Vermont’s natural beauty and relaxed culture foster the perfect environment for the arts to flourish.
As the birthplace of Phish and Grace Potter, Vermont’s music scene has influence that belies its size. Several successful record labels call Vermont home, and local artists get further exposure through independent local radio and music festivals—the nationally heralded Discover Jazz and Grand Point North festivals in Burlington are two of the largest. Big Heavy World, a Burlington-based nonprofit, provides coordination and resources to foster up-and-coming musicians.
Intimate performances are at the heart of Vermont’s music scene, with diverse, community-based musicianship heard at local cafés, bars, and town greens throughout the state. It’s the standard to hear music being played by Vermonters, for Vermonters.
Equally robust, visual and performance arts including live theater, gallery events, and revolving museum exhibits can be found in every corner of Vermont. Historic sites, agricultural fairs, and other more traditional means of cultural immersion pop up in valley communities, mountain villages, and in our small cities year round.
In Vermont, the arts and history are everywhere.
FESTIVALS
Vermont’s hills and valleys rock with festivals all summer long. From arts and music festivals to those celebrating particular passions like blueberries, vintage cars, yoga, clean energy, and maritime history, you can celebrate your passion or find a new one.
PERFORMING ARTS
Vermont takes the stage. From Broadway-direct theater and internationally acclaimed musicians to circus arts and festivals galore, there’s a show for every interest.
GALLERIES
At last count there were almost as many art galleries in Vermont as there are towns! Galleries feature a range of mediums: painting, prints, photography, sculpture, and assemblages. The Vermont State Craft Center Galleries offer the best of ceramics, fiber, glass, metal, and wood. Discover what inspires Vermont artists and artisans and you’ll likely be inspired yourself.
MUSEUMS
Vermont’s museums offer up unexpected delights and wonders. From paintings by European and American masters, to folk art and contemporary sculpture, you’ll experience art, history, and science in a new light.
HISTORIC SITES
The small state of Vermont boasts a rich historical heritage that is well preserved in an exceptional collection of historic sites stretching the length and width of the state. Ranging from prehistoric settlements, to pivotal Revolutionary War sites, to the homesteads of U.S. Presidents, Vermont’s State Historic Sites chronicle the development of a state, its people, and the nation around it.
FAIRS
Every fair, like every Vermont community, has its own traditions. While each fair has a particular flavor, you will find a mix of farm, food, and fun at animal events, along the midway, or in front of a stage for a concert featuring national headliners.
