7PM ROOM FULL OF TEETH
DECEMBER 6, 7PM TARTAN TERRORS XMAS
DECEMBER 9, 10AM
ADA TWIST, SCIENTIST, AND FRIENDS
DECEMBER 16, 7PM
SEAN HEELY’S CELTIC CHRISTMAS
DECEMBER 19, 7PM
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA CHRISTMAS CONCERT
DECEMBER 21, 7PM CAROLMANIA!
5781 Mountain Road Stowe, VT www.stowe.com
DECEMBER 12 & 13
EPIC PASS HOLDER APPRECIATION WEEKEND
DECEMBER 20, 1:30PM SPRUCE PEAK LIGHTS FESTIVAL THE VILLAGE AT SPRUCE PEAK
DECEMBER 31, 1PM
ANNUAL NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
4323 Vermont Route 108 South Jeffersonville, VT www.smuggs.com
NOVEMBER 15 & 16
SNOWBOUND EXPO
Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
DECEMBER 20, NOON CELEBRATE THE WINTER SOLSTICE–SMUGGS STYLE!
DECEMBER 21–JANUARY 2, 10:30AM HOLIDAY MAGIC AT SMUGGS
DECEMBER 24, 12:30PM VERMONT REINDEER VISIT
102 Forrest Drive Warren, VT www.sugarbush.com
NOVEMBER 22, 5PM THE BIG KICKER
DECEMBER 6–13, ALL DAY KIDS SKI FREE WEEK
DECEMBER 13, 6PM WALL OF FAME CELEBRATION
DECEMBER 13, 7PM SUGARBUSH CELEBRATION
DECEMBER 20, ALL DAY MT. ELLEN OPENING DAY 2025
GOBBLE GOBBLE WOBBLE 5K ROOM FULL OF TEETH
DECEMBER 24–JANUARY 4, ALL DAY HOLIDAY WEEK AT SUGARBUSH
DECEMBER 27, 4PM WALT’S AFTER DARK
DECEMBER 29, 5PM THE ALLYN’S LODGE EXPERIENCE: A LA CARTE DINNER
DECEMBER 31, 7PM NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS & TORCHLIGHT PARADE
DECEMBER 31, 9PM NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
5 Village Lodge Road Stratton Mountain, VT www.stratton.com
NOVEMBER 27, 9AM
NOVEMBER 27, 4PM
THANKSGIVING DINNER AT TABLE 43.1
DECEMBER 31, 5:30PM
NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
DECEMBER 31, 8:30PM NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS
830 Jay Peak Road Jay, VT www.jaypeakresort.com
NOVEMBER 10, 1PM
DECEMBER 7, 5PM
DECEMBER 8, NOON DECEMBER 21, 1PM
NATIONAL COLLEGIATE HOCKEY GAMES
DECEMBER 6–27, EVERY SATURDAY 3RD ANNUAL WINTERSHINE
NOVEMBER 16, 8:30AM DECEMBER 14, 8:30AM GIGANTIC INDOOR FLEA MARKET
OCTOBER 17–19, 10AM CHAMPLAIN VALLEY CRAFT & ANTIQUE EXPO
NOVEMBER 5 & 6, 9AM AMERICAN DAIRY XPO
105 Pearl Street
Essex Junction, VT
(802)878-5545 www.cvexpo.org
NOVEMBER 8 & 9, 10AM 4TH ANNUAL VERMONT STEAMPUNK EXPO
DECEMBER 6 & 7, 10AM
VERMONT HOLIDAY MARKET
Lake Morey Resort 82 Clubhouse Road Fairlee, VT www.lakemoreyresort.com
DECEMBER 13, 10AM HOLIDAY MARKET
DECEMBER 31, 8PM NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION
2 Church Street, Suite 3B Burlington, VT www.vso.org
NOVEMBER 13, 1PM
YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERT St. Albans
NOVEMBER 14, 1PM YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERT Montpelier
NOVEMBER 14, 7PM MADE IN VERMONT WITH THE MOTH RADIO HOUR Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center 122 Hourglass Drive Stowe, VT
NOVEMBER 15, 7PM
MADE IN VERMONT WITH THE MOTH RADIO HOUR
Southern Vermont Arts Center
860 SVAC Drive Manchester, VT
NOVEMBER 16, 4PM
MADE IN VERMONT WITH THE MOTH RADIO HOUR
Bellow Falls Opera House
7 Village Square
Bellow Falls, VT
DECEMBER 5, 7:30PM
HOLIDAY POPS
Barre Opera House
6 North Main Street Barre, VT
DECEMBER 6, 7:30PM
HOLIDAY POPS
Flynn 153 Main Street Burlington, VT
DECEMBER 7, 3PM HOLIDAY POPS
Paramount Theatre 30 Center Street Rutland, VT
DECEMBER 12, 7PM
BRASS QUINTET & COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
Warren United Church 339 Main Street Warren, VT
DECEMBER 12, 7PM
BRASS QUINTET & COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
United Church of Newport 63 Third Street Newport, VT
DECEMBER 13, 5PM BRASS QUINTET & COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
Grafton Community Church 55 Main Street Grafton, VT
DECEMBER 14, 4PM
BRASS QUINTET & COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
Manchester First Congregational Church 3624 Main Street Manchester, VT
101 Main Street Burlington, VT www.vermontcomedyclub.com
NOVEMBER 6, 6PM & 8:30PM
VT’S FUNNIEST: PRELIMS!
NOVEMBER 7 & 8, 7PM & 9PM
CAITLIN PELUFFO
NOVEMBER 13, 7PM CASEY BALSHAM
NOVEMBER 14, 6PM & 8:30PM
VT’S FUNNIEST: SEMIS!
NOVEMBER 15, 7PM
VT’S FUNNIEST: FINALS!
NOVEMBER 21 & 22, 7PM & 9PM CHRIS GETHARD
NOVEMBER 28, 7PM NOVEMBER 29, 7PM & 9PM CIPHA SOUNDS
NOVEMBER 28, 9PM TAKE IT PERSONAL WITH CIPHA SOUNDS
DECEMBER 4, 7PM CHRIS FRANJOLA
DECEMBER 5 & 6, 7PM & 9PM DULCE SLOAN
DECEMBER 7, 11AM
ELEGANZA & ESPRESSO: A DRAG BRUNCH!
DECEMBER 11, 7PM
DECEMBER 12 & 13, 7PM & 9PM ZACH ZIMMERMAN
DECEMBER 14, 6PM GEOFFREY ASMUS
160 Flynn Avenue Burlington, VT www.switchbackvt.com
EVERY SUNDAY, NOON NFL ON THE BIG SCREEN
EVERY SATURDAY, NOON COLLEGE FOOTBALL ON THE BIG SCREEN
NOVEMBER 2–9, NOON
VERMONT CIRCUS FESTIVAL
New England Center for Circus Arts 10 Town Crier Drive Brattleboro, VT plan.vermontvacation.com
NOVEMBER 17 & 18
3RD ANNUAL VERMONT CRAFT BREWERS CONFERENCE
Doubletree Hilton Burlington, VT www.vermontbrewers.com/events /vermont-craft-brewers-conference
DECEMBER 12–14, 10AM WOODSTOCK WASSAIL WEEKEND Downtown Woodstock Woodstock, VT www.woodstockvt.com
DECEMBER 31, 4PM FIRST NIGHT NORTH 2026 Downtown St. Johnsbury St. Johnsbury, VT www.catamountarts.org/first-night-north
VERMONT CRAFT BREWERS CONFERENCE
1.Kingdom Brewing Newport
2. Big Tree Brewery Waterbury
3.Hill Farmstead Brewery ....................................... Greensboro
4.Ten Bends Beer Hyde Park
5.Lot Six Brewing Company Jeffersonville
6.Soulmate Brewing ............................................. Morrisville
7.14th Star Brewing Co. St. Albans
8.Mill River Brewing BBQ & Smokehouse St. Albans
9.Kickback Brewery Westford
10.Red Barn Brewing Danville
11.Foam Brewers .................................................Burlington
12.House of Fermentology Charlotte
13.Snow Republic Brewing Company Brattleboro
14. Queen City Brewery. . .
.Burlington
15.Simple Roots Brewing Burlington
16.Switchback Brewing Burlington
17.Vermont Pub and Brewery Burlington
18.Zero Gravity Craft Brewery Burlington
19.Lost Marble Brewing Company ................................Manchester
20.Next Trick Brewing (Open May-October) West Burke
21.Burlington Beer Company Burlington
22.Four Quarters Brewing .......................................... Winooski
23.1st Republic Brewing Co Essex Junction
24.Stone Corral Brewery Richmond
25. Frost Beer Works............................................... Hinesburg
26.Fiddlehead Brewing Company Shelburne
27.Rock Art Brewery Morrisville
28.Two Heroes Brewery South Hero
29.Alchemist Brewery Stowe
30.Idletyme Brewing Copmany ........................................ Stowe
31.Red Leaf Gluten Free Brewing Jeffersonville
32. Liambru Tasty Proctor
33.Prohibition Pig ................................................ Waterbury
34.Bent Hill Brewery Braintree
35.Brocklebank Craft Brewing Tunbridge
36.Foley Brothers Brewing Company Brandon
37.Snow Republic Brewing Company West Dover
38.Lawson’s Finest Liquids ........................................ Waitsfield
39.Good Measure Brewing Co. Northfield
40.Norwich Inn Norwich
41.River Roost Brewery ...................................... White River Jct.
42.Bobcat Brewery and Café Bristol
43.Hogback Mountain Brewing Bristol
44.Drop In Brewing Company .................................... Middlebury
45.Mount Holly Beer Co. Mount Holly
46.Harvest Brewing Bennington
47. Rutland Beer Works Rutland
48.Harpoon Brewery Windsor
49.Green Empire Brewing ......................................... Colchester
50.Backacre Beermakers Weston
51.Madison Brewing Bennington
52.Lucy and Howe ................................................... Jericho
53.Beer Naked Brewery Marlboro
54. Von Trapp Brewing Stowe
55.Dirt Church Brewing Company East Haven, Vermont
56.Whetstone Station Brattleboro
57.Scotch Hill Brewing ............................................ Fair Haven
58.Hired Hand Brewery Vergennes
59.Red Clover Ale Brandon
60. Long Trail Brewing ................................... Bridgewater Corners
61.Upper Pass Beer Company South Royalton
62. Weird Window Brewing South Burlington
63.Freak Folk Bier ................................................. Waterbury
64.Black Flannel Brewing Co. and Distilling Co. Essex
65.Whirligig Brewing St Johnsbury
66.Kraemer and Kin.
1. Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery South Hero
2.Hillis Sugarbush Farm & Vineyard Colchester
3. Shelburne Vineyard ....................................... Shelburne
4. Charlotte Village Winery Charlotte
5. North Branch Vineyards Montpelier
6. Montpelier Vineyards .................................... Montpelier
7. Neddo Family Vineyards Barre
8. Maquam Winery Milton
9. Neshobe River Winery Brandon
10. Lincoln Peak Vineyard New Haven
11. Whaleback Winery ......................................... Poultney
12. Putney Mountain Winery Putney
13. Honora Winery & Vineyard Jacksonville
14.Fable Farm Fermentory ..................................... Barnard
1.Eden Specialty Ciders Newport
2.Stowe Cider Stowe
3.Hall Home Place ......................................... Isle La Motte
4.Citizen Cider Burlington
5.Groennfell Meadery St. Albans
6.Chapin Orchard Essex Junction
7.Boyer’s Orchard and Cider Mill Monkton
8.Shacksbury Cider .......................................... Vergennes
9.Little City Ciders Bennington
10.Flag Hill Farm Vershire
11.Champlain Orchards ....................................... Shoreham
12.Vermont Hard Cider Middlebury
13.Woodchuck Cider Middlebury
14.Windfall Orchard Cornwall
15.Mountain Cider Company North Chittenden
16.Wood’s Cider Mill Springfield
17.Whetstone Ciderworks Marlboro
18.Fable Farm Fermentory Barnard
19.Shelburne Orchards ....................................... Shelburne
20.Cold Hollow Waterbury Center
1.Elm Brook Farm East Fairfield
2.Smuggler’s Notch Distillery. . .
Jeffersonville
3.Green Mountain Distillery Morristown
4.Caledonia Spirits Montpelier
5.St. Johnsbury Distillery St. Johnsbury
6.Saxton’s River Distillery ................................... Brattleboro
7.Mad River Distillery Waitsfield
8.Hooker Mountain Farm and Distillery Marshfield
9.Vermont Spirits ............................................. Quechee
10.Applachian Gap Distillery Middlebury
11.Black Flannel Brewing Co. and Distilling Co. Essex
12.WhistlePig Farm Shoreham
13.Silo Distillery Windsor
14.Vermont Distillers .......................................... Marlboro
North Hero
67. The Tropic Brewing Waterbury
68.Twisted Horn Brewery ...................................... Londonderry
