Ah, springtime in Burlington, Vermont! A season that brings forth a symphony of colors, scents, and sounds. As the snow melts away and nature awakens from its slumber, this charming city comes alive with a plethora of events that perfectly capture its quaint, creative, vibrant, progressive, sustainable, eclectic and inclusive nature. So grab your coat (because let's face it - it's still chilly) and join me on a journey through some of the best places to celebrate spring in Burlington.
First stop on our adventure is the renowned Church Street Marketplace (2 Church St., Burlington). This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with an array of local shops and eateries where you can indulge in retail therapy or savor delicious farm-to-table cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll along this bustling street as you soak up the lively atmosphere created by street performers entertaining passersby. Don't forget to visit Lake Champlain Chocolates (65 Church St., Burlington) for their delectable handmade treats - because what better way to welcome spring than with chocolate?
Next up is the iconic Farmers Market at City Hall Park (149 Church St., Burlington). Every Saturday morning from May through October, locals gather here to showcase their bountiful harvests of fresh produce and artisanal products. Immerse yourself in this vibrant community event as you peruse stalls filled with colorful fruits and vegetables while engaging in friendly banter with farmers who are more than happy to share stories about their crops. Be sure to stock up on maple syrup - Vermont's liquid gold!
For those seeking artistic inspiration amidst nature's beauty, head over to Shelburne Farms (1611 Harbor Rd., Shelburne), just a short drive from downtown Burlington. This sprawling estate offers breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and a variety of walking trails that wind through fields, forests, and gardens. Take a moment to admire the blooming flowers and listen to the melodies of birdsong as you find your own creative muse in this idyllic setting.
No visit to Burlington would be complete without experiencing the city's love for craft beer. Make your way to Magic Hat Brewing Company (5 Bartlett Bay Rd., South Burlington) where you can take a tour of their whimsical brewery, sample their unique brews, and even try your hand at brewing your own batch during one of their special events. Raise a glass with fellow beer enthusiasts while enjoying live music - because nothing says spring like sipping on a cold pint under the warm sun.
Last but certainly not least is the annual Vermont Maple Festival held in St. Albans (100 North Main St., St. Albans), just a short drive from Burlington. This three-day extravaganza celebrates all things maple - from pancakes drenched in syrup to maple candy galore. Indulge in sweet treats, watch demonstrations on tapping trees for sap, and marvel at intricate sugar sculptures created by local artisans. It's an event that truly embodies Vermont's rich maple heritage.
So there you have it - my guide to experiencing the greatness of spring in Burlington, VT! From strolling along Church Street Marketplace to immersing yourself in nature at Shelburne Farms, indulging in craft beer at Magic Hat Brewing Company, and celebrating maple syrup at the Vermont Maple Festival - each experience captures the essence of this charming city's quirks and customs.
Now go forth and embrace all that spring has to offer!
Websites:
- Church Street Marketplace: www.churchstmarketplace.com
- Lake Champlain Chocolates: www.lakechamplainchocolates.com
- Farmers Market: www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org
- Shelburne Farms: www.shelburnefarms.org
- Magic Hat Brewing Company: www.magichat.net
- Vermont Maple Festival: www.vtmaplefestival.org
Twitter:
Because Let'S Face It It'S Still
Chilly, VT
United States
2 Church St.
Burlington, VT
United States
65 Church St.
Burlington, VT
United States
149 Church St.
Burlington, VT
United States
1611 Harbor Rd.
Shelburne, VT
United States
5 Bartlett Bay Rd.
South Burlington, VT
United States
100 North Main St.
St. Albans, VT
United States