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Weather & Weekend Rundown:
Hey Btown, I’m back from vacation (more below)! Spring has officially arrived, but the weather didn't get the memo. Friday afternoon brings a burst of wet snow into the Burlington area, with the Champlain Valley likely picking up a dusting to 3 inches as totals taper closer to the lake. Roads should stay mostly wet at first thanks to highs in the upper 30s, but expect slushy conditions near sunset and a potentially slick evening commute. Everything should wrap up before midnight. Saturday shapes up as the better day this weekend: mostly cloudy with some afternoon sun breaks and highs again in the upper 30s to low 40s. Don't get too comfortable, though. Another system rolls in Saturday night into Sunday that could drop an additional 2 to 4 inches of snow, with lingering flurries possible into Monday morning. The cooler, unsettled pattern sticks around through the week ahead, with more rain and snow chances returning midweek.
Starting today though March 29th, Taste the ONE brings Burlington's first ever Old North End restaurant week, with nine diverse eateries offering prix fixe meal deals spanning Somali cuisine, Middle Eastern street food, and dishes from more than one James Beard Award semifinalist. And if this afternoon's snow has you wanting to stay indoors, the Fletcher Free Library's Mini Golf Fundraiser has you covered this weekend. Tonight's 21+ event is essentially sold out, but Saturday's all ages session (10am to 3pm, $10 general admission, $5 per child) still has timed tickets available. Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanek tees off first on Saturday morning, the Lake Monsters' mascot Champ will be roaming the stacks, and there's a raffle to boot. Grab tickets online while they last. Also kicking off today, Meanwhile, the first day of spring is getting a proper welcome over at the BCA Center on Church Street, where an opening reception tonight from 5 to 7pm debuts two new exhibitions: "Human Impact: Contemporary Art and Our Environment" on the first floor and "What's the Difference? Sculptural Ideas" on the second. It's free, there's likely chocolate involved (Lake Champlain Chocolates is a sponsor), and you get to feel cultured on a Friday night. Also tonight, Troy Millette & the Fire Below are doing a live album recording at Tank Recording Studio on North Winooski Ave starting at 7:30pm. If you've never watched an album get made in real time with a studio audience, this is a cool chance. You’ll be delighted to throw on the wireless headphones for the full experience over there. And over at the St. John's Club, the Rustics are playing Americana folk rock and blues starting at 6pm. It's free, open to the public, and there's even a group walking to the Waterfront and back at 4pm beforehand if you want to earn your evening beverage. Also kicking off today, the Saba Marine Boat Show brings over 100 new and pre-owned vessels to Prim Road in Colchester from 10am to 6pm, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to trade the lingering snow for a summer on Lake Champlain.
Saturday is absolutely stacked. Downtown, the Church Street Marketplace and Runamok Maple are bringing back Maple Madness from 11am to 4pm with syrup samples, live music, a photo booth, evaporator demos, axe throwing, wood sculpting, and more. It's free and about as Vermont as it gets. For more maple action, Poor Farm Sugar Works in Colchester is open Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm for their Maple Open House with sugar on snow and samples, and the Browns River Maple Open House [MEETUP] in Essex Junction runs the same hours. Over at the Shelburne Farms [MEETUP], there's a pancake breakfast from 10am to noon ($12 per adult) with fresh syrup, sausage, coffee, and cider. On Pine Street, Ferment Fest at the Soda Plant is free from 11am to 4pm with fermenters, samples, sourdough talks, and pickle block printing. Right down the road, AO Glass is celebrating Waffle Day from 10am to 2pm with fresh waffles, discounts on their maple syrup pitchers, and the chance to stamp a waffle heart from 2,100 degree molten glass ($40). Up at ECHO, Physics Phun Day runs 10am to 3pm with hands on activities and live demos about how physics explains the age of dinosaurs (free with admission). At Laboratory B on North Street, the Old North End Repair Cafe from 11am to 3pm will fix your broken small appliances, electronics, clothing, bikes, and more, all for free. The Spring Greenhouse Opening at Landry Park in Winooski (10am to noon) has free seed packets, a soil blocking demo, and allium education. And the 2026 Burlington Aquarium Fish, Frag and Reptile Expo takes over the Delta Hotel in South Burlington from noon to 3pm with free admission (VIP early entry at 11:30 is $5).
The Catamounts need you on Saturday. UVM Women's Basketball takes on Louisville in the NCAA Tournament at noon, and there are watch parties at both Duke's Public House (doors at 11am) and Windjammer Pub (doors at 11:30am) on Williston Road in South Burlington, with drink specials, food specials, raffles, UVM swag, and surprise guests. Rally the crew, wear the green and gold. Earlier Saturday morning, two time Paralympian Noelle Lambert visits UVM's Gutterson Fieldhouse for a free event from 8:30 to 11am where she'll share her story and then kids get to run laps alongside her on the indoor track. She’s a two-time Paralympian and world bronze medalist representing Team M&T Bank. Also Saturday morning, your state reps Tiff and Bram are hosting Coffee with Your State Reps at Zero Gravity on Pine Street from 8 to 10am. Crossover just happened in the legislature, and there's plenty to discuss: ICE and immigrant rights, housing, education, property taxes, public safety, and more. Stop by with your questions. Of course, our very own BTown Coffee Club [MEETUP] also meets at Zero Gravity from 10am to noon if you just want a casual hangout with friendly faces. In the afternoon, Free Family Skate Night at Douglas Cairns Arena in South Burlington runs 1:30 to 3pm (free admission, $5 skate rentals), and the Revolve Vermont Clothes Swap at RevolVT on North Winooski Ave is 3 to 5:30pm for anyone looking to refresh their workout wardrobe sustainably. Saturday evening, the Five Sisters "Neighbor Strong" Potluck at 129 Caroline Street starts at 5:30pm as part of citywide neighbor gatherings ahead of No Kings III. Bring a dish or just bring yourself. For live music, Ray Vega presents the music of Thelonious Monk at the Venetian Soda Lounge at 8pm, and Josh Panda takes the stage at Foam Brewers at 8pm with his four octave, gospel infused rock. Pool players: the Green Mountain APA "Best of the Best" Tournament is at Vermont Pool and Bar in South Burlington at 3pm ($40 entry). And Mad River-Stowe Rugby Club is holding free indoor touch practice in Montpelier from 6:15 to 8:15pm. All levels welcome, no experience needed.
For those looking ahead to Sunday, Abstract VT: Live! brings a listening room style evening of original music and artist interviews to the Venetian Soda Lounge from 5 to 7:30pm ($10 tickets). If unwinding is more your speed, Candlelight Rest and Renewal at the Sanctuary at the Chase Mill offers a two hour yin yoga and yoga nidra session by soft candlelight starting at 5pm, no experience required. The Soup Du Jour Potluck [MEETUP] gathers in South Burlington from 1 to 4pm for a spring soup sharing session. And the Saba Marine Boat Show in Colchester wraps its final day with over 100 boats on display if you're already dreaming about summer on the lake.
I just got back from a week-long vacation in West Palm Beach to celebrate my 30th, and while the sun was great, being away reminded me how rare what we have here in Burlington really is! I've never seen a community like this one. Diverse, grounded, and genuinely invested in each other.
Also, around 15 of you reached out while I was gone asking when the next issue was dropping. That meant more to me than you know, and it confirmed what I already suspected. This community we're building together matters.
We're coming up on 3,000 subscribers and it's been over a year of me curating every local link, event, and update I can find into one email for you. I recently put $300 of my own money into yard signs to put around town about upcoming events and to help spread the word. Right now, community donations come in at about $100/month.
I'm not going anywhere, but if the Btown Brief helps you feel more connected to this city, consider supporting it with a one-time or monthly donation so I can keep building this thing. Even $3-$5/month makes a real difference. $10 monthly even gets you a free shirt!
Thank you, seriously. And if you really want to feel plugged into the community, come to the Saturday morning coffee meetup. It's the easiest way to meet other people who love Burlington as much as you do.
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Take a step back in time. We’ve officially passed the one-year mark:
View full, past editions at BtownBrief.com
The Btown Brief IRL - We’re now seeing 20–30 people at our weekly events! Be sure to stop by for our weekly Saturday Coffee meetup at Zero Gravity at 10am. Everyone is welcome! It’s a great place to talk about weekend events too, along with news and life updates. So come find things to do this weekend together:
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Local News (All Links Clickable)
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"When we got involved, this ball was already put in motion by some of their poor decision-making and planning," said South Burlington Police Chief Bill Breault, per Seven Days.
Seven Days published a detailed reconstruction of the March 11 ICE operation on Dorset Street that consumed an entire day and drew hundreds of protesters. Federal agents initially arrived without a warrant to enter the home, spent hours obtaining one, and ultimately raided the house with a SWAT team, battering ram, stun grenades, and chemical irritants. The man they were looking for, Deyvi Daniel Corona Sanchez, was not inside. The three people arrested were not him. Local law enforcement officials publicly criticized ICE's planning and escalation, with Chittenden County State's Attorney Sarah George saying the agency "chose escalation over professionalism at every turn" and vowing to prosecute lawbreakers on both sides. The incident has triggered joint legislative hearings and renewed debate over the role of Vermont State Police in federal immigration operations.
"They're bigger, stronger, quicker, whatever it may be, but we're Vermont, and we know who we are," said head coach Alisa Kresge, per Vermont Public.
The 14 seed Catamounts earned their spot by winning the America East Championship on March 13 and now travel to Louisville's home court for a noon tipoff on Saturday. Vermont's defense, allowing just 51.4 points per game (fourth nationally), will be tested against a Louisville squad averaging nearly 80. This is Vermont's second straight tournament appearance and third under Kresge. The team has been practicing with crowd noise to prepare for a hostile environment. Catch it on ESPN at noon, or head to the watch parties in South Burlington mentioned earlier.
"It shows an example of just why you would want to have laws like this on your books, to better protect the people of the state," said ACLU of Vermont lobbyist Falko Schilling, per VTDigger.
The House passed H.849 days after a tense ICE operation in South Burlington on March 11 that involved flash bang devices, chemical agents, and an hourslong standoff between federal agents and protesters. The bill would allow anyone in Vermont to sue federal officers who violate their constitutional rights, filling a gap in existing federal law that only permits such suits against state and local officials. Supporters say the South Burlington incident underscored the urgency. Opponents, including House Minority Leader Pattie McCoy, argued the bill needs deeper constitutional review and could face a federal court challenge under the Supremacy Clause, as happened when the Trump administration sued Illinois over similar legislation. The bill now moves to the Senate.
"Sources say more than 50 huskies were removed from the property on Cleveland Corners Road," per the News & Citizen.
The ASPCA coordinated the operation alongside local law enforcement, with rescue workers arriving from across New England. Officials on scene were tight lipped, and as of the article's publication, no agency had released a formal statement and it remained unclear whether criminal charges would follow. Large scale dog rescues like this one often involve lengthy investigations before any public details emerge, so expect more information to trickle out slowly.
"The Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs voted 5 to 0 to send Senate Bill 278 to the full Senate," per the Marijuana Herald.
The bill would double the retail purchase and possession limit to two ounces and raise the THC cap on a single package from 100 to 200 milligrams. It would also create limited pilot programs for cannabis events (up to 10 public and 10 private permits per year) and delivery services (up to 15 permits for small cultivators and manufacturers), both set to expire in 2028 unless renewed. Another notable provision would prevent municipalities from using local ordinances to completely ban cannabis establishments. The changes are aimed at making Vermont's regulated market more competitive, and if the full Senate and House agree, most provisions would take effect July 1.
"Our first campaign finance report makes one thing crystal clear — Vermonters are ready for a new voice in the Lt. Governor's office," said McLaren campaign manager Molly Moore, per Seven Days.
Former lieutenant governor Molly Gray and Ryan McLaren, a former staffer for U.S. Sen. Peter Welch, filed nearly identical fundraising totals by the March 15 deadline: Gray brought in $154,527 in cash to McLaren's $151,251, though McLaren edged her slightly when noncash donations were included. The parity signals that McLaren has established himself as a legitimate challenger in the Democratic primary. Gray's campaign has more cash on hand ($138,550 to McLaren's $115,660), but McLaren's donor list includes notable names like former governor Peter Shumlin and Vermont Gas president Neale Lunderville. The winner will face Republican Lt. Gov. John Rodgers, who raised $36,740 in the same period, in November.
"The reason we're doing this is because guns that shoot fast kill more people," said Rep. Angela Arsenault, D-Williston, per VTDigger.
The House Judiciary Committee passed H.606 on a strict party line vote, with all six Democrats in favor and all five Republicans opposed. The bill would make it a felony to steal a firearm, ban machine guns and conversion devices under state law, and, most controversially, prohibit gun ownership for individuals under current court orders to receive outpatient mental health treatment. That last provision was the dealbreaker for Republicans, who said they would have supported the bill without it. Democrats argue the restriction addresses a real gap: people deemed dangerous enough for court ordered treatment can still legally possess firearms while living in the community with limited supervision. The bill now heads to the full House.
"We know there is a real gap in our system. People complete residential treatment and have few stable and recovery focused places to go," said Sandy McGuire, CEO of the Howard Center, per VTDigger.
The Bridges Recovery Shelter, now open in downtown Burlington, is the first of its kind in Chittenden County. Operated by CVOEO in a building owned by the Howard Center, it offers 10 to 12 beds for unhoused individuals in recovery, with on site clinicians, recovery group meetings, and peer support. The shelter fills a critical need: Vermont's existing low barrier shelters get people indoors but can be tough environments for maintaining sobriety. Funding comes from about $879,000 in state support plus $104,000 from the city. If a resident relapses, staff will work with them first and aim to place them back into a low barrier setting temporarily rather than putting them back on the street.
"During the spring fish spawning season, it is key to pause permitted projects to help support the health and breeding success of fish populations across the state," said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli, per Vermont Business Magazine.
The seasonal moratorium runs from March 15 to July 1 and applies to permitted lake encroachment construction and nonchemical aquatic plant control projects on public lakes and ponds. That means no riprap, dredging, seawall work, or other lakebed disturbances. If you're just putting in your dock, float, or buoy, you're fine. For anyone with lakefront property planning spring or early summer projects, this is worth noting on the calendar so you don't run into permitting issues.
"I also realized that it was extremely difficult for my mom and the other family members to be able to help him, and to be able to find the right kind of help," founder Rustam Sengupta told Vermont Public.
Tuktu Care is an AI driven platform connecting Vermonters with personal care aides for nonmedical tasks like cooking, driving, light housekeeping, and companionship. Sengupta relocated to Vermont last year, drawn by the state's aging population and strong community ties, with $200,000 in combined funding from the Green Mountain Accelerator Fund and private investors. Rates run $25 to $45 an hour, notably less than the $50 per hour that established agencies like Bayada charge out of pocket clients. In a state where one in four older adults lives alone and personal care aide shortages have persisted since before the pandemic, a new option in this space could make a real difference for families piecing together care on their own.
Quick Hits
Gov. Phil Scott is holding firm: no state budget without a plan for mandatory school district consolidation. Lawmakers in both chambers are reviewing proposals that could redraw district and supervisory union maps statewide, aiming to cut costs as property taxes keep climbing. The sticking point, as always, is making sure smaller communities don't get swallowed up in the process.
The South Burlington City Council voted Monday to award a construction contract for a new paved path, benches, a bike rack, and four lights at Hubbard Recreation & Natural Area near Overlook Park. Cyclists want the improved visibility, but some residents pushed back, arguing that lighting disrupts wildlife behavior including foraging and migration patterns. Construction is expected to begin in April.
The new $38 million Materials Recovery Facility on Redmond Road in Williston is taking shape, with construction underway since the November 2025 groundbreaking. The facility replaces the current MRF, which has been running since 1993 and is well past capacity. The upgraded center will process 40 percent more material, feature modern sorting technology, and include a public education center with a viewing platform. Funding comes from CSWD reserves, grants, and a $22 million bond approved by Chittenden County voters.
How good of a reader are you? Think you’re keeping up with Burlington news? It's time to prove it. Every Monday and Friday, we're dropping a quick 5-question quiz covering the local news you just finished reading. You've got just 60 seconds to answer them all. No looking back allowed. Use the same unique name each time you play so everyone can track your stats in our Hall of Fame, where you'll compete for titles like Sharpshooter (highest accuracy), Speed Demon (fastest average time), and Streak Leader (most consistent player). Make your name (or cool nickname) known to Btown!
And yes, there are PRIZES. Each month, we'll reward the top performers based on the best combination of Total Score and Average Score. That means playing consistently AND playing well will pay off. The more quizzes you complete with high scores, the better your chances of winning. I mean, who doesn’t want cool Btown Merch gear sent to them?
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UVM Athletics: Women's Basketball Claims America East Title, Skiing Secures Fifth at NCAAs
The University of Vermont women’s basketball team captured their third America East title in the last four seasons with a decisive 61-43 victory over Maine at Patrick Gymnasium. Keira Hanson led the charge with a game-high 23 points, while Nikola Priede was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. Following the championship win, the Catamounts earned a No. 14 seed and are set to face No. 3 Louisville in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in Kentucky.
On the men's side, the basketball team fell 74-59 to UMBC in the America East Championship. TJ Long paced the Catamounts with 17 points, and TJ Hurley and Gus Yalden both added 11 points in the road loss.
The Catamount ski team concluded a stellar showing at the 2026 NCAA Ski Championships, securing a fifth-place overall finish with 334 total points. In the 20k Freestyle, Haley Brewster and Tabor Greenberg earned First Team All-American honors, while Lena Poduska secured a Second Team nod. These performances followed an impressive alpine showing where Felix Lindenmayer, Oskar Gillberg, and Cydnie Timmermann all earned Second Team All-American honors in the slalom.
In men’s lacrosse, Vermont secured its first conference win of the season with a 10-5 victory over UMBC. Cullen Decker scored a career-high four goals, Zack Toll contributed a hat trick, and goaltender Ryan Daly made 11 saves. Conversely, the women’s lacrosse team dropped a tight 8-7 road matchup against Bryant to open America East play, despite a nine-save effort from Ayla Shea. The women's lacrosse team will look to bounce back when they host UMBC on Friday, March 20 at 11 a.m. at Virtue Field.
At the CSCAA National Invitational Championship in Florida, the women’s swimming and diving team saw strong performances as both Amy Kenworthy and Natalie Schick earned 18th-place finishes. Schick reset her own varsity record in the 200 backstroke, while Kenworthy set a personal best in the 1650 freestyle.
Upcoming Home Games
Mar 28: Men's Lacrosse 2026 vs NJIT (Sat ⦁ 12:00pm)
Events:
Friday, March 20, 2026
General Events
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: No School Spectacular: Space Explorations at O.N.E. Community Center, Burlington ($40)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: UpEnding Parkinson's Climbing Group at Petra Cliffs Climbing Center, Burlington (Free)
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Rock Point Center Exhibits and Trails at 20 Rock Point Road, Burlington (Free)
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Dinosaur Safari Exhibit at ECHO at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington (Free with admission)
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Saba Marine Boat Show at 390 Prim Rd, Colchester (Free)
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Donation-Based Ear Acupuncture Clinic at 100 Dorset St, Suite 5, South Burlington (Donation)
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Challenges and Opportunities for Vermont Agriculture at Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington ($8 or Free for EEE members)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Skiff Oyster Hour at Hotel Champlain, Burlington (Half-priced oysters)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Teachers' Night Out at BCA Center, 135 Church St, Burlington (Free)
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: "Human Impact: Contemporary Art and Our Environment" Opening Reception at BCA Center, 135 Church St, Burlington (Free)
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: "What's the Difference? Sculptural Ideas" Opening Reception at BCA Center, 135 Church St, Burlington (Free)
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: COTS Annual Meeting 2026 at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington (Free)
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dance into Spring with the Rustics at St. John's Club, Burlington (Free)
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Four Fridays: Dinner + Conversation for Midlife Women in South Burlington
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Mascoma Bank Library Fundraiser on the Fairway at Fletcher Free Library, Burlington
6:00 PM: RAR Bike Basics - for WTNB at Old Spokes Home Community Workshop, Burlington
6:00 PM: Yoga Nidra & Soundbowls at 1 Mill St, Burlington
6:30 PM: Friday Night Ballroom at Vermont Swings / North Star Community Hall
All Day: Taste the ONE: Restaurant Week at Various Old North End locations (Various prices)
[MEETUP] 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Learn & Play Nemesis Retaliation at The Boardroom - Board Game Cafe (Free, registration required)
Performances
5:00 PM: Janus Forum Debates at University of Vermont
5:30 PM: Debate: College Degree and Social Mobility at Davis Center, Room 417, University of Vermont
6:30 PM & 8:30 PM: Liza Treyger (Comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington ($25)
7:00 PM – 8:45 PM: Like Water for Chocolate (Film Screening) at VTIFF Screening Room, 60 Lake St, Burlington ($12/$6 Student)
7:00 PM: Ragas by Candlelight at Contois Auditorium, City Hall, Burlington ($25–$30)
7:00 PM: A Midsummer Night's Dream: The 40s Musical at O.N.E. Community Center, Burlington (Free)
7:00 PM: Shelburne Players: A Shadow on the Wall at Shelburne Town Center ($20)
7:30 PM: Vermont Stage: The Half-Life of Marie Curie at Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing ($34–$54 sliding scale)
7:30 PM: Lane Series: A Far Cry at UVM Recital Hall, 384 S Prospect St, Burlington (SOLD OUT)
8:00 PM: RuPaul's Drag Race Viewing Party at Einstein's Tap House, 165 Church St, Burlington (Free)
Live Music/DJ
4:00 PM: Think Spring Tasting at Gracey's Liquor Store, South Burlington
5:00 PM: Al's Pals at Old Lantern Events Barn, Charlotte ($5 advance/$10 door)
5:00 PM: She Was Right Live at 4 Park St, Essex Junction
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Live Music: Mowgli Giannitti at Switchback Brewing Co., Burlington (Free)
6:00 PM: Cocktail Piano Hour with Paul Webb at Venetian Soda Lounge (Free)
6:00 PM: Toboggan Fiasco, Moss Boy, PORTTITOR at Radio Bean ($10)
6:30 PM: Dan Parks at Burlington Elks Lodge 916
6:30 PM: Pop & Drop at 530 Community Dr, South Burlington
7:00 PM: Live, Laugh, Club w/ Kate Kush, MEGH, Skipipop, and DJ Burger at Foam Brewers (Free)
7:00 PM: DJs: Aras, JP Black, Ron Stoppable at Red Square (Free)
7:00 PM: Friday Night at Specs (DJ) at 7 W Canal St, Winooski (Free)
7:00 PM: AWDAM, Eighteen Hundred and Froze to Death, Skrom at 1416 North Ave, Burlington ($10)
7:30 PM: Dwight + Nicole Record Release Show at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington ($32.22)
7:30 PM: TRS LIVE: Troy Millette & the Fire Below – Live Recording at Tank Recording Studio, 322 N Winooski Ave, Burlington ($25/$35, 21+, BYOB)
7:30 PM: Forest Station (Bluegrass) at The Monkey House ($10)
8:00 PM: DJs: Burly Bear, Aidan at Red Square Blue Room (Free)
8:00 PM: Tim Lewis Appreciation Night w/ The Eyetraps, Coven, Dogface, Andriana & the Bananas at Light Club Lamp Shop ($10)
8:00 PM: Quadra at The Old Post (Free)
8:00 PM: Burly Bear presents: Bare Belly! at Red Square
8:00 PM: Friday Night Karaoke at Park Place Tavern & Grill (Free)
9:00 PM: Afropop Night with The Kwame Vibe at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski ($5/$10)
9:00 PM: Lee Ross at Radio Bean, Burlington ($10, 21+)
9:00 PM: Something Reckless Live at 4 Park St, Essex Junction
9:00 PM: Rap Night Burlington at Drink ($5)
9:00 PM: Karaoke with DJ Big T at McKee's Original (Free)
9:00 PM: Heated Rivalry Night (DJ) at Higher Ground Ballroom (SOLD OUT)
Killer Whale (Psychedelic Pontoon Soul) w/ Jensen Alley & The Pachyderms at The Monkey House
11:00 PM: DJ Taka at Light Club Lamp Shop ($10/$15)
7:00 PM: Masquerade Ball Shabbat! at minyan802
Saturday, March 21, 2026
General Events
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Coffee with Your State Reps at Zero Gravity Brewery, 716 Pine Street, Burlington (Free)
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Guided Bird Walk at 20 Rock Point Road, Burlington (Free)
8:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Powered by Possibility: Track & Field with Paralympian Noelle Lambert at Gutterson Fieldhouse, Burlington (Free)
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Open Cupboard Free Food Distribution at 1672 West Lakeshore Drive, Colchester (Free)
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Makers In Action: Whistles & Sign Making at Generator Makerspace (Free)
9:00 AM: Member Mornings at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
9:00 AM – 1:30 PM: Introductory Zen Buddhism Workshop at Vermont Zen Center, Shelburne
9:30 AM & 1:00 PM: Meet & Bleat Baby Goat Playgroup at Flower Gap Farm & Creamery ($20)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Pruning Basics for Trees and Shrubs at 65 Green Mountain Dr, South Burlington (Free)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Vermont Garden Network Spring Greenhouse Opening at Landry Park, Winooski (Free)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Seeds of Change Collage Workshop at 21 Carmichael Street, Essex Junction
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Rock Point Center Exhibits and Trails at 20 Rock Point Road, Burlington (Free)
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: WAFFLE DAY at AO Glass at 416 Pine Street, Burlington
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Maple Sugaring Open House at 5 Rock Point Rd, Burlington (Free)
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Physics Phun Day: Discovery & Dinosaurs at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain (Free with admission)
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Mascoma Bank Library Mini Golf: A Day of Putting on the Links at Fletcher Free Library, Burlington ($5–$20)
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Spring Fling at Willow House at 11 Falls Road, Shelburne (Free)
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Saba Marine Boat Show at 390 Prim Rd, Colchester (Free)
10:00 AM: Family Playshop at Fletcher Free Library (Free)
10:30 AM: Read to Chewy the Therapy Dog at Essex Free Library (Free)
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Maple Madness at Church Street Marketplace, Burlington (Free)
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Maple Madness at ECCO! at Ecco Clothes, 81 Church St, Burlington (Free)
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Ferment Fest 2026 at The Soda Plant (Free)
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Sugar on Snow Parties at Green Mountain Audubon Center at 368 Main Road, Huntington (Free admission)
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Poor Farm Sugar Works Maple Open House at 825 Poor Farm Road, Colchester (Free)
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Old North End Repair Cafe at Laboratory B, North Street, Burlington (Free)
11:00 AM: UVM Women's Basketball NCAA Tournament Watch Party at Duke's Public House & Windjammer Pub, South Burlington (Free)
11:00 AM: Here to Help at 21 Buell St, Burlington
11:00 AM: Chess Club at South Burlington Public Library (Free)
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Documentary Screening: The Inquisitor at Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester (Free)
11:30 AM: 2026 Burlington Aquarium Fish, Frag and Reptile EXPO at Delta Hotels by Marriott, South Burlington (Free, $5 VIP)
12:00 PM: Yoga Anatomy: The Pelvic Puzzle at 1 Mill St, Burlington
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Media Factory New Member Orientation at The Media Factory (Free)
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: WTF! Welcome to Fatherhood Workshop at The Guild Hall (Free)
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Free Family Skate Night at Cairns Arena, 600 Swift Street, South Burlington (Free admission, $3–$5 skate rental)
3:00 PM: Revolve Vermont Clothes Swap at 294 N Winooski Ave, Suite 125, Burlington
3:00 PM: Colchester Deaf Club & GBDC Bowling & Restaurant at Spare Time Colchester & City Sports Grille
3:30 PM: Green Mountain APA - BEST OF THE BEST Tournament at Vermont Pool and Bar
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Wine Up Vermont: A Natural Wine Fair at Ellison Estate Vineyard, Stowe ($55)
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: The Thinning Veil Art Show Reception at Nurture by Nature (Free)
5:15 PM: Annual St. Patrick's Day Dinner at Christ the King School, Burlington
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Five Sisters "Neighbor Strong" Potluck at 129 Caroline St, Burlington (Free, bring a dish)
5:45 PM: March Ballroom Dance at Vermont Swings / North Star Community Hall
6:00 AM: Northeast Theatre on Ice Festival at Leddy Park Arena
6:00 PM: RAR Bike Basics - for WTNB at Old Spokes Home Community Workshop, Burlington
6:00 PM: Rotary Bill Skiff Story Slam at Williston Central School ($20)
6:15 PM – 8:15 PM: Mad River-Stowe Indoor Touch Rugby Practice at Central Vermont Memorial Civic Center, Montpelier (Free)
6:30 PM: "Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality" Movie Event and Fundraiser at Holy Family Church
7:00 PM: Dads' Night Out: Sober Saturday Nights at The Guild Hall (Free)
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Sisterhood Campfire at Leddy Park (Free)
11:30 AM: Kingstons Autism Swagger Squad Connect and Play at Lund
All Day: Taste the ONE: Restaurant Week at Various Old North End locations (Various prices)
Feel The Stride Run Club at 31 Church Street, Burlington (Free)
[MEETUP] 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: BTown Coffee Club at Zero Gravity Brewery, Burlington (Free)
[MEETUP] 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM: VTH3 Trail #089: Vermont Green Dress Run at Zero Gravity Brewery, Burlington ($35, 21+)
[MEETUP] 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: HU Chant: Ancient Mantra for a Modern World at South Burlington Library (Free)
[MEETUP] 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Maple Open House at Browns River Maple & Lunch at Browns River Maple, 233 Browns River Rd, Essex Junction (Free)
[MEETUP] 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Breakfast Club!: Shelburne Farms Pancake Breakfast at Shelburne Farms, 1611 Harbor Road, Shelburne ($12)
[MEETUP] 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Lunch at Haymaker Bun Co. + Ferment Fest at Haymaker Buns, 266 Pine Street, Burlington (Free to attend)
[MEETUP] 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Terrestrial History (Burlington Brewery Book Club) at Lucy and Howe Brewing Company, 51 VT-15, Jericho (Free)
Performances
2:00 PM & 7:00 PM: A Midsummer Night's Dream: The 40s Musical at O.N.E. Community Center, Burlington (Free)
2:00 PM & 7:00 PM: Shelburne Players: A Shadow on the Wall at Shelburne Town Center ($20)
2:00 PM & 7:30 PM: Vermont Stage: The Half-Life of Marie Curie at Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing ($34–$54 sliding scale)
3:00 PM: VTIFF Screening: The Scent of Green Papaya (1993) at Main Street Landing, Burlington ($12/$6 Student)
6:00 PM: Vermont Symphony Orchestra: Disney in Concert: Around the World at The Flynn Main Stage, Burlington ($40–$75)
6:30 PM & 8:30 PM: Liza Treyger (Comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington ($25)
7:00 PM: VTIFF Screening: Tampopo (1985) at Main Street Landing, Burlington ($12/$6 Student)
7:00 PM: Glow Up & Dance Silent Disco at Davis Studio ($25)
7:00 PM: Queen City Tango Milonga at Fusion 802
7:45 PM: Amystera, Morning Giants at Double E Performance Center's T-Rex Theater ($17.91)
8:00 PM: System Glitch: Y2K Burlesque at 165 Church St, Burlington
12:00 PM: Hungrytown (Folk Music) at South Burlington Public Library (Free)
Live Music/DJ
6:00 PM: DJs: Mr Cheng, DJ Chaston, DJ Aras at Red Square (Free)
6:00 PM: Jackson Garrow at 1st Republic Brewing (Free)
7:00 PM: Maria Somerville, Colle at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge ($18–$23.05)
7:00 PM: Queer Takeover (DJ) at Radio Bean ($10)
7:30 PM: Justin Levinson at Shelburne Vineyard
7:30 PM: Eliza McLamb, Oldstar at Higher Ground Ballroom ($32.22)
8:00 PM: Josh Panda at Foam Brewers (Free)
8:00 PM: Ray Vega Presents the Music of Thelonious Monk at Venetian Soda Lounge ($15)
8:00 PM: DJs: DJ Raul, Matt P at Red Square Blue Room (Free)
8:00 PM: Sparkomatik (DJ) at Monkey House ($10/$15)
8:00 PM: Dj Dan Karaoke at Pearl Street Pub
9:00 PM: Queeraoke with Goddess at Standing Stone Wines (Free)
9:00 PM: Three Piece Meal at Deli 126, Burlington
10:00 PM: ¡Baila Con Migo! with JP Black at 165 Church St, Burlington
Sunday, March 22, 2026
General Events
8:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Maple Pancake Breakfast at Georgia Mountain Maples ($7–$20)
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Breakfast With Bluey at Vermont Comedy Club (Free)
9:30 AM: Divine Worship Service at 1560 Williston Rd, South Burlington
9:30 AM & 1:00 PM: Meet & Bleat Baby Goat Playgroup at Flower Gap Farm & Creamery ($20)
10:00 AM: EASTER at New Life at 146 Market St, South Burlington
10:00 AM: March Construction Zone at University Mall, Burlington
10:00 AM: Sunday Brunch Tunes at Hotel Vermont (Free)
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Saba Marine Boat Show at 390 Prim Rd, Colchester (Free)
10:45 AM: Adult Bible Study and Sunday School at 1560 Williston Rd, South Burlington
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: March for Meals Fashion Show at Burlington Country Club
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Sugar on Snow Parties at Green Mountain Audubon Center at Audubon Vermont Sugarhouse (Free)
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Poor Farm Sugar Works Maple Open House at 825 Poor Farm Road, Colchester (Free)
11:00 AM: 'Just Like a Book: More Than My Cover' Workshop at South Burlington Public Library (Free)
11:30 AM & 2:00 PM: Sunday Afternoon Tea at Ferrisburgh Bake Shop & Deli ($60)
12:00 PM: The Amazing Puzzle Race 500 Piece at The Boardroom - Board Game Cafe [MEETUP]
12:00 PM: Sunday Funday Games at 1st Republic Brewing (Free)
12:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Social Sundays (Art Activities) at Milton Artists' Guild Art Center (Free)
1:00 PM: Duplicate Bridge Games at Burlington Bridge Club ($6)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Mobile Pet Food Shelf at Winooski Senior Center (Free)
1:00 PM: Winooski Senior Center at Winooski Senior Center
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Social Sunday (Workshop) at Milton Artists' Guild Art Center (Free)
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Signs, Songs and Snacks to Fuel the Movement at O'Brien Community Center, Winooski (Free)
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Drop-In Tech Support at Fletcher Free Library (Free)
5:00 PM: Candlelight Rest and Renewal: A Yin & Yoga Nidra Experience at The Sanctuary for Healing & Liberation
5:00 PM: Slow Burn Sundays at Venetian Soda Lounge
6:00 PM: Sunday Night Trivia at The Lazy Goat Tavern, Essex (Free)
6:00 PM – 7:45 PM: New Leaf Sangha Mindfulness Practice at Hot Yoga Burlington (Free)
All Day: Taste the ONE: Restaurant Week at Various Old North End locations (Various prices)
Feeding Champlain Valley at Feeding Champlain Valley
[MEETUP] 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Soup Du Jour Potluck! in South Burlington (Free)
[MEETUP] 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Womxn's Pick-up Soccer - Indoor at Miller Community Center, Burlington (Free, must register)
Performances
2:00 PM: Vermont Stage: The Half-Life of Marie Curie at Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing ($34–$54 sliding scale)
1:30 PM: Da Capo Concert (Vermont Youth Orchestra) at Elley-Long Music Center (Free)
4:00 PM: Westford Music Series: Paul Asbell at Westford Common Hall (Free)
5:00 PM: Two Nights of Carpool in Burlington
5:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Abstract VT: Live! – Music Showcase & Artist Stories at Venetian Soda Lounge ($10)
Live Music/DJ
1:00 PM: David Karl Roberts / Acoustic Brunch at Foam Brewers (Free)
3:00 PM: Community Concerts @ First - Tom Cleary & Amber DeLaurentis at First Congregational Church of Essex Junction ($20)
5:00 PM: Wine & Jazz Sundays at Shelburne Vineyard (Free)
9:00 PM – 2:00 AM: Karaoke Sundays! at Einstein Tap House, 165 Church St, Burlington (Free, 21+)
Ongoing Exhibits & Installations (Available All Weekend)
Champ: America's Lake Monster at ECHO Leahy Center | Daily, 10 AM–5 PM ($17–$23)
Dinosaur Safari Exhibit at ECHO Leahy Center | Daily, 10 AM–5 PM ($17–$23)
Sea Monsters 3D at ECHO Leahy Center | Multiple Showings ($3–$5 plus admission)
Ocean Paradise 3D at ECHO Leahy Center | Multiple Showings ($3–$5 plus admission)
Dinosaurs of Antarctica 3D at ECHO Leahy Center | Multiple Showings ($3–$5 plus admission)
Backyard Wilderness 3D at ECHO Leahy Center | Multiple Showings ($3–$5 plus admission)
Art Exhibit: Michael Metz 'Graffiti' at Village Wine and Coffee (Free)
Photo Exhibit: Sallie Dean Shatz at Francis Colburn Gallery, UVM (Free)
Art Exhibit: Jesse Weiss 'simple/sample' at Extra Special With Cheese (Free)
Art Exhibit: Susan Smereka 'Re:shape' at South Burlington Public Art Gallery (Free)
Art Exhibit: Sage Tucker-Ketcham at Champlain College Art Gallery (Free)
Photo Exhibit: Zach Pollakoff 'Nostalgia Trap' at ATM Gallery (Free)
Art Exhibit: 'By a Thread' Fiber Arts Show at SEABA Center (Free)
Art Exhibit: 'Legacy and Light' at Burlington City Hall (Free)
Art Exhibit: 'Irish Eyes' at Fletcher Free Library (Free)
Photography Exhibit: 'The World Through Our Lenses' at Emile A. Groupe Gallery (Free)
Art at the Airport: Kelly O'Neal at Burlington International Airport (Free)
'Photo-Secession' at Fleming Museum of Art (Free)
'Beyond Red Barns' at Fleming Museum of Art (Free)
Benjamin Aleshire 'Blue Period' at Foam Brewers (Free)
'Memory Fields' Installation at Fleming Museum of Art (Free)
Jennifer McCandless 'You're an Animal' at Soapbox Arts (Free)
Dakin Fuller at The S.P.A.C.E. Gallery (Free)
'Rooted in Nature' at Fleming Museum of Art (Free)
Ashley Stagner 'The Cowboy Series' at Artspace 106 (Free)
'Belonging' at Fleming Museum of Art (Free)
Call to Artists: 'Wings — Waters — Ways' at Birds of Vermont Museum (Free)
Here are some of my favorite BtownBrief links:
Full list of 202+ activities to do at anytime is always waiting here when you need a plan: 202+ Things to Do
Full list of restaurant reviews here.
View the full list of food & drink deals here.
That’s All, Burlington!
What a weekend to kick off spring. Whether you're chasing maple steam, fixing a busted lamp, cheering on the Cats, or just grabbing coffee with a neighbor, there's something out there for you. Take a few minutes to read the full stories linked above and support the local journalists covering this community.
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