BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Vermont’s largest city is preparing to host the state’s biggest New Year’s Eve party. As Darren Perron reports in this week’s “Vermont’s Own,” Highlight 2025 aims to showcase the best of what the Green Mountains have to offer.
“I know we are supporting more than 117 artists. Then we have another 70 people working behind the scenes,” said Zach Williamson with Burlington City Arts, the organization behind Highlight 2025.
The planning begins in the summer. But in the days just before New Year’s Eve is when it’s all hands on deck. Workers put the finishing touches on the venues, and bands get in some sound checks before the big crowds arrive.
“We are on track to have 4,000 to 5,000 people show up for Highlight,” Williamson said.
Indoor performances like Circus Smirkus at Contois Auditorium are big attractions.
“We love it. It’s a wonderful tradition for our troupers,” said the circus’ Josh Shack. “We get really enthusiastic audiences here. People come year after year. They love the circus magic here in the auditorium.”
It’s a one-of-a-kind show starring kids from all over the country. “So, this is like a big reunion. And it’s also a reunion for us with the people of Vermont. It’s our home state, and we feel bonded with the state and people who live here,” said trouper Lev Eisner.
Dozens of performances dot the city on New Year’s Eve. And the annual event is truly Vermont’s own.
“Highlight has always been about Vermont. We only book artists who live here, grew up here, or have some connection here. Maybe they studied here and moved on, but everyone performing has a connection to the state of Vermont,” Williamson said.
Two of the biggest draws take place at the Burlington waterfront. Crews rolled in a sculpture of the state’s favorite lake monster, Champ.
“This year we decided to do a heart shape because of all of what’s going on in the nation right now,” said Chris Cleary of Cirque de Fuego, which is coordinating the Champ spectacle. The wooden structure becomes the hottest attraction when it’s set ablaze in a fiery offering to honor the legendary mascot. “This will be the fifth year of burning Champ on the lake… When you see all the kids in the front row smiling and everyone smiling, it’s special.”
Not far from the Coast Guard, pyrotechnicians carefully placed the fireworks that will also help revelers ring in the New Year.
“You’re gonna feel a sense of excitement, a sense of community, you’re gonna be proud of where you live, and you’ll experience it through the arts, which is fantastic,” Williamson said.
On next Wednesday’s installment of “Vermont’s Own,” we’ll visit Brookfield. If you have an idea for your town, don’t be shy, send us a note about the places, people, and events that embody the place you call home.
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