The Mad River Valley Village

Community Socrates Cafe: ” How Does the Passage of Time Affect Our Identity?”
2026-01-08 05:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Harwood Union High School Library, 458 Route 100, Duxbury, VT, 05660
Students from Harwood’s Harkness Leadership class will be hosting a community Socrates Café on Thursday, January 8th from 5:30 to 7:00 PM in the HU library. A Socrates Café is an opportunity for dialogue about timeless and timely questions that all human beings deal with. Rather than being a debate or a discussion, a Socrates Café is a dialogue where participants are encouraged to listen to and learn from one another. This form of discourse- and its focus on the search for knowledge- comes from the great philosopher Socrates, who observed that “Wisdom Begins in Wonder.” These gatherings are open to all community members, regardless of age, experience, or background. Harwood students who are experienced in leading Socratic Dialogues will facilitate the discussions. Community members of all ages are invited, and refreshments will be provided.
The question for the evening discussion is “How Does the Passage of Time Affect Our Identity?”
For questions and more information, please contact Adam Sargent at asargent@huusd.org.

LIVE MUSIC & PUB NIGHT Featuring Jenny & The Betz!
2026-01-07 17:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Mad River Barn
Join us in the pub for all your favorite Mad River Barn menu items with live music from Jenny & The Betz! Open 5 pm – 9 pm. Live music every Wednesday in the winter!

Clearing The Smoke – Fire & Safety Roundtable
2026-01-07 14:00 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Safety is always the top priority for Mad River Valley businesses—and for good reason. Business owners care deeply about the well-being of their guests, employees, and neighbors. At the same time, understanding and navigating fire and life safety rules can be challenging. Codes are complex, interpretations can vary, and it’s not always clear what is required, what is recommended, and how best to plan for compliance in a way that is both safe and sustainable.
In an effort to “clear up the smoke,” the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Fire & Life Safety Roundtable on:
📅 Wednesday, January 7🕞 3:30–5:00 pm📍 Yestermorrow Design/Build School Campus
This roundtable is designed to create an open, respectful, and informative conversation between business owners and state public safety officials—focused on clarity, consistency, and shared goals.
Featured Speakers
The discussion will feature:

Landon A. Wheeler, Deputy DirectorVermont Department of Public Safety – Division of Fire Safety

Ben Moffatt, Regional ManagerWaterbury Regional Office, Department of Public Safety

The conversation will be moderated by Eric Friedman, Executive Director of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce.
What We’ll Be Talking About
Across the Mad River Valley, businesses of all sizes—inns, restaurants, lodges, contractors and property managers—are navigating how best to meet safety standards while remaining financially viable and operationally stable. This roundtable is not about blame or complaints; it’s about understanding, communication, and problem-solving.
Topics we hope to explore together include:

Understanding the codesHow fire and life safety regulations are structured, what they’re intended to accomplish, and how they are applied in real-world settings.

Clarity around expectationsHow inspections work, what business owners should expect during and after an inspection, and how to interpret findings and next steps.

Consistency and continuityHow inspections may differ over time or between inspectors, and how businesses can better plan for long-term compliance.

Practical pathways to complianceDiscussing approaches that prioritize safety while recognizing the realities of historic buildings, small-scale operations, and seasonal businesses.

Preserving what makes Vermont specialExploring how safety upgrades can coexist with the historic, rustic character that defines many Mad River Valley properties and attracts visitors.

Creating a level playing fieldUnderstanding how safety oversight applies across different types of lodging and visitor accommodations.

Why This Matters
A strong Mad River Valley depends on businesses that are safe, resilient, and able to thrive. When rules are clearly understood and applied consistently, business owners can plan ahead, make smart investments, and focus on delivering great experiences to residents and visitors alike.
This roundtable is an opportunity to ask questions, hear directly from state officials, and build a shared understanding that supports public safety, business sustainability, and the long-term health of our local economy.
We encourage business owners, property managers, and anyone navigating fire and life safety regulations to attend and take part in this important conversation.
Let’s clear up the smoke—together.

Waitsfield Elementary School Ski Program
2026-01-07 12:30 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
Welcoming 1st through 6th grade students from the Waitsfield Elementary School for an afternoon of skiing!

Sunshine Brat Wednesdays
2026-01-07 12:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-31 12:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Lawson’s Finest Taproom, 155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
About the Event
Every Wednesday come to Lawson’s Finest Liquids for some big time flavor: A massive jalapeño cheddar beer bratwurst made with Sip of Sunshine by our friends at 5th Quarter Butcher, served on a pretzel bun with a side of crispy greens and a side of German potato salad, and your choice of draft beer! All of this for just $20! Are we kidding?! Never. We’re all business, baby.

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Sunshine Brat Wednesdays
2026-01-07 12:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-31 12:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Lawson’s Finest Taproom, 155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
About the Event
Every Wednesday come to Lawson’s Finest Liquids for some big time flavor: A massive jalapeño cheddar beer bratwurst made with Sip of Sunshine by our friends at 5th Quarter Butcher, served on a pretzel bun made by none other than Patrick from Green Mountain Twisters Pretzels, comes with a side of crispy greens and a side of German potato salad, and your choice of draft beer! All of this for just $20! Are we kidding?! Never. We’re all business, baby.

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Sunshine Brat Wednesdays
2026-01-07 12:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-31 12:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | Lawson’s Finest Brewery, 155 Carroll Road, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
This ain’t your grandpa’s beer and a bratwurst.
Every Wednesday come to Lawson’s Finest Liquids for some big time flavor: A massive jalapeño cheddar beer bratwurst made with Sip of Sunshine by our friends at 5th Quarter Butcher, served on a pretzel bun made by none other than Patrick from Green Mountain Twisters Pretzels, comes with a side of crispy greens and a side of German potato salad, and your choice of draft beer! All of this for just $20! Are we kidding?! Never. We’re all business, baby.

Taco Tuesday
2026-01-06 16:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Hyde Away, 1428 Mill Brook Rd, Waitsfield, 05673
$3 Tacos – $5 Margaritas – Other Great Specials – Full Regular Menu

MadLove Mondays
2026-01-05 12:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Lawson’s Finest Taproom, 155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
About the Event
– $5 pours of all our draft beers all day
– Mac and cheese specials
– Double your Toast loyalty points
– 20% off cases of beer in our retail shop
– Our favorite recorded live shows over the speakers. Have a favorite? Let us know!
Also! Monthly artist spotlights and community features.

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MadLove Mondays
2026-01-05 12:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | Lawson’s Finest Brewery, 155 Carroll Road, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Every Monday at Lawson’s Finest Liquids!

$5 pours of all our draft beers all day
Mac and cheese specials
Double your Toast loyalty points
20% off cases of beer in our retail shop
Our favorite recorded live shows over the speakers. Have a favorite? Let us know!
Also! Monthly artist spotlights and community features

Seasonal Kids’ Programs Begin
2026-01-04 09:30 - 14:30, 2026-01-03 09:30 - 14:30 (America/New_York)
Welcome to the Mad River Glen ski school!
Our goal is to infuse our programs with fun and knowledge of safety while teaching techniques that will allow your child to improve their ability. Our commitment to a small instructor/student ratio allows the children who participate in our program to not only have fun and become awesome skiers but develop a strong sense of camaraderie while developing lasting friendships. Check out the information below to learn about all the different programs we have for kids and teens. We look forward to skiing with your kids this winter! Learn more about the detail of our Seasonal Kids Programs. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call or email us with any questions (802) 496-3551 ext. 125 or email skischool@madriverglen.com.

Family Tournament
2026-01-04 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
The Family Tournament originated as the Father-Son race and dates back to 1942 when it was originally held on the flanks of Mount Mansfield (Stowe). In its modern form, it is a race open to anyone who wants to participate. Racers complete a family-friendly GS course where a racer’s best time from two runs (attempts) is counted. The time is then added together with other family members (by blood relationship) in the following categories and prizes are awarded. In some cases, there are coveted trophies that live permanently at MRG for all to admire.
All racers should register in the MRG Online Store.
Family Tournament Race Schedule:
9:00 am – 10:00 am: course inspection/preview
10:00 am: Racing opens to anyone 7 years and under and all grandparents
10:30 am: Racing opens to all (FIFO)
1:30 pm: Race Closes
2:30 pm: Awards (location tbd)
Categories:

Father-Son
Mother-Daughter
Mother-Son
Father-Daughter
Husband-Wife
Grandmother-Granddaughter
Grandfather-Grandson
Grandfather-Granddaughter
Grandmother-Grandson
Brother-Sister
Brother-Brother
Sister-Sister
And Grand Family

2025 PRELIMINARY RESULTS
2024 RESULTS HERE

THE UNDERDOGS
2026-01-03 20:00 - 23:30 (America/New_York) | Cousin’s Brewing Comopany, Rt 100/Rt 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Vermont Swamp Jams
Featuring Pappy Biondo- Banjo and Guitar, Spencer Lewis- Fiddle and Guitar, Jimmy Goodwin- Electric Guitar, Eric Graham Electric Bass.

Family Fridays!
2026-01-02 16:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Big Picture Theater, 44 Carroll Road, Waitsfield, 05673
Kick off the weekend with Family Fridays! From 4:30–6:00 pm.
Adults can unwind during cocktail hour while kids enjoy fun, creative activities in the Red Room. Seasonal crafts provided by Inkling Bookstore!
A little something for everyone to start the weekend right. Simple snacks for children will be provided. Ages 3 +

Live Music Aprés in Stark’s Pub
2026-01-02 14:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Join us après-ski, from 2:30 to 5:00 for FREE live music! A huge thank you to our friends at Lawson’s Finest Liquids for supporting local musicians. Throughout the ski season, we’ll showcase a rotating lineup of talented local artists. Be sure to check out our event calendar for a full list of performances. Stark’s Pub is open daily during the winter ski season, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Come join us for great music and good times!

Toddler Time, Creative Shapes Art Class at Inklings!
2026-01-02 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Inklings Children’s Books, 106 Mad River Greeen, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
It’s Toddler Time, Creative Shapes Art Class at Inklings Children’s Books! Friday mornings from 10am – 11am.
Caregivers and their little ones are invited to explore shapes in a whole new way, and develop those fine motor skills; all while having some creative fun!
Activities will include painting with balloons, creating shapes with different materials, and color matching.
Begins Friday, Nov. 7th and goes for 6 weeks.
Ages: 18mo – 4yrs.
Price: $85 (all six classes) Drop-in Price: $15/per class

Fresh Catch Thursday
2026-01-01 16:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Lawson’s Finest Taproom, 155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
About the Event
Every Thursday starting at 4pm we host Nor’Easter Catering for a raw bar pop-up. Come on down and enjoy the freshest oysters you can get your hands on, and a variety of weekly specials that often include lobster rolls, shrimp cocktails, tuna poke bowls, blue crab quesadillas, and more!

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Free Cabot Fondue
2026-01-01 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Join us aprés-ski every Thursday throughout the ski season for FREE FONDUE served with toasted bread thanks to our sponsors Cabot Creamery Cooperative!
Aprés in the Pub on fondue Thursdays is historically a very popular event, supplies are limited and may run out at any time, come early, leave happy.

Community Sledding Day
2026-01-01 11:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | 1824 House, 2150 Main St., Waitsfield, VT, 05673
Grab your sled and have some fun on the big hill behind the barn at the 1824 House.
The restaurant will be open with warm drinks, cold beer and light food. No outside alcohol, food or dogs.

Climb It for Climate Uphill Series Jan-March
2026-01-01 00:00 - 2026-03-28 23:59 (America/New_York) | Around the Valley
Co-sponsored by MRVBC and Friends of the Mad River:
Looking for a New Year’s Resolution that keeps you motivated and helps you contribute to a healthier and more resilient watershed?
Starting January 1st, join us for our first annual Climb It For Climate Uphill Challenge. This is a season long challenge focused on helping you make the most of our lovely Vermont winter. Keep track of your uphill tours – miles, elevation, and distance- and see if you can reach your personal goals for ski tours this season.
While you are at it, help us fundraise money for climate resilience education and projects in the Mad River Valley. Family and friends can easily donate using our platform, and you can choose whether those donations are based upon the number of times you get outside or just given to support the cause.
All funds raised during January will go towards hosting a Tropical Storm Irene 15th Anniversary Event Series. These events will help our community better understand why we are experiencing more flood events, what changes we have made as a community to address concerns, and how we can all work together to ensure a more flood resilient future.
Event Details:
January 1st thru March 28th, 2026
Registration: https://www.skireg.com/climb-it-for-climate-uphil-challenge
Fundraising: https://www.pledgereg.com/climb-it-for-climate-uphill-challenge
Our organizations are all about celebrating our winter landscape and helping people connect with our watershed, as well as one another. This event is not only about who can climb the most peaks, log the most miles, or get up the mountain the fastest. It is about creating community.
As a result, we will be recognizing participants in a range of categories that celebrate community, fun, and creativity. We will recognize January participants at our January 31st Uphill Race. Keep an eye out for more about the February and March fundraising efforts, as well as the Feb 28 uphill race and the March 28 uphill rally.
Please remember, we are able to host this fundraising event with the support of Sugarbush and Mad River Glen. It is vital that we all are good stewards of these mountains and follow each mountain’s uphill policies! Easily found on their websites – please check the snow reports every time you go.

New Year’s Eve Party
2025-12-31 21:00 - 23:59 (America/New_York)
Ring in the New Year at Sugarbush! Join us after the fireworks for live music featuring the Grift. More details to come.

New Year’s Eve Party
2025-12-31 21:00 - 23:59 (America/New_York)
Ring in the New Year at Sugarbush!

New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Torchlight Parade
2025-12-31 19:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Join us for the Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Show as we ring in the New Year! The parade will start on Spring Fling at 7 PM, followed immediately by a dazzling fireworks display. This free event is open to all – please leave pets at home and stay off the slopes. Afterward, keep the celebration going with the NYE Party in the Gate House Lodge!

The Beat Goes On!! New Year’s Eve Celebration
2025-12-31 13:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Lost Nation Theater, 39 Main Street, Montpelier, 05602
The Beat Goes On!! Shidaa Projects and Lost Nation Theater’s third annual New Year’s Eve Celebration! A full day of festive celebration of drumming, dancing, music, and theater that’s fun for the whole family! Events at 1pm, 3pm & 6pm! Free! (Or By donation) Sponsored in part by Montpelier Alive!
Youth Drumming Workshop at 1:00pm led by Samuel Maama Marquaye. Limited to 20 participants. Register ahead! Drop-ins welcome, but will likely only be able watch/listen.
Musical Showcase at 3:00pm with Christopher McWilliams, Denise Ricker & Lotta Sutter. Reservations recommended.
The Main Event: at 6:00pm THE BEAT GOES ON! takes the stage
A special performance by Shidaa Projects and Lost Nation Theater. Dancer/Drummer & Choreographer Samuel Maama Marquaye (from Ghana), Shidaa Artistic Director Jordan Mensah leads community drum and dance enthusiasts with Lost Nation Theater’s Kathleen Keenan, Susan Reid, and Kim Bent . Suggested donation of $15. Masks encouraged..
The Flood made LNT/City Hall’s elevator inoperable, requiring climbing stairs to attend in person. The play will be available digitally to make the show accessible to those unable to physically join us. Please, call (802)229-0492 to discuss alternatives.

River Fire Experience
2025-12-31 07:00 - 09:15 (America/New_York) | Drip Culture Infrared Saunas, 4477 Main St Fuller House, Waitsfield, Vermont, 05673, United States
Calling all those brave souls looking for a fun and creative way to ring in the New Year!
For the second straight year, Friends of the Mad River, Drip Culture, and Peak Flow are bringing the Mad River Valley community “River Fire”. Join us for a fire ceremony and a guided cold plunge in the Mad River, followed by a 45 minute infrared sauna at Drip Culture.
We offer two sessions: 7-8:15 am, and 8-9:15 am. Space is limited and last year’s event sold out with a significant waiting list.
Register today at: https://forms.gle/UzBzpbMbGym3mAqJ6

Tuesday Tunes: Shacket
2025-12-30 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Lawson’s Finest Taproom, 155 Carroll Rd, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
About the Event
Shacket is a duo formed by our friends Sam Crawford and John Billingsley, whom you know from some of their other projects that have rocked the Taproom. Come on down for some good tunes!

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