Fifteen years have passed since Tropical Storm Irene rolled through the Valley. Since then, our community has grown, changed, and learned important lessons about recovery and preparedness.

Join Friends of the Mad River, in partnership with the Mad River Valley Planning District, on September 10 from 3–7 PM at the Bridge Street marketplace for a community celebration honoring the strength and resilience of the Mad River Valley.

Enjoy food, music, educational activities, and art installations; connect with community members; and celebrate the efforts of neighbors, friends, business owners, town officials, and other leaders who helped us rebuild.

Live music will include performances by the Mad Mountain Scramblers and Phineas Gage. Food and beverages will be available from a range of local favorites, including Gracie’s Tamales, Scrag and Roe, the VG, Twisted Halo, and Dougy Fresh. A variety of opportunities have been planned for participants to learn about flood resilience and emergency preparedness. Over 20 community partners, organizations, and businesses are joining forces to facilitate educational activities, community conversations, and hands-on experiences designed to connect information with practical steps people and organizations can take.

The September 10 event is part of a five-event series exploring the Valley’s experience before, during, and after the August 2011 storm. The events will run through 2026-2027 and emphasize turning what we, as a community, have learned into opportunities for action and preparedness for future flooding events. We hope that you’ll join us on September 10 and for future events in the series!