Tourism

Vermont Signature Events Award Application Open

Vermont Signature Events Award Application Open

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) have announced the opening of the application for the 2025/26 Vermont Signature Events program.

The Vermont Signature Events program offers an invaluable opportunity for events to garner widespread recognition. Signature events are awarded annually and showcase the rich variety of experiences that can be had in the Green Mountains. These top-rated events offer a true taste of all that is local, bringing visitors into the heart of our communities and serving as an important component in the Vermont visitor economy. In 2023, visitor spending contributed $3.0 billion to Vermont’s economy.

Eligible events must meet the following guidelines:

  • Event must take place for a specified and limited period of time.
  • Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours.
  • Events must have an end date.
  • If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond regular business offerings.
  • Event must be appropriate for out-of-state visitors as well as Vermont residents.
  • Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Ten award recipients will receive:

Events must take place between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is December 1, 2024. Learn more about the program and submit an application.

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The 2024 Vermont Inspiration Guide is Now Available, Celebrating Local Businesses and Green Getaways

The 2024 Vermont Inspiration Guide is Now Available, Celebrating Local Businesses and Green Getaways
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) have announced the release of the annual Vermont Inspiration Guide. The Vermont Chamber produces the Inspiration Guide in partnership with VDTM each year. Print copies of the 2024/25 edition are set to be distributed to key points of interest in Vermont’s drive market to amplify Vermont businesses and inspire travel. In 2023, visitor spending contributed $3.0 billion to Vermont’s economy.
The Inspiration Guide is displayed throughout Vermont in Welcome and Information Centers as well as lodging properties and tourism hubs. It is also displayed at key retail outlets, airports and travel hubs in New England and New York as well as consumer shows and events throughout the United States and Canada. It is available by request through mail worldwide. The Inspiration Guide is part of the Vermont Tourism Marketing Program, which leverages dynamic print and digital products to promote businesses to the 80 million people within a day’s drive of Vermont. The suite of products and services are the official fulfillment pieces for the State of Vermont.
Vermont’s local communities, businesses, and attractions create the fabric that makes up the Vermont brand. The editorial mission of the Inspiration Guide is to tell the story of Vermont through compelling, authentic content that inspires visitors. The Inspiration Guide amplifies business stories and the Vermont brand experience to the destination marketplace.
In addition to articles celebrating each of Vermont’s unique regions, the 2024/25 edition of the Inspiration Guide highlights Vermont’s commitment to destination stewardship and sustainable travel with articles on “green getaways,” a guide to hiking responsibly, and more.
The transformative power of experiences and how they contribute to the well-being of visitors is further underscored in the reoccurring “Love Where You Live” section, which features Izzy Johnson of Color the Valley, LLC (CTV), a Queer, BIPOC, and Women-Owned outdoor guiding company based in Burlington, Vermont. CTV specializes in bikepacking, backpacking, and hiking trips with an emphasis on Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), and Queer communities.
Individuals, businesses, and organizations can obtain print copies of the 2024/25 Vermont Inspiration Guide, by visiting https://vermontvacation.com/request-information/.
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Vermont Tourism Summit Celebrates Industry Excellence and Innovation at 39th Annual Event

Vermont Tourism Summit Celebrates Industry Excellence and Innovation at 39th Annual Event

Outstanding achievements and innovations within Vermont’s tourism and hospitality sectors were honored at the 39th annual Vermont Tourism Summit. Several industry leaders received awards recognizing their outstanding contributions to culinary arts, sustainable practices, community engagement, and the future of tourism in Vermont.

Emerging Tourism and Hospitality Leaders: This recognition celebrates the innovative minds that represent the future of Vermont’s tourism and hospitality industries. These individuals bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a forward-thinking approach to challenges and opportunities. The 2024 honorees:

  • Tom Carton, Strategy and Operations Manager, Hello Burlington
  • Lisa Davis Mitchell, Executive Director, Town Hall Theater Middlebury
  • Nick Edwards, Social Media Manager, Hello Burlington
  • Mollie Faccio, Marketing Brand Manager, Woodstock Inn & Resort

Vermont Hospitality Excellence Award: This award honors a Vermonter who exemplifies exceptional service and excellence in the culinary arts and hospitality; Jeffrey Raymond Virge, Chef, Baker, and Manager at Wayside Restaurant, Bakery, and Creamery. Jeff has been a cornerstone of the Wayside since 1975, providing warm welcomes, cultivating local relationships, and offering farm-fresh dishes. His culinary talents have been nationally recognized on the Discovery Channel’s “Road Trip Show” and in the New York Times, and locally by Seven Days. Under his leadership, the Wayside’s maple cream pie was named “Vermont’s Iconic Pie” by the Food Network. Jeff’s dedication, hard work, and inspiration have made him a culinary gift to Vermont.

Vermont Tourism Leadership Award: Honoring the outstanding achievements of leaders who have significantly contributed to the promotion and enhancement of tourism in Vermont, this year’s recipient is Joe Carton, COO of Westport Hospitality. Joe’s career spans over 40 years, starting in ski industry group sales and leading to the management of multiple high-profile properties, including the state’s first LEED-certified hotel. Joe has been instrumental in establishing numerous initiatives and mentoring countless hospitality professionals. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to benefit Vermont.

Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges representing the tourism and hospitality industry. Honorees for the 2025 awards will be recognized at the 40th Annual Vermont Tourism Summit which is scheduled for April 28-30, 2025 at Hotel Champlain in Burlington, Vermont. Learn more about the nomination process and award criteria at vttourismsummit.org/awards.html.

Photos courtesy of Bobbi LoCicero. 

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Op Ed: Eclipsing 802,000: Making Vermont a Destination for a Lifetime

Eclipsing 802,000: Making Vermont a Destination for a Lifetime

This commentary is by Kevin Chu, Executive Director of the Vermont Futures Project, and Amy Spear, Vice President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

On April 8th, over 160,000 people visited Vermont to observe the solar eclipse. Vermont briefly surpassed the 802,000 population goal that the Vermont Futures Project set last year, and we saw a glimpse of the vibrancy that’s possible in our state. Our downtowns and villages were full of life, full of people engaging in commerce and connecting with communities.

When totality occurred, there was a palpable sense of shared humanity and joy. For three and a half minutes, it didn’t matter if the person next to you was a visitor or resident. It didn’t matter if they were rich or poor, what languages they spoke, the color of their skin, or who they loved. For three and a half minutes, we were all human. What we observed in the sky was rightfully described by many as a once-in-a-lifetime event. What happened on the ground doesn’t have to be. Vermont needs more people, and more people need Vermont, whether it’s for a day, a week, months, or years.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce recently convened Tourism Economy Day at the State House to highlight the collective impact of the visitor economy. The industry accounts for $3 billion in spending and supports 35,000 jobs (11.5% of Vermont’s workforce). Tourism also plays a profound role in connecting people to places. It unlocks much of the economic activity and vibrancy we see in our rural communities – visitors develop an affinity for Vermont, and some dream of moving here. We can make those dreams a reality by welcoming them with open arms and continuing to leverage the strength of our tourism economy to attract future residents.

Yes, doing so will mean we need to build more homes. It can also mean rural revitalization that taps into existing capacity in areas of the state that have depopulated. More housing and more people can make Vermont more affordable. It means a more robust workforce, thriving businesses, and a growing tax base that can support vital programs and services. Schools can be full of children again, and children won’t be told they need to leave Vermont to be successful. Opportunities to live, work, and play in this great state will be more abundant. A growing economy means that more needs, of more people, are being met more of the time.

We can’t afford to let Vermont be a once-in-a-lifetime place. For once, let’s make it a place that anybody can choose for a lifetime. 

_________________________________________

About the Vermont Futures Project

The Vermont Futures Project is an independent non-partisan organization pursuing answers to their mission question: How can we use data to support the evolution of Vermont’s economy towards a thriving future full of opportunity for all?

About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state. As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.

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Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing have announced the winners for the 2024/25 Vermont Signature Events program. These signature events offer experiences that fuel the Vermont visitor economy. Each year, 13 million visitors contribute $3 billion in spending and support over 35,000 jobs totaling 11.5% of Vermont’s workforce.

2024/25 Vermont Signature Events:

Vermont Maple Festival (April 26-28, 2024): A vibrant celebration of the state’s iconic export through a diverse array of activities.

Sound of Music in Concert at Trapp Family Lodge (June 20-22, 2024): An enchanting celebration of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s music from the classic musical.

8th Annual Vermont Renaissance Faire (June 22-23, 2024): A showcase of over 100 local crafters, artisans, and food vendors celebrating this historic time period.

45th Annual Middlebury Summer Festival on the Green (July 7-13, 2024): A longstanding event showcasing 17 acts over seven days and providing a delightful outdoor experience for visitors of all ages.

Vermont Blueberry Festival (July 26 – August 4, 2024): A week-long celebration in the picturesque Deerfield Valley, offering a delightful array of blueberry-themed events.

The Sunflower House (August – September 2024): An awe-inspiring spectacle showcasing captivating colors spanning 20,000 square feet throughout Billings Farm and Museum.

Summer Dog Party (August 3, 2024): A cherished tradition which brings together hundreds of dogs and their owners to celebrate the joys of summer.

Garlic Town, USA (August 31, 2024): 130 vendors gather to celebrate garlic and agriculture, offering a diverse array of attractions.

Rutland’s Whoopie Pie Festival (September 14, 2024): A showcase of whoopie pies from vendors across the East, complemented by a massive whoopie pie assembly by the Dream Maker Bakers Team.

Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival (September 20-21, 2024): Indulge in the finest wines, soups, and artisanal products from across the region, while enjoying the best of Vermont’s culinary and craft scene.

Vermont International Film Festival (October 18-27, 2024): A 10-day celebration showcasing diverse, independent films from around the globe.

Stowe Winter Carnival (January 2025): A captivating display of professional ice carvers creating stunning sculptures, complemented by activities for all ages.

Harris Hill Ski Jump (February 2025): Featuring New England’s only Olympic-size jump where athletes aim to break the 341-foot hill record and soar at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

The Vermont Signature Events program offers an invaluable opportunity for events to garner widespread recognition. Signature events are awarded annually and showcase the rich variety of experiences that define Green Mountain life. These top-rated events bring visitors into the fabric of the community and offer a true taste of what’s local.

Learn more about the 2024/25 Vermont Signature Events.

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Vermont Chamber Advocates on Visitor Economy Support at Senator Welch Roundtable

Vermont Chamber Advocates on Visitor Economy Support at Senator Welch Roundtable

The Vermont Chamber was invited to address challenges in the aftermath of this summer’s catastrophic flooding during a meeting convened by Senator Peter Welch. Along with partner organizations and members of the Vermont tourism and hospitality industries, Vermont Chamber VP of Tourism Amy Spear shared how the visitor economy across the state came to a halt in the wake of the flooding. Even as traffic rebounded, attractions in unimpacted areas still experienced a notable decrease in visitor traffic.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the impact that the pandemic, Canadian wildfires, and other distressing events have had on tourism in recent years. Senator Welch highlighted the state’s resilience and emphasized the significance of Vermont’s tourism industry and its role in driving the Vermont economy, expressing gratitude for the shared commitment to rebuild despite adversities. In recent weeks, the Vermont congressional delegation has called for additional federal assistance, including increasing the FEMA cap for hazard mitigation and making SBA loans forgivable.

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Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors

Promote Your Event to Vermonters and Visitors
The application is now open for the Vermont Signature Events program. The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.
 
Events must take place between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is Friday, December 1, 2023.
 
10 Winners Will Receive:
Events Must Meet the Following Guidelines:
  • Event must take place for specified and limited period of time.
  • Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours.
  • Events must have an end date.
  • If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond what your normal business offers.
  • Event must be appropriate for out of state visitors as well as for local Vermonters.
  • Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Submit an application for your event here.

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Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

Vermont Signature Events Award Winners Announced

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing have announced the winners for the 2023/24 Vermont Signature Events program.

2023/24 Vermont Signature Events:

  • Moos & Brews & Cocktails Too! (July 28, 2023, September 8, 2023)
  • Food Truck Roundup (Thursdays, June 22nd – August 24, 2023)
  • RockFire (June 24, 2023)
  • J Final Fridays (June 30, July 28, August 25, 2023)
  • Mad Marathon, Mad Half & Relays (July 9, 2023)
  • Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival (August 23-27, 2023)
  • Plymouth Folk and Blues Festival 2023 (September 2-3, 2023)
  • Von Trapp Oktoberfest (September 16, 2023)
  • Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival (September 22-24, 2023)
  • Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend (December 8-10, 2023)
  • Winter Rendezvous (January 2024)
  • Harris Hill Ski Jump (February 2024)

The Vermont Signature Events program is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.

These Signature Events offer experiences that fuel the Vermont visitor economy. Each year, 13 million visitors contribute $3.2 billion in spending and support over 30,000 jobs totaling 10% of Vermont’s workforce.

Learn more about the 2023/24 Vermont Signature Events.

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Tourism Day at the State House Centers the Visitor Economy and Destination Stewardship

Tourism Day at the State House Centers the Visitor Economy and Destination Stewardship

Following a pandemic hiatus, Tourism Day at the State House returned for the first time since 2020. Over 150 tourism and hospitality industry leaders were present throughout the day to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy.

The day was centered on the Vermont visitor economy and destination stewardship and management. Business and policy leaders connected throughout the day during a coffee hour with Governor Scott, a joint hearing on the visitor economy with the House Commerce and Economic Development and the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs Committee, and an evening reception.

Rep. Stephanie Jerome (Rutland-9), a stalwart supporter of the tourism industry, offered House Resolution, H.C.R.52. “The Vermont visitor economy is an incredible asset. It draws visitors to our towns, supports our local businesses, and is one of our largest employers. It generates tax revenues and creates jobs, it unlocks wide-ranging economic activity in both our rural and urban communities,” stated Rep. Jerome.

“The Vermont Chamber was proud to once again convene industry leaders for Tourism Day at the State House,” said Amy Spear, Vice President of Tourism for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “The Vermont visitor economy is an incredible economic asset for Vermont. 13 million annual visitors contribute $3.2 billion in spending and support over 30,000 jobs, 10% of Vermont’s total workforce.”

Business leaders reflected on the ongoing economic impacts of the pandemic and reinforced that collaboration is integral to the success of their businesses, and communities.

“We continue to find new ways to operate against the constant stresses of high labor and high food costs, a scarcity of applicants, continuing supply chain issues, and low margins. Even with these setbacks, many of us are optimistic,” stated Leslie McCrorey Wells of Pizzeria Veritas and Sotto Enoteca. “Like many of my restaurant peers, I feel a deep sense of commitment to the communities that surround and support our businesses, and I see the impact that our organizations and businesses have on the quality of life in Vermont.”

“Every part of our state was represented today because tourism is a vital economic driver that crosses many sectors,” stated Anna Rubin of Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium. “The Fairbanks Museum remains strong because of its connections with the community and recognizes that investments in our business have a wider impact on not only visitors but of the Northeast Kingdom at large.”

“The sense of community in Killington has become one of a kind. The resort and local businesses work together to speak with a unified voice and market the region together as a team,” stated Amy Laramie of Killington Resort and Pico Mountain. “I am grateful for the community in this industry and to be able to call a region where many people vacation, my home.”

Additional business leaders that testified in the joint hearing were Nick Bennette of Vermont Mountain Bike Association, Mimi Buttenheim of Mad River Distillers, Karen Nevin of Revitalizing Waterbury, and Kim Prins of Seesaws Lodge.

Industry leaders also testified in the House Agriculture Committee, including Tara Pereira of Vermont Fresh Network, David Keck of Stella Wines, Clara Ayer of Fairmont Farms, and Nick Managan of Cabot Creamery. Senate Education Committee received testimony from Molly Mahar of the Vermont Ski Areas Association and Jen Roberts of Onion River Outdoors.

The event was produced in partnership with several advocacy organizations, including Ski Vermont and the Lake Champlain Chamber of Commerce.

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Application Open for Vermont Signature Events

Application Open for Vermont Signature Events
The Vermont Signature Events program is a partnership with the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. It is a great way for events to gain exposure and prominence. Signature Events are awarded annually and celebrate the diversity of experiences Vermonters and visitors alike can enjoy in the Green Mountain State.
 
Events must take place between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024. The deadline to apply for the Vermont Signature Events program is Thursday, December 22. 
 
10 Winners Will Receive:
Events Must Meet the Following Guidelines:
  • Event must take place for specified and limited period of time.
  • Events can occur over a period of months (i.e., a special exhibit at a museum) or for just a few hours. Events must have an end date.
  • If your business regularly produces events, the event must be above and beyond what your normal business offers.
  • Event must be appropriate for out of state visitors as well as for local Vermonters.
  • Event must showcase the unique character of Vermont.

Submit an application for your event here.

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