Things To Do

11 Unforgettable 4th of July Celebrations in Vermont

By Adam LouisJun. 27, 2023

The 4th of July is a time for barbecues, fireworks, and fun with friends and family. Vermont has some of the most unique and memorable 4th of July celebrations in the country. From parades to festivals, Burlington to Brattleboro, these Vermont 4th of July activities will make your holiday unforgettable.

Whether it’s a traditional parade, mountaintop fireworks, or something more unique - Vermont has a plethora of activities for you to choose from. So, if you’re looking for something to do in Vermont this 4th of July, look no further! Here are 15 unforgettable 4th of July celebrations in Vermont that you won’t want to miss.

Burlington Lake Champlain Waterfront Sailboat

1. Party on the Waterfront: Burlington's Independence Day Bash

Get ready, Vermonters, for the Burlington Annual Independence Day Celebration! This year, the evening of July 3rd is about to get lit, and we don't just mean Vermont's largest fireworks display. Celebrating their 175th Anniversary, National Life Group is adding a sprinkle of tech magic to the festivities with an astonishing drone light show. 

Kick off the evening at 5 pm at the stunning Waterfront Park in downtown Burlington. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of Sambatucada! as they set the mood on the boardwalk, followed with a performance from The Motts on the Main Stage. Get ready to gaze skyward as the National Life Drone show starts at 9:30 pm, followed promptly by the much-anticipated Northstar Fireworks show. Did we mention there will be local food vendors galore to keep your hunger pangs at bay throughout the night? And, when the fireworks finally die down, don’t rush off. The Motts will be back to play their final set, ensuring the night ends with a bang.

2. Stratton Mountain: Where 4th of July Meets Vermont Vibes

Grab your calendars and highlight all the way through July 4, because you're headed to Vermont for an Independence Day blowout at Stratton Mountain Resort. This isn’t your average 4th of July weekend; Stratton Mountain's all-out extravaganza pulls together a remarkable mashup of live music, fireworks, outdoor fun, and family activities. Dive into the Stratton Bike Park, catch a scenic lift ride, or get your Zen on with a Mountain Top Yoga sesh.

Stay the long weekend, because why wouldn’t you? With nightly rates at the Black Bear Lodge a steal at $99, you can really dig into the fun. As the sun dips, make sure you’re front and center for Stratton's Mountain Friends and Freedom celebration. It's a feast of BBQ delights, live tunes from The Dave Matthews Tribute Band, and a sky alight with fireworks. The celebrations continue with The Machine Pink Floyd Show, and Rumours - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute, coupled with more dazzling firework displays. This is the 4th of July done Vermont style, so gear up and get ready to celebrate like never before.

3. Fireworks and Fanfares: VSO's 4th of July Vermont Summer Festival Tour Lights Up Grafton

Unleash your patriotic spirit with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Concert & Fireworks at the idyllic Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center. Think balmy summer skies, a lush green landscape, and the harmonious melodies of America's favorites resonating through the air—this is one spectacle you don't want to miss. The night's show is made all the better when you're staying at the iconic nearby Grafton Inn. The gates swing open at 5:30 pm, just in time for you to stake out a perfect picnic spot before the concert kicks off at 7:30 pm.

Prepare for a night of foot-tapping joy as guest trumpeter and jazz luminary, Ray Vega, teams up with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and maestro Michelle di Russo. Their repertoire will have you swinging to Duke Ellington, crooning with Louis Armstrong, getting jazzy with Thelonious Monk, marching with John Philip Sousa, and more. So, load up those picnic baskets, slather on some sunscreen, and don't forget your folding chairs for what's set to be an unforgettable night under the stars. And just when you thought the night couldn't get any more magical, the sky will erupt in a stunning firework display to cap off the performance.

Montpelier's Independence Day parade passes by the Statehouse on Wednesday, July 3, 2019. Photo by Glenn Russell/VTDigger

4. Feel the Beat: Live Performances Elevate Montpelier's Independence Day Party

Independence Day has always had a special flair in Montpelier, and this year is no exception. The city is pulling out all the stops for its largest summer event, so prepare to have your star-spangled socks knocked off. The day-long extravaganza commences at 3 pm with a delightful mash-up of mouth-watering cuisines at the Food Truck Festival, coupled with FamilyFest on the State House Lawn.

The streets come alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and celebration during the Community Parade at 6:15 pm, followed by Chad Hollister taking the Main Stage from 7 pm to 9:20 pm. As the night sky blankets the city, the spotlight shifts to Julia Fortin, who will stir your patriotic spirit with the National Anthem. As her last note fades away, brace yourself for a firework spectacle that's sure to outshine any in your memory. In Montpelier, they don't just celebrate Independence Day - they make it a day to remember.

5. A Slice of Classic Americana at Stowe's 4th of July Vermont Parade

For those seeking an authentic, charmingly old-school celebration, look no further than the Stowe Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration. In an irresistible collaboration between the Town of Stowe and Stowe Vibrancy, the event brings a parade worth talking about to the charming Stowe Village’s Main Street. Plan your day around a tantalizing lineup of food vendors, live music performances, and entertainment for the whole family, right on the scenic Village green. 

From the World’s Shortest Marathon starting at 11 a.m. (dedicated to USMC Lt. Ryan Casey), to the captivating procession of floats led by the Grand Marshal, it's an all-day affair of fun and festivity. But the day isn't over yet! As night descends, make your way to nearby Mayo Fields. This is where you'll witness one of Vermont's most magnificent firework displays painting the night sky with patriotic hues.

6. Step Back in Time this Independence Day at Billings Farm

Get ready for an all-American day of celebration at the 4th on the Farm event at Billings Farm in Woodstock. Embrace your competitive side with historic lawn games or take a break from modern life with horse-drawn wagon rides. Don't miss the chance to test your mettle with youth and adult spelling bees - all with a delightful 19th-century twist! Baseball enthusiasts can channel their inner Babe Ruth and participate in a historic “base ball” game. But, hey, if sports aren’t your jam, you can still get in on the fun, cheering for your favorites from the bleachers. 

Musical duo Shady Rill will be there to delight you with live performances by Tom McKenzie and Patti Casey, an award-winning songwriter. Treat your taste buds with sweet maple cotton candy and Vermont-made ice cream or go on a culinary adventure with the Mediterranean offerings from the Fork in the Road Food Truck. Whichever way you lean, Billings Farm ensures a 4th of July that's bursting with fun and flavor.

Lake Morey Resort Wedding Photos Lakefront Patio Tables on Sunny Day

7. A Picture-Perfect Fourth of July Awaits at Lake Morey Resort

Spend your Fourth of July at the Lake Morey Resort, a jewel nestled in the Vermont hills. Not just another barbecue, this event is packing a punch with a town parade, lawn games, and live music to keep you entertained throughout the day. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to lunch under the sunny lake-front Vermont sky. As the day mellows into night, you'll have front-row seats to a dazzling lakeside fireworks display, with the lake's still surface acting as a mirror, doubling the spectacle. 

Arrive on Sunday or Monday to snag the 'Midweek Stay 3 & the 4th is Free' package, because who wouldn't want a free day in this haven? So whether you're a thrill-seeker or a chill-seeker, prepare for an unforgettable Fourth of July at Lake Morey Resort.

Smugglers Notch FallFest at Night Vendors and Lights

8. Stars, Stripes and Smugglers' Notch: Jeffersonville's July 4th Celebration

Brace yourself for the Jeffersonville July 4th Celebration at Smugglers' Notch, where the festivities are just as epic as the fireworks. This Independence Day, Jeffersonville transforms into a celebratory 4th of July hub with a parade, country fair, live entertainment, and what promises to be a fireworks display that could outshine the stars themselves. 

Centered around the festivities at Smugglers’ Notch Resort, begin your day in Jeffersonville at 10 am, participating in the Independence Day Parade. An Independence Day carnival of sorts, you’ll find artists, live music, delicious food, wine, beer, and games from 11 am to 4 pm. 

Back at Smugglers' Notch Resort, the party kicks up a notch with Jammin' Sam spinning tunes that cater to all ages from 6 pm. Then, from 7 pm, enjoy the harmonious melodies of the Freedom and Unity Choir. Iron Sights rocks the stage from 8-9:30 pm, and as dusk settles, prepare for the grand finale—a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the Green Mountain backdrop. Clear your day, because this Independence Day bash is a full-day affair.

Earth Sky Time Exterior Farmhouse Concert

9. Manchester’s Bash: From Farm Concerts to Fireworks Display

Gear up for a two-day celebration in Manchester, starting on July 2nd at Earth Sky Time. You won't want to miss their Concerts on the Farm event, where you can groove to the beats of the Garifuna Collective while indulging in mouthwatering pizza, beer, wine, and desserts. Once you've gotten your music and food fix, save some of that celebratory spirit for the main event on July 4th at the Dana Thompson Memorial Park. As the day fades into dusk, the park will be illuminated with the town's Annual Fireworks Display. Pack your favorite picnic or support local vendors offering delectable goodies. It's a back-to-back bash that perfectly sets the stage for an unforgettable Fourth of July.

10. Experience Brandon's Star-Spangled Spectacle

Get ready to paint the town red, white, and blue at Brandon's Independence Day Celebration. Billed as "Brandon's Favorite Day of the Year," this bash isn't just a one-event wonder - it's an all-day fête that will have you feeling more patriotic than Uncle Sam himself. Starting from the crack of dawn till the last firework illuminates the summer sky, there's a whole range of activities planned, ensuring fun for every family member. 

Kick off your day with a quaint train ride up Park Street courtesy of the Heritage train, but make sure to keep your eyes peeled for those auction sites. Who knows, you might just stumble upon a hidden gem! As the sun rides high, brace yourself for the adrenaline rush that is the world-renowned Little Debbie Swiss Cake Roll Eating Contest. Mic Drop. Enjoy some evening street dancing and finish up your day under the spectacular firework show that you can catch from almost anywhere in town. As if that weren't enough, the celebration sprawls across the town's new and improved streetscape, pocket parks, quaint shops, and eateries, making Brandon the place to be this July 1st.

11. A Groovy 4th of July in Vermont: Greensboro's Funky Fourth Celebration

Throw on your dancing shoes and let your patriotic spirit soar at Greensboro's Funky Fourth Celebration. The good times roll on July 1st, starting at 5:30 pm on the Patio & Lawn, with free admission for all (but hey, donations are more than welcome). Kick back to the country-rock rhythms of The Mallett Brothers Band. From alt-country and Americana to roots rock, their music is as diverse as America itself - just right for a Fourth of July shindig. 

But don't let your dancing feet cool down, because once the sun goes down, it's time for the Glorious DJ to take the stage, spinning a mix of hits, hidden gems, and future classics guaranteed to keep you moving until late into the night.

And what's a party without a feast? The HCA Café has you covered with mouth-watering picnic dinners ready to grab and go. Their homemade mac & cheese will have you coming back for seconds, while the Highland Chicken Salad offers a fresh, flavorful twist. And don’t forget to end the meal on a sweet note with their divine Strawberry Shortcake. Remember, seating is first-come, first-served, so bring your lawn blankets and chairs for a perfect picnic under the stars. This is one Funky Fourth Celebration you won’t want to miss!

Conclusion

We're all guilty of getting wrapped up in the daily grind. But when the red, white, and blue banners flutter high and the scent of barbecues fill the air, it's time to break the monotony and soak in the sheer magic of the 4th of July. From groovy concerts and sky-painting fireworks to quirky food fests and iconic parades, Vermont brings you an Independence Day bash that is pretty spectacular.

Whether it's at a resort, on a mountain, or right in the heart of the city, Vermont's Independence Day events promise to be unforgettable. Now, just one question remains: where will you be when the fireworks light up the Vermont sky?

FOURTH OF JULY $99 NIGHTS: Book a room at the Black Bear Lodge on Monday July 3, Tuesday July 4, or both for just $99 a night. Enjoy the long weekend getaway, catch live music from The Machine and Rumours, hit the Bike Park, take a Scenic Lift Ride and explore so much more over the holiday weekend. Book Your Long Weekend at Stratton

By Adam LouisJun. 27, 2023
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