MONTPELIER, Vt. – May in Vermont is an ideal time to experience the famous green that blankets and defines the entire state. Across the state you'll find festivals, marathons, art shows and so much more. Here's a look at what's happening in May. For a comprehensive listing of events in Vermont, visit www.VermontVacation.com
Herrick's Cove Wildlife Festival
Rockingham – May 1, 2011
The 12th annual Herricks Cove Wildlife Festival will feature naturalist and storyteller Brian "Fox" Ellis as well as author and garden designer Henry Homeyer giving presentations. The day's events begin with a 7 a.m. guided bird walk. Other activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. include guided nature walks, nature presentations, live music and workshops. For more information, visit www.vtfishandwildlife.com.
Middlebury Maple Run – The Sweetest Half
Middlebury – May 1, 2011
Now in its third year, the Middlebury Maple Run half-marathon draws hundreds of runners. The race is on a 50-50 mix of paved and hard-packed dirt roads with several elevation changes. Runners will enjoy beautiful views of the Green and Adirondack Mountains and green pastures throughout the race. Race proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations. For more information, visit www.middleburymaplerun.com.
Spring Farm Festival
Woodstock – May 1, 2011
Billings Farm & Museum kicks off its 29th season with a variety of traditional farm activities, including horse plowing, horse-drawn wagon rides, demonstrations and other activities. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Route 12 and River Road. For more information, visit www.billingsfarm.org
Central Vermont Quilt Show
Barre – May 6-7, 2011
This non-juried show provides an opportunity for display of local handcrafted quilts to be shared with the local community. Area celebrities and show vendors select their favorite quilt in various categories, and a viewer's choice is one of the most prized awards. Old Labor hall, 46 Granite Street. For more information, visit www.centralvermontquiltshow.com.
Mount Independence Spring Wildflower Walk
Orwell – May 8, 2011
Spring into spring for a wildflower walk at the Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell. Amy Olmsted, a nursery professional for more than 20 years, will lead the program. Learn about the tender beauties of spring, plant names, and their habitats in this special event before the site opens for the season on May 28. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.
Noon. For more information, call 802-759-2412 or visit www.historicvermont.org.
The Shires of Vermont Marathon
May 15, 2011 – Bennington and Manchester
This scenic point-to-point 26.2 mile course connects the Shire Towns of Bennington and Manchester. This new event is part of the Manchester and Bennington's 250th anniversaries. The race starts at the Bennington Center for the Arts and ends at Hildene Meadows in Manchester. 9 a.m. For more information, visit http://shiresofvermontmarathon.com.
Ludlow's Largest Rummage Sale
May 20-22, 2011 – Ludlow
Black River Good Neighbors once again puts on Ludlow's Largest Rummage Sale with bargains for everyone. Pre-owned (and sometimes with the price tags still on) furniture, rugs, clothing, baby items, toys, games, etc. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fletcher Farm School for the Arts and Crafts, Route 103. For more information, visit www.yourplaceinvermont.com.
Adamant Black Fly Festival
May 21, 2011 – Adamant
This festival has two purposes – to benefit the Adamant Co-op, the oldest food co-op in Vermont, and to have some serious fun celebrating the bugs we love to hate. The annual event includes a black fly fashion show, a parade with eclectic costumes, local farm equipment, black fly pie contest, grilled food and more. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1313 Haggett Road. Visit www.adamantcoop.org.
Annual Jamaica Fiber Festival
May 21, 2011 – Jamaica
Enjoy sheep shearing, spinning, weaving, demonstrations, live music, food and more in the heart of Jamaica Village. Buy spindles, homespun and hand-dyed yarn, and knitted, crocheted, woven, felted and sewn creations. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jamaica Town Hall, Route 30. For details, visit www.JamaicaFiberFestival.org.
Kingdom Dandelion Run
Derby – May 21, 2011
This relay half-marathon passes along the Northeast Kingdom's glorious fields of dandelions. But don't let the name fool you – the "Dandy" is a hilly, thigh-burning challenge. The Dandelion Run is a competitive and recreational 13.1 half-marathon for runners of all ages and abilities. Walkers welcome on a less challenging five-mile course. Derby Beach House, 4-H Road. For more information, visit www.dandelionrun.org.
Annual Mayfest Arts & Crafts Festival
May 28, 2011 – Bennington
More than 10,000 people fill Main Street, which becomes a pedestrian-only thoroughfare loaded with artisans and entertainers. Mayfest plays host to some of the finest jewelers, potters and art displays from around New England. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.betterbennington.com.
Vermont Open Studio Weekend
Statewide – May 28-29, 2011
Vermont's natural scenic beauty is enhanced each spring when the work of Vermont artists and craftspeople can be seen firsthand during Vermont's annual Open Studio Weekend. Open Studio Weekend is a statewide celebration of the visual arts and the creative process in which Vermont artists and craftspeople invite the public to visit them in their studios during Memorial Day Weekend. More than 260 sites will be open during this event, with more than 285 artists and artisans participating. For more information, visit www.vermontcrafts.com.
KeyBank Vermont City Marathon & Relay
Burlington – May 29, 2011
This annual event in Vermont's Queen City draws thousands of athletes each year. See runners in various locations across the city, including Battery Park, Church Street and Waterfront Park. For more information, visit http://vermontcitymarathon.org.
Green Mountain Opera Festival
May 29-June 19, 2011 – Waitsfield and Barre
The Green Mountain Opera Festival celebrates its sixth anniversary with more than three weeks of events, classes and concerts. Sponsored by the Green Mountain Cultural Center, festival presents professional quality opera productions at the historic Barre Opera House and several other venues in the Mad River Valley and beyond. For more information, visit www.greenmountainoperafestival.com.
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