(picture by: Jeb Wallace-Brodeur)
Downtown Montpelier is fully in its holiday glow, with local businesses, artists, and community partners bringing warmth, color, and creativity to the darkest days of the year.
A stroll past Bohemian Bakery offers a dose of playful winter whimsy. Their holiday window features a charming scene of penguins presenting a festive feast, attentively served by human waiters. It’s the kind of imaginative display that stops passersby in their tracks, inviting kids of all ages to linger and soak in the spirit of the season on Main Street.
Just down the street, Bailey Road’s holiday window strikes a different but equally festive note. Rich greenery, poinsettias, and seasonal home décor frame the space, anchored by striking red dresses that feel ready for any celebration. The display captures the elegance and warmth of the season while highlighting the locally curated style that downtown Montpelier is known for.
Beyond the storefronts, downtown is sparkling from end to end. Garlands and lights adorn lamp posts throughout the district, and all ten of Montpelier’s illuminated bridges are lit up in multicolored lights for the holidays. A special shoutout goes to Jenny at Wyldling Floral Craft & Mercantile for hanging the beautiful garland on the Rialto Bridge, an extra touch that adds texture and charm to one of downtown’s most iconic crossings.
Community gatherings have added even more light to the season. The State House tree and menorah have been lit, marking moments of celebration and reflection at the heart of the city. On December 17, residents came together for the Complete Streets Glow Walk, a festive evening stroll that highlighted pedestrian safety while celebrating downtown’s illuminated bridges, including the Shaw’s pedestrian bridge, now glowing with a canopy of lights.
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 (photo credit Holly Fowler) |
There’s still plenty happening as we head toward the New Year. From seasonal activities and shopping ideas in our Downtown Montpelier Gift Guide to upcoming concerts, markets, and winter events, our Holidays webpage has everything you need to make the most of the season.
And don’t forget to plan ahead for New Year’s Eve. Downtown Montpelier will ring in 2026 with celebrations throughout the day and night, fireworks on the State House Lawn, and bridge lights shifting to champagne tones for the occasion. Visit our New Year’s Eve page for event listings and updates.
Whether you’re shopping local, attending a community event, or simply enjoying an evening walk across a glowing bridge, the holidays in downtown Montpelier are full of small moments that shine.
