Winter 2009
This Season
Places to go and things to do
You've been active all summer long — running, swimming, biking — now here's your chance to put it all together by entering a triathlon! Autumn's cooler temps will even help your stamina.
Nov. 19
Guthrie Family Rides Again
Flynn Center, Burlington
Icons of American folk music, the Guthrie family takes the stage in a unique, multigenerational performance. Arlo Guthrie (son of the late Woody) will be joined by his son, Abe, and his three daughters, Cathy, Annie and Sarah Lee, plus the youngest generation of Guthrie kids. The Flynn Center says the family will perform "songs they've written, learned together, and come to love. Along with Arlo's standards, the evening features unpublished Woody Guthrie lyrics put to music and recordings of Woody in conversation and song. Sarah Lee's husband and musical partner, Johnny Irion, appears as well. Vanity Fair says the Guthries "are the first family of American folk. They practice what Woody preached. 7:30 p.m. $47, $37, $30. (802) 863-5966.
Dec. 12
Dark Star Orchestra
Higher Ground, South Burlington
"Vermont has always been really good to us, says Rob Koritz, a drummer in the Grateful Dead tribute band Dark Star Orchestra. "Even when we just started out we would pack the old Higher Ground. When they moved the venue, the crowds just got bigger. We always know we are going to have big, appreciative crowds, and the folks at the venue take great care of us. They are really like family. We always look forward to our stops there.
Dark Star is famed for recreating entire Dead concerts, and John Kadlecik, lead guitarist for Dark Star, was even invited recently to play with original Dead members Phil Lesh and Bob Weir in their band called Further. 9 p.m. $20 in advance, $23 day of. (888) 512-7469.
Dec. 19 and 20
Holiday Baking Classes
King Arthur Flour, Norwich
On Dec. 19, make and decorate an assortment of beautiful, intricate holiday cookies at the Holiday Cookie Decorating class. Learn techniques including flocking, flooding, cutting out, stenciling and edging. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. $90. On Dec. 20, the budding bakers in your family will enjoy decorating a holiday gingerbread mansion in Gingerbread House Front: Baking With Kids. Learn with the best bakers, who will help you make a masterpiece with icing and edible candy. Save some for us! Noon to
3 p.m. $85. (800) 652-3334.
Dec. 31
Last Night
Brattleboro
The Brattleboro Retreat organizes a substance-free New Year's Eve celebration, which typically draws more than 3,000 participants. There's something for every age, from the Boys & Girls Club party to the Senior Potluck Lunch. Everyone can get toasty in the Brattleboro Retreat Warming Tent with free hot beverages and snacks, and the fireworks display starts at 9:15 p.m. Most events are free. (802) 254-5808. Other large New Year's Eve celebrations in Vermont include First Night in Montpelier (www.mdca.org or 802-223-9604) and First Night in Burlington (www.firstnightburlington.com or 802-863-6005).
Jan. 15
Fishtank Ensemble
Town Hall Theater, Middlebury
Described by LA Weekly as "one of the most thrilling young acts on the planet, Fishtank Ensemble is a group of energetic musicians who draw heavily on Eastern European sounds and styles. The instruments for their "cross-pollinated gypsy music include two violins, a violintromba, musical saw, flamenco and gypsy jazz guitar and bass. The group maintains a polished, eclectic feel by traveling the world, including in uncanny ways: Fabrice Martinez, a violin player, has explored Europe in a mule-drawn caravan. 8 p.m. $15. (802) 382-9222.
Jan. 26
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Co.'s "Serenade/The Proposition
Flynn Center, Burlington
The acclaimed modern dance troupe presents a rumination on history tied to the 2009 bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Video projections, a live original score and deconstructed period costumes enhance the program. The New York Times said Jones handles "loaded themes like religion, war and slavery's legacy without anything approaching a wink or a smirk ... an obliquely powerful history lesson. 7:30 p.m. $45, $35, $27. (802) 863-5966.
Feb. 57
Winter Dew Tour
Carinthia Base Area, Mount Snow Resort, West Dover
The world's top snowboarders and freeskiers descend on Mount Snow for the highly anticipated and nationally televised Winter Dew Tour. Events include men's and women's freeskiing and snowboarding slopestyle and superpipe. Olympic gold medalist Kelly Clark, who grew up skiing at Mount Snow Academy, says in a release: "I'm really excited to compete at such a high-level event in front of my hometown and ride my favorite mountain. Mount Snow is the final of three stops of the Winter Dew Tour and will be televised live on NBC and simulcast around the world on Eurosport 2, Extreme Channel and Fox Sports Australia, with additional coverage on USA Network and MTV2. Watching the event at Mount Snow is free. (802) 464-4191.
Feb. 7
(rain date Feb. 14)
Camels Hump Challenge
Camels Hump Mountain
At 4,083 feet and with a prominent, distinctive profile, Camels Hump is home to wild and difficult terrain. This event, to raise money for the Vermont Alzheimer's Association, is not a race but a challenge to cross-country ski around the entire mountain at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 feet. The trail passes through a variety of forest types — including northern hardwoods, glades of spruce fir and some of the most beautiful parklike stands of paper birch in New England — but it's a rugged journey of about 25 kilometers, and not for the inexperienced skier. Bring appropriate backcountry gear. After the event, warm food and drinks and a fire await returning skiers for a chance to relax, rehash the tour and warm up. 7:30 a.m. at the Camels Hump Skiers Association Center in Huntington. Minimum fundraising of 10 pledges or $125. (802) 482-2087.
Feb. 11
John McCutcheon
First Baptist Church, Brattleboro
Grammy-nominated folksinger John McCutcheon has made a name for himself as both a family performer and a serious multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. The authoritative website www.allmusic.com calls him "one of the undisputed masters on the hammered dulcimer as well as "one of the most prolific and respected children's artists. His concerts are known for appealing to a broad audience, and no wonder: Utne Reader praised him for "his message about the amazing endurance of what's best in American culture. 7:30 p.m. $18 in advance, $21 at the door. (802) 257-1571.
Feb. 13
Eilen Jewell
Tunbridge Town Hall, Tunbridge
In an article called "Music to think and drink to, The Sydney Morning Herald had high praise for Eilen Jewell, calling her album "Singers and Strangers "exactly what people keep waiting for Madeleine Peyroux to make. ... Jewell has life rippling through her songs. If you're in the mood for a mix of folk, country, Western swing, a bit of jazz and some roots music, have a listen to this emerging singer-songwriter and band leader. 7:30 p.m. $15 in advance, $20 day of through www.greenmountainfolk.org. (802) 431-3433.
Feb. 1315
Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont Winter Conference
University of Vermont, Burlington
Warm up and think happy thoughts of gardening and farming with other like-minded people from our region and beyond. Farmers, gardeners, homesteaders, educators and community members gather at NOFA-VT's Winter Conference to discuss and celebrate Vermont's food movement. Share in two days of workshops and conversations about growing a vibrant, healthy, safe and local food system. A testament to the growing interest in local food, last year 1,350 people attended this event. Admission varies, contact NOFA-VT for details.
(802) 434-4122.
Feb. 15
Igloo Build
Montshire Museum, Norwich
Dr. Bert Yankielun, author of "How to Build an Igloo and Other Snow Structures, says igloo building "can be a great, enjoyable, collaborative, out-of-doors family or group project that costs nothing and only requires common around-the-house tools and, of course, an ample supply of snow! A participant in four expeditions in Antarctica, Yankielun says it only takes a few hours to make an igloo once you know the tricks of the trade. "It is amazing to be able to sit inside the snow dome and have a cup of hot cocoa with friends after an afternoon of outdoor activity, he says. 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. $10 for adults, $8 for children 2 to 17 and free for Montshire Museum members and children under 2. (802) 649-2200.
November Through March 27
The Brattleboro Farmers Market doesn't break for winter. Enjoy breads, jams, meats, cheeses every Saturday through the holiday season, every second Saturday through March. Robert H. Gibson River Garden, Brattleboro. 869-2141. Check with www.vermontagriculture.com for many other winter farmers markets, and see our story on page 58 about the winter market in Rutland.
1214, 1922
The classic American comedy "You Can't Take It With You, an instant hit on Broadway and a Best Picture Oscar winner in the '30s, is staged at Royall Tyler Theatre, University of Vermont, Burlington. Various times. 656-2094.
1415
Search for local holiday presents at the Art & Artisan Holiday Market, a collection of more than 20 artisans selling their creations. Community events, music, demonstrations and a lunch café benefiting the Jericho Town Library. 10 a.m. to
5 p.m. Mount Mansfield Union High School, Jericho. 899-3956.
19
Reap the bounty of the hunting season at the Danville Methodist Game Supper. Venison, moose, bear, beaver, raccoon, rabbit, wild turkey and chicken game pies, each cooked in their own gravies, with a biscuit crust. Glazed carrots, potatoes, squash, green beans, cranberry sauce, cole slaw, homemade rolls and dessert pies also on the menu. Music while you wait by Whole 'Nother String Band. Sittings at 5, 6 and 7 p.m. Reservations recommended. Methodist Church,
Danville. 684-3666.
1922
The Vermont Hand Crafters Fine Craft & Art Show has more than 130 booths of original, high-quality works in ceramics, glass, wood, fiber, paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and clothing. Contemporary and traditional items in a variety of price ranges. Noon to 8 p.m. Thur. and Fri.; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat.; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun. Sheraton Hotel, South Burlington. 373-5429.
20
The Windham Orchestra throws a 100th birthday party in honor of Blanche Honegger Moyse, founder of the Brattleboro Music Center and the Music Department at Marlboro College. The French-Swiss program features Francis Poulenc's "La Voix Humaine ("The Human Voice); Darius Milhaud's "Kentuckiana; and Arthur Honegger's "Pastorale d'Ete. 7:30 p.m. Vermont Academy, Saxtons River. 257-4523.
21
What's red and white and minty all over? This season's most iconic sweet goody: the candy cane. Learn how the professional chocolatiers make the treat by boiling, pulling, turning, rolling and twisting; and even try making your own at this candy canemaking demonstration! 11 a.m. every Wed., Fri. and Sat. between Nov. 21 and Dec. 23. Laughing Moon Chocolates, Stowe. 253-9591.
23
Matisyahu returns to Vermont to promote his most recent album, "Light. Rolling Stone says: "Four years after he debuted, Hasidic Jew and reggae toaster Matisyahu is well past the novelty stage, as the large crowds at his shows attest. He sounds thoroughly like a pro on his third album, which finds him employing island-flavored jams, skittery hip-hop and slick keyboard grooves. 8:30 p.m. Higher Ground, South Burlington. 652-0777
2729
Looking for something more satisfying than shopping on Thanksgiving weekend? The Billings Farm & Museum Thanksgiving Weekend includes costumed guides demonstrating the preparation of a traditional 19th-century meal in the farmhouse, homemade treats and activities for every age in the Victorian parlor. Complete your day with a horse-drawn wagon ride. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock. 457-2355.
2829
Feel the incredible softness of an alpaca at Maple View Farms' Alpaca Open House. These fiber-bearing, odd-looking and personality-filled creatures are sure to make kids and adults smile. Learn about alpaca farming, spinning and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Maple View Farm, Brandon. 247-5412.
December
2
Few contemporary authors enjoy the fame of horror-suspense master Stephen King, who visits Vermont to speak about his new book "Under the Dome. The story is set in a small town in Maine that is suddenly isolated by an invisible force field. Tickets are selling fast. Manchester Elementary and Middle School, Manchester. 362-2200.
4
Rubblebucket Orchestra is an afrobeat/rock band led by trumpeter Alex Toth and fronted by the alluring vocals of Kalmia Traver. Both are former members of renowned reggae band John Brown's Body. 8:30 p.m. Higher Ground, South Burlington. 652-0777.
46, 1113
The Lamoille County Players present "My Three Angels, a play about three convicts, employed as roofers at Christmastime, who become guardian angels and find redemption. 7 p.m. Fri. and Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. Hyde Park Opera House,
Hyde Park. 888-4507.
56
The Green Mountain Club presents SOLO Wilderness First Aid. This 16-hour, hands-on course will prepare you to deal with medical emergencies in the field. The focus is on the prevention, recognition and treatment of backcountry injuries and illnesses. Wilderness First Aid certification or recertification provided upon completion, and CPR certification available too. Register at least three weeks in advance. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Green Mountain Club Visitor Center, Waterbury Center. 244-7037.
10
The "Pope of Trash, filmmaker and author John Waters delivers his take on the holiday season in "A John Waters Christmas. As one critic put it, Waters puts the X in Xmas. 7:30 p.m. Flynn Center, Burlington. 863-5966.
1013; 1720
Talented young actors from New England Youth Theatre perform "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, a stage adaptation from Roald Dahl's book. 7 p.m. Thu.; 7:30 pm. Fri. and Sat.; 3 p.m. Sat. and Sun. New England Youth Theatre, Brattleboro. 246-6398.
12
Some 50 Vermont artisans sell their wares at the Touch of Vermont Holiday Gift Market. All vendors are Vermont-owned small businesses and produce high-quality gifts. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Montpelier City Hall, Montpelier. 301-1725.
19
Get ready to have your soul moved by the Bluegrass Gospel Project. The band likens its repertoire of Americana, bluegrass and folk to "a populist form of spiritual music ... meant for all people and all faiths. 7:30 p.m. Vergennes Opera House, Vergennes. 877-6737.
In the four-part Killington Rail Jam Series, show off on the rail for a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to Park City, Utah. Think you're a skier or rider who has what it takes to win the series? Then go for it! Also, videographers can vie for the best two-minute video of the competition. Additional dates throughout the season. 10 a.m. Bear Mountain, Killington. (800) 621-6867.
2628; 31
Vermont's Grace Potter and her band continue the tradition of ringing in New Year's in her home state. The confident rocker, trying to make it big on the national and world stage, never has to worry about drawing a crowd in Vermont, so you may want to reserve your tickets early. 8:30 p.m. (Mon. and Tue.) and 9 p.m. (Sat. and Thur.). Higher Ground,
South Burlington. 652-0777.
31
Catch the New Year's Eve fireworks and torchlight parade at Sugarbush Resort's Lincoln Peak in Warren. 6:30 p.m. 1-800-53-SUGAR.
January
9
Learn how to construct a dry stone wall in an introductory stone wall workshop. One-day workshops focus on the basic techniques for creating dry-laid walls with a special focus on stone native to Vermont. This is a hands-on workshop inside a warm greenhouse. Additional dates as well; check www.queencitysoilandstone.com. 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Red Wagon Plants, Hinesburg. 318-2411.
10
Greg Brown, one of the most thoughtful and respected artists in contemporary folk, plays an intimate venue in Middlebury. The After Dark Music Series, host of the concert, says Brown "moves audiences with warmth, humor, a thundering voice and his unpretentious musical vision. 7 p.m. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury. 388-0216.
17
Harry Manx melds blues, folk and Hindustani classical music via many instruments, including the slide guitar, harmonica, six-string banjo, Mohan veena and Ellis stomp box. Born on the Isle of Man and raised in Canada, Manx has also lived in Europe, Japan, India and Brazil. The music guide www.allmusic.com says Manx "fuses traditional blues with classic Indian ragas to create a distinctive sound. 7:30 p.m. Tunbridge Town Hall, Tunbridge. Tickets at www.greenmountainfolk.org.
30
Ski your heart out — and eat your heart out — at the TD Banknorth Craftsbury Marathon. It's a blast, though pretty grueling, to complete the 25- or 50-kilometer course on some of the country's toughest terrain. Two racing divisions, or try the 25-kilometer tour, with delicious food breaks. This classic-style race allows you to ski alongside kids and Olympians. 9 a.m. Craftsbury Outdoor Center, Craftsbury. 586-7767.
February
67; 1314; 2021
Great Ice in Grand Isle glorifies Lake Champlain's frozen state and makes it the place you want to be in February. Skating, snowshoeing, cookouts, Nordic skating demos, Valentine's Day dinner, flapjack breakfast, ice golf tournament and a trek to Knight Island are some of the wonderfully wintery activities planned. There's also the F-F-Frozen Chosen Regatta! Design your own human-powered machine (you can get quite creative), show it off and compete (rules posted at www.champlainislands.com). Various locations, Champlain Islands. 372-8400.
1218
Enjoy two weeks of family fun at the Lyndon/Burke Snowflake Festival. Pancake breakfasts, torchlight ski parades, horse-drawn wagon rides, cross-country and Alpine skiing. Most events are free. Various locations in Lyndonville and Burke. 626-9696.
13
Jazz star Jane Monheit plays a Valentine's Eve concert "with a selection of songs celebrating love in many moods and guises. 7:30 p.m. UVM Recital Hall, Burlington. 656-4455.
13
Catch a Warren Miller film and watch the best skiers and riders conquer mountains around the world. 6:30 and 9 p.m. Latchis Theatre, Brattleboro. 254-4022.
2021
It's a wild ride at Stormboarding Kitestorm, one of North America's biggest snowkite events, featuring gear demos, clinics and long-distance kite racing. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced kiter, there's likely something for you. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sand Bar State Park, Milton. 578-6120.
25
Disney and FamilyFun Magazine are teaming up with Smugglers' Notch ski resort for a winter carnival. Taking place in the Village area, the event includes music, live entertainment, games, magicians, bonfire, specialty food samplings, giveaways, goody bags, plus an outdoor barbecue. Begins at 2 p.m. (800) 419-4615.
27
Join the street revelry of the Magic Hat Mardi Gras parade with costumed revelers on extravagant floats winding through the crowds in downtown Burlington. 3 p.m. 658-2739.
- All area codes 802 unless otherwise noted.
- Schedules subject to change; please call ahead to events.
- Sometimes we find out about interesting events after the magazine has gone to press. As an added benefit to subscribing to our e-newsletter Vermont Life e-news, you'll get an updated list of great Vermont events each month. To sign up, visit www.VermontLife.com/gm-news/newsletter.htm.
