Whether you’re a lifelong Vermonter or just visiting for the season, summer is the perfect time to dive into Northwest Vermont’s vibrant music scene. From vineyard shows and mountain concerts to waterfront festivals, there’s something for every music lover. Experience local talent and nationally touring artists in venues that perfectly capture the spirit of Vermont.

Summer Concert Series at Snow Farm Vineyard – South Hero, VT
Snow Farm Vineyard hosts free outdoor concerts every Thursday from June through mid-September. Set against vineyard views and Lake Champlain breezes, these relaxed evenings bring together wine, community, and live music in a picturesque island setting.

Ben & Jerry’s Concerts on the Green – Shelburne, VT
Held on the sloping lawn of the Shelburne Museum, this summer series  welcomes big-name acts to a charming open-air venue. Enjoy food trucks, dancing, and free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, all with Vermont’s Green Mountains as your backdrop. Concert tickets also include half-price museum admission.

Champlain Valley Fair & Summer Concerts – Essex Junction, VT

The Champlain Valley Exposition hosts some of Vermont’s biggest summer concerts. From chart-topping artists to the beloved end-of-summer fair, it’s a destination for high-energy performances and classic fair fun.

Spruce Peak Summer Concert Series – Stowe, VT
Spruce Peak’s Village Green provides a stunning mountain backdrop for intimate outdoor concerts. All summer long, this Stowe venue showcases a mix of local and national talent, complemented by year-round indoor performances at the Spruce Peak Arts Center. 

Grand Point North Festival – Burlington, VT
Grace Potter’s Grand Point North brings an annual burst of music to Burlington’s waterfront each September. This beloved festival pairs lakeside views with high-energy sets from Grace Potter and special guests, and its 10th anniversary promises a weekend to remember.

From lakeside stages to mountaintop greens, Vermont’s music venues are as diverse and welcoming as the artists they host. Whether you’re sipping wine at a vineyard show or dancing by the lake, these experiences capture the true spirit of summer in the Green Mountain State.

Living in Northwest Vermont, we’re incredibly lucky to have some of the most stunning sunset views practically in our own backyard. Here are our top five favorite spots to catch those breathtaking Vermont sunsets:

1. Overlook Park | South Burlington
 A perfect stop on your way home, Overlook Park offers sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. With plenty of parking and easy access, it’s a favorite spot for locals to pause and soak in the scenery as the sun sets.

2. Island Line Trail | Colchester & South Hero
For a truly epic experience, walk or bike the Island Line Trail. With parking access points in both Colchester and South Hero, it’s an easy starting point no matter where you're coming from. One side of the trail offers sweeping views of the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain glowing with sunset colors, while the other side features the Green Mountains lit up with the golden hour light. 

3. Burlington Waterfront | Burlington
Grab a classic Vermont creemee from one of the many nearby ice cream stands, then stroll along the lively Burlington Waterfront. The mix of vibrant town energy and peaceful lake views makes for a very memorable sunset.

4. Isle La Motte Beach | Isle La Motte
If you want a quieter, more relaxed sunset experience, Isle La Motte Beach, located on the west shore of the island across from St. Anne’s Shrine, is the spot. Pack a picnic, enjoy a swim, or just unwind in this peaceful small-town setting as the sun goes down.

5. Mount Philo State Park | Charlotte
For an elevated perspective, head to Mount Philo State Park. You can drive or hike to the summit to take in expansive views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The panoramic sunset vistas here are truly worth the effort!

 

6. Shelburne Farms | Shelburne
Walk the beautiful grounds, take in views of the lake, rolling hills, and the historic architecture. Or, head to the Inn for a drink on the porch and watch the sun dip below the Adirondacks for a truly serene evening.

Whether you’re working out to catch the views or simply stopping to soak it in after a long day, Vermont offers amazing scenery and nature close to home, one of the best parts about living here.
 

Northwest Vermont is home to some of Vermont’s most scenic and unique state parks. Whether you’re looking for a sunny beach day, a picnic with a view, or an off-the-grid camping experience, there’s something here for everyone. This guide highlights seven must-visit lakefront parks in the Northwest Lake Champlain region, each offering its own kind of magic.

1. Sand Bar State Park – Milton/South Hero

With 2,000 feet of sandy shoreline, Sand Bar State Park is a summer favorite for swimming, sunbathing, and birdwatching. Located on the shores of Lake Champlain’s Inland Sea, the park offers kayak rentals, picnic areas, and panoramic lake views. It’s open daily from 10 AM to sunset–perfect for day trips with the family.

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2. Grand Isle State Park – Grand Isle

As Vermont’s most visited state park, Grand Isle State Park is a hub for camping and outdoor recreation. It features over 4,000 feet of lakeshore, designated areas for fishing and swimming, and well-maintained nature trails. With one of the state’s largest campgrounds, it’s a go-to destination for summer getaways.

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3. Knight Point State Park – North Hero

Just across the North Hero Drawbridge, Knight Point State Park offers easy access to Lake Champlain’s “Gut.” This 54-acre day-use park is ideal for picnics, scenic strolls, and small gatherings. There’s a rentable pavilion, making it a popular spot for reunions and celebrations.

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4. Alburgh Dunes State Park – Alburgh

Known for having one of the longest natural sand beaches on Lake Champlain, Alburgh Dunes State Park spans 625 acres of protected shoreline. With a gradual sandy shore, it’s a local favorite for beach games, swimming, anchoring the boat, and soaking up the summer sun. Bring a cooler, a beach chair, and spend the day at this lakeside gem.

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5. Burton Island State Park – St. Albans Bay

Accessible only by boat or ferry, Burton Island State Park offers a one-of-a-kind island experience. Located on a 253-acre island in Lake Champlain, the park is ideal for boat camping, shoreline hiking, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of island life. There is even a small general store with a snack bar as well! Catch the ferry from Kill Kare State Park in St. Albans.

 

6. Knight Island State Park – North Hero, Inland Sea

This remote park is a 2-mile boat ride from North Hero Village, offering rustic lean-tos and serene solitude. Knight Island State Park is perfect for campers seeking a quiet, off-the-grid experience. In winter, it’s even possible to walk to the island over the frozen lake—a true Vermont adventure.

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7. Woods Island State Park – St. Albans, Inland Sea

For those who want a truly back-to-nature experience, Woods Island State Park delivers. This “remote area” campground is only accessible by personal boat and offers a rugged, minimally developed environment. With limited campsites and abundant wildlife, it’s a peaceful place for prepared and experienced campers and boaters.

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8. Niquette Bay State Park – Colchester

Nestled just outside the Islands in Colchester, Niquette Bay State Park offers forested hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Champlain. It’s ideal for walking, swimming, and picnicking. A short hike leads you to two swimming areas: one is a gradual sandy beach and the other is a more rugged rock ledge. This park is the perfect place for a peaceful escape into nature.

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With their natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and variety of outdoor experiences, Lake Champlain state parks are perfect for a summer day trip or an extended stay. Whether you’re camping under the stars or just soaking up the sun, these parks offer the best of Vermont’s lake life.

Looking for more to explore? Check out our guide to the Best Lakefront Restaurants in Northwest Vermont 

Looking for fireworks, parades, and family fun this Independence Day? Here’s your guide to the best 4th of July celebrations happening around Northwest Vermont and the Lake Champlain Islands:

Burlington Fireworks

Thursday, July 3rd

Celebrate early with Burlington’s beloved waterfront event featuring live music, over a dozen local food vendors, and one of the region’s most spectacular fireworks shows.

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North Hero Fireworks at Knight Point State Park

Thursday, July 3rd

Watch fireworks light up the sky over Lake Champlain during this community celebration at Knight Point State Park in North Hero—one of the most scenic spots in the Islands.

Colchester 4th of July Events

Friday, July 4th

Celebrate Independence Day with a full day of festivities in Colchester! Start the morning with a 5K Fun Run at Union Memorial School, followed by a parade starting at Colchester High School and ending on Lavigne Road. In the evening, head to Bayside Park for family fun, swimming, food, live music, and fireworks.

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South Hero 5K & Parade

Friday, July 4th

Kick off your morning with a flat, fast, and fun 5K in the Lake Champlain Islands. The course passes the former home of Clarence DeMar, a seven-time Boston Marathon winner. After the race, enjoy the charm of South Hero’s hometown parade through the village.

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5K Information 

Milton’s “Old-Fashioned 4th” Celebration

Friday, July 4th

Join Milton’s Independence Day parade at 11 AM and enjoy evening fun at Bombardier Park West from 5–10 PM with live music, games, food vendors, and fireworks at 9:30 PM. 

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Alburgh 4th of July Celebration

Friday, July 4th

Celebrate Independence Day in Alburgh with a community parade starting at 11 AM and a fireworks display in the evening. It’s a great way to enjoy festive family fun and show your patriotic spirit in this charming lakeside town.

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Essex Junction 4th of July Celebration

Friday, July 4th

Celebrate Independence Day at the Champlain Valley Fairgrounds. Enjoy live music from Sticks and Stones, food from local vendors, family-friendly activities, and fireworks at 9:30 PM. Festivities begin at 6 PM—don’t forget to bring your chairs and blankets!

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Bay Day in St. Albans

Saturday, July 5th 

Join the town’s much-loved Independence Day celebration on Saturday, July 5th, at St. Albans Bay Park. Enjoy a mid-morning volleyball tournament, followed by live music, delicious food, and a fireworks show at dusk.

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Wherever you choose to celebrate, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the 4th of July in Northwest Vermont. From lakefront fireworks to hometown parades and family fun, these events offer something for everyone. Wishing you a safe, festive, and memorable Independence Day!

Berry picking is a fun and rewarding way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and support local farms here in Vermont. With strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, almost in season, it's the perfect time to plan to head out for some fresh-picked fruit this summer. Farms throughout the Champlain Valley offer pick-your-own berry experiences—an ideal activity as the summer weather warms up. Here are a few local spots in Northwest Vermont to visit for the freshest berries around:

Island Blueberries, Grand Isle, VT

Island Blueberries offers a wide variety of pick-your-own blueberries that are fresh, flavorful, and grown without pesticides. Located in the Champlain Islands, this family-friendly farm is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, weather permitting—perfect for a sunny summer outing.

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Isham Family Farm, Williston, VT

Established in 1871, Isham Family Farm is a historic property offering pick-your-own blueberries and raspberries, scenic hiking trails, and a rich glimpse into Vermont farm life. In addition to berry picking, the farm hosts a variety of events—from weddings to live theater performances—and offers local maple products and seasonal produce. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a summer day and support a multi-generational working farm. Open weekly from 9 AM to 5 PM.

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Adam’s Berry Farm, Charlotte, VT

Adam’s Berry Farm offers pick-your-own organic blueberries, raspberries, and flowers—just 20 minutes from Burlington. In addition to the fields, their charming farmstand features a selection of local berries, handcrafted jams, and fresh bouquets. They are open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

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Sam Mazza's Farm Market, Colchester, VT

Family-owned and run, Sam Mazza’s Farm Market offers pick-your-own strawberries and blueberries. Sam Mazza’s Farm hosts local festivals and employs local high school students to help support the community. Open from 7 am - 7 pm Saturday to Monday and 7 am - 6 pm Sunday. 

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Willow Hill Farm, Milton, VT

Willow Hill Farm is open for picking organic strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and currants. Best known for their blueberries, Willow Hill is a great farm to put on your berry picking bucket list this summer! The farm is open from 9 am - 4 pm Sunday to Tuesday. Check out their website for more details.

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R&J Blueberries and Grapes, Alburgh, VT 

R&J Blueberries and Grapes offers pick-your-own blueberries starting in early July. In addition to fresh berries, they sell apples, pears, and free-range eggs—all grown with care and sustainability in mind. The farm is partially solar-powered, reflecting their commitment to the environment. Open daily from dawn to dusk, it's a great spot for a relaxed, self-paced visit.

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Enjoy the outdoors, fresh fruit, and unforgettable memories with berry picking in Vermont. Each of these farms offers more than just berries—they tell a story of Vermont’s agricultural heritage and invite you to slow down, connect with nature, and savor the simple joys of summer.