and What to Look Forward to in 2025!
As winter settles over Bennington, Vermont, the town transforms into a peaceful winter retreat. With snow blanketing the mountains and a serene atmosphere, Bennington is the ideal destination for those seeking cozy experiences, exceptional dining, and a chance to unwind in a charming New England town. From shopping and dining to unique local events, Bennington offers a variety of ways to enjoy the season.
Cozy Spots to Enjoy This Winter
When the temperature drops, Bennington offers several inviting spots with cozy, accessible fireplaces to help you escape the cold. These venues not only provide the warmth of a crackling fire but also feature excellent dining experiences, making them perfect destinations for a winter visit.
Mount Anthony Country Club
Located in the heart of Bennington, is renowned not only for its exceptional farm-to-table dining but also for its breathtaking views of the Bennington Battle Monument. The Grille, praised for its seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, stands out as one of the area’s top dining experiences. As noted by Vermont Life, “The Grille at Mount Anthony Country Club delivers some of the most delightful, creative dishes in Southern Vermont, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.” Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal by the fire or relaxing after a day of winter activities, the ambiance is perfect for a cozy experience.
South Shire: a little hotel
Housed in a Victorian mansion, offers a blend of comfort and culinary excellence. It hosts Taan, an authentic Thai restaurant known for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Chef Jariya, the mastermind behind Taan, works with several farms to craft a menu full of bold flavors. According to Seven Days Vermont, “Taan provides a rare, authentic taste of Thailand in the heart of Bennington, with a focus on seasonally inspired dishes that highlight the best of Vermont’s produce.” With its cozy atmosphere and exceptional food, SouthShire offers a relaxing place to enjoy a winter meal.
Four Chimneys Inn
An upscale, elegant retreat that pairs French-inspired cuisine with cozy fireplaces. Known for its upscale French fare, the Inn is a top choice for those looking to indulge in refined dining during their winter stay. Fodor’s Vermont Guide describes it as, “A quintessential Vermont getaway, where the charm of the historic inn is matched only by its exceptional French cuisine.” The inn’s setting, combined with its menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal specials, makes it an ideal place to unwind with a glass of wine by the fire.
Publyk House
A local favorite, offers a cozy atmosphere with its inviting fireplace and rustic charm. Known for its New England comfort food and hearty meals, Publyk House serves a menu that celebrates Vermont’s local bounty. With a crackling fire and a warm ambiance, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal after a winter walk around town. According to New England Travel Guide, “Publyk House’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its seasonal menu and wood-burning fireplace, makes it a prime location for dining and unwinding during the colder months.” Whether you’re enjoying their signature comfort food or a seasonal specialty, Publyk House offers the perfect setting to enjoy the winter season.
These venues not only provide a warm escape from the cold but also offer some of the best dining experiences in Bennington, showcasing the region’s dedication to local ingredients and seasonal dishes.
For a full list of dining destinations in Bennington, click here.
North Bennington Winter Fest: A Celebration of Winter Magic
For a true taste of winter in Bennington, don’t miss the North Bennington Winter Fest on January 25th, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This beloved annual event spans several locations in North Bennington and offers a variety of winter activities for all ages. Among the highlights is the annual Lake Paran Plunge, where brave participants take a chilly dip in the lake, a thrilling tradition that attracts both locals and visitors alike. The Winter Fest also features family-friendly fun, including bakesales, a scavenger hunt, live music, and much more.
The Winter Fest is an excellent way to experience the vibrant local culture of North Bennington while enjoying the winter landscape. As The Vermont Traveler describes, “North Bennington Winter Fest is a standout event in the region, showcasing the best of winter fun, local craftsmanship, and community spirit.”
For a full list of local events happening in Bennington, click here.
Signature Events to Look Forward to in 2025
As we look ahead, Bennington’s calendar is filled with signature events that showcase the town’s rich culture and community spirit. Here are some must-see events that highlight the best of Bennington in 2025:
Mayfest Arts and Craft Festival
A celebration of local artisans and craftspeople, featuring a variety of handmade goods, food vendors, and live entertainment. This event draws visitors from across the region and showcases Bennington’s thriving arts scene.
Southern Vermont Homebrew Festival
Typically held in the spring, this festival celebrates the art of homebrewing, featuring tastings from regional homebrewers and craft breweries. It’s a great event for beer enthusiasts and those interested in the craft brewing scene in Vermont.
North Bennington Outdoor Sculpture Show
An outdoor exhibition showcasing sculptures from artists around the region, set against the picturesque backdrop of North Bennington. The show is a highlight for art lovers and those who enjoy outdoor, public art experiences.
Downtown Bennington Food Truck Festival
A gathering of diverse food trucks offering a range of culinary delights, accompanied by live music and community activities. The Food Truck Festival is a lively event that brings the best of local and regional food vendors to downtown Bennington.
QuiltFest
An annual event celebrating the art of quilting, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and a marketplace for quilting enthusiasts. QuiltFest attracts visitors interested in the intricate craft of quilting, with special exhibits and opportunities for hands-on experiences.
Garlic Town USA
A festival dedicated to all things garlic, including cooking demonstrations, garlic-themed dishes, and entertainment. Garlic Town USA is a unique event that celebrates the harvest of one of Vermont’s most beloved crops.
Harvest Fest
A fall festival celebrating the harvest season with local produce, crafts, and family-friendly activities. Harvest Fest brings together the community to enjoy Vermont’s bountiful autumn harvest.
Hemmings Cruise-ins
Classic car enthusiasts gather for a series of car shows and cruises, showcasing vintage and classic vehicles. This event is a favorite among car lovers and vintage enthusiasts alike.
Downtown Live Music Series
A series of free live music performances held in downtown Bennington’s Merchant’s Park Stage, featuring local and regional artists. These performances provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy music in the heart of Bennington.
Basement Music Series
An intimate music series featuring performances in various venues, highlighting touring artists and genres. The Basement Music Series is a great way to discover exceptional talent in diverse settings.
Bennington Museum Annual Exhibits and Events
The Bennington Museum hosts various art exhibitions throughout the year, along with special events like the popular Concerts on the Courtyard series, which blends art and live music in an outdoor setting. These events are a staple for those interested in both the cultural and artistic landscape of Bennington.
Bennington Theater Ongoing Events
Bennington Theater hosts a range of events throughout the year, including theater performances, comedy shows, live music, and engaging community events. These offerings make the theater an essential part of the town’s vibrant arts scene.
Monument Arts Center Ongoing Events
This cultural hub hosts a variety of events, from theater productions to gallery exhibitions and live music performances. Monument Arts Center is dedicated to providing artistic experiences for both locals and visitors, with a focus on community engagement.
Little City Cider Company
Known for its delicious ciders, Little City Cider Company also doubles as a live music venue, offering regular music events in a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind with local beverages while enjoying live performances.
Bennington’s 2025 calendar is brimming with exciting events that celebrate the town’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking to enjoy local food, music, or art, Bennington has something to offer all year long.
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