Summertime in Montpelier is always very eventful, and we are certainly in full swing! The next two weeks are especially packed with fun and unique events.
Every weekend, community members enjoy the Capital City Farmer’s Market, 9am-1pm on Saturdays at 133 State Street. Enjoy fresh produce from area farms, and live entertainment. This weekend, on July 22nd and 23rd, is the second annual Maple Roots Music Festival at Morse Farm Sugarworks. This family friendly, community supported event will feature live music, kids activities, and local food and beverage purveyors. On Sunday July 24th, Scrag Mountain Music presents the Lullaby Project Celebration at the Bethany Church on Main Street, where the public is invited to come together and hear a performance of a selection of lullabies created in the community.
Throughout the week, Montpelier will be buzzing with activity, which is typical for mid-summer here in Vermont. Vermont Statewide Independent Living Council (VTSILC) and Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) are holding a congressional forum on Tuesday, July 26 from 1:15-2:45pm at the Capitol Plaza (also via zoom), followed by a celebration of the 32nd Anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act from 3:00 – 4:00pm. On Thursday, July 28th don’t miss the Parkapalooza concert in Hubbard Park! These family-friendly, open-air concerts are held at the Tuning Forks Stage, next to the Old Shelter, and feature live music from talented local and regional artists. Spread out a picnic blanket and play outside, these events are the perfect end to a summer day. Keep your eye out for the Park's 100-foot-long slip n' slide!
Next weekend, Montpelier closes out the month with a special performance on the State House Lawn called Earth Keepers, presented by Cultivating Peace. With shows at both 1:15pm and 5:30pm, this 45-minute interactive musical for all ages combines Earth-based chants that invite audience participation with monologue reflections on the interdependence of Earth, humans and the impact of war/violence.
In the first week of August, Montpelier Alive is glad to bring back the Hunger Mountain Co-op Brown Bag Concert Series on Thursdays at noon in the Christ Episcopal Church Courtyard. The first concert on August 4th is with nationally known Twangtown Paramours, playing their award-winning catalog of Americana, folk, and blues anthems. On Friday, August 5th, Montpelier Alive hosts the bi-monthly Art Walk. Art Walk provides a fun and casual way to experience art, meet local artists, and explore downtown shops, restaurants, and galleries. At this month’s Art Walk, Shidaa will be hosting a West African drumming demo in front of City Hall. Join pianist Luke Rackers, for New Music Uncaged, an evening of solo piano music outdoors at the Kellogg-Hubbard Library from 6-7pm.
Finally, on August 6th, support a great cause and have a good time at the 21st annual Point to Point, powered by VSECU! Walk, ride or run at this event, and raise money to help fight hunger.
Montpelier is surely the place to be in the summer! For a rural state, and the smallest Capital city in the Nation, we have an incredibly vibrant community.