Burlington: City of Festivals

City Events Collage

Being the largest city in the state, Burlington is home to some of Vermont's biggest attractions. From jumping into Lake Champlain in February to help fundraise for Special Olympics Vermont to discovering the local jazz music, Burlington has an event for everyone. Plan your next trip to Champlain around one of these great events.

Here is a list of just some of the annual events Burlington, Vermont has to offer.

August

Annual Burton Summer Sale Each year in August, riders from all over flock to Burton Snowboard's flagship store for the best deals on boots, boards, bindings and apparel.

Annual Church Street Sidewalk Sale: Browse the wares of Church Street's finest shops as they move their wares into the streets along with the best deals of the season.

September

South End Art Hop: Witness the take over of the south end by the dynamic arts and culture of Burlington. You won't want to miss this award winning festival.

Grand Point North Music FestivalJoin music lovers from all over down at Waterfront Park for this two day festival. Live music, food and drink and the beautiful backdrop of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks make this a must see.

Vermont Pride Parade & Festival: What began as a anniversary celebration of the Stonewall Riots has evolved over time to encompass the many LGBT heroes, struggles and victories. This parade and festival is a celebration of our LGBT ally's from both near and far.

Oktoberfest VermontThis Bavarian themed festival boasts many of the traditional aspects of the Munich, Germany age-old celebration, but with an added Green Mountain twist. Beer-lovers from all over rejoice for this waterfront party. 

Burlington Book Festival: An annual celebration of the written word, the book festival gathers writers of all kinds from across the globe and Burlington's backyard to offer writing workshops, presentations, readings and more!

October

Vermont Tech Jam: This career fair/tech expo is a great way for students to get their foot in the door at a variety of highly innovative companies. Find out how technology becomes a creative career at this popular event.

Vermont International Film Festival: Films of all kinds—fiction, documentary and short—are brought to Burlington for this historic festival. Attend a screening, an event or even a panel as filmmakers try to define the spirit of cinema.

Burlington Halloween Bike Ride: Each Halloween Burlingtonites put on their best costume and take to the streets for one spooky trip through town. Need a bike? Borrow one from Champ Rides.

November

Santa Parade and Lighting Ceremony: Join Santa as he makes a quick stop on Church Street before his sleigh ride around the world to kick off the annual Holiday Parade the day after Thanksgiving.

Small Business Saturday: Many of Burlington's favorite merchants are locally owned. Take a day to support these shops in their pursuit of friendly personable service that gives back to the community.

December

Santa 5k Run: Have you ever seen a large pack of Santas running wild down the street? In Burlington it's a holiday tradition. Whether you're participating yourself or just watching from the sidelines, this charity 5k is a spectacle for all.

February

Winter Lights Festival & Penguin PlungeEach year in the midst of winter, Burlington becomes a city of lights. Walk down Church Street and witness beautiful light installations, and don't miss over 1,200 brave souls jumping into Lake Champlain's icy waters during the Penguin Plunge.

April

Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day: The favorite day of the year for many ice cream lovers, Ben & Jerry's gives back to the community by giving away free scoops for everyone. Head to the Flagship Scoop Shop on Church Street to get your free cone!

Vermont Restaurant Week: Vermont is famous for it's farm-to-table attitude and wide variety of local cuisine. This week in April gives Burlington a chance to recognize our favorite eateries with special deals and discounts. Not sure where to go? Check out some local favorites here.

May

Kids DayKid's day is Vermont's largest Children's Celebration. It takes place at Waterfront Park in downtown Burlington and includes a parade, crafts, performances. and more.

Vermont City Marathon & Relay: Runners and spectators alike will enjoy this marathon with live music being performed along the route, and a post-race festival in Waterfront Park

June

Burlington Wine & Food Festival: This annual festival is a great way to experience a taste of Vermont's top restaurants and specialty food and beverages.

Lake Champlain International Fishing Derby: Explore Lake Champlain and compete for cash prizes with the LCI Father's Day Fishing Derby.

Burlington Discover Jazz FestivalThis annual celebration of both local Vermont talent and Jazz legends from around the world has been taking place in Burlington since 1983. The festival includes live performances, workshops, master classes and more. 

For more events, take a look at some of these resources: