Bundle up the family and get ready for a magical trek through Shelburne Farms in the early evening of February 8th. Enjoy the sounds of snow crunching underfoot and wrap up the evening near the bonfire. Registration in advance is recommended.

REGISTRATION AND FULL DETAILS HERE 

The Long Lake Winter Carnival is the biggest winter event of the season. Cardboard Sled Races, outdoor fun, Ice Sculpture Garden, Fireworks, skating, sledding and the infamous Ladies Frying Pan Toss!

SEE THE FULL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS HERE

New Year’s Celebrations in Plattsburgh, Saranac Lake, and Ticonderoga

Plattsburgh

1. New Year’s Eve with Ursa and the Major Key at Monopole Enjoy live music and ring in the new year with Plattsburgh’s popular band, Ursa and the Major Key. Dance the night away in the lively atmosphere of Monopole Bar.
   • Where: Monopole Bar, Plattsburgh, NY
   • When: December 31, starting at 10:00 PM
   • Details: Event Information

Saranac Lake

1. First Night Saranac Lake This community-centered celebration offers live performances, art installations, and activities for all ages. A perfect way to enjoy a family-friendly New Year’s Eve.
   • Where: Multiple venues throughout downtown Saranac Lake
   • When: December 31, 6:00 PM – Midnight
   • Details: First Night Saranac Lake

Ticonderoga

1. New Year’s Eve Celebration at Ticonderoga Knights of Columbus Celebrate with music by Lang & I, light refreshments, and a champagne toast to welcome 2024. This event provides a relaxed and festive environment.
   • Where: Ticonderoga Knights of Columbus, 103 Montcalm Street, Ticonderoga, NY
   • When: December 31, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
   • Details: Event Information

For those ready to chase snowflakes and nostalgia, the Champlain Valley is serving up the holiday feels with a twist of outdoor fun. Over in Charlotte, VT, the iconic Adirondack Sleigh Rides are in full swing, taking families and couples through peaceful, snowy trails with breathtaking views of Lake Champlain. This one’s pure Vermont charm—don’t forget to bring a thermos of cider!

Feeling adventurous? Head to Northwoods Forest Trails in East Charleston, VT, where the Snowshoe Under the Stars Tour takes you through peaceful wooded paths illuminated by moonlight. Guided by local naturalists, the trek ends with a cozy bonfire where you can roast marshmallows and sip hot cocoa.

No holiday adventure is complete without a treat, so swing by Lake Champlain Chocolates in Burlington to grab a box of their new gingerbread chocolate truffles. Or, for a true hidden gem, check out The Nordic Nest in Middlebury for Scandinavian holiday pastries like krumkake and rosettes.

From snowy escapades to sweet indulgences, the Champlain Valley is an open invitation to celebrate the season in style. Pack your mittens, rally your crew, and make this holiday week one to remember!

The holiday season is lighting up the Champlain Valley like never before. This week, Burlington’s Festival of Lights is giving locals and visitors a reason to bundle up and hit the town. Wander through a winter wonderland of glittering light displays while sipping on hot cocoa from local faves like Speeder & Earl’s Coffee or Kru Coffee Collective.

If you’re feeling the need to stretch your legs, head to the outdoor ice rink at The Skating Oval in Plattsburgh, NY. This rink, located just across Lake Champlain, offers open skate sessions under the winter sky, making it a favorite for families and friends. Bring your skates or rent a pair for a truly magical experience close to home.

After the ice, don’t miss the Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum on December 23rd. It’s the perfect spot to grab locally-made gifts like hand-poured candles, wool scarves, and even small-batch maple liqueurs.

What could be better than a week filled with holiday vibes and a bit of fresh Champlain Valley air? Be sure to tag your adventures with #ChamplainHolidayGlow—this week is all about embracing local magic.

There’s still time to give an unwrapped gift for this year’s Toys for Kids at UMall

NBC5’s annual Toys for Kids drive went to the University Mall in South Burlington this week to continue collecting new, unwrapped toys for families in northern New York and Vermont.

The Hinesburg Fire Department is helping with this year’s effort by setting out those big red collection barrels you see throughout the region.

SEE THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF WPTZ HERE

This Thanksgiving, share the spirit of gratitude by helping The Seventy-Six Masonic Lodge bring joy to children affected by the hurricane in North Carolina. They’re collecting new toy donations at the locations listed below through the end of November. As we give thanks for what we have, let’s also give back—your gift can help bring a smile to a child’s face when the Masons deliver these toys just in time for the holidays.

FOR A FULL LIST OF DROP-OFF LOCATIONS CLICK HERE:

Meet Caitlin MacLeod-Bluver, Vermont’s Teacher of the Year, who’s rewriting the playbook on education. This Winooski High School history and English teacher goes beyond textbooks, weaving her students’ rich, diverse stories into every lesson. It’s not just teaching—it’s a masterclass in connection, culture, and care.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF SEVEN DAYS VT HERE

Get ready, Burlington! The annual Celebration of Trees fundraiser is just around the corner, and ANEW Place is pulling out all the stops to support our unhoused neighbors. This heartwarming event is the perfect blend of holiday vibes and community care. Let’s deck the halls, make a difference, and keep the season’s spirit alive!

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF WPTZ HERE: