The Flood Safety Act and Beyond: Statewide and Local Efforts to Address Flooding in the Winooski Watershed
2026-03-11 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual Event, 251 Common Road, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Join regional organizations for a virtual conversation on Wednesday, March 11th at 6:00pm to hear about actions the state and local organizations are taking to reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and protect our communities.
This event will also provide information on Vermont’s Flood Safety Act, which is designed to address flood risk through a watershed-wide approach. Planning for resilience now is crucial in preventing further loss of life and property in future storms. This event will help towns and community members understand what the implementation of statewide river corridor protections means for their town and provide time to answer questions related to the Act.
All community members are welcome and encouraged to attend!
Please register in advance of this meeting and a link to join will be provided to your email.

MRV Women in Business – Social Media Workshop
2026-03-12 17:00 - 19:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
These bi-monthly workshops are a place to have an open conversation about social media, what is working for everyone, what isn’t, what do you need help with? The MRV Chamber’s MRV Women in Business group decided to host these bi-monthly Social Media Workshops in the months in between the more structured MRV Women in Business Meetings. It is meant to be an open, collaborative brainstorming session designed to help you feel a little more prepared the next time you create a post or reel.
Let’s be honest, social media can feel overwhelming.
What do you post?
Should you use trending sounds?
Do captions really matter?
What makes a strong hook?
Why should people follow your page? Is your SEO set up?
This workshop is a space to come together and talk all things social. We’ll brainstorm content ideas, discuss what’s actually working right now, explore collaborations, and share experiences. The goal? You leave feeling inspired and ready to create a few new posts for your page. We will share hook ideas, trending sound ideas, adding words to the screen, adding captions, and anything else you would like to cover. The event is hosted by Samantha Ciccone, the coordinator of the MRV Women in Business Group.
Please feel free to BYOB if you’d like to sip while we brainstorm, and you’re welcome to grab snacks from Peace Burger across the street or from your favorite local spot.

Boyce Hill October Winter 2026 Work Day
2026-03-14 09:00 - 12:00 | Boyce Hill Town Forest, 337 Boyce Rd., Fayston, Vermont, 05660
We’re assembling a team of volunteer Boyce Hill fans for what should be a quick morning of apple tree pruning. Can you join us? We’ll gather on Saturday, March 14th at 9:00 AM and will be working on the trees near the stone corral a short walk from the parking lot.
We’ll need loppers, hand saws and a couple of ladders. In addition to tools, volunteers should bring hydration, dress for the weather, and it will likely be smart to use snowshoes if you have them.
If you are interested in volunteering for this or future events, please pre-register by filling out the form at https://forms.gle/hBjUG7eB8p9oAAKi9. We look forward to seeing you!

‘Zero Celsius’ with Environmentalist Bill McKibben and Artist-filmmaker Rob Reynolds
2026-03-14 15:30 - 17:30 | Big Picture Theater, 44 Carroll Road, Waitsfield, 05673
Time & Location
Mar 14, 2026, 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Big Picture Theater & Cafe, 48 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT 05673, USA
MAD ARTS, with art show Zero Celsius, brings you Reynolds’ art video, The Word for Weather is Knowledge. The screening will be followed by a lively exchange, ranging from the special place of Greenland today to art and environmental awareness, celebrating McKibben’s recent book, Here Comes the Sun.
Short synopsis
The Word for Weather is Knowledge is a single channel video installation by Los Angeles based
artist Rob Reynolds, filmed in Arctic Greenland during the summer of 2019, the warmest period
in recorded history (to that date). The project began as a restaging of a tense sequence in
Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now during peak melt in the Arctic circle.
Filming in high-definition video as a platform for close looking, the project was shot entirely in
midnight sun from a small open boat in close proximity to giant icebergs, tracing the constantly
changing contours of the Jakobshavn Icefjord, one of the greatest contributors to sea level rise
on earth. While billions of gallons of meltwater flow into the ocean from the Greenland ice
sheet, an improvised voiceover by a local boat driver in Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) dialect offers a
first-person, personal perspective on recent ecological changes transforming the Arctic,
revealing that the Inuktitut word for weather, for knowledge and even spirit are one in the
same: sila. With musical soundscape by composer Craig Wedren.

Decision Making in the Age of Plastics
2026-03-18 17:00 - 18:00 | Warren Public Library, 413 Main Street, Warren, 05674
Come join a conversation with National Geographic Explorer and author, Rachael Zoe Miller, about her book, Decision-Making in the Age of Plastics. Rachael will walk you through a chapter of her choose-your-own-adventure-style guide to making informed decisions that are best for you and your family’s health, the environment and your budget. Be ready to share your own purchasing priorities, concerns and successes in an open, constructive dialogue.
Rachael is the founder of Rozalia Project for a clean ocean, a National Geographic Explorer and co-inventor of the Cora Ball, who, in no particular order, loves the ocean, human and wind-powered water sports, winter, penguins and Newfies! She grew up in Saratoga Springs and has been living in Vermont for over 20 years.
All welcome.

Restoring Moses Whitcomb’s “Monitor Barn” and Other Iconic Structures Built by Charles Miller (Yestermorrow Spring Speaker Series)
2026-03-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Yestermorrow Spring 2026 Speaker Series
Historic Preservation: Meaning, Memory, and Stewardship
Restoring Moses Whitcomb’s “Monitor Barn” and Other Iconic Structures Built by Charles Miller with Eliot Lothrop
The presentation will explore the land accumulation of the Whitcomb family during the second half of the 19th century, culminating in Moses’ ownership- the peak of dairy farming at the farm. In 1901, Moses had the East Monitor Barn built, hiring the 36 year old Charles Miller, from North Ferrisburgh, to frame it. Born into a family of timber framers, Miller had already built several monumental barns around Chittenden and Addison County. We’ll look at several of Miller’s other barns and explore pages of his work journals, which have opened up some fascinating connections.
We’ll explore the restoration work that has happened on the barn since 2023 and spend some time focusing on items like the jacking, timber repairs and slate work that have gone on as part of that work. Come with questions about historic barns or the work that goes into restoring them!
This talk is presented as part of our Spring 2026 Speaker Series. All talks are free and open to the public, and take place Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 8 pm. No registration required, just drop by. Join us in person or online via livestream on our YouTube channel.

Sugar & Shmooze at Living Tree Alliance
2026-03-22 14:00 - 16:30 | Living Tree Alliance, 96 Living Tree Ln, Moretown, VT, 05660, United States
Spring is stirring, and you’re invited to gather in the Living Tree Alliance sugar bush for a joyful afternoon celebrating the spring equinox, the flowing maple sap of Vermont, and Nissan a season of renewal and new beginnings in the Jewish calendar.
This family friendly community celebration will be filled with hands-on activities, sweet treats, and the magic of the sugaring season.
🍁 Taste the season
Watch the Crowley family’s traditional maple sugaring operation in action and sample fresh sap and syrup straight from the source.
🎨 Crafts & creativity
Enjoy wreath making and festive face painting.
🎭 Community theater
Step into our whimsical “everyone plays a part” production—featuring singers, drummers, little sprouts, and more—as we come together to awaken Mother Earth and welcome the arrival of spring.
🔥 Fireside treats
Warm up with fresh bread and syrup while gathering around the fire to celebrate the sweetness of community.
Hibernation season is over—let’s welcome spring together!
The sugar house is located behind the field, about a 10–15 minute walk from the parking area, so please plan a little extra time to enjoy the stroll. Muck boots and waterproof gear are highly recommended—spring mud is almost guaranteed.
Living Tree Alliance welcomes everyone on a pay-what-you-can basis. Suggested donations help cover event costs, and contributions at or above that level help sustain future programming.

Coffee With an Advisor
2026-03-25 09:00 - 10:30 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Life is full of questions, and money is no different. Sometimes you just want to ask something. Bring or pour a cup of your favorite warm beverage, and join me at the Mad River Valley Welcome Center. Come as you are. All are welcome. And every question counts—simple, complex, or somewhere in between. It’s a relaxed, open conversation about money, planning, and whatever’s on your mind. Kassie Reid from Greenhill Financial Planners will be on hand to chat.
Each quarter we’ll have a different theme to get the conversation going;

March: A Fresh StartPour a cup and bring your thoughts and curiosities. The start of the year is a natural time to evaluate your goals and priorities, capture momentum, and plan for the year ahead. This space is designed to welcome everyone, whether your questions feel simple, complicated, or somewhere in between. It’s a relaxed, open conversation about money, planning, and whatever’s on your mind.

May: Summer PauseLonger days and shifting routines can make this time of year feel both energizing and full, so before summer sweeps you away, take a moment to pause. Bring whatever’s on your mind—upcoming plans, changing expenses, or simply a question you’ve been meaning to ask. This is a relaxed, welcoming space to reflect, recalibrate, and talk through money decisions in a way that feels grounded and practical. Come as you are and join the conversation.

August: Fall TransitionsAs the seasons shift, so do routines and priorities. Settle in with something warm and join an open conversation about what this transition might bring—new schedules, business cycles, evolving goals, or unexpected change. We could explore how these shifts connect to your financial life, from cash flow to longer-term direction, or wherever the discussion naturally leads. Bring your questions and curiosity.

November: Year’s EndAs the year winds down, it’s a natural time to reflect on what’s unfolded and consider what comes next. Gather your thoughts and join the conversation around year-end considerations—from giving and tax planning to tying up loose ends or preparing for January. This is a supportive place to organize your reflections, acknowledge progress, and make intentional decisions before the calendar turns. Wherever you’re at, you’re welcome at the table.

No Kings 3
2026-03-28 09:30 - 10:30 | Mad River Green, 105 Mad River Green, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Local community rally to protest policies and actions of our current federal administration and to provide support for keeping our community members safe and heard by our local officials.

Mad River Valley Community Egg Hunt
2026-03-28 10:00 - 11:00 | Waitsfield and Champlain ValleyTelecom, 3898 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Save the date for the Mad River Valley Community Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28th! This year’s event will take place at WCVT’s main business office located at 3898 Main Street, across from Waitsfield Elementary School. The egg hunt will commence promptly at 10:00 a.m., refreshments available at 9:30 a.m. The event is free and open to children of all ages!
For more detailed information, please contact Lorraine Keener at 802-496-3391 or lkeener@corp.wcvt.com.
Hope to see you at the hunt!

Climb It for Climate: Rally and Panel Discussion
2026-03-28 16:30 - 20:00 | Lincoln Peak, 102 Forest Drive, Warren, VT 05674, USA
Join us for our final uphill rally of the season! The race will be followed by a panel discussion featuring local women in inspiring leadership roles: a nurse/nordic center entrepreneur, a ski-photographer-turned-life-coach for women empowerment, a teacher/creator of an epic gravel ride for sustainable rural recreation, and a cutting-edge climate scientist.
Even if you can’t attend the race portion of the event, you are welcome to discussion portion!
Hosted by Friends of the Mad River and Mad River Valley Backcountry Coalition in collaboration with Protect Our Winters, Smartwool, and Sugarbush Resort. Contact rohan@friendsofthemadriver.org with any questions or issues.
Date: Sat, March 28th, 2026
Time: Uphill Tour @ 4:30 pm; Food @ 6 pm; Discussion @ 6:30 – 8 pm
Location: Lincoln Peak, Sugarbush Resort

Community Preservation Projects (Yestermorrow Spring Speaker Series)
2026-04-01 18:30 - 20:00 | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Yestermorrow Spring 2026 Speaker Series
Historic Preservation: Meaning, Memory, and Stewardship
Community Preservation Projects with Ben Doyle, Preservation Trust of VT
Preserving a community’s historic buildings is a way to preserve its future. The Preservation Trust of Vermont is a nonprofit organization that, for nearly 50 years, has helped Vermonters save the historically and culturally significant buildings they love — whether that’s a general store, a jewel-box theater, or a humble barn. We do this work through technical assistance, grant funding, and steady encouragement. This presentation will provide an overview of our work and highlight some of the key considerations when undertaking community-based historic preservation projects.
This talk is presented as part of our Spring 2026 Speaker Series. All talks are free and open to the public, and take place Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 8 pm. No registration required, just drop by. Join us in person or online via livestream on our YouTube channel.

STAND UP FOR SAFETY WORKSHOPS
2026-04-07 10:00 - 11:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
In the Mad River Valley, we believe that everyone — whether they live here, work here, or visit — deserves to feel safe. To support that vision the chamber’s is launching a new series of Stand Up for Safety workshops designed to help hospitality workers recognize and respond to situations that may threaten the safety or well-being of themselves, their co-workers, or their guests.
These interactive sessions will equip front-line staff with practical tools to:

Recognize signs of harm, harassment, or exploitation
Respond appropriately and safely when concerns arise
Connect individuals in need with the right support services

The workshops are approachable, hands-on, and rooted in real-world hospitality settings — from restaurants and inns to shops and recreation businesses. While the curriculum is still being finalized, the goal is clear: to ensure the Mad River Valley remains a safe and welcoming place for all. The workshops are organized and facilitated by Anna Nassset Consulting.
Upcoming Workshops will all take place at the MRV Chamber Welcome Center

January 22 – 10-11 am: Understanding DV, HT, and Stalking
Explore how to identify and respond to domestic violence, human trafficking, and stalking in both customers and co-workers, and learn about available local and national resources.
April 7- 10-11 am: Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Learn to recognize early warning signs of sexual assault, how to respond to disclosures, and how to connect survivors with resources and support.
August 5 – 10-11 am: Workplace Culture
Discover how to build a supportive workplace culture where all employees feel safe and valued, through stories, exercises, and practical leadership strategies.
Back in October 22 GBV Bystander Training was offered
We learned the basics of gender-based violence prevention, including the 4D’s of bystander intervention, and how to empower yourself and others to make a difference.

A Community Commitment
“Hospitality is the backbone of the Mad River Valley’s economy and culture,” said Eric Friedman, Executive Director of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce. “By giving our front-line staff the tools and confidence to recognize and respond to difficult situations, we’re not just protecting individuals — we’re strengthening the fabric of our community and ensuring the Valley remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone.”
About Stand Up for Safety
A collaboration between local businesses, resorts, and organizations committed to standing up to gender-based violence and fostering a culture of care in the Mad River Valley.
For more information about the workshops, or to learn how your business can get involved, please contact info@madriverrvalley.com and/or visit www.madrivervalley.com/stand-up-for-safety

Fayston Historical Society Meetings: Second Wednesday of Every Month
2026-04-08 16:00 - 17:30 | Fayston Town Hall, 866 North Fayston Road, Fayston, VT, 05673
The Fayston Historical Society has established regular monthly meetings one the second Wednesday of every month from 4- 5:30 at the Fayston Town Hall . Everyone is welcome!
Our next meeting is Wed, Jan 14 from 4- 5:30 pm
For more information and/or to join the FHS contact faystonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com
Lots of exciting things are happening!

Underwater Archeology of Lake Champlain in 1776
2026-04-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Joslin Memorial Library, 4391 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Chris Sabick, director of the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, will share information on a number of previous, recent, and current research efforts focused on the Revolutionary War in general, and the Battle of Valcour Bay (October 1776) and its aftermath.
Excavations at Valcour Bay, Arnold’s Bay, and recent documentation and research efforts on the gunboat Spitfire will be discussed.
This presentation is sponsored by the MRV Libraries.

Rebuilding Notre Dame Cathedral: Gothic Architecture in Action (Yestermorrow Spring Speaker Series)
2026-04-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Yestermorrow Spring 2026 Speaker Series
Historic Preservation: Meaning, Memory, and Stewardship
Rebuilding Notre Dame Cathedral: Gothic Architecture in Action with Will Wallace-Gusakov
Will Wallace-Gusakov will share his experience working in France to rebuild the nave roof frame of the Notre Dame de Paris cathedral. He’ll share images, videos, stories and insights from the rebuilding effort, both from the workshop in Normandy and on-site at the cathedral in Paris. The talk will give the briefest of background information about the cathedral – a masterpiece of both gothic and neo-gothic architecture – but the primary focus will be on the extraordinary rebuilding effort, specifically on the recreation of the nave timber frame.
This talk is presented as part of our Spring 2026 Speaker Series. All talks are free and open to the public, and take place Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 8 pm. No registration required, just drop by. Join us in person or online via livestream on our YouTube channel.

Mad River Valley Rotary Prospective Member Meet up
2026-04-09 17:00 - 18:30 | Emily’s Bar & Bistro, 5081 Main Street, Waitsfield, VT, 056673
Ever wondered about what the MRV Rotary Club is all about? Well Wonder no more. MRV Rotary is an active, vibrant organization of service-minded community members. The leadership team is hosting an informal gathering at Emily’s Bar & Bistro in the Village Square Shopping Center on Thursday, April 9 from 5:00-6:30pm for those who may be interested in learning more.
Meet some of the members and learn more about what the local club does to serve those in our community through grant funds, hands-on projects and more. Enjoy refreshments on us! This is a great outlet for those who are new in our community, or those who find they have more discretionary time than in the past.
www.MRVRotary.org

MRV Women in Business Meeting
2026-04-09 17:30 | The Featherbed Inn, Waitsfield, VT, 5864 Main St, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Overview
Let’s dive into the Vermont Small Business Development Center resources for existing businesses and the process of working with your own free Business Advisor. Join us for an informative session with the Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC), designed for existing Vermont businesses looking to grow, adapt, or strengthen their operations. During this event, VtSBDC will highlight the wide range of free resources available to business owners, including how to work one-on-one with your own free and confidential Business Advisor. Attendees will learn what the advising process looks like and how personalized guidance can support business goals at every stage. Register Today!
They will also share stories of women-owned businesses from across Vermont, offering real local examples of how local entrepreneurs have navigated challenges and found success with the support of VtSBDC. In addition, they will share information on how existing Vermont businesses can access free legal resources, helping owners better understand and manage legal considerations

Waterbury LEAP Energy Fair
2026-04-11 09:00 - 14:00 | Crossett Brook Middle School, Us. 5672 VT Route 100, Duxbury, VT, 05676, United States
Largest Energy Fair in Vermont on Sat. April 11 in Duxbury
Time to weatherize your drafty house? Interested in energy efficient heat pumps, electric vehicles, or solar power for your home or business? Find the information you need at the LEAP Energy Fair, Saturday, April 11th from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Crossett Brook Middle School gym in Duxbury (5672 VT Route 100, Duxbury).
The LEAP Energy Fair is the largest in Vermont, and it’s completely free. Tour 50+ exhibits and talk to experts about heat pumps, weatherization, solar power, energy audits, electric vehicles, electric lawn tools, financing, subsidies, and much more. Every hour there will be special breakout sessions on many of these topics.
This family-friendly event includes a free magician show, free ice cream, free electronics recycling, children’s activities, and local food and refreshments while you learn how to shrink energy bills and save money.
Brought to you by the volunteers of Waterbury LEAP (Local Energy Action Partnership). For more information visit waterburyleap.org or contact Kit Walker at rr1box8282@gmail.com

Communicating Across Differences
2026-04-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Joslin Memorial Library, 4391 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Talking with friends and family about contentious topics can be challenging! How do you share your ideas confidently without feeling like you’re stepping on eggshells?
This interactive workshop will be led by Beth Malow, author of the new book, Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times.
An experienced trainer with Braver Angels, Beth will provide practical advice and model techniques and strategies to stay engaged in difficult conversations with others.

Preservation and Adaptation of Modern Architecture and Landscapes: Case Studies (Yestermorrow Spring Speaker Series)
2026-04-15 18:30 - 20:00 | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Yestermorrow Spring 2026 Speaker Series
Historic Preservation: Meaning, Memory, and Stewardship
Preservation and Adaptation of Modern Architecture and Landscapes: Case Studies with Britton Rogers
This talk is presented as part of our Spring 2026 Speaker Series. All talks are free and open to the public, and take place Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 8 pm. No registration required, just drop by. Join us in person or online via livestream on our YouTube channel.
Twice a year, we curate a series of lectures on a design/build theme. This Spring, we will take on a historic preservation theme and look at case studies, state-wide policy and funding, and retrofitting for modern efficiency standards.

Earth Night Dance Party
2026-04-17 18:30 - 22:00 | Big Picture Theater, 44 Carroll Road, Waitsfield, 05673
WELCOME TO EARTH NIGHT
EARTH NIGHT is about harnessing the energy of the global nightlife scene to embody sustainability, power solutions, and inspire action.
We’re excited to invite you to the 2026 9th annual edition of our global fundraising initiative, organized by DJs For Climate Action. We are once again harnessing the power of music and nightlife to build community locally and generate impact globally

Preservation Policy and Tools for Improved Resiliency & Performance of Historic Buildings (Yestermorrow Spring Speaker Series)
2026-04-22 18:30 - 20:00 | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Yestermorrow Spring 2026 Speaker Series
Historic Preservation: Meaning, Memory, and Stewardship
Preservation Policy and Tools for Improved Resiliency & Performance of Historic Buildings with Jamie Duggan
This presentation will discuss emerging policies and tools that are being developed at national, state and local levels to support and improve the resiliency and performance of historic buildings. Featuring case studies that explore flood-proofing and armouring historic buildings for climate change, increasing energy efficiency and performance of conditioned spaces, as well as other topics that help overcome misperceptions about how to treat a historic building and the give-and-take of making improvements without diminishing historic character. Information and materials will be shared on new survey and mapping projects, education and advocacy efforts at the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation and works in progress at State-owned Historic Sites.
This talk is presented as part of our Spring 2026 Speaker Series. All talks are free and open to the public, and take place Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 8 pm. No registration required, just drop by. Join us in person or online via livestream on our YouTube channel.

MRV Chamber Short Term Rental Collaborative Meeting
2026-04-22 19:00 - 20:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Short-Term Rentals Are Here to Stay – Make Sure Your Voice Shapes the Future of the MRV Visitor Economy
Join the MRV Chamber’s new Short-Term Rental Collaborative to connect with fellow hosts, share perspectives, and help guide the Valley’s tourism future.

When: Wednesday April 22 at 7-8 pm
Where: MRV Chamber Welcome Center
In-Person & Remote Option
An Initial Informational Meeting
Over the past decade, the lodging landscape in the Mad River Valley has changed dramatically. Traditional inns, hotels, and lodges have gradually declined, while short-term rentals (STRs) now make up a significant portion of the Valley’s visitor bed base.
At the same time, municipalities are actively discussing housing pressures, STR regulations, and how to balance tourism with community needs. These shifts have created both opportunities and tensions, and it’s more important than ever that the STR sector engages constructively in shaping the Valley’s visitor economy.
The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce is convening an initial meeting to begin building a collaborative table for dialogue and action.
Why This Conversation Matters
For decades, traditional lodging properties carried much of the responsibility for promoting the Valley as a visitor destination. STRs are now an established and growing part of that lodging mix — a fact of life in today’s tourism economy.
As STRs continue to grow, it is vital that this sector pulls its weight in promoting the Valley, helping share the responsibility for sustaining the visitor economy and supporting local businesses that depend on tourism.
Local municipalities are also paying close attention to housing, STR regulations, and community impacts. The most effective way for STR owners and dependent businesses to have a voice in these discussions is to organize, communicate openly, and engage collaboratively. Participating now ensures your perspectives help shape the future.
Learn more about the STR issue in the MRV – the Mad River Valley Planning District created a Short Term Rentals in the MRV White Paper. Created in 2021 it is somewhat dated but the most pertinent facts remain generally unchanged.

Let’s Talk About Death Cafe
2026-04-28 18:00 - 19:33 | Moretown Town Hall and Library, 1147 Route 100B, Moretown, 05660
Many people do not want to talk about the fact that we live life until we die. These Cafes attempt to lighten the burden of death’s inevitability as we think about and share with others our medical, physical, emotional, and spiritual desires in our end of life journey.
Moretown’s first Let’s Talk About Death Cafe is a space for members of the community to listen and talk about all the pieces of preparing ourselves and our loved ones for their death journey. There is no set agenda. To be able and willing to share and listen to our wants, needs, questions, fears, hopes, and experiences around preparing for the natural end of life is a beautiful ,helpful time spent together. Community, community, COMMUNITY!
Tea and goodies will be served.
I look forward to hosting this community gathering.
Patty Latz End Of Life Doula

Green Valley Rally 2026
2026-05-02 08:00 - 14:00 | Chamber of Comerce, 9 VT Rt 17, Waitsfield, Vermont, 05673, United States
For the fourth consecutive year the Mad River Valley town’s Green Up Committees are collaborating under the banner of the Green Valley Rally on Vermont’s annual Green Up Day. On May 2, 2026 the Green Valley Rally will be the epicenter for all Green Up Day activities here in the MRV. It will take place at the Mad River Valley Welcome Center (at the corner of Routes 100 and 17) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. People can stop by to pick up Green Up bags, morning snacks, and roadside assignments. People will also have the chance to learn more about our partnering organizations such as the Friends of the Mad River, stewardMRV, Mad River Bear Inititative, the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Mad RIver Riders, the Mad River Path, valley conservation and knotweed eradication programs, and other stewardship organizations.
GREEN UP DAY BOTTLE DRIVE
Organizers are asking all Green Up Day volunteers to separate clean(ish) refundable cans found along the roadsides this year. They will provide separate clear bags for these cans and ask that people bring the bags back to the Welcome Center. Funds raised from redeemed the cans are donated to the Mad River Valley Interfaith Council, which serves neighbors in need.
MEET THE STEWARDSHIP PARTNERS
Starting at noon and running through 2 p.m. there will be a BBQ from noon to 2 p.m. for Green Up Day and stewardMRV volunteers. During that time there will also be a stewardMRV volunteer job fair. People can learn more about other conservation and stewardship opportunities. Representatives from various local organizations involved in stewardship in The Valley will be on hand to share information about volunteer opportunities. Those interested can look into becoming a stewardMRV site steward, a Friends of the Mad River Watch volunteer, a Mad River Path volunteer or even help out with the Mad River Valley Recreation District.
TIRE RECYCLING
The Mad River Resource Management Alliance (MRRMA) is collecting tires at the Earthwise Transfer Station on Green Up Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those who find a tire along a roadside can bring it to the transfer station for recycling free of charge. To recycle personal tires, the MRRMA will process those (with or without rims) for $5 each.
VOLUNTEER BBQ
There will be a BBQ for all Green Up day volunteers to come celebrate our collective efforts. The grill will be lit starting at noon! The John Lackard Blues Band will be playing for the entertainment of our volunteers. Thanks to Afterthoughts and Valley Meade Dispensary for sponsoring the live music!

Join us for the Bear Fair!

BEAR FAIR
A fun and informative community event focused on how we can better coexist with black bears here in the Mad River Valley. The fair will feature five interactive “stations” highlighting common bear–human interactions and practical steps you can take to reduce conflicts at home and around your business. Explore topics like securing trash, managing compost, removing bird feeders, and using electrification to protect property—all presented in an approachable, hands-on way. Four stations will be set up in the Cousins Beer Garden area, with a fifth hosted at the Mad River Valley Chamber Visitor Center. Inside the Visitor Center, attendees can drop in to watch “Living with Bears” video presentation by Vermont Fish & Wildlife bear biologist Jaclyn Comeau, running on a continuous loop. Stop by anytime to learn more, ask questions, and leave better prepared to live responsibly alongside one of Vermont’s most iconic wild neighbors.

Meet me at Afterthoughts!

KENTUCKY DERBY HAT PARTY & APRES GREEN UP DAY AT AFTERTHOUGHTS
Green Up Day always coincides with the Kentucky Derby so Afterthoughts decided to host an Apres-Green Up Day Kentucky Derby party with a build your own Kentucky Derby hat contest. Entries (made at home and worn to the event) must be made from repurposed, reused and reimagined materials (not necessarily litter from Green Up Day). The event will start around 4 pm, contest judging at 5 pm., Derby viewing at 6:50.
For more Green Up Day information contact our local coordinators or the Green Up Day Town Details:

Waitsfield: Bri Skoldberg, briskoldberg@gmail.com, 802-829-0878.
Fayston: Patty Pasley, plpasley@gmail.com, 802-825-1893.
Warren: Warren Town Office, clerk@warrenvt.org, 802-496-2709.
Moretown: Mike Dimotsis, dimotsisjane@gmail.com, 802-469-2812.
Duxbury: Jessica Engels, jessicaengels58@gmail.com, 802-244-7133
Swim Holes, Ira Shadis, ira@friendsofthemadriver.org

THANKS TO OUR GREEN VALLEY RALLY SPONSORS!!!

Bear Fair – Mad River Valley Bear Initiative
2026-05-02 10:00 - 14:00 | Chamber of Comerce, 9 VT Rt 17, Waitsfield, Vermont, 05673, United States
The MRV Bear Initiative holds this event to share information about co-existing with the black bears in our landscape.
We will have LOTS of information, resources, and demonstrations on black bears and how to keep them wild. The main goal is to deny them access to human food sources: trash, recycling, compost, birdfeeders, beehives, chicken coops, open cars with food/smells.
Visit the Bear Fair to get info and simple tips, see electric fence and mat demonstrations, and to locate resources to help in your efforts.

Called To Duty
2026-05-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Big Picture Theater, 44 Carroll Road, Waitsfield, 05673
Thursday, May 7th @ 6:30pm Please join us for this amazing documentary honoring the lives of Terry Brown and Dana Fuller, two firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Followed by a discussion and Q&A with your local fire department.
About the film
Please join us for this amazing documentary to honor the lives of Terry Brown and Dana Fuller. This film will leave you with a deep appreciation for their ultimate sacrifice, but also for the potential sacrifice that all firefighters are willing to accept in their duties. To protect life and property is a Firefighter’s duty. On December 29, 1981, at 6:12 pm, Terry Brown and Dana Fuller were called to duty when a fire erupted at the Star Hotel in Bellows Falls, Vermont. Using never before seen archival photos, the producers Mike Smith, Sue Smith, Marty Gallagher, and Alex Stradling tell the stories of the night of the Star Hotel Fire; the rescues of the occupants trapped by the fire, the bravery of the firefighters, the leadership challenge of the new Fire Chief, and the tragic loss of two young men.
Additional Information
All entry donations will be given to Memorial Park in Bellows Falls, VT, to aid in the maintenance and desired improvements. The park was constructed to honor the lives of the fallen firefighters.
There will be local fire department representatives and members from the film available to discuss the film, answer questions, and reflect.
This film is sponsored by YOUR local fire department members, and all entry fees will be on a “pay as you can ” basis.

National Civics Bee-Regional Competition
2026-05-09 10:30 - 12:30 | Vergennes Opera House, 120 Main Street, Vergennes, Vermont, 05491, United States
Join the Addison County Chamber of Commerce for Addison County’s Regional Civics Bee Live Competition, a celebration of middle school student achievement and civic knowledge.
This inspiring event brings our community together to support students as they showcase their understanding of government, public policy, and the responsibilities of citizens. Join us to cheer our communities best and brightest as they compete to move on to State and National Championships.
📅 May 9th at 10:30am
📍 Vergennes Opera House
🎉 Open to the public, RSVP required at https://forms.gle/v8Kcf3djR4V7e5Ke7
Special thanks to our wonderful sponsors:
National Bank of Middlebury
Counseling Service of Addison County, Inc.
Vermont Public
Maple Broadband
Addison County Independent
