Calendar of Events

 

Wednesday, May 1

Carolyn Kuebler book launch celebration in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 1, 6 p.m., Vermont Book Shop, 38 Main St. A casual reading from and celebration of New England Review editor Carolyn Kuebler’s debut novel: “Liquid, Fragile, Perishable.” Set in a small Vermont town, the novel is many things. At its core, though, is tender homage to the actual lives behind the stereotypes we keep of the flatlander, the lonely recluse, the village gossip, the troubled trailer-dwellers.

 

Thursday, May 2

Thursdays on the TAM in Middlebury. Thursday, May 2, 8:30 a.m., Means Woods, Seminary St. Ext. Help MALT clean up the trails in advance of the busy summer season. MALT Trails & Volunteer Manager Liam Hickey will be at the trailhead in the mornings with doughnuts, coffee and tea for volunteers. Enjoy a warm drink and chat, then get to work. Hike the section of trail yourself and return tools on the way back, or wait until 9:30 a.m. to hike as a group. Work includes clearing dead branches and small fallen trees, pruning new growth, and picking up trash. Free. Email [email protected] to let him know you’re interested.

Ladies Aid Industria spring rummage sale in Lincoln. Thursday, May 2, 1-7 p.m., Burnham Hall, 52 E. River Rd. Donations will be accepted on the lower level of the hall on Wednesday, May 1, from 1-7 p.m. Donations should be spring and summer items in clean, undamaged condition. Helmets, electronics, car seats and teeter totters cannot be accepted.

“Hunting and Fishing: A Case Study in Cultural Continuity” virtual lecture. Thursday, May 2, 6:30 p.m., ZOOM. American Abenaki people in Vermont were and are culturally competent in many types of Indigenous hunting and trapping techniques as well as the use of traditional hunting spirituality. Wiseman presents abundant evidence of these activities in the form of objects, tools, historic photographs, family stories and distinctive skills passed down through generations of Abenaki families all with good documented historical Vermont provenance. Free, but donations are appreciated. Register at tinyurl.com/Hunting-Fishing-Abenaki.

Book reading and discussion in Lincoln. Thursday, May 2, 7 p.m., Lincoln Library, River Rd. Join Lincoln author Jonathan Mingle for a reading and discussion of his new book, “Gaslight: The Atlantic Coast Pipeline and the Fight for America’s Energy Future.” Vivid and suspenseful, gut-wrenching and insightful, “Gaslight” is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the dark, overlooked story of America’s “favorite fossil fuel,” and the immense future stakes of the energy choices we face today.

“Mambar Pierrette” on screen in Middlebury. Thursday, May 2, 7 p.m., Dana Auditorium, 356 College St. Experience “Mambar Pierrette,” a Cameroonian film exploring a seamstress’s fight against poverty and patriarchy in Douala. Join us outside Dana to celebrate with pizza and popcorn at 6:30 p.m. Free. A Hirschfield series offering.

Rochester Light & Power in Rochester. Thursday, May 2, 7:30 p.m., Rochester School Auditorium, 222 S. Main St. Rochester Light & Power is a musical set in 1901 at The Rochester House hotel. It follows four “kept-women” and their married beaus from White River Jct., culminating in a grand celebration as the hotel introduces electric lights. Directed by Ethan Bowen, it humorously explores women’s empowerment. Tickets available at WRVP.org.

 

Friday, May 3

Ladies Aid Industria spring rummage sale in Lincoln. Friday, May 3, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Burnham Hall, 52 E. River Rd. See May 2 listing.

Rummage sale in Salisbury. Friday, May 3, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Salisbury Church, Maple St. Most items will be available for a free-will donation and all monies raised will be used to support area food shelves. If you have items to donate, bring them to the church between 10 a.m. and noon on Sunday, April 28, or from 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, April 29-May 1. Organizers ask that donations be clean and in good condition. Please no large furniture or appliances.

River Watch restoration planting in Bridport. Friday, May 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Come help Addison County River Watch and Longcloud Sheep Farm plant trees along Potash Brook, a tributary of Dead Creek. We will be establishing a riparian buffer that will filter nutrients, reduce erosion, and improve wildlife habitat. The project that will also create shelter for the farm’s sheep. More info and directions contact Matthew Witten at 802-434-3236 or [email protected]. Planting repeats Sunday, May 5.

Photography opening reception in Middlebury. Friday, May 3, 4 p.m., PhotoPlace Gallery, 3 Park St. Opening reception for “Portrait: Self and Others,” which highlights portraits, self- or otherwise, that go beyond the surface to explore a deeper vision of the subject and draw an emotional response from the viewer. More info at photoplacegallery.com.

The Kruger Brothers in Vergennes. Friday, May 3, 7:30 p.m., Vergennes Opera House. 120 Main St. In their ever-expanding body of work, the Kruger Brothers personify the spirit of exploration and innovation that forms the core of the American musical tradition. Their original music is crafted around their discerning taste, and the result is unpretentious, cultivated and delightfully fresh. Tickets $35 advance/$40 at the door. More info at vergennnesoperahouse.org.

Rochester Light & Power in Rochester. Thursday, Friday, May 3, 7:30 p.m., Rochester School Auditorium, 222 S Main St. See May 2 listing.

 

Saturday, May 4

Green Up Day across Vermont. Details at greenupvermont.org.

Green Mountain Club walk in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 4, Kingsland Bay. Wildflower walk at Kingsland Bay with David Andrews. The walk will be at an easy pace with stops to look and take pictures. About 2 miles with little elevation gain. Trillium should be out and more. Contact David for at 802-388-4894 or [email protected] for details. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

Green Mountain Club bird walk in Addison. Saturday, May 4, *RESCHEDULED FROM APRIL 27*, 7 a.m., Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, Route 17W. Morning bird walk of 2-3 miles; slightly uneven terrain with minimal to no elevation gain. Find as many species as time allows at a comfortable pace. Bring your binoculars. Plan for 3 hours. Contact Jen Kluever at [email protected] with questions and to register. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

Ladies Aid Industria spring rummage sale in Lincoln. Saturday, May 4, 8-10:30 a.m., Burnham Hall, 52 E. River Rd. See May 2 listing.

Rummage sale in Salisbury. Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Salisbury Church, Maple St. See May 3 listing.

Bike swap in Middlebury. Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m.-noon, Cannon Park, near Frog Hollow Bikes. People turn in bikes they no longer want to “swap” and buy a different used or new bike. You can just sell or buy a bike at the swap. Drop off your bikes before noon on May 3 and indicate if you want sale proceeds to go to you or be donated to Middlebury Safe Routes. A percentage goes to Frog Hollow Bikes.

Vermont Old Cemetery Association spring meeting in Vergennes. Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m.-noon, St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 85 S. Maple St. Coffee hour from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., meeting starts at 10 a.m., lunch at noon. Guest speaker will be State Rep. Anne Donahue, who will be speaking on her work with the abandoned Waterbury State Hospital Cemetery and her documentation of the people buried on the grounds.

Friends of the Ilsley Book sale in Middlebury. Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Town Offices Plaza, weather permitting. In case of rain, it will be in the Community Room at Ilsley.

Educator idea fair in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 4472 Basin Harbor Rd. Classroom teachers, homeschool educators, and anyone involved in ecology and education are invited to mingle and discuss ideas on the environment and Lake Champlain and other topics of interest with peers from local schools and organizations.

“For the Good of the King’s Service” in Ticonderoga, N.Y. Saturday, May 4, Fort Ticonderoga. Join Fort Ticonderoga for a lively two-day living history event with a full-scale recreation of its British Garrison, 250 years to the day back in 1774. Discover daily life for British soldiers and their families in 1774, with activities including gardening, shoemaking, tailoring and boatbuilding. More info at fortticonderoga.org. Continues Sunday, May 5.

Off the trail guided history walk in Orwell. Saturday, May 4, noon to 4 p.m., Mount Independence, 497 Mt. Independence Rd. Learn about and see remains of the Revolutionary War defenses at the Mount Independence. Go off trail and explore before all the leaves come out. Meet in front of the museum for orientation. Cost $5 adults/$1 /ages 6 to 14/free children under 6 and Mount Independence Coalition members. Wear sturdy boots, be prepared for off-trail walking, and dress for the weather. Bring your lunch to enjoy ahead of time and water.

Ministry Bingo in Vergennes. Saturday, May 4, 5 p.m., St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 85 South Maple St. Doors open at 5 p.m., Bingo starts at 6 p.m. This is a family friendly event. All cash prizes, 50/50 raffle. Refreshments sold. This event is sponsored by St. Ambrose and St. Peter’s Youth Ministry to benefit the on-going program costs.

Derby Day in Middlebury. Saturday, May 4, 5- 7:30 p.m., Kirk Alumni Center, Golf Course Rd. Come watch the most exciting two minutes in sports, the Kentucky Derby. Live music, dancing, specialty cocktails, ample hors d’oeuvres and prizes. Proceeds support Porter Hospital. Award given to the most festive attire. Dress to impress. Purchase raffle tickets, $10 each, to win a Vermont handcrafted cherry wood desk from Woodware or one of several wonderful prizes. Tickets $66, drink ticket included, available at townhallthater.org. More info contact David Rose at 802-343-1475.

Spaghetti dinner and silent auction in Monkton. Saturday, May 4, 5-7 p.m., Monkton Central School, 1036 Monkton Rd. Support Monkton Boy Scout troops 525 and 802. Menu includes spaghetti with homemade sauces, salad and baked breads. Vegetarian is available. Coffee and beverages also served, with tasty dessert. Silent auction open to public and payable with cash or check. Auction closes at 6:30 p.m. Tickets $10 adults/$5 children under 12. More info call George Parker at 802-453-5282.

Genticorum in Lincoln. Saturday, May 4, Burnham Hall, 52 E. River Rd. With multiple Canadian Folk Music Awards, as well as Juno and ADISQ nominations, Genticorum have earned a reputation as a leading voice in the evolution of Québécois traditional music. For over 20 years, the trio has earned a place of privilege on world, traditional, folk and Celtic music stages. Doors open at 7 p.m., music begins at 7:30. p.m. A Burnham Presents concert. Tickets, general to generous $15/$20/$25. All funds after expenses go directly to the performers. Refreshments available during the break.

The Sound Investment Jazz Tentet in Middlebury. Saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Arts Center, Porter Field Rd. Swing into a century of jazz brilliance with the Sound Investment Jazz Tentet. Experience iconic arrangements that defined an era. A must for jazz aficionados. Free. More info at tinyurl.com/MiddJazzTentet.

Rochester Light & Power in Rochester. Saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m., Rochester School Auditorium, 222 S Main St. See May 2 listing.

 

Sunday, May 5

Sunday breakfast in Middlebury. Sunday, May 5, 8-10 a.m., VFW, 530 Exchange St. Menu includes pancakes, sausage gravy/biscuits, bacon, hash, sausage, hash browns, eggs to order, scrambled eggs, toast, coffee and orange juice .Adults $12/children $6. Open to the public. Proceeds benefit veterans programs.

“For the Good of the King’s Service” in Ticonderoga, N.Y. Sunday, May 5, Fort Ticonderoga. See May 4 listing.

River Watch restoration planting in Bridport. Sunday, May 5, 9 a.m., Longcloud Sheep Farm. See May 3 listing.

Photo scanning day in Monkton. Sunday, May 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Monkton Town Hall, 92 Monkton Ridge. Current residents will inform Monkton historians of the future. Bring up to six photos to Scanning Day for Monkton Historical Society to scan and immediately return to you. We’ll ask you to fill out a form describing the photo and a permission form that allows us to use your photo in future work. Form available at tinyurl.com/MMHC-photo-scan or email [email protected].

Fun in the Sun in Middlebury. Sunday, May 5, 1-4 p.m., Center for Community Engagement/Chellis House, Hillcrest Rd. From 1-2 p.m. Middlebury College’s Sib2Sib and the Center for Community Engagement invites families and children from the Community Friends Program to introduce younger kids to Sib2Sib. Outdoor games and lunch for everyone. Current Sib2Sib kids can meet and have fun with future Sib2Sib members. From 2-4 p.m., outdoor activities such as water balloon fights, tie dying, sports, bean boozled and more will take place behind Chellis House. More info at and register at [email protected]. Register at go.middlebury.edu/sib2sib.

Rochester Light & Power in Rochester. Sunday, May 5, 2 p.m., Rochester School Auditorium, 222 S Main St. See May 2 listing.

 

Monday, May 6

Dance 260 class showing in Middlebury. Monday, May 6, 5-6 p.m., Dance Theatre, Mahaney Arts Center, 72 Porter Field Rd. Students show their choreography with music by the Middlebury Choir, Deborah Felmeth and Ron Rost. Directed by Laurel Jenkins and lighting by Bert Crosby. Free. More info at www.middlebury.edu/events.

 

 

Tuesday, May 7

Bridport Comes Together meeting in Bridport. Tuesday May 7, 4:30-8:30 p.m., Bridport Community Hall, Fire Dept., and Congregational Church. The Bridport community is invited to discuss opportunities and ideas to work together toward a more connected and stronger community. Start with everyone splitting into two simultaneous discussion forums, then come together for dinner at the fire station, then split again for two more simultaneous forums. Enjoy live Bluegrass and a free community dinner catered by Pratt’s Store. Topics for discussion include infrastructure, community connections, recreation and tourism, and businesses and services. Find out more at bit.ly/BridportTogether.

Home Stage Improvisational Practices class showing in Middlebury. Tuesday, May 7, 5-6 p.m., Dance Theatre, Mahaney Arts Center, 72 Porter Field Rd. This informal showing demonstrates the research of Improvisational Practices DANC0261 led by Professor Lida Winfield and musicians Ron Rost and Deborah Felmeth. Lighting will be improvised by Bert Crosby. Free. More info at www.middlebury.edu/events.

The Art of Translation: Literature to Film by Michael Katz and Chris Keathley in Middlebury. Tuesday, May 7, 5:30-7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. The second installment of “Up for Discussion,” a free series created by Vermont Book Shop and Town Hall Theater designed to spark community conversation and featuring local experts in their fields sharing timely topics that span literature, art, film and contemporary issues. The 30-minute presentation will be followed by a roundtable discussion and sharing of thoughts and ideas. Free, but registration required at townhalltheater.org.

MICA Quartet: Rondo through the Ages in Middlebury. Tuesday, May 7, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Arts Center, 72 Porter Field Rd. The debut performance of the MICA string quartet, with Middlebury College student performers Marco Matroni, Isaac Xie, Amelia Grosskopf  and Chelsea Robinson. The hour-long concert will explore stylistic transformation across string quartet works spanning the 18th-20th centuries, featuring works by Scarlatti, Haydn, Schubert, Smetana, Debussy and Bartok, as well as original solo viola interludes that stylistically bridge the works together. Free. More info at www.middlebury.edu/events.

 

 

Wednesday, May 8

“Painting the Modern Garden” on screen in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 8, 11 a.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Claude Monet is perhaps the most well-known painter of gardens but other greats such as Van Gogh, Pissarro, Matisse and Sargent all viewed the garden as a meaningful focus for their talents. The work of these great artists, along with many others, feature in a major exhibition, “Painting the Modern Garden,” from The Royal Academy, London. This film takes a magical journey from the gallery to the gardens, to Giverny and Seebüll and other glorious grounds favored by artists. Tickets $15, available at townhalltheater.org.

“Pandemic Preparedness” in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 8, 3 p.m., EastView at Middlebury, 100 EastView Terrace, or via Zoom. Middlebury College Professor Emeritus John Berninghausen will give this talk as the fourth talk of an eight-part series, based on the Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions program. For more information or for the Zoom link, please call the EastView Concierge at 802-989-7500.

“How to Build Neural Pathways and Decrease Group Polarization” in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 8, 6 p.m., Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Join Meg Mott for this this presentation on deliberation. It is the practice that holds our democracy together, but does it always lead to better decisions? This Vermont Humanities Council presentation gives participants a chance to find new ways to think about a contentious issue by increasing the argument pool. Instead of carving out one’s (predictable) position in the culture wars, we’ll look at the best arguments on an issue from progressives, conservatives and libertarians.

Julia Alvarez in conversation with Carolyn Kuebler in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 8, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. National Medal of Arts recipient and Weybridge resident Julia Alvarez will appear in conversation with New England Review’s Carolyn Kuebler to present Alvarez’s new novel, “The Cemetery of Untold Stories.” Sponsored by Vermont Book Shop.

Piano Recital by Students of Diana Fanning in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 8, 7:30-9 p.m., Robison Hall, Mahaney Arts Center, 72 Porter Field Rd. The spring concert by Diana Fanning’s students has always been a popular event celebrating our talented Middlebury pianists, including Judy Chen, Adam Gips, Greg Marcinik and Peter Shellhaas playing works by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, MacDowell and Mozart. Free. More info at www.middlebury.edu/events.

 

Thursday, May 9

Spring Fling in Vergennes. Thursday, May 9, 5-8 p.m., downtown Vergennes. The shops in the Little City are brimming with the latest in spring and summer fashions. Gifts for moms, grads and more. They’ll leave the lights on late for you to shop, sip and dine. Vergennes Partnership invites you to shop local and support Vergennes businesses.

Music Department student showcase in Middlebury. Thursday, May 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Room 221, Mahaney Arts Center, 72 Porter Field Rd. An evening in MAC to showcase the work of music department ensembles, classes, and student bands. Refreshments provided. Free. More info at www.middlebury.edu/events.

“The Janes” on screen in Middlebury. Thursday, May 9, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. In the pre-Roe v. Wade era, female activists in Chicago calling themselves ‘Jane’ build an underground network for women with unwanted pregnancies and provide low-cost and free illegal abortions to an estimated 11,000 women. The final offering in this year’s MNFF Selects series. Tickets $14 advance/$16 walk-up, available at townhalltheater.org.

 

Friday, May 10

Contra Dance in Middlebury. Friday, May 10, 7-9 p.m., Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society, 2 Duane Ct. Free, non-gendered contra dance with a live band for dancers of all ages. No experience needed — Caller Richard Hopkins will walk you through the steps before each dance. On-site parking is very limited, so parking at nearby MUHS is preferred.

Mathis Picard in Middlebury. Friday, May 10, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. THT’s House of Jazz series continues with Mathis Picard, a French-Malagasy pianist, composer, producer and bandleader in a solo appearance in Middlebury as part of his world tour. Rooted in the tradition of live acoustic performance, while incorporating the latest technology, Mathis creates his own musical style influenced by his multi-national background. Tickets $15-$40, available at townhalltheater.org.

 

Saturday, May 11

Monthly Wildlife Walk in Middlebury. Saturday, May 11, 7 a.m., Otter View Park, Weybridge St. and Pulp Mill Bridge Rd. Otter Creek Audubon and the Middlebury Area Land Trust invite community members to help survey birds and other wildlife at Otter View Park and the Hurd Grassland. Birders of all ages and abilities welcome. Please take common sense COVID-19 precautions. Stay home if you are feeling ill and wear a mask if you are unvaccinated. For more information, call 802-388-6019.

Clean out the Closet sale in Vergennes. Saturday, May 11, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 85 S. Maple St. St. Peter’s Resale Closet Shop is doing some spring cleaning. Sale will include clothing (men, women, children), houseware goods, books, puzzles and toys. Prices by donation. All proceeds go to our community partners.

Green Mountain Folklore Society spring meeting in Middlebury. Saturday, May 11, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., *LOCATION CHANGE* Champlain Valley Unitarian Universalist Society, 2 Duane Ct. Social hour, meeting, gab fest, lunch, and program. A visit to the Henry Sheldon Museum will follow lunch.  More info and to reserve lunch ($10), contact Laurie Jordan at [email protected] or 802-879-6467 by May 5. Please park in MUHS parking lot.

Music with Anna in Orwell. Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m., Orwell Free Library, 473 Main St. Immerse your little ones (ages 3-6) in the joy of music with early childhood music educator Anna Laufenberg. Through hands-on instrument exploration, interactive sing-alongs, and creative movement, cultivate a love for music while fostering creativity. Free.

Henry Sheldon Museum season opening in Middlebury. Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Henry Sheldon Museum, 1 Park St. New exhibits for the year are “Patent Pending: Ingenuity and Innovation in Vermont” and “Model Boats: The Craftsmanship of Jerry DeGraff.” Back by popular demand with additional dresses and accessories from the Sheldon’s collection is the exhibit “From Homespun to Couture: Fashion in Historic Middlebury.” For more information visit henrysheldonmuseum.org/exhibits or call 802-388-2117.

Prize Bingo in Leicester. Saturday, May 11, 1 p.m., Leicester Four Corners. Leicester Historical Society invites all. Refreshments served. Funds raised help with maintenance of the historic buildings at the Four Corners.

Takeout roast pork supper in Vergennes. Saturday, May. 11, 5-6 p.m., Vergennes United Methodist Church, Main Street, across from the Opera House. Menu includes roast pork, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, vegetable, applesauce, roll and dessert. Takeout only. Preorder only. $12. To preorder call 802-877-3150 before 7 p.m. Thursday, May 9.

King Pede card party in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 11, 6:30 p.m., Ferrisburgh Town Hall and Community Center, Route 7. The evening begins with a sandwich supper and then on to the games! King Pede involves “trick-taking” such as in Hearts and Spades or Pitch. This is a game of skill so come prepared to use your strategic thinking.

Charlie Chaplin’s “The Gold Rush” on screen in Brandon. Saturday, May 11, Brandon Town Hall, 1 Conant Sq. Brandon Town Hall’s 2024 silent film series kicks off with classic comedy featuring the Little Tramp’s search for fortune and romance in the Klondike. Live music accompaniment by silent film historian Jeff Rapsis. Free. donations are welcome to help support ongoing Town Hall renovation efforts.

 

 

Sunday, May 12

Breakfast Buffet in Vergennes. Sunday, May 12, 8-10 a.m., St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 85 S. Maple St. Omelets to order, scrambled eggs, French toast, bacon, sausage, fruit, plain and blueberry pancakes, maple syrup, sausage gravy on biscuits, corn bread, home fries, mini muffins, juice, milk and coffee. Adults $12/children 8-12 $7/immediate family $32 (maximum). Offered by Vergennes Knights of Columbus to support their community service programs.

Spirit In Nature Annual Meeting and Eco-Spirit Awards in Ripton. Sunday, May 12, 2-4 p.m., Ripton Community House, Route 125. Spirit In Nature’s 25th Anniversary celebration and annual meeting. Eco-Spirit Awards for 2024 will be presented to Fran Putnam, Bethany Barry, and Brett Gilman for their work on Pollinator Pathways in Addison County. Zoom link: us02web.zoom.us/j/82015132706. Craig Zondag will lead a guided walk prior to the meeting starting at 1 p.m. at SpIN parking lot on Goshen Rd.

Mother’s Day concert in Hinesburg. Sunday, May 12, 4 p.m., CVU Auditorium. The Hinesburg Artist Series will celebrate spring and with a concert full of beautiful music, featuring the Hinesburg Community Band and South County Chorus, both under the direction of Rufus Patrick. Free, with donations gratefully accepted. More info at hinesburgartistseries.org.

 

Tuesday, May 14

Author Chris Lincoln in conversation with Mike McKenna in Middlebury. Tuesday, May 14, 6 p.m., Research room, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St. Middlebury College alumna Chris Lincoln of Thetford, author of “The Funny Moon,” will appear in conversation with Mike McKenna of Weybridge in the May installment of the Vermont Book Shop/Ilsley Public Library Vermont Author Series. “The Funny Moon” is about the challenges of marriage, self-discovery, and personal fulfillment, and was a finalist in the humor category for two prestigious indie publishing awards.

 

Thursday, May 15

Rodrigo Placencia in Starksboro. Thursday, May 15, Starksboro Public Library. Placencia will be playing music that mixes his passion for classical guitar styles, Latin American folk music, and traditional songs from his native Mexico. Free. Part of the 5-Town Musical Library tour

Middlebury Community Music Center student performance in Middlebury. Wednesday, May 15, 6-7:30 p.m., St. Stephen’s Church, on the green. MCMC students showcase their talents in this free performance. Celebrate musical milestones with our community.

 

Thursday, May 16

Green Mountain Club wildflower hike in Warren. Thursday, May 16, Lincoln Peak. Enjoy the effects of altitude on wildflower meadows of the ski trails leading up to Lincoln Peak. Slow to moderate pace with 2,400 feet of elevation change and 5 miles round trip from Sugarbush South. Spectacular views throughout. Contact Ken Corey at 802-349-3733 or [email protected] with questions or to register. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

Thursdays on the TAM in Middlebury. Thursday, May 16, 8:30 a.m., Route 23/Weybridge Rd, Trailhead. Help MALT clean up the trails in advance of the busy summer season. MALTs Trails & Volunteer Manager, Liam Hickey, will be at the trailhead in the mornings with doughnuts, coffee and tea for volunteers. Enjoy a warm drink and chat, then get to work. Hike the section of trail yourself and return tools on the way back, or wait until 9:30 a.m. to hike as a group. Work includes clearing dead branches and small fallen trees, pruning new growth, and picking up trash. Free. Email [email protected] to let him know you’re interested.

Henry Sheldon Museum open house in Middlebury. Thursday, May 16, 4:30-6 p.m., Henry Sheldon Museum, 1 Park St. Current Henry Sheldon Museum members, and not-yet members, are invited to join museum staff to celebrate the opening of the 2024 season and the new exhibits. Light refreshments served. More info at henrysheldonmuseum.org/events/members-reception or call 802-388-2117.

“Never Before Scene” on stage in Middlebury. Thursday, May 16, 7 p.m., Black Box Theater, Hannaford Career Center, 51 Charles Ave. The Addison Repertory Theatre’s annual student show, a collection of original, short one-act plays by the students, written as part of the Vermont Young Playwrights program. Performances will feature not only original works by the students, but desserts created by The Glass Onion, the Career Center’s culinary program.

 

Friday, May 17

Green Mountain Club trail work in Ripton. Friday, May 17, Sucker Brook to Middlebury Gap. The trail crew will be clearing drainage structures and blowdowns from Sucker Brook shelter to Middlebury Gap. Total of five miles of hiking with tools from point to point. Contact Ellen Cronan for more information, 908-595-2926. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

River Watch restoration planting in New Haven. Friday, May 17, 9 a.m., Dog Team Rd. Addison County River Watch is partnering with New Haven River Anglers to plant trees along the New Haven River a few miles north of Middlebury. The group will be establishing a riparian buffer that will filter nutrients, reduce erosion, and improve wildlife habitat. More info and directions contact Matthew Witten at 802-434-3236 or [email protected].

“Never Before Scene” on stage in Middlebury. Friday, May 17, 7 p.m., Black Box Theater, Hannaford Career Center, 51 See May 16 listing.

 

Saturday, May 18

Green Mountain Club hike in Keene Valley, N.Y. Saturday, May 18, Hopkins Mountain. Explore this 5.5-mile out-and-back trail off the beaten path of many of the high peaks. This strenuous hike with 2,200 feet elevation gain will be taken at a slow to moderate pace. Open summit offers incredible views of the high peaks; notably the Great Range, highlighted by the jagged profile of Sawteeth. Carpool to the trailhead, about 70 min. from Middlebury. Contact Barry Francis at 802-349-9206 for details and to register. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

Green Mountain Club women’s backpacking weekend on the in Eastern Adirondacks. Saturday, May 18-Sunday, May 19, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness. Expect moderate to difficult hiking over two days, with moderate elevation change. This will be a leisurely trip, and beginners or those who have not backpacked in some time are welcome. Limit 8 participants. Contact [email protected] for more info. Rain date June 1-2. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

Early bird nature walk in Orwell. Saturday, May 18, 8-10 a.m., Mt. Independence State Historic Site, 497 Mount Independence Rd.

8th Annual Garden Shoppe in Bristol. Begins Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m., 3319 S 116 Rd. An annual fundraiser to benefit the Brendon P Cousino Med47 Foundation. A wide variety of perennials, house plants, veggie and annual starts, hanging baskets, succulent plantings, and other patio plantings, home decor, fun handcrafted items and jewelry. Runs through Sunday, June 16. More info at 802-233-8334 or [email protected].

River Watch restoration planting in New Haven. Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m., Dog Team Rd. See May 17 listing.

Create! Family Shared Cookbook Online in Orwell. Saturday, May 18, at 10 a.m., Orwell Free Library, 473 Main St. Create an online cookbook to share with family and friends using the Google suite. Participants will need a google account. A personal computer and a few recipes and pictures will be helpful to bring along. Presented by Trish Dougherty.

Maritime Museum opening day in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 4472 Basin Harbor Rd. Help LCMM celebrate the first day of the 2024 season. Grounds, exhibits, and Museum Store will officially open for the season for all to visit and explore. Check our calendar for additional special activities on this day. No tickets or advance reservations needed. Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

Author Jack Kelly in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 18, 1-2 p.m., Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 4472 Basin Harbor Rd. On LCMM’s opening day, author Jack Kelly will discuss the research and highlights of his newest book, “God Save Benedict Arnold: The True Story of America’s Most Hated Man.” Kelly will sign copies of his new book, which will be available for purchase from the museum store. Free. Advance registration at www.lcmm.org/JackKelly.

Bingo in Vergennes. Saturday, May. 18, 5 p.m., St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 85 S. Maple St. Doors open at 5 p.m.,

Bingo starts at 6 p.m. A family-friendly event. All cash prizes, 50/50 raffle. Refreshments sold. Sponsored by St. Peter’s Cemetery Committee to benefit the ongoing efforts for cemetery improvements.

A Night at the Opera in Brandon. Saturday, May 18, 7:30 p.m. Barn Opera House, 1386 Pearl St. An evening of operatic arias, duets, and ensembles from some of opera’s favorite operas including: La Traviata, The Barber of Seville, Madama Butterfly, Carmen, The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro, and of course a nod to Rigoletto. The event will be performed by a talented group of Barn Opera/OVT favorites and newcomers, and will be at a reduced cost of $35 tickets.

Green Heron in Ripton. Saturday, May 18, 7:30 p.m., Ripton Community Coffee House, Route 125, village center.  RCCH’s final regularly scheduled concert. The music of Green Heron stretches across the entire folk landscape. Old-time, folk, bluegrass, country, Celtic and blues music are all represented as the band brings the back porch to the stage. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets general admission $15/generous $20-$25 or pay what you can. Beverages and baked goods available. More info at rcch.org.

 

Friday, May 24

Green Mountain Club hike in Ripton. Friday, May 24, Frost Mountain. Moderate hike of 5.4 miles round trip up National Forest Road 234, on the west side of Frost Mt. with nice views of the Adirondacks. Meet at the parking lot in East Middlebury on the uphill side of Sand Hill Bridge, on Route 125 over the gorge. There is an option to end our outing with popping into the Waybury Inn for a beverage and snack. Contact Anne Christie at 802-388-4347 (home) or 802-989-9771 (cell) for more information and to sign up. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

 

Saturday, May 25

Town-wide yard sale in Lincoln. Saturday, May 25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. locations around town. Lincoln’s town-wide yard sale to benefit Weathervane United Inc. There will be sales all around town, at the historical society and the library. Delicious homemade fries, sausage, hamburgers and hot dogs will be available at the firehouse. Sign up at the Lincoln General Store if you would like to have a sale and get on the map. Rain or shine.

Plant, book and bake sale in Orwell. Saturday, May 25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Orwell Free Library, 473 Main St. Plants of all kinds — annuals, perennials, houseplants, herbs, vegetables, shrubs, container gardens, and hanging baskets — will be for sale as well as, books, DVDs, home-baked and canned goods, soups and breads. All proceeds go directly to the Orwell Free Library for purchasing books, providing programming, updating technology and serving our community.

Rokeby season opening in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Rokeby Museum, 4334 Route 7. Rokeby opens for the 2024 season. Visitors are welcome to attend the Rokeby History Site Tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. More info at Rokeby.org.

King Pede card party in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, May 25, 6:30 p.m., Ferrisburgh Town Hall and Community Center, Route 7. The evening begins with a sandwich supper and then on to the games! King Pede involves “trick-taking” such as in Hearts and Spades or Pitch. This is a game of skill so come prepared to use your strategic thinking.

 

Monday, May 27

Memorial Day parade in Vergennes. Monday, May 27, 11 a.m., downtown. The largest Memorial Day parade in the state. Hosted since 1946 by American Legion Post 14, the parade honors all the men and women who have served our country during times of conflict. Plan your viewing spot along the 1.5-mile route, which begins at the high school, and enjoy this year’s parade.

 

Tuesday, May 28

Green Mountain Club hike in Bristol. Tuesday, May 28, 9 a.m., Bristol Trail Network. Plan for 2.5-3 hours for the 3.4-mile section around Bristol’s historic areas. Total elevation gain is under 100 feet. Excellent options for snacks/lunch in Bristol before or after the walk. Contact Porter Knight at [email protected] or 802-343-3920 for more information. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

 

Thursday, May 30

Thursdays on the TAM in Middlebury. Thursday, May 30, 8:30 a.m., Wright Park; Seymour St. Help MALT clean up the trails in advance of the busy summer season. MALT Trails & Volunteer Manager Liam Hickey will be at the trailhead in the mornings with doughnuts, coffee and tea for volunteers. Enjoy a warm drink and chat, then get to work. Hike the section of trail yourself and return tools on the way back, or wait until 9:30 a.m. to hike as a group. Work includes clearing dead branches and small fallen trees, pruning new growth, and picking up trash. Free. Email [email protected] to let him know you’re interested.

The Meat Packers in Ferrisburgh. Thursday, May 30, 6 p.m., Ferrisburgh Town Hall, Route 7. Rokeby Museum’s first Music with the Museum event of the season. An evening of food and music with a community favorite, The Meat Packers. Silent auction to raise funds for Rokeby Museum’s Educational Programming.

 

Friday, May 31

Celestial Soirée in Vergennes. Friday, May 31, 7-11 p.m., Bixby Memorial Library, 528 Main St. Come to the Bixby annual fundraiser — a night to remember under the storied stained-glass dome in Bixby’s magnificent marble rotunda. Tickets $75, include live music and dancing with The Grift, a welcome drink and cash bar, local gourmet eats, and a curated live, silent, and online auction of items and experiences. More info at bixbylilbrary.org.

Donizetti’s “La Fille du Régiment” in Middlebury. Friday, May 31, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Witness Marie’s spirited journey in Opera Company of Middlebury’s production. Raised by soldiers, Marie falls for a rebel, facing war, family tensions and revelations about her nobility. A charming operatic tale of love and loyalty in the Tyrolean Alps. Tickets $94/$77/$61, available at townhalltheater.org.

 

Saturday, June 1

Middlebury Garden Club plant sale in Middlebury. Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m.-noon, on the Green, next to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Get your garden and house plants — annuals, perennials, vegetable starts, shrubs, and more — for the coming season. Plants will be in pots and labeled by name, color and basic care. There will be a table with books and gardening accessories, too. Trays and boxes will be available to carry your selections home.

Green Mountain Club hike in Bristol. Saturday, June 1, 1 p.m., Bristol Trail Network. Plan for 2.5-3 hours for the 3.4-mile section around Bristol’s historic areas. Total elevation gain is under 100 feet. Excellent options for snacks/lunch in Bristol before or after the walk. Contact Porter Knight at [email protected] or 802-343-3920 for more information. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

North Branch School silent art auction in New Haven. Saturday, June 1,3:30-5 p.m., Tourterelle Barn, 3629 Route 7. Help North Branch School raise funds for its programming by bidding on a variety of items. Tickets $20, include one drink ticket. RSVP to [email protected].

 

Sunday, June 2

Taste of Summer gathering in Ferrisburgh. Sunday, June 2, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Ferrisburgh Union Meeting Hall, Route 7. FUMH seeks farmers, makers, artists and bakers to join the Vendor Market for this event, which features live music, food and fun for all ages. For more information about participation, email to [email protected] for details.

“La Fille du Régiment” in Middlebury. Sunday, June 2, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. See May 31 listing.

 

Tuesday, June 4

Bridport Comes Together meeting in Bridport. Tuesday June 4, 6:30-9 p.m., location TBD. Childcare, pizza, dessert, and drinks will be provided. The community will review ideas generated in step one, advocate for what is most important to them, then vote on and sign up to begin moving those priorities forward. Find out more at bit.ly/BridportTogether.

“La Fille du Régiment” Cover Performance in Middlebury. Tuesday, June 4, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Join Opera Company of Middlebury for a night with the “La Fille du Régiment” covers (understudies) as they perform the leading roles. Tickets $39, available at townhalltheter.org.

 

Thursday, June 6

Donizetti’s “La Fille du Régiment” in Middlebury. Thursday, June 6, 2 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Witness Marie’s spirited journey in Opera Company of Middlebury’s production. Raised by soldiers, Marie falls for a rebel, facing war, family tensions and revelations about her nobility. A charming operatic tale of love and loyalty in the Tyrolean Alps. Tickets $94/$77/$61, available at townhalltheater.org.

Twist o’ Wool Guild meeting in Middlebury. Thursday, June 6, 6 p.m., American Legion, 49 Wilson Rd. The guild’s last meeting of the year. Potluck and meeting Bring food to share (salad, casserole, dessert, etc.), a serving spoon or whatever is necessary, along with a plate, and eating utensils for yourself. If you can’t participate in the potluck, come at 7 p.m. to join the meeting.

 

Friday, June 7

“La Scala di Seta” (The Silken Ladder) in Middlebury. Friday, June 7, 7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. Join Opera Company of Middlebury for this fully staged opera farce, by its talented group of Spring 2024 Young Artists. Sung in Italian with English supertitles.

 

Saturday, June 8

Green Mountain Club trail work in Ripton. Saturday, June 8. Group outing focusing on Long Trail tread and drainage projects or areas needing clearing. Contact Ellen Cronan for more information, 908-595-2926. More at gmcbreadloaf.org.

Monthly Wildlife Walk in Middlebury. Saturday, June 8, 7 a.m., Otter View Park, Weybridge St. and Pulp Mill Bridge Rd. Otter Creek Audubon and the Middlebury Area Land Trust invite community members to help survey birds and other wildlife at Otter View Park and the Hurd Grassland. Birders of all ages and abilities welcome. Please take common sense COVID-19 precautions. Stay home if you are feeling ill, and wear a mask if you are unvaccinated. For more information, call 802-388-6019.

“La Fille du Régiment” in Middlebury. Saturday, June 8, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. See June 6 listing.

 

Tuesday, June 11

“Youth Sports in Society” by Alex Wolff and Erin Quinn in Middlebury. Tuesday, June 11, 5:30-7 p.m., Town Hall Theater, 68 S. Pleasant St. The third installment of “Up for Discussion,” a free series created by Vermont Book Shop and Town Hall Theater designed to spark community conversation and featuring local experts in their fields sharing timely topics that span literature, art, film and contemporary issues. The 30-minute presentation will be followed by a roundtable discussion and sharing of thoughts and ideas. Free, but registration required at townhalltheater.org.

 

Saturday, June 15

Sheep and Wool Day in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, June 15, Rokeby Museum, 4334 Route 7. Celebrate Vermont’s wooly heritage. This family-friendly event will feature sheep petting, kid’s crafts, historic spinning and weaving, printing press demonstrations, an instrument petting zoo, history farm tours, and more. Bring non-perishable donations for the Vergennes Community Food Shelf and receive 50% off admission. Food vendors include James Beard Award semifinalist A Taste of Abyssinia and Fairy Tale Farm’s sheep milk gelato.

 

Wednesday, June 19

Juneteenth in Ferrisburgh. Wednesday, June 19, Rokeby Museum, 4334 Route 7. In celebration of Juneteenth, Rokeby will be open free to the public. The historic house will be open for self-guided tours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There are no public guided tours on this day.

 

Saturday, June 29

Abenaki Heritage Weekend in Ferrisburgh. Saturday, June 29, 11 a.m., Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 4472 Basin Harbor Rd. Join Vermont’s Native American community for Abenaki Heritage Weekend and Arts Marketplace on June 29-30 at Lake Champlain Maritime Museum to explore Abenaki perspectives on life in the Champlain Valley. Storytelling, craft demonstrations, drumming, singing, and more. Bring a picnic basket for your lunch.

 

Sunday, June 30

Abenaki Heritage Weekend in Ferrisburgh. Sunday, June 30, 11 a.m., Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 4472 Basin Harbor Rd. See June 29 listing.