Celebrating Downtown Montpelier!
Montpelier Alive celebrates the City of Montpelier. We work with partners to sustain and build upon Montpelier’s vibrant downtown community by offering and supporting special events and activities and by promoting City businesses. We work to ensure a thriving local economy for Montpelier and to preserve the City’s historic character and unique sense of place. With support from:
Getaway to Montpelier!
Centrally located and easy to access from New England and Eastern Canada, Montpelier makes visits easy with no rush hour, easy parking, and a relaxed casual atmosphere that begs you to slow down and shed the stress of everyday life..
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Spring
As the snow melts and the days grow longer, Montpelier comes alive with fresh energy. Stroll along the Winooski River, explore blooming trails, and celebrate the season at the farmers market. Spring is the perfect time to savor local flavors and embrace the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.
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Summer
Long, sunny days invite you to soak up Montpelier’s outdoor charm. Enjoy live music downtown, dine al fresco, and paddle the Winooski River. Whether you're hiking nearby trails or exploring local shops and galleries, summer in Vermont’s capital is full of adventure.
Fall
Golden leaves and crisp air make autumn in Montpelier unforgettable. Take a scenic hike, visit the farmers market for seasonal treats, and enjoy the warmth of local cafés. With harvest festivals and breathtaking foliage, fall is the perfect time to experience Vermont’s charm.
Winter
Snow-covered streets and twinkling lights set the scene for a classic Vermont winter. Enjoy downtown shopping, warm up with local dining, and hit the nearby trails for skiing or snowshoeing. From festive events to fireside comforts, Montpelier is full of winter wonder.
"To those who designed, planted, tended and watered the flowers all over town, most especially the ten boxes on the Main St bridge: THANK YOU! They were a beauty and a joy on my walk into and out of town almost every day. The bridge is a challenging location, with full exposure to sun, wind, and car exhaust, and it can't be easy to drag that 20 gallons on water on a wagon out there every time they need it. The summer hot spells took their toll, and still they kept coming back, as plants will do."
Our Vibrant Capital City
Exquisite historic buildings are home to Vermont's state government, shopping, commerce and world-class dining and arts. Outstanding outdoor recreation is within minutes of the downtown. Montpelier is the largest urban historic district in Vermont. The crown jewel is the impeccably restored State House - one of the oldest and best preserved in the country. Three blocks away is the city's unique business district. Linger at independently-owned shops offering books, records, clothing, fine crafts and pastries, or dine in one of the many farm-to-table restaurants, craft beer bars, and cafes.
Things to Do
Whether your passion is the great outdoors or a great night on the town, we invite you to come play in Montpelier and central Vermont. From co-ops, galleries, and cultural institutions to classical chamber music performed by some of the world's finest musicians
Shopping
Leave your computer behind and experience the joy of shopping again. Visit our many independently-owned specialty boutiques surrounded by historic architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. Stroll through our charming pedestrian-friendly city and experience customer service with a personal touch. Our local merchants are dedicated to helping you find that something special.
Dining
Montpelier is not just a feast for the eyes. Montpelier has become known as a place for foodies with a great restaurant explosion in recent years. We invite you to take a culinary adventure in the Capital City. No matter what your taste is, Montpelier has it all.
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Latest News
Montpelier’s neighborhoods will come alive with music this fall on Sunday, September 20th, as Montpelier welcomes its first (sure to be) annual Porchfest. Read the press release ...
Red Hen Baking has officially joined downtown Montpelier at 60 Main Street. Watch our new video spotlight by Montpelier Alive videographer intern Ondina An to hear the story behind the move and get a look inside the new ...
A one-hour workshop for Central Vermont businesses and organizations focused on understanding neurodiversity and building more inclusive, accessible spaces for employees and customers alike. Read ...
"Not many state capitals have such small populations (Vermont's clocks in at just around 8,000) or big art scenes, but Montpelier exemplifies both. Art is present everywhere, from rotating exhibitions at the State House and Supreme Court building to all the co-ops, galleries, and cultural institutions around town. Six times a year, the volunteer-run Montpelier Alive Art Walk brings artists and enthusiasts out for a celebratory evening — naturally, it's loved by the Vermont College of Fine Arts' community."
Featured Events
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10pm
Join Montpelier Alive for one of Vermont's largest Independence Day celebrations on Friday, July 3, 2026. This year's theme, "250 Together!", honors our nation's 250th anniversary while celebrating the community connections that make Montpelier special.
The day features Family Fest on the State House Lawn from 3:00–6:00 pm with bounce houses, lawn games, children's ... Visit Event Page
