Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

April 17, 2024April 17, 2024

Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing have announced the winners for the 2024/25 Vermont Signature Events program. These signature events offer experiences that fuel the Vermont visitor economy. Each year, 13 million visitors contribute $3 billion in spending and support over 35,000 jobs totaling 11.5% of Vermont’s workforce.

2024/25 Vermont Signature Events:

Vermont Maple Festival (April 26-28, 2024): A vibrant celebration of the state’s iconic export through a diverse array of activities.

Sound of Music in Concert at Trapp Family Lodge (June 20-22, 2024): An enchanting celebration of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s music from the classic musical.

8^th Annual Vermont Renaissance Faire (June 22-23, 2024): A showcase of over 100 local crafters, artisans, and food vendors celebrating this historic time period.

45th Annual Middlebury Summer Festival on the Green (July 7-13, 2024): A longstanding event showcasing 17 acts over seven days and providing a delightful outdoor experience for visitors of all ages.

Vermont Blueberry Festival (July 26 – August 4, 2024): A week-long celebration in the picturesque Deerfield Valley, offering a delightful array of blueberry-themed events.

The Sunflower House (August – September 2024): An awe-inspiring spectacle showcasing captivating colors spanning 20,000 square feet throughout Billings Farm and Museum.

Summer Dog Party (August 3, 2024): A cherished tradition which brings together hundreds of dogs and their owners to celebrate the joys of summer.

Garlic Town, USA (August 31, 2024): 130 vendors gather to celebrate garlic and agriculture, offering a diverse array of attractions.

Rutland’s Whoopie Pie Festival (September 14, 2024): A showcase of whoopie pies from vendors across the East, complemented by a massive whoopie pie assembly by the Dream Maker Bakers Team.

Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival (September 20-21, 2024): Indulge in the finest wines, soups, and artisanal products from across the region, while enjoying the best of Vermont’s culinary and craft scene.

Vermont International Film Festival (October 18-27, 2024): A 10-day celebration showcasing diverse, independent films from around the globe.

Stowe Winter Carnival (January 2025): A captivating display of professional ice carvers creating stunning sculptures, complemented by activities for all ages.

Harris Hill Ski Jump (February 2025): Featuring New England’s only Olympic-size jump where athletes aim to break the 341-foot hill record and soar at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

The Vermont Signature Events program offers an invaluable opportunity for events to garner widespread recognition. Signature events are awarded annually and showcase the rich variety of experiences that define Green Mountain life. These top-rated events bring visitors into the fabric of the community and offer a true taste of what’s local.

Learn more about the 2024/25 Vermont Signature Events.

April 17, 2024

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Vermont Chamber Advocates on Visitor Economy Support at Senator Welch Roundtable

September 29, 2023

Vermont Chamber Advocates on Visitor Economy Support at Senator Welch Roundtable

The Vermont Chamber was invited to address challenges in the aftermath of this summer’s catastrophic flooding during a meeting convened by Senator Peter Welch. Along with partner organizations and members of the Vermont tourism and hospitality industries, Vermont Chamber VP of Tourism Amy Spear shared how the visitor economy across the state came to a halt in the wake of the flooding. Even as traffic rebounded, attractions in unimpacted areas still experienced a notable decrease in visitor traffic.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the impact that the pandemic, Canadian wildfires, and other distressing events have had on tourism in recent years. Senator Welch highlighted the state’s resilience and emphasized the significance of Vermont’s tourism industry and its role in driving the Vermont economy, expressing gratitude for the shared commitment to rebuild despite adversities. In recent weeks, the Vermont congressional delegation has called for additional federal assistance, including increasing the FEMA cap for hazard mitigation and making SBA loans forgivable.

September 29, 2023

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Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors

September 27, 2023September 26, 2023

Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors

The application is now open for the Vermont Signature Events program. The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.

Events must take place between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is Friday, December 1, 2023.

10 Winners Will Receive:

A feature in 2023/24 Annual Magazine
A featured event listed on VermontVacation Events Calendar
Inclusion on VDTM events webpage
Inclusion in VDTM’s consumer newsletters
Inclusion in VDTM’s social media (stories)

Events Must Meet the Following Guidelines:

Event must take place for specified and limited period of time.
Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours.
Events must have an end date.
If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond what your normal business offers.
Event must be appropriate for out of state visitors as well as for local Vermonters.
Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Submit an application for your event here.

September 26, 2023

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Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

June 23, 2023April 18, 2023

Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing have announced the winners for the 2023/24 Vermont Signature Events program.

2023/24 Vermont Signature Events:

Moos & Brews & Cocktails Too! (July 28, 2023, September 8, 2023)
Food Truck Roundup (Thursdays, June 22nd – August 24, 2023)
RockFire (June 24, 2023)
J Final Fridays (June 30, July 28, August 25, 2023)
Mad Marathon, Mad Half & Relays (July 9, 2023)
Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival (August 23-27, 2023)
Plymouth Folk and Blues Festival 2023 (September 2-3, 2023)
Von Trapp Oktoberfest (September 16, 2023)
Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival (September 22-24, 2023)
Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend (December 8-10, 2023)
Winter Rendezvous (January 2024)
Harris Hill Ski Jump (February 2024)

The Vermont Signature Events program is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.

These Signature Events offer experiences that fuel the Vermont visitor economy. Each year, 13 million visitors contribute $3.2 billion in spending and support over 30,000 jobs totaling 10% of Vermont’s workforce.

Learn more about the 2023/24 Vermont Signature Events.

April 18, 2023

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Tourism Day at the State House Centers the Visitor Economy and Destination Stewardship

March 28, 2023March 22, 2023

Tourism Day at the State House Centers the Visitor Economy and Destination Stewardship

Following a pandemic hiatus, Tourism Day at the State House returned for the first time since 2020. Over 150 tourism and hospitality industry leaders were present throughout the day to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy.

The day was centered on the Vermont visitor economy and destination stewardship and management. Business and policy leaders connected throughout the day during a coffee hour with Governor Scott, a joint hearing on the visitor economy with the House Commerce and Economic Development and the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs Committee, and an evening reception.

Rep. Stephanie Jerome (Rutland-9), a stalwart supporter of the tourism industry, offered House Resolution, H.C.R.52. “The Vermont visitor economy is an incredible asset. It draws visitors to our towns, supports our local businesses, and is one of our largest employers. It generates tax revenues and creates jobs, it unlocks wide-ranging economic activity in both our rural and urban communities,” stated Rep. Jerome.

“The Vermont Chamber was proud to once again convene industry leaders for Tourism Day at the State House,” said Amy Spear, Vice President of Tourism for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “The Vermont visitor economy is an incredible economic asset for Vermont. 13 million annual visitors contribute $3.2 billion in spending and support over 30,000 jobs, 10% of Vermont’s total workforce.”

Business leaders reflected on the ongoing economic impacts of the pandemic and reinforced that collaboration is integral to the success of their businesses, and communities.

“We continue to find new ways to operate against the constant stresses of high labor and high food costs, a scarcity of applicants, continuing supply chain issues, and low margins. Even with these setbacks, many of us are optimistic,” stated Leslie McCrorey Wells of Pizzeria Veritas and Sotto Enoteca. “Like many of my restaurant peers, I feel a deep sense of commitment to the communities that surround and support our businesses, and I see the impact that our organizations and businesses have on the quality of life in Vermont.”

“Every part of our state was represented today because tourism is a vital economic driver that crosses many sectors,” stated Anna Rubin of Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium. “The Fairbanks Museum remains strong because of its connections with the community and recognizes that investments in our business have a wider impact on not only visitors but of the Northeast Kingdom at large.”

“The sense of community in Killington has become one of a kind. The resort and local businesses work together to speak with a unified voice and market the region together as a team,” stated Amy Laramie of Killington Resort and Pico Mountain. “I am grateful for the community in this industry and to be able to call a region where many people vacation, my home.”

Additional business leaders that testified in the joint hearing were Nick Bennette of Vermont Mountain Bike Association, Mimi Buttenheim of Mad River Distillers, Karen Nevin of Revitalizing Waterbury, and Kim Prins of Seesaws Lodge.

Industry leaders also testified in the House Agriculture Committee, including Tara Pereira of Vermont Fresh Network, David Keck of Stella Wines, Clara Ayer of Fairmont Farms, and Nick Managan of Cabot Creamery. Senate Education Committee received testimony from Molly Mahar of the Vermont Ski Areas Association and Jen Roberts of Onion River Outdoors.

The event was produced in partnership with several advocacy organizations, including Ski Vermont and the Lake Champlain Chamber of Commerce.

March 22, 2023

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Application Open for Vermont Signature Events

November 4, 2022November 3, 2022

Application Open for Vermont Signature Events

The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.

Events must take place between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is Thursday, December 22.

10 Winners Will Receive:

A feature in 2023/24 Annual Magazine
A featured event listed on VermontVacation Events Calendar
Inclusion on VDTM events webpage
Inclusion in VDTM’s consumer newsletters
Inclusion in VDTM’s social media (stories)

Events Must Meet the Following Guidelines:

Event must take place for specified and limited period of time.
Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours. Events must have an end date.
If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond what your normal business offers.
Event must be appropriate for out of state visitors as well as for local Vermonters.
Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Submit an application for your event here.

November 3, 2022

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H-2B Returning Worker Exemption Act

Earlier this month, the Department of Labor (DOL) announced that it had received requests for more than 136,000 H-2B workers and there are only 33,000 available under the congressionally authorized statutory cap. Many hotels rely on the H-2B program to augment their domestic workforce during their peak season to ensure they can operate at full capacity. With ongoing concerns due to OMICRON and COVID-19 pandemic, combined with an acute workforce shortage, access to H-2B visas are more crucial now than ever before especially for the lodging industry.

The recently introduced H-2B Returning Worker Exemption Act would provide a returning worker exemption and increased integrity measures to strengthen the H-2B visa program. Act now to urge your representative to co-sponsor the H-2B Returning Worker Exemption Act.

January 18, 2022

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Applications for Top 10 2022 Events Open

November 1, 2021October 18, 2021

Applications for Top 10 2022 Events Open

The Vermont Chamber is pleased to be running our annual Top 10 Events program in 2022.

The deadline to submit applications for all seasons is Friday, November 5, 2021.

Eligibility & Qualities of A Winning Event:

Applications are assessed by a panel of judges who take into consideration the geography and date of all events submitted. Judges select a variety of events that represent the entire state during the winter, summer, and fall months. Judges consider:

The size of the event, including past audience and potential room for growth.
Its appeal to a large diverse audience of all ages, including both Vermont residents and out-of-state visitors.
If the venue can accommodate attendance up to twice the normal count.

The Top 10 Event designation is a great marketing tool. Winter, summer and fall event winners will be featured in our upcoming Vermont Annual Inspiration Guide and will be featured events on the VermontVacation.com Events Calendar.

Below are the applications for the 2022 Top 10 Events, and the dates events must fall between to be considered. Please note that the deadline to submit applications for all seasons is Friday, November 5th.

2022 Top 10 Winter Events Application (November 15, 2021 – March 31, 2022)

2022 Top 10 Summer Events Application (April 1 – August 31, 2022)

2022 Top 10 Fall Events Application (September 1 – October 31, 2022)

October 18, 2021

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October 13, 2021September 30, 2021

National Food Safety Month

September was National Food Safety Month with the National Restaurant Association and ServSafe. This year’s theme was Know Safe & Show Safe and programming highlighted cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting standards with five weeks of education.

Week 1 – Cleaning vs. Sanitizing vs. Disinfecting: Learn more about what it is, when it needs to be done, and best practices on how it should be done.

Week 2 – Cleaning and Sanitizing Equipment: Learn more about best practices and how to create the habit of proper cleaning.

Week 3 – Cleaning and Sanitizing Dishes: Learn more about how to clean, dry and store cookware and tableware.

Week 4 – Cleaning and Sanitizing Your Operations: Learn more about best practices for cleaning after a guest gets sick.

Week 5 – Developing & Implementing a Cleaning Program: Learn more about what elements should you include in your Master Cleaning Plan.

Learn more about all of the programming covered during National Food Safety Month here.

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September 30, 2021

Feel Fall in Vermont

February 13, 2024September 17, 2021

Feel Fall in Vermont

By Vermont Chamber Vice President of Tourism Amy Spear

Have you ever picked crisp apples fresh from an orchard, been surrounded by bright red and orange mountains, or hiked through a towering corn maze?

In Vermont, you can do all that and more on an ordinary fall day. This year, visitors can enjoy the season in a distinctly Vermont way – with activities and attractions that draw in people from around the globe.

Our state has options everyone will love.

Delicious food and drink

After shopping and cider sampling at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury, enjoy a meal at Apple Core Luncheonette & Brew, which offers homemade breakfast and lunch seven days a week.

Stop by Citizen Cider’s Tasting Room in Burlington for flagship hard ciders and seasonal limited releases, all made from apples sourced locally. The full food menu has something for everyone, featuring items made with their infamous cider.

Stay somewhere serene

The Essex Resort & Spa, a centrally located luxury resort, is the perfect home-base for exploring Vermont in the fall from north to south. End the day at on-site restaurants or spend an afternoon unwinding at the spa.

Or stay at Manchester’s Equinox Golf Resort & Spa. Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, this iconic resort is steeped in history. Surrounded by natural landscapes, this destination is beautiful in every season, but is especially stunning during fall.

Get active in fresh air

Featuring one of the best corn mazes in the state, kids and adults of all ages enjoy hiking through the towering corn at Hathaway Farm in Rutland and the challenge of solving a maze.

Enjoy apple picking and cider donuts while taking in the view of Lake Champlain on Shelburne Orchards’ 60-acre family owned and operated apple orchard.

You can also use our trip planning tool at VermontVacation.com to narrow your search and discover unique accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and recreation.

If you’re traveling, why not visit the most vaccinated state in the country?

Last month, Vermont had the highest vaccination rate in the country. If you’re going to travel this fall, why not come to one of the safest states in the nation?

Vermont has a tradition of welcoming visitors to our state. In the wake of Covid-19, the state continues to offer safe travel guidance to visitors and Vermonters. Before you come, take a few minutes to learn what our state leaders are recommending regarding masking and physical distancing.

Community care is at the heart of Vermont life. When you visit, we know you’ll feel the Vermonter spirit in our safety measures and in every smile and wave.

While you stay, play with us by sharing on social media with hashtags #ThisIsVT and #VermontFall.

We would love to see and share your photos this fall. The Vermont Chamber of Commerce tourism team will share your Instagram posts in our stories from our Visit Vermont account.

We’ll also be creating an album with your photos on our Facebook page.

Every year, Vermont sees more than 13 million visitors to the state.

As you plan your visit, be sure to check your plans carefully by reading updates on lodging and business websites. Due to staffing shortages, their hours of operation and policies may have changed.

We are so excited to welcome you to Vermont.

Amy Spear, of Killington, is the Vice President of Tourism at the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, whose mission is focused on creating an economic climate conducive to business growth while enhancing Vermont’s quality of life.

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