Maple sugaring season has arrived in Vermont, making it the perfect time to visit local sugarhouses, see how maple syrup is made, and enjoy fresh samples straight from the source. In Northern Vermont, some sugarhouses welcome visitors throughout the season, while others open their doors for special events during Maple Open House Weekend. If you’re looking for the best places to experience this iconic Vermont tradition, we’ve rounded up a few must-visit sugarhouses below.

1. Palmer’s Sugarhouse | Shelburne, VT

Palmer’s Sugarhouse welcomes the community every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM through April 15. Enjoy sugar on snow, live music, maple boiling demonstrations, and a delicious pancake breakfast served each weekend from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Conveniently located less than 20 minutes from Burlington, it’s a family-friendly stop and a must-visit during Vermont’s sugaring season.

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2. Shelburne Farms | Shelburne, VT
Experience the sugaring process at Shelburne Farms on March 21–22, 2026. Visitors can tour the sugarhouse, tap a maple tree, sample fresh syrup, explore the sugarbush, learn about local birds, and hear Abenaki storytelling and sugaring traditions. Maple treats, including hot dogs and a pancake breakfast, will be available for a small fee. The event runs Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Open House Information 

3. Mountainview Mapleworks at the Giroux Family Farm | Richmond, VT

During Vermont Maple Open House Weekend, head to Richmond for a behind-the-scenes look at a family-run sugarhouse. Watch the sap boiling, take a tour, and enjoy fresh syrup samples along with maple hot dogs, maple coffee, maple candy, classic sugar on snow, and other sweet treats. Relax by the bonfire and take in the scent of maple in the air. Hours are Saturday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.

Open House Information

4. Gagne Maple | Swanton, VT

Gagne Maple in Swanton will be opening up their sugarhouse on March 21–22 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Watch maple syrup being made, enjoy tastings, maple donuts, and maple creemees. Browse a wide selection of maple treats to take home. 

Open House Information

5. Browns River Maple | Essex Junction, VT

Visit this family-owned sugarhouse from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for tours, syrup samples, and tapping demonstrations. 

Browns River Maple Facebook Page

6. Audubon Vermont/Green Mountain Audubon Center | Huntington, VT

The Green Mountain Audubon Center is home to a bird-friendly sugarbush that has produced pure Vermont maple syrup for over 50 years. During sugaring season, stop in when steam is rising to watch traditional wood-fired boiling, explore the free trails, and pick up syrup at the Visitor Center (open weekdays 8:30 AM–4:00 PM).

Open House Information

7. Palmer Lane Maple | Jericho, VT

Palmer Lane Maple—famous for their year-round creemees—offers a farm store open Wednesday through Saturday with a wide selection of maple treats and products. Be sure to try the maple cream donuts, maple hot dogs, and, of course, a maple creemee.

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Whether you’re touring a family-run operation, learning about traditional methods, or simply enjoying sugar on snow, these Northern Vermont stops offer a memorable way to experience the state’s most iconic harvest. 

 

Ice skating is one of the most classic ways to enjoy winter in Northwest Vermont. From small community rinks to outdoor skating experiences, there are plenty of ways to get out on the ice and make the most of the winter season in Vermont. 

Leddy Park Arena — Burlington, VT

Leddy Park offers public skate times throughout the winter, with dependable indoor ice and rentals available, making it an easy option for skaters of all levels. Burlington Parks Recreation Waterfront also hosts lessons, clinics, camps, and hockey programs here, helping foster a love of skating in the Queen City. Be sure to check the monthly schedule in advance for updated public skate times.

North Hero Village Rink on the Lake — North Hero, VT
This outdoor rink offers a uniquely local experience right in the heart of the Islands. Skate loans are available through the self-service Dwayne Cormier Winter Station which is located behind Kraemer & Kin, making it easy to stop by whenever conditions are good.

Winooski Rink at Rotary Park — Winooski, VT
A smaller community rink with a welcoming atmosphere, the Rotary Park rink is a great option for a casual outdoor skate. It’s especially popular with families and those looking for a quick, low-key winter outing.

Burlington Outdoor Ice Rinks — Weather Dependent
The Burlington Parks team maintains several outdoor neighborhood rinks when temperatures allow, with help from dedicated community volunteers. These smaller rinks offer a casual, local skating experience and are great for quick outings close to home. Locations typically include Arthur Park (Sea Caves), Battery Park, Calahan Park, Lakeside Park, Roosevelt Park, Schmanska Park, and Starr Farm Park. Availability varies throughout the season depending on conditions, so it’s best to check their status before heading out.

Ice Rink at Spruce Peak — Stowe, VT
Located steps from Spruce Camp Base Lodge, the Adventure Center, and the Lodge at Spruce Peak, this rink adds a scenic skating experience to a day in Stowe. Access is complimentary, with rentals available on-site, though daily operation is weather dependent.

Collins Perley Sports Center — St. Albans, VT
This rink is a convenient option for those in Franklin County and the Champlain Islands. With regular public skating times and a strong community feel, it’s a great place to enjoy time on the ice throughout the winter.

Cairns Arena — South Burlington, VT
Cairns Arena is known for its consistent ice and frequent public skate sessions. The indoor setting makes it a reliable choice on colder days, and its central location makes it accessible from most of Chittenden County. Make sure to check their schedule for open skate times. 

Smugglers’ Notch Resort Ice Rink — Jeffersonville, VT
Set next to the Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Adventure Center, the rink at Smugglers’ Notch offers a classic winter setting. Open daily when weather allows, it’s designed for skaters of all ages and skill levels, with rentals available for those who need them.

Outdoor skating in Northwest Vermont is always weather dependent, so it’s best to check conditions before heading out. When the ice is good, these rinks offer some of the most scenic and memorable winter experiences in the region.

Pair your skating outing with a stop at a local café, bakery, or restaurant to support small businesses during the quieter winter season. It’s one of the best ways to stay connected to the community while enjoying everything this time of year has to offer. 

 

In 2025, Franz Rosenberger and Evan Potvin once again distinguished themselves among the highest-performing agents in the global Coldwell Banker network and continue to lead the market here in Grand Isle County.

Recognizing Excellence: Franz Rosenberger

Franz Rosenberger earned the International President’s Premier Award, placing him among the top 1% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. He also ranked as the #2 Coldwell Banker sales agent in Vermont and the #1 agent in Grand Isle County.

In 2025 alone, Franz closed 33 units totaling $31.5 million in sales volume. With 23 years of real estate experience, his steady leadership, pricing expertise, and deep understanding of Lake Champlain lakefront and luxury properties continue to set him apart in a competitive market.

“Franz and his team did the most amazing job of showcasing our home with stunning photos, outstanding video and superb marketing. From listing to closing, the process could not have been smoother.” - Alex M.

 

Recognizing Excellence: Evan Potvin

Evan Potvin was honored with the International President’s Elite Award, ranking him among the top 2% of Coldwell Banker agents globally. He also earned recognition as the #5 Coldwell Banker sales agent in Vermont and the #2 agent in Grand Isle County.

Evan closed 34 units in 2025, totaling $24.6 million in sales volume. With 19 years in real estate, his strategic approach, strong negotiation skills, and extensive lakefront and Grand Isle County market knowledge consistently deliver results for buyers and sellers alike.

“Evan always called me back promptly, informed me of the process in detail, gave excellent advice, and was very professional, yet friendly. I would highly recommend him for any real estate endeavor, and anything else he puts his energy into.” - Kathy

 

Leadership & Market Impact

Franz and Evan are not only top-producing agents—they are co-owners of Coldwell Banker Islands Realty. In 2017, they purchased the company together, building upon Islands Realty’s strong legacy and guiding it into continued growth. Their leadership has helped grow CBIR as the #1 real estate agency in Grand Isle County, holding a 28% market share.

Their success reflects a deep commitment to the Lake Champlain Islands and Vermont community. With decades of combined experience and firsthand knowledge of the nuances of lakefront and Champlain Island properties, they provide clients with a level of insight that goes beyond the transaction.

What makes these recognitions especially meaningful is that they represent both individual achievement and collective strength. The example Franz and Evan set through professionalism, collaboration, and mentorship elevates our entire brokerage.

Congratulations to Franz and Evan on an exceptional 2025. We are proud of all that was accomplished this year and look forward to continued success in 2026.

 

 

The January 2026 Northwest Vermont real estate market shows shifting conditions across Grand Isle, Chittenden, and Franklin counties for single-family homes and condos. Year over year, the median sales price rose 3.6% to $469,500, while closed sales remained flat and new listings increased 8%. Inventory continues to build, with active listings up 33.6% and months supply of inventory rising to 2.9 months, signaling more options for buyers. Compared to December, closed sales declined 32.7%, while new listings jumped 84.1%, reflecting typical seasonal patterns. Homes spent a median of 29 days on market, and sellers received an average of 97.8% of list price. With inventory rising and price growth moderating, both buyers and sellers should pay close attention to local trends. Contact us today to learn more about your market and how these January 2026 housing statistics may impact your real estate goals.

Winter in Vermont is a season people tend to have strong opinions about. Some embrace the snow and cold, while others spend the winter counting down the days until spring. In the Lake Champlain Islands, locals have learned that the key to getting through the quieter months is finding a rhythm that works for you—getting outside when you can, leaning into cozy traditions, and showing up for the local businesses that keep island life going year-round.

Here are a few ways Islanders embrace winter and make the most of the season.

Ice Fishing and Skating on Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain offers fishing opportunities all year long, and once the ice is safe, locals waste no time heading out. Ice fishing is a favorite winter pastime and often leads to a great meal at the end of the day. Ice skating is just as popular, whether it’s on the Inland Sea or a frozen backroad swamp. It’s a classic way to enjoy fresh air and stay active during the colder months.

Winter Hikes in the Islands

The Lake Champlain Islands are home to several scenic trails that are just as beautiful in winter. With crampons or snowshoes, locals head out to enjoy quiet walks through snow-covered woods. Winter hiking offers a slower pace, peaceful views, and a kind of magic you only find after a fresh snowfall.

Live Music and Midweek Fun

When the days are shorter, locals turn to live music, trivia nights, and community events to stay connected. Supporting local restaurants and breweries is especially important during winter, when business slows but the lights stay on. Here are some winter happenings to check out:

• Tuesday Open Mic at Two Heroes Brewery

• Wednesday Trivia at The Sandbar Restaurant

• Thursday Night Live Music at The North Hero House

• Thursday Trivia and Friday Karaoke at McKee’s Island Pub

• Friday Night Wine Down at Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery

Grabbing dinner, a drink, or seeing live music is one of the best ways to support island businesses during the off-season and recharge your social battery.

Cozy Weekends at Home

Of course, winter wouldn’t be complete without a little strategic hibernation. For many Islanders, Friday nights are made for Pan’s Pizza and a movie, no plans required. On the weekends, after a brisk day outside, it’s all about settling in with a home-cooked meal, a good book, a football game, or a crackling fire. Winter gives us permission to slow down, stay cozy, and enjoy the simple comforts of being home.

Winter in the Lake Champlain Islands may be quieter than summer, but it’s filled with simple pleasures, strong community ties, and plenty of ways to stay busy. Whether you’re skating on the ice, catching live music, or supporting a favorite local spot, winter is just another reason Islanders love where they live.