Home » Destination News » From Lake Champlain to Marlboro, six Vermont Towns in the United States With Unforgettable Festivals That Will Boost Your Travel Plans
Published on
September 21, 2025
Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes, tranquil small towns, and rural charm, offers more than just stunning scenery. Its festivals, which celebrate the state’s rich traditions and community spirit, play an essential role in making it a top destination for travelers. These events provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience Vermont’s culture in an immersive and engaging way. Whether it’s through boat races on the scenic shores of Lake Champlain, savoring the sweetness of maple syrup in St. Albans, or attending world-class musical performances in Marlboro, Vermont’s festivals foster a sense of community and welcome people from all walks of life. Each town, from bustling Burlington to the peaceful settings of Tunbridge and Quechee, offers a different cultural experience, enhancing Vermont’s appeal to travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
The Role of Festivals in Vermont’s Tourism Industry
Festivals are at the heart of Vermont’s tourism industry. These events serve as significant drivers of tourism, attracting people from all over the world and making Vermont a must-visit destination. Beyond providing entertainment, festivals contribute to the local economy by supporting businesses, providing jobs, and promoting Vermont’s cultural heritage. They offer travelers more than just a typical vacation, allowing them to engage in authentic cultural experiences that deepen their connection to the state. Whether it’s the lively celebrations in Burlington or the more intimate gatherings in rural towns like Marlboro or Quechee, these festivals attract diverse crowds and create lasting memories for visitors. As tourism continues to grow, the festivals play an increasingly important role in shaping Vermont’s global appeal and economic growth.
Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival: Unity through Competition
The Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival is one of Burlington’s most anticipated summer events. The festival features vibrant races where teams from different backgrounds, including cancer survivors and community groups, race in colorful dragon-shaped boats along the stunning shores of Lake Champlain. The event is not just about competition—it also serves a charitable purpose. Proceeds from the festival benefit cancer support organizations like Dragonheart Vermont and Sail Beyond Cancer VT. The festival encourages a sense of unity and community, as participants compete for unique awards such as Best Team Name, Best Chant, and Best Tent Site. This lively atmosphere draws a wide variety of people, making the event memorable for both participants and spectators. The Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival showcases Vermont’s blend of sportsmanship and community spirit, attracting tourists and locals alike to experience a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and competition.
Marlboro Music Festival: Classical Music in a Historic Setting
In the serene town of Marlboro, the Marlboro Music Festival stands as one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in the United States. Every summer, musicians come together for three weeks of intense rehearsals, culminating in public performances that showcase their talent and hard work. The festival features a range of music, from traditional classical pieces to contemporary compositions, with 60 to 80 ensembles participating each year. Concerts are held in the intimate Potash Hill’s Persons Auditorium, providing a unique opportunity for music lovers to enjoy world-class performances in a historic and cozy setting. The Marlboro Music Festival appeals to both classical music enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful cultural experience. With its combination of exquisite music and a tranquil atmosphere, the festival contributes significantly to Vermont’s cultural tourism scene.
Vermont Maple Festival: A Celebration of Sweet Tradition
The Vermont Maple Festival in St. Albans is a beloved event that highlights Vermont’s rich history of maple syrup production. Every April, visitors from near and far gather to celebrate this iconic Vermont product. The festival offers everything from sugarhouse tours to pancake breakfasts, all centered around maple syrup. Visitors can enjoy live music, visit local vendors selling handmade goods, and participate in the grand parade, which winds through the heart of St. Albans. Some activities, like the fiddler’s variety show and maple beverage tastings, require tickets, but many events are free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. The Vermont Maple Festival provides visitors with a chance to connect with Vermont’s agricultural traditions while indulging in the sweet treat that the state is famous for. For families and food lovers alike, this festival is a perfect way to immerse themselves in Vermont’s rural charm and maple syrup heritage.
Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival: Soaring High over Vermont’s Beauty
The Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival is an iconic event that takes place every June in Quechee, attracting thousands of visitors who come to witness the breathtaking spectacle of hot air balloons soaring over Quechee Gorge. For over 45 years, this annual event has drawn crowds to experience the beauty of Vermont from the air. The festival features a range of activities, including live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly experiences. Special events, such as sunrise yoga and balloon ride raffles, add a unique touch to the festival, making it an unforgettable experience for many. For those lucky enough to win a ride, viewing Quechee Gorge from a hot air balloon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival remains one of the most popular events in Quechee, offering a stunning aerial view of Vermont’s natural beauty while creating lasting memories for visitors.
Festival of Fools: Celebrating Street Performance
In August, Burlington hosts the Festival of Fools, a free event that transforms the streets into a vibrant celebration of street performances. The festival features a wide range of entertainment, including acrobats, jugglers, clowns, musicians, and more. Held at the Church Street Marketplace and City Hall Park, the festival brings a carnival-like atmosphere to the city, with open-air stages allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the performers. This lively celebration offers a fun, family-friendly experience and provides an opportunity to witness world-class talent in an open, relaxed setting. The Festival of Fools draws visitors from all over, providing an accessible and lighthearted cultural experience that showcases the vibrant arts scene in Burlington.
Tunbridge World’s Fair: A Journey into Vermont’s Agricultural Past
The Tunbridge World’s Fair, held every September in Tunbridge, is a cherished event that celebrates Vermont’s deep agricultural roots. This four-day fair, which dates back to 1867, features traditional activities like harness racing, livestock exhibitions, and tractor pulls, providing a nostalgic glimpse into Vermont’s rural life. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, live music, and classic fair foods, creating a fun-filled experience for families. The Tunbridge World’s Fair offers a great opportunity to explore Vermont’s agricultural traditions and learn about the state’s farming heritage through exhibits and demonstrations. For many visitors, the fair is a chance to connect with Vermont’s rural roots while enjoying the festive atmosphere and local culture.
Vermont’s Festivals: A Global Draw for Travelers
Vermont’s festivals have evolved beyond being local events to become significant attractions that draw travelers from all over the world. These events offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Vermont’s culture, traditions, and natural beauty. Whether it’s the energetic dragon boat races in Burlington, the sweet indulgence of maple syrup in St. Albans, or the awe-inspiring hot air balloons in Quechee, Vermont’s festivals provide unforgettable experiences that go far beyond typical tourist activities. They offer travelers a deeper understanding of the state’s cultural fabric, providing a personal and immersive experience that fosters meaningful connections with Vermont’s people and traditions.
These festivals also play a key role in promoting Vermont’s tourism industry. By attracting global visitors, they generate economic benefits for the state, supporting local businesses and artisans who rely on the influx of tourists each year. The festivals offer a platform for local performers, food vendors, and artisans to showcase their talents, boosting Vermont’s cultural economy. In addition, these events serve as a form of cultural exchange, as visitors from around the world interact with locals, learn about Vermont’s way of life, and contribute to the state’s growing international reputation.
Economic Impact: Boosting Vermont’s Economy through Festivals
Beyond their cultural significance, Vermont’s festivals contribute directly to the state’s economy. Thousands of visitors attend these events each year, bringing with them the purchasing power that benefits local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail shops. Artisans, food vendors, and performers also benefit from the increased exposure, creating new opportunities for economic growth. The festivals also create jobs, from event organizers to vendors and performers, providing employment opportunities for local residents. By continuing to draw visitors from around the world, these festivals ensure the sustainability of local businesses and support Vermont’s economy in the long term.
The Legacy of Vermont’s Festivals
Vermont’s festivals are an essential part of the state’s identity, offering travelers a chance to connect with its rich culture and traditions. From the excitement of the Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival to the charm of the Tunbridge World’s Fair, each event offers a unique experience that highlights different aspects of Vermont’s agricultural, artistic, and social heritage. These festivals not only attract visitors from all over the world but also contribute to Vermont’s growing reputation as a top travel destination. By celebrating its past, Vermont is also nurturing its future, ensuring that its festivals continue to thrive and bring visitors to the state for years to come. Through these cultural celebrations, Vermont maintains its status as a vibrant and welcoming destination for travelers seeking authentic and immersive experiences.
