Whether looking for something fun to do for a quick date or showing off the North Country to out-of-town guests, we’ve combed the area looking for the best places to picnic. Some of these locales are Seven Daysies Award-Winners while some are haunts we’ve check out on our own:

1. 1. Shelburne Farms – Located off Route 7, the majestic farm and seasonal mansion offer $40 picnic basket for two with a pre-made box, available exclusively to Shelburne Farms Inn guests and bar patrons for $40. This curated selection showcases the finest local flavors, including Shelburne Farms’ cheddar, salami from Agricola Farm, crisp apples, jam, and crackers. Enhance your picnic experience with additional treats from the Farm Cart or a freshly baked loaf from O Bread Bakery, both conveniently located on the property.
   2. Mt. Philo State Park – If you continue south on Route 7, hang a left and head up Mt. Philo. Whether taking the 2 mile hike up the paved road or driving up, the view does not disappoint! Pack your own picnic, sit in the Adirondack chairs and enjoy!
   3. Crown Point State Park – About an hour south, you can enjoy the ruins of the French and British colonial wars while munching on your picnic looking at the beauty of Lake Champlain.
   4. Fort Ticonderoga – Now this is a jaunt, (maybe 1 1/2 to 2 hour drive,) but certainly worth it for the history buff! Corn mazes, the Fort and adventure await

Discover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Northern New York this week, July 7th to 14th. We’re focusing on two captivating destinations: the natural wonder of Ausable Chasm and the historic Fort Ticonderoga.

Ausable Chasm: The Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks

• Explore a Geological Marvel: Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ausable Chasm, a stunning gorge carved by the Ausable River. Hike along the rim, explore dramatic rock formations, or take an exhilarating raft ride through the chasm’s depths.
• Family-Friendly Adventure: Ausable Chasm offers activities for all ages, from scenic walks to adventurous rock climbing. It’s a perfect destination for families seeking outdoor fun and a unique learning experience.

War of 1812 Museum in Plattsburgh:

• Step Back in Time: Delve into the history of the War of 1812 at this informative museum in Plattsburgh. Learn about the pivotal battles fought in the region, including the Battle of Plattsburgh, and discover the stories of those who lived through this significant period in American history.

Fort Ticonderoga: A Historic Gem

Fort Ticonderoga has special events happening throughout the summer, but the ones to highlight for your trip are:

• Cannon & Coffee (July 5th): Start your day with the thunder of artillery and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. This unique experience blends history with a morning pick-me-up.
• History Happy Hour on the Carillon (July 5th): Relax with a narrated boat cruise on Lake Champlain aboard the Carillon. Enjoy scenic views, learn about Ticonderoga’s past, and savor a classic cocktail.
• A Date with Brown Bess (July 9th): Get hands-on with a Brown Bess musket, the iconic firearm of the 18th century. Learn about its history and how it was used. You’ll even get to try loading and (with supervision) firing it!

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking natural beauty, Ausable Chasm and Fort Ticonderoga offer a captivating glimpse into the past and present of Northern New York.

If you love hiking with Fido, you don’t want to miss out on the VT Hiking Dog Challenge. For a $10 donation, you’ll receive a list of 35 hand-picked bike paths, rail trails and summits across the state. Finish at least 10 of them and you’ll be entered to win a “pawsome” prize.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF SEVEN DAYS HERE

The Vermont Maple Festival kicks off this Friday, April 26, at noon with the traditional maple and milk toast, when the parade marshall is officially announced. For those looking to attend, be sure to grab a traditional maple and milk drink to participate in the opening ceremony.

Friday also kicks off the weekend-long exhibits in both St. Mary’s Parish Center, for the maple foods exhibit, and the BFA-St. Albans gym, for the craft and specialty foods show.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF ST ALBANS MESSENGER

The Artful Ice Shanties will be displayed at Retreat Farm (45 Farmhouse Square, Brattleboro, Vermont).

Visitors are welcome from dawn to dusk. Park at Retreat Farm, stop in at the welcome hut near the farmhouse, and then head into the square to see the shanties now until February 24th

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ARTFUL SHANTIES WITH WPTZ’S JACK THURSTON

Local camp directors say the problem is real. In fact, some have announced changes to their registration systems this year, though adding more capacity is much harder, given staffing and space constraints. They offered a few suggestions to help parents in the meantime.

READ MORE ABOUT THE SUMMER CAMP SCRAMBLE COURTESY OF SEVEN DAYS HERE

While we haven’t had a nor’eastern storm yet, it’s still early in the season. Here are some GREAT tips on how to prepare your home and car for a winter storm from our friends at WPTZ:

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After the devastating flooding Vermont farmers faced this past summer, St. Albans farmers have banded together for a celebratory Tractor Parade thatwinds through St. Albans this Friday night. Vermont’s Secretary of Agriculture, Anson Tebbetts said “Farmers of Franklin County and beyond are doing this to thank the community for supporting them all the years that they’ve been there,” Over 60 farmers will participate with lighted tractors, trucks and more to celebrate.

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Since 2015, founder Troy Austin has been rounding up new, unwrapped toys to insure no child goes without a present during the holidays. This Saturday starting at 4 pm, the Albert D. Lawton school in Essex Junction will host trucks and vehicles ablaze in holiday lights, cookies and of course, Santa to accept donations of unwrapped new toys until 6:30 pm.

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