Whether you’re a local, a returning visitor, or planning your very first trip, now is the perfect time to get excited for summer in Manchester, VT! This vibrant mountain town is gearing up for a season filled with unforgettable festivals, lively fairs, captivating exhibitions, dynamic theatrical productions, and incredible live music. Don’t miss your chance to be part of all the excitement, creativity, and community spirit coming to life this summer!
Whether your musical vibe leans towards the classics or more folk, bluegrass, or rock n roll, the music festivals will have you tapping your foot before you know it. And if you’re into the performing arts, don’t miss the incredible theatrical productions taking place from mid-June through October at two award-winning playhouses. Kick off the season early with a festival that celebrates movies and storytelling
Beyond the music and performing arts, Manchester offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Explore scenic hiking trails with breathtaking mountain views, then unwind with a farm-to-table meal made from locally sourced ingredients. Wander through charming downtown streets and shop at one-of-a-kind boutiques, designer outlets, and galleries showcasing local art and fine crafts. From outdoor adventure to elevated shopping and dining, Manchester delivers a blend of culture and natural beauty you simply can’t find anywhere else. Read on to learn more…
Vermont Film & Folklore Festival (VFFF)
The Vermont Film & Folklore Festival (VFFF) returns to Manchester, Vermont for its second season this May, continuing its mission to celebrate the power of cinema and storytelling. Taking place from May 13–18, 2025, VFFF is the only international film festival serving the 200,000 residents of Southern Vermont. The festival showcases new independent films, Vermont-made productions, and classic 16mm cinema, alongside dynamic seminars, conversations, and social events that bring filmmakers and audiences together.
Cinema remains one of the most universal and accessible forms of art—and at VFFF, it’s a medium through which community and culture connect. Join us this May for a week of films, stories, and shared experiences.
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets!
Taconic Music Festival
Kicking off this year’s festival season is the 9th Annual Taconic Music Festival, beginning June 21 and running through July 14. Taconic Music provides Southern Vermont communities with year-round concerts, lessons, and educational programs built upon the rich traditions of classical music. At the same time, they offer inclusive points of entry through a variety of genres for people of all ages and walks of life who value music as part of their daily lives.
Check the calendar and ready yourself for the many opportunities to hear a variety of classical and chamber music played live by talented artists from around the world, right here in Manchester, VT. From the Strings for Kids recitals, the Festival Opening Concert, featuring pieces by Stevenson and Beethoven, the Young Artists Concert series, up to their Festival Concert IV with songs by Wang, Debussy, and Franck.
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets!
Dorset Theatre Festival
In its 48th year, the Dorset Theatre Festival presents its professional Main Stage season at the historic Dorset Playhouse, highlighting both new plays and classic works. Enlightening, entertaining, and inspiring audiences since 1977, the festivals’ annual celebration of great plays runs from mid-June through early September and features top theatre-makers from around the country.
“This season celebrates the Festival’s strength at bringing new stories to our audiences in Southern Vermont and beyond. We are excited to keep the tradition of making world-class theater outside of New York City alive. This year’s main stage season will bring two brand new plays, stunning designs, and sensational artists to the Dorset Playhouse. I am looking forward to experiencing these heartwarming, funny, romantic, and shocking productions with everyone.” — WILL RUCKER, EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Salvage: Jun 20 – Jul 05; The Book Club Play: Jul 11 – Jul 26; Satellites: Aug 06 – Aug 16; Other Desert Cities: Aug 22 – Sep 06
In addition to Main Stage productions of new plays, the festival’s new play development programs offer audiences a unique chance to engage with works-in-progress, giving the Southern Vermont community an active role in shaping future productions at the festival and beyond.
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets!
Manchester Music Festival
For its 51st season, the Manchester Music Festival (MMF) brings big talent and bold stories to the Arkell Pavilion at Southern Vermont Arts Center, for “Music and Storytelling,” July 10 – August 7, 2025.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Philip Setzer, award-winning artists and Manchester Music Festival’s Young Artists will present iconic works: Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet, Beethoven’s Kreutzer Sonata, Mendelssohn’s Octet, Schubert’s Trout Quintet, Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale, and so much more, including free family concerts. Fifty-one years on, MMF continues to be a cultural cornerstone and one of Vermont’s must-visit summer music events. Discover more at mmfvt.org.
Experience the magic where music meets narrative this summer!
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets!
Weston Theater Company
The Weston Playhouse, renowned for its commitment to producing high-quality theatrical performances, is set to offer an exciting and diverse lineup for its 89th season in 2025! Nestled in the charming village of Weston, VT, the playhouse has long been a cultural hub, attracting theater enthusiasts from near and far. Weston’s 2025 season celebrates the creative peaks we reach year after year and the artistic pathways that lead us to discovery and connection.
For 89 years, Weston has flourished as a home for exceptional theater in an exceptional community, presenting beautiful, entertaining stories performed by astonishingly talented artists from near and far. For all of those years, their town and community have been at the heart of their work.
Everything they do—every moment of story, imagination, and innovation—is grounded in history and contributes to the future of the place we call home
Almost Heaven: John Denver’s America: June 11 – July 6; Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! June 17 – June 29; White Christmas: July 16 – August 10; A Distinct Society: August 20 – August 31; The Twelfth Night Show: September 26 – October 12
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets!
Dead of Summer Music Festival
The sixth annual Dead of Summer Music Festival returns to Hunter Park in Manchester, VT, from July 11–13, 2025. Presented by Whirlygig Music and WEQX, this family-friendly celebration features three days of live music across two outdoor stages, with a stunning Green Mountain backdrop.
The 2025 lineup includes over 20 bands from around the country, including Melvin Seals & JGB, The Wailers, Dangermuffin, Rev Tor & Friends, The Wheel, Jatoba, and Terrafunk. Festivalgoers can also enjoy RV and tent camping, a vibrant vendor village with food trucks, craft and art booths, a 21+ bar, plus interactive experiences like yoga, disc golf, and kid-friendly performances—including “Tie Dye Central” hosted by Soul Shine.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or first-time attendee, this immersive weekend of music, art, and community is not to be missed. Visit the official festival site for full details on the lineup, schedule, and camping options.
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets
Vermont Summer Festival
This six-week USEF National/4*-Rated offers an all-inclusive horse show just a 10-minute drive from Manchester Town Center. Beginning July 2, 2025 through August 10, 2025, events at the festival include a variety of show jumping classes, from beginner levels to $30,000 Grand Prix competitions. The Grand Prix events, held on weekends, are particularly popular, featuring challenging courses designed to test the skill and agility of both horse and rider. These events are not only competitive but also family-friendly, offering a thrilling experience for spectators of all ages.
Founded in 1994, the Vermont Summer Festival has grown into one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the Northeast United States. It takes place at Harold Beebe Farm, a picturesque venue offering top-notch facilities and a scenic backdrop of the Green Mountains. The festival is renowned for its high-level competition, drawing top riders, including Olympians and international champions.
Green Mountain Bluegrass and Roots Festival
In mid-August (Aug 14 – Aug 17, 2025) the Green Mountain Bluegrass and Roots Festival (GMBRF) returns for its 5th year offering a family-friendly festival with live music and more. The festival features a diverse lineup of nationally renowned and local musicians who bring the rich sounds of bluegrass, Americana, and folk music to life. The event, held at the historic Hunter Park, provides a spacious and scenic venue for festival-goers to enjoy both the performances and the natural beauty of the area.
A weekend music festival featuring a variety of bluegrass, folk, roots and Americana music from both icons of the industry and innovative up-and-coming artists. Highlights include a main stage, late night “Lamplighter” stage, Dance tent, camping, local food trucks and a full festival bar, all in a magical Green Mountain setting!
GMBR is a family-friendly festival set in a beautiful field nestled among the mountains and bordered by a tributary to the Battenkill River. Come camp with us on-site for the weekend or take advantage of the wonderful array of lodging options in Manchester. Kids, 12 and under are FREE, so bring the whole family!
Click here to learn more and purchase tickets
And don’t forget—there’s even more live music to enjoy all summer long! Beyond what’s already been mentioned, you’ll find performances happening at local restaurants and bars throughout the area. Plus, don’t miss the free town-wide events like Manchester Street Fest (June 13 & July 11) and Concerts on the Green every Wednesday from June 25 through August 15. It’s the perfect way to soak up the sounds of summer and connect with the local community.
MORE THAN JUST A DAY TRIP!
With so many unique festivals to partake in, you might wish to make this more than a day trip. Combine your festival visit with an amazing outdoor experience, a trip to a local art center or gallery, a historical tour, or a shopping trip at any of the town’s premier boutique stores, mom-and-pop shops, art/artisan galleries, and designer outlets. To see everything Manchester, VT has to offer in a single day would never be enough time.
Relax and Stay awhile at any one of our resorts, boutique hotels, charming Inns + B&Bs, modern motels, or vacation rentals. The lodging options are almost endless and are made to fit your personal style, needs, and budget. All this to make your next getaway unforgettable!
The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa
One such place to treat yourself, is a stay in the heart of Manchester Village. The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa embodies all that is quintessential New England, combining a rich sense of history and tradition with superb service and contemporary amenities to make for an easeful, elegant stay. Rooms and suites feature gorgeous views of the mountains, gardens, and the historic village center. World-class recreational activities take you from the gently rolling hills of the par 71 Walter Travis golf course to the 914 acres of mountain trails right in their backyard, along with fly fishing access and hiking opportunities at Equinox Pond.
The resort is also poised to pamper with saunas, steam baths, a fitness center, and a yoga studio, plus ten treatment rooms with an extensive menu of massages, facials, and body treatments.
EAT, DRINK, AND ENJOY MANCHESTER!
Summer in Manchester means sunshine, fresh air, and vibrant green landscapes—the perfect backdrop for outdoor dining. Locals and visitors alike take advantage of the beautiful weather by enjoying meals al fresco at their favorite restaurants and cafés. Many offer patio seating with stunning views of Southern Vermont’s rolling hills and gardens in full bloom. It’s an ideal way to relax, unwind, and enjoy some of the best cuisine in the region. Reservations are recommended. Click Here for a full list of restaurants with outdoor seating.
Whatever you’re planning for your next Manchester adventure, let us help you make the most of your trip! Learn more at ManchesterVermont.com!
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