Learn about coyotes, cooking, gardening and more

Event listings may be sent to Mary Landon at least two weeks in advance.
Weather cancellations and COVID guidelines are available on individual websites.

Coyote families
Thursday, May 19, 6-7 p.m.

At the Bixby Library in Vergennes, local wildlife rehabilitator Sophia Parker presents a program about coyote families. She will cover common myths about coyotes, how they live, and what makes them special. Presented by the Protect Our Wildlife organization, Sophia’s program is for all ages. Program may be seen in person or over Zoom. For more info, or to register for the Zoom or call 802-877-2211.

All about dinner
Friday, May 20, 6-8:30 p.m.

The Richmond Community Kitchen hosts chef, author of All About Dinner, and James Beard award-winner Molly Stevens for a hands-on class for cooks of all levels. Invigorate your everyday menus and build your kitchen knowhow. Enjoy an evening of improvisation, techniques, and new ideas for your meals. Masks required. Click for tickets and info or call 802-434-3445.

Middle school play
Friday, May 20, 7 p.m.

Shelburne Community School middle school students present an incredible version of the play ‘Newsies, Jr.,’ a turn-of-the-century true story about the strike of New York City’s newsboys. It’s an uplifting story with accompanying songs of spirit and heart. The show, at the Town Hall in Shelburne, is also on Saturday, May 21 at 2 and 6 p.m. Tickets at the door.

VSO Chorus
Friday, May 20, 7:30 p.m.

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus returns to the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Burlington. On the program is Gloria, John Rutter’s piece for chorus, brass, and organ. Under the direction of Jose Daniel Flores-Caraballo, the chorus offers a full program of familiar and newer works. Proof of vaccination and masks are required. For tickets or more info, see vso.org.

Mental health training
Saturday, May 21, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Mental Health First Aid for Youth is a training for adults interested in learning how to support youth in our community. In conjunction with The Howard Center, the Richmond Congregational Church hosts this ground-breaking, skills-based course. To register, call the church at 802-434-2053 or by email.

Indoor yard sale
Saturday, May 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

St. Peter’s Resale Closet shop in Vergennes is holding a yard sale with household goods, clothing and more in the parish hall. Prices are by donation, and proceeds benefit those in need. The Closet shop, located behind the parish hall, will also be open from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. for shopping. Find some treasures while helping to make space for new inventory. If you have questions, you can send an emailmailto:[email protected].

Wilding day
Saturday, May 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

This adult program at Bread and Butter Farm in Shelburne invites participants to separate from technology and packed schedules. Cook a meal over fire with food from the Farm. Sing songs, tell stories, and feel gratitude for a slower pace. Enjoy the outdoors, no matter the weather, with like-minded adults who enjoy nature and want to experience it with others. Click for more info or email.

Garden club day
Saturday, May 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont (FGCV) is a collective membership of Vermont’s 15 local garden clubs. Established in 1936, the FGCV promotes and aids in the protection and conservation of Vermont’s natural resources, assists local garden clubs, and encourages educational programs in the fields of horticulture, ecology, forestry, landscape design, environmental studies, and floral design. Horsford Gardens and Nursery is participating in the first annual VT Garden Club Day, where local nurseries and garden clubs celebrate their partnerships. Local garden clubs will be on hand with membership information. Rocky Dale Gardens in Bristol is also participating in this special event. Free and no registration necessary. For more info, call Horsford at 802-425-2811 or Rocky Dale at 802-453-2782.

Maritime museum opens Saturday, May 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This season, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum in Vergennes opens its doors at no charge for all visitors. See the collections and exhibits about maritime history and archaeology of the Champlain Valley. The Museum also offers several teen expeditions on a pay-what-you-can basis, with boat and camping adventures. Click for more info or call 802-475-2022.

Open studios
Saturday, May 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The artists of Shelburne Pond Studio, at 1260 Pond Rd., welcome the public to their studios. See what is happening there, meet artists, and buy art. Enjoy the farm atmosphere while you are there.

Pride Hike
Saturday, May 21, 1-3 p.m.

All ages and families are welcome to this outside exploration of some of the beautiful landscape of the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps (VYCC) in Richmond. Comprising over 400 acres of forest, farm and trails, the VYCC has something for everyone. Co-hosted by Audubon Vermont, Pride Center of Vermont, Outright Vermont and VYCC, the free program requires registration for COVID-tracing purposes. Dress for the weather and bring water.

Creative placemaking
Saturday, May 21, 2-3:30 p.m.

Join artist and sculptor Harlan Mack at the Clemmons Family Farm in Charlotte for a painting and landscaping project involving recycled antique radiators. Mack is based at the Vermont Studio Center in Johnson. At a later date,TBD, the decorated radiators will be installed as tables and benches in a wooded gathering space at the farm. At that time, participants will assist Harlan in creating an outdoor sculpture from abandoned objects. Space is limited and registration is required through Eventbrite. You may register for one or both events. More info by emailing or by leaving a message at 765-560-5445. The Eventbrite link may be found in Charlotte Front Porch Forum No. 4785, as well.

Songs with and without words
Saturday, May 21, 7:30-9 p.m.

A special Vermont Youth Orchestra (VYO) concert will honor former member and cellist, Julian Orgel. Proceeds from the concert will establish a VYO scholarship in Julian’s name. The program features a world premiere of ‘Songs With and Without Words,’ composed in Julian’s honor. Performers include some of his teachers, friends and family. Click for more info and tickets or call 802-655-5030.

Woodcut class
Sat. & Sun., May 21 & 22

Printmaker Janet Cathey of White River Jct. leads a comprehensive two-day workshop, covering the steps from initial design to final printing, as an introduction to the woodcut process. She will also cover printing in more than one color. Workshop is held in Burlington at the studio of Susan Smereka between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Click for more info or email.

Wilderness first aid
Sat. & Sun., May 21 & 22

Solo Schools will teach a two-day course at the Merck Forest and Farmland Center in Rupert. Classes run 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. Optional CPR component. Click for more info or to sign up or call 802-394-7836.

Dinos and dragons
Sat. & Sun., May 21 & 22

Stroll through a variety of massive dinosaurs with advanced animatronics and sound technology. See favorite creatures come to life as they tower over you. Many dragon and dinosaur activities and rides to occupy the family at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Click for more info or tickets or call 802-878-5545.

Women who bird
Sunday, May 22, 8-11 a.m.

Join Audubon Vermont in Huntington for a morning of birding, co-hosted by Pride Center of Vermont. All abilities and families are welcome. Bird guides and binocs for use if you don’t have any. Dress for walking outside. Donations according to ability to pay. For more info, or to register for virus tracing purposes or call 802-434-3068.

Jubilate Deo
Sunday, May 22, 2 & 4:30 p.m.

The Hinesburg Artist Series (HAS) annual concert returns to St. Jude Catholic Church in Hinesburg with a long-awaited performance of Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo. The concert features the South County Chorus and the HAS Orchestra, bringing to life seven different languages and the unity between global cultures. Rufus Patrick directs these performances that bring a sense of shared joy for all. Click for more info and tickets or call 802-373-0808.

Town forest walk
Monday, May 23, 4-6 p.m.

Learn about community engagement in town forest establishment and stewardship. This walking tour of the Huntington Community Forest is led by Kate Forrer, Community Forestry Specialist. Learn about Huntington’s town forest, and what volunteers do on its behalf. Dress for forest walking; free but pre-registration required. Call for more info 802-877-2777.

Dam history
Wednesday, May 25, noon-1 p.m.

A free webinar is hosted by The Nature Conservancy in Vermont for a discussion about the state’s dam history and the impact on local habitats, on this World Fish Migration Day. Topics include removing derelict dams to benefit migration. For more info on joining the Zoom webinar, register or call 802-229-4425.

Grassland birds
Wednesday, May 25, 6-7:30 p.m.

Many Vermont landowners, farmers, and communities mow fields on a schedule that enables certain birds to nest and keep their populations established locally. Noah Perlut, who studies the yearly migrations of bobolink and savannah sparrow families, discusses how haying schedules, climate change, agricultural needs and bird needs can best be managed. This free program is held at the Coach Barn at Shelburne Farms. No registration needed. Click for more info.

Early Birding
Friday, May 27, 7-9 a.m.

Hosted by local ‘Bird Diva’ Bridget Butler, slow birding is a practice that builds a deeper observation of birds, with the intention of knowing more about the whole bird in addition to identification. Bridget shares a variety of techniques that will help participants look at birds, listen to them and interpret their behavior that will build naturalist skills. Join others in an unhurried respite of bird appreciation. Experience the waking woods of the North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier. Free; no registration required. Call 802-229-6206 with questions.

Works of Ravel
Friday, May 27, 7-9 p.m.

Hear a versatile program of Ravel’s works played by esteemed pianist Elaine Greenfield. Ms. Greenfield discusses her process, over years of study and recording, in which she plays Ravel on both an 1893 Erard piano and a modern Ivers and Pond grand. She plays pieces from her new CD, Ravel Compared. Performance at Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington. Click for tickets and more info or call 802-864-0471.

Shelburne Farmers Market
Saturday, May 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

It’s opening day for the season. Meet and support the farmers, craftspeople, artists and prepared food vendors that make this local market special. Sit and enjoy the scene, or visit with friends and neighbors. Bring bags for purchases. At 12 Church St. on Saturdays through October 15.

Monkton yard sales
Saturday, May 28, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monkton’s town-wide yard sales are happening, with something for everyone. On the same day, the Monkton Friend’s Methodist Church has an assortment of local perennial plants for sale between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sale includes flowers, shade plants, raspberries, rhubarb and more.

Mayfest in Bennington
Saturday, May 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

After a two-year absence, Bennington is pleased to celebrate Mayfest with a town celebration of music, live demonstrations, and over 95 vendors offering juried arts and crafts and specialty foods. Main St. is closed to traffic for a relaxing saunter around town. Free event and free parking. Organized by Better Bennington Corporation. Click for more info.

Sheep & Wool Day
Saturday, May 28, noon-3 p.m.

 

Rokeby.com

Rokeby’s Museum Center, historic farm buildings, and trails are open seven days a week beginning today. Admission today is free to all. Sheep and Wool Day is today’s special family event, with history, spinning demonstrations, visiting sheep, crafts, games and live music. Experience the landscape that inspired the writings of farmer and artist Rowland Robinson, and learn about this National Historic Landmark that played such a role during the years of the Underground Railroad. The site is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through October. For more info, call 802-877-3406.

Old-time music
Saturday, May 28, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

A lively program of traditional and string band music will be performed by Vermont duo The Sky Blue Boys at the S. Burlington Public Library. This pair of brothers, Willy and Dan Lindner, have performed in the Northeast for years, bringing passion and great harmony to their love of bluegrass and folk. Free event for all ages. Click for more info.

Open studio weekend
Sat. & Sun., May 28 & 29

Celebrate Vermont’s many talented artists and craftspeople in all corners of the state. Fourteen loops to choose from with open studios, items for sale, and conversations with the artists. Visit a town you’ve never seen, or meet new neighbors right down the street. Studios open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily unless otherwise noted. This is an event of the Vermont Crafts Council. Click for more info or call 802-223-3380.

Sculpture park
Sunday, May 29

It might be a beautiful day for a wander over to the Lemon Fair Sculpture Park in Shoreham. This outdoor museum is on many acres of rolling fields, with a mown path just perfect for meandering and slowing down the pace. At least 50 pieces are on view. Free, with donation box. Park is on private property; all dogs kept on leash. Bring water and comfy shoes. Eight miles southwest of Middlebury College. .

Nettle pesto making
Monday, May 30, 5-6:30 p.m.

With the knowledge and expertise of herbalists from the Spoonful Herbals organization, take a walk at Shelburne Farms to harvest wild nettles. Make some fresh nettle pesto to bring home. Click for more info, or to register.

Congressional candidates
Tuesday, May 31, 6:30-8 p.m.

The Shelburne Democratic Committee hosts an in-person and live-streamed Congressional Candidate Primary Forum with all four Democratic primary candidates on hand. Event is held at the Shelburne Town Offices. Info on the livestream link can be obtained at the office by calling 802-985-5110 or watch for announcements.

Contemplative creation
Wednesday, June 1, 5:45-8 p.m.

Among flowers, trees and reawakening earth, find space within to ground, seed and blossom. This workshop at Horsford Gardens and Nursery begins with guided contemplative practices (seated or walking meditation, writing, individual free movement and verbal connection) before moving into a personal creative session of internal inspiration. Bring a journal, favorite art- making supplies, and portable seat if preferred. Wear comfortable shoes to walk the grounds. Workshop is led by Hannah Satterlee. Click for more info, or to register, see Events.

Vineyard music
Thursday, June 2, 6-8:45 p.m.

Live music by The Medicine Tribe accompanies food, wine, picnicking and unwinding at Shelburne Vineyard. Free event; food and beverages for purchase. Diverse menu available from The New Deal food truck for most diets. If the weather looks good, the event will be outside so bring blankets or lawn chairs. No tickets or registration required. Click for more info.

Thursdays in the garden
June 2- August 25, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Red Wagon Plants in Hinesburg hosts a series of informal, free, interactive workshops in their gardens. Covering a variety of subjects, the workshops bring community together while discussing and learning about common garden questions and tasks. Limited space; please pre- register. Horticulturist Chad Donovan leads; bring gloves and curiosity.

Coming up soon:
Tag & Book Sale
Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Stop by Wake Robin in Shelburne, rain or shine, for some bargains and treasures at their annual sale. Masks required; cash or check preferred. For more info, call 802-264-5100.