Welcome to Downtown, Red Hen Baking
May 19, 2026
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 space.
Understanding Neurodiversity Workshop
April 29, 2026
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 more...
The Power of Showing Up: Celebrating Volunteers in Montpelier
April 16, 2026
Volunteer Appreciation Week is a chance to recognize the people and businesses who help make Montpelier thrive. From spring events like Mayfest and Green Up Day to everyday efforts like Community Spruce Up Day, it’s all powered by folks showing up—and making a difference.
The Heart of Vermont Podcast
April 09, 2026
New from Montpelier Alive: the Heart of Vermont Podcast. Listen in for stories from around Washington County, starting with the bridge illumination project and its unexpected impact after the 2023 floods.
Montpelier Community Spruce Up Day Kicks Off April 11
March 30, 2026
Join Montpelier Alive and the Downtown Business Association on April 11 for Montpelier Community Spruce Up Day, a hands-on effort to freshen up downtown after winter. Stop by Montpelier City Hall anytime between 11 AM–2 PM to pitch in—supplies, music, and a few thank-you perks included.
A Quilt Square with a Big Story: Washington County, Vermont Joins a National Collaboration
February 26, 2026
Washington County, Vermont is part of Washingtons Unite, a nationwide quilt project celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Designed by Montpelier quilter Patty Pirog, our county’s quilt block features the Green Mountain Star and the Vermont State House, with nods to the landscapes that define our region. Read how this local piece becomes part of a traveling national work of art.
A New Chapter for Community Resilience in Montpelier
February 25, 2026
Music Matters!
February 19, 2026
Winter gets louder (and warmer) in downtown Montpelier, March 6th-8th! Spice on Snow is back with Cajun and old-time music, dancing, workshops, and late-night jams—bringing life to downtown when we need it most.Read why Music Matters and get the full scoop on this year’s festival on our blog.
Montpelier Restaurant Week 2026
February 12, 2026
Discover downtown Montpelier’s vibrant culinary scene! Enjoy special menus, prix fixe dinners, and creative deals at 15 local restaurants and cafés during Restaurant Week. Read more...
Lace Up: Ice Skating Around Montpelier (Just in Time for Winterfest)
January 29, 2026
From outdoor rinks to indoor ice, Montpelier offers plenty of ways to skate this winter. We’re breaking down local options and how ice skating fits into Winterfest weekend.
Let It Glow: Holiday Highlights in Downtown Montpelier
December 18, 2025
Downtown Montpelier is glowing for the holidays. From imaginative storefront windows and festive greenery to illuminated bridges and seasonal events, our community is bringing light to winter. Take a stroll through downtown’s holiday highlights and find ways to celebrate, shop local, and ring in the New Year.
Member Highlight: Kellogg-Hubbard Library
October 22, 2025
The Kellogg-Hubbard Library has been at the heart of Montpelier for over a century and it’s still evolving! Learn how this beloved community hub connects, inspires, and celebrates through its annual Library After Dark Masquerade. Read more...
Member Highlight: The North Branch Cafe
October 16, 2025
Tucked along the North Branch of the Winooski River, The North Branch Café is a cozy downtown gem where community, comfort, and craft meet. With over 100 loose-leaf teas, local food and sweets, and an innovative wine bar, this family-run café has become a Montpelier staple. Learn how the Parkers turned a dream into one of downtown’s most beloved gathering spaces.Read the full Member Highlight ›
Member Highlight: Blossom Wellness Center
October 09, 2025
Discover Blossom Wellness Center, a collective of holistic practitioners in downtown Montpelier dedicated to helping our community find balance and thrive. From integrative bodywork and Ayurvedic massage to movement classes and immersive retreats, read more in our latest Member Highlight...
Downtown Montpelier Ramble
October 07, 2025
This October, Montpelier comes alive on Thursday evenings with a new tradition: the Montpelier Downtown Ramble. Beginning at 5pm each week, residents and visitors alike are invited to stroll through downtown, enjoy the crisp fall air, and experience all that our vibrant city center has to offer.
Member Highlight: Birchgrove Baking
October 02, 2025
Sweet treats, local stories, and community love, Birchgrove Baking has been delighting Montpelier since 2009. Meet co-owners Jen and John, peek behind the counter, and see why this bakery is more than just pastries in a short mini-documentary by local filmmaker Ondina.
Cityscape & Landscape Walking Tour Series
September 30, 2025
Montpelier Alive’s Cityscape & Landscape walking tour series runs Thursdays October 9–23 at 5:30pm, with free hour long tours exploring the city’s bridges, riverside wildlife, and downtown murals. Each walk offers a new perspective on Montpelier’s unique blend of built environment and natural world. Click to read more…
New Resident Mixer at Camp Meade
September 10, 2025
Montpelier Alive Hosts New Resident Mixer During Feast of Fools Festival Sunday, September 21, from 3–5 PM at Camp Meade in Middlesex.
Parkapalooza is Back!
August 14, 2025
Parkapalooza is Back!
This one-day only music festival returns to Hubbard Park on Saturday, August 23, with local favorites Slap Happy Jack and more. We caught up with bandleader and co-founder Joey Dorwart Crane to talk friendship, music, and why this event means so much to Montpelier.
[Read the full story ?]
Member Highlight: Montpelier Performing Arts Hub
August 12, 2025
Discover how the historic Gary Library is becoming the Montpelier Performing Arts Hub — a vibrant home for music, theater, storytelling, and learning. In our recent interview, hear from the Hub’s founder about the vision, transformation, and community connections driving this exciting new chapter in Montpelier’s arts scene.
Member Highlight: The Summit School
August 05, 2025
Since 2007, the Summit School of Traditional Music & Culture has offered group classes and events that bring people together through song, dance, and shared heritage. In this Q&A, we talk with the Summit School team about their mission, what makes them unique, and how you can join in the music.
Read the full interview...
July 3rd FAQ – What You Need to Know!
June 25, 2025
Planning your July 3rd adventure in Montpelier? Whether you're a local, a first-timer, or just here for the fireworks and fried dough, we've got you covered. Read on for everything you need to know to have a smooth, sparkly, and celebratory day in the Capital City...
Member Highlight: Capitol Stationers
June 11, 2025
From office supplies to souvenirs and sweatshirts, Capitol Stationers has grown with Montpelier since 1950. Owner Eric Bigglestone reflects on what’s changed, and what never will. Read the full story behind this beloved family-run business...
Member Highlight: The Drawing Board
May 29, 2025
The Drawing Board has been a creative cornerstone in Montpelier since 1975. Owner Liz Walsh reflects on five decades of inspiration, community, and perseverance — and invites you to join the celebration. [Read more ?]
Announcing the City of Bridges
May 16, 2025
Montpelier’s downtown bridges are now glowing beacons of beauty, safety, and connection. After a year of fundraising and planning, Montpelier Alive has transformed seven bridges into illuminated landmarks: uniting art, infrastructure, and community spirit. Learn how this project is reshaping Vermont’s capital and what’s next in the City of Bridges. Read more....
State Street Stories
May 15, 2025
Life doesn’t stop on State Street, even with the dust,
noise, and detours.
As essential infrastructure work continues in downtown Montpelier, local
businesses are adapting, staying creative, and counting on community support.
Hear directly from shopkeepers and restaurant owners about what it’s like to
run a business in the middle of a construction zone, and why now’s the perfect
time to come downtown and show them some love.
Member Highlight: Woodbelly Pizza
May 07, 2025
Woodbelly Pizza is back and better than ever! With new ownership, fresh renovations, and a grand reopening celebration in full swing, this beloved Montpelier staple is ready to welcome the community. From wood-fired sourdough to a new game room and expanded patio, there's something for everyone. Read on to learn more about their story, vision, and what’s next.
Mid-Spring Check In
May 07, 2025
As May hits its stride, Montpelier is bursting with spring energy! From blooming trails and mountain hikes to fresh finds at the Capital City Farmers Market. Whether you're chasing sunshine or finding comfort on a rainy day with a book and a latte, visit Montpelier and savor the season downtown. [Read the full blog ?]
Member Highlight: Capital City Farmers Market
May 01, 2025
Discover how the Capital City Farmers Market fuels community connection, supports local farms, and adapts through challenges—all while creating a vibrant Saturday tradition in the heart of Montpelier. In our interview with Market Manager Keri Ryan, we explore what makes this market unique, how it operates on a grassroots level, and why it continues to be a cornerstone of Central Vermont’s local food economy.
Rain or Shine: Downtown Montpelier is Buzzing!
April 24, 2025
From Mudfest to Mayfest and our 25th Anniversary Celebration, downtown is buzzing with energy and events. Yes, it’s going to rain—but we’re Vermonters. That’s just part of the fun! Read our latest blog for the full scoop and come celebrate with us!
Montpelier Alive's Founding Members -Dan Groberg
March 28, 2025
As Montpelier Alive’s Executive Director from 2018–2022, Dan helped lead the organization through pivotal moments. Under his leadership, Montpelier Alive also spearheaded pandemic recovery efforts, expanded public art, and enhanced downtown marketing and communications. Now the Executive Director of the Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Dan remains deeply connected to Montpelier’s vibrant community.
Montpelier Alive's Founding Members -Linn Syz
March 28, 2025
For 15 years, Linn played a crucial role in shaping Montpelier Alive—volunteering, serving on the board, and stepping up during transitions. From organizing events to securing sustainable funding, Linn’s efforts helped Montpelier Alive become the vibrant force it is today.
Montpelier Alive's Founding Members -Suzanne Eikenberry
March 28, 2025
From 2006 to 2010, Suzanne served as Montpelier Alive’s first full-time Executive Director, leading transformative initiatives and overseeing the organization’s rebranding. Under her leadership, Montpelier Alive strengthened merchant collaboration, introduced downtown street recycling, and upgraded Montpelier’s holiday lights to energy-efficient LEDs. Suzanne remains a strong advocate for Montpelier.
Montpelier Alive's Founding Members -Sue Minter
March 28, 2025
In 1996, Sue Minter helped lay the foundation for Montpelier Alive, shaping it into the community-driven organization it is today. Inspired by the Main Street Program, she helped establish the first committees, launch branding efforts, and champion initiatives like the July 3rd celebration and downtown designation. Sue’s passion for urban planning and community collaboration set Montpelier Alive on a path to sustain and enhance the downtown’s vibrancy for decades.
Montpelier Alive's Founding Members -Phayvanh Luekhamhan
March 28, 2025
Phayvanh’s journey with Montpelier Alive started as a volunteer before she became Executive Director from 2011 to 2014. Under her leadership, Montpelier Alive piloted the Parklets Program, creating outdoor dining spaces that continue to benefit downtown today. A champion of the arts and community engagement, learn how Phayvanh’s vision for sustainable, community-driven programs helped shape Montpelier Alive’s lasting impact.
Montpelier Alive's Founding Members -Mary Hooper
March 28, 2025
As Montpelier Alive’s very first Executive Director, Mary played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s early success. In this interview, she reflects on the formation of the Montpelier Downtown Community Association, the predecessor to Montpelier Alive, and the community-driven efforts that helped Montpelier become one of Vermont’s first designated downtowns. Read more about her impact and why she believes a strong downtown organization is vital to Montpelier’s future.
Capital Soccer Club
March 17, 2025
Founded in 1999, Capital Soccer has grown from a small local effort into Central Vermont’s premier soccer organization. Offering year-round programs, camps, and leagues, Capital Soccer is dedicated to player development, teamwork, and making the sport accessible to all.
E. State Street Construction Project
March 06, 2025
Compiled information from DPW regarding the State Street Construction Project happening in Downtown Montpelier March-June 2025.
Montpelier's Race Against Racism
May 24, 2024
The Race Against Racism is an annual student-led event in Montpelier that amplifies conversations on racial justice through speeches, performances, and a 5K run/walk. Organized by high school students, the event fosters community engagement, education, and action to support BIPOC voices in Vermont.
A Bright Winter for Montpelier
May 20, 2024
Montpelier Alive is launching Phase 1 of its Bridge Illumination Project, lighting up four historic downtown bridges to connect neighborhoods and attract tourism. With successful crowdfunding and a matching grant, the project aims to expand in Phase 2, adding three more bridges along the Winooski corridor, enhancing both the city's landscape and access to the business district.
Lighting Up Montpelier!
April 10, 2024
Montpelier Alive is illuminating up to seven historic bridges along the Winooski River to celebrate the city’s resilience and attract visitors downtown. With a fundraising goal of $13,350 to secure a matching grant, the project will enhance the downtown area’s winter ambiance and contribute to the economic recovery by drawing people to local shops, restaurants, and theaters.
Montpelier’s BIPOC female-led small businesses
March 29, 2024
There is so much that can be highlighted about Montpelier’s female community leaders and small business owners that one can create a whole series on the topic (and we just may do so!). By providing opportunities for wealth creation and economic advancement in minority communities, BIPOC businesses play a critical role in bridging the economic divide which in the long-term, contributes to a more equitable and just society. There are a plethora of amazing female-owned or led businesses in Montpelier to choose from, but to wrap up this Woman’s History Month, we are proud to feature a few of the BIPOC
Why Post Offices are crucial to the landscape of a healthy downtown
February 15, 2024
On January 8th, 2024, Ben Doyle, chair of the Montpelier flood of 2023 Commission and Montpelier’s congressional delegation called for a rally to restore its downtown post office, after the building which housed it was devastated during last summer’s historic flooding. Community members spanning all ages demonstrated their needs and frustrations in order to bring federal attention to the impact of this essential, yet missing public service. Montpelier’s downtown - being the downtown of the State’s Capital - is the economic, cultural, and civic center of Vermont. The lack of convenient access to a post office has far-reaching implications on a myriad of levels which
Montpelier Commission for Recovery and Resilience works to create a more resilient community for all
February 08, 2024
Washington County’s July flood impacted much of the Winooski River Watershed (This watershed begins in the town of Cabot and flows 90 miles to Lake Champlain in Colchester.) The watershed drains approximately 1,080 square miles in central Vermont, encompassing all of Washington County, along with other Vermont counties and is the largest tributary watershed to Lake Champlain. It includes almost 10% of the land area of Vermont. In addition, the river has seven major tributaries, most of them, North Branch, Dog River, Stevens Branch, Little River and Mad River are located in Washington county (source from Friends of the Winooski
Celebrate the season in Downtown Montpelier!
December 02, 2023
No matter how you celebrate the holiday season, downtown Montpelier offers something for everyone throughout December, culminating in a “uniquely Montpelier” New Year’s Eve celebration. During the darkest month of the year, downtown lights up the evening (or afternoon, at 4pm!), with holiday lights, greens, and festive window displays. Local artists display their artwork in storefronts yet to open from the summer floods, as part of the City’s Renewal Project.
Flannel Friday 2023
November 10, 2023
Show a little love to downtown Montpelier, shop local! Flannel Friday starts off the holiday season on Friday, November 24th, the day after Thanksgiving. Montpelier's unique and locally-owned businesses offer a wide variety of unique gifts and they could all use extra love after recovering or still recovering from the July flood. Come downtown in your flannel attire on Flannel Friday because if you're spotted by the Flannel Fairy, you can win prizes and gift cards from downtown businesses! On November 25th, Small Business Saturday, is a day to celebrate and support our downtown businesses and all they do for our community. It's
The Taste of Montpelier Food Festival Returns to the Capital City October 7th
September 27, 2023
The Taste of Montpelier Food Festival, presented by Hunger Mountain Co-op, returns for its third year. This year it’s the main event of Montpelier’s Reopening Celebration! Taste features food trucks, vendors and artisans, chef demos, beer and cocktail gardens and street performers - this year’s Taste of Montpelier has it all! The main attraction, The Great Taste runs from 1-5pm on Saturday, October 7th on Langdon Street and State Street from Main to Elm. It features over 20 food trucks and artisan foods. The demo tent features four different presentations ranging from a high school student teaching how to make tamales,
Free and Local Outdoor Summer Music in Montpelier
June 22, 2023
Summer officially kicked off last week and we’re incredibly lucky to have a vibrant music scene throughout Central Vermont... and so much of it is free! This article focuses on music in Montpelier, but to learn what’s happening throughout Central Vermont, check out the free music series in surrounding towns over the summer in the text box.
What's Make Music Day all About?
June 16, 2023
We interviewed Jolynda Burton, Music Education Director at the Monteverdi Music School about the first upcoming coordinated Make Music Day in Montpelier. What is Make Music Day and how did it get started: Make Music Day began back in 1982. The first World Music Day was organized by the French Minister of Culture as a celebration of the joy of music. The story goes that a cultural study showed that roughly half of French citizens played a musical instrument. This inspired Monsieur Lang to create an event where people would share their music with the world. Thus, Fêtes de la Musique (“Festival
Montpelier's Inspiring Women
March 17, 2023
March means Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women and the myriad contributions they make to society. Montpelier’s woman-owned small businesses run the gamut from Althea’s Attic Boutique to Zutano. There are also Montpelier mavens breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Show your support for all women by giving them your business this month—and every month.