At Vermont, you can enjoy the world-famous fall foliage and snow-dusted stone churches during Thanksgiving. When deciding where to go in this mountainous New England state, consider locations such as the bustling cobblestone streets of Burlington or the tree-covered peaks near Stowe. Book a stay at a Vermont vacation rental today. Whether you’re visiting for a week or quick weekend, these nine towns are known for ringing in Thanksgiving in style.
1. Burlington
Enjoy your turkey on the shores of Lake Champlain in historic Burlington. A few days before the holiday, Craft Vermont brings its annual fine craft and art show to town, creating the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. On Thanksgiving morning, join the Green Mountain Athletic Association in the Turkey Trot 5K, which also hosts a free mini-race for kids. The Jingle Bell Express comes to town on Thanksgiving weekend; during the round-trip ride, passengers sing carols, listen to Christmas stories, and chat with Santa.
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2. Dover
Host a peaceful Thanksgiving dinner at vacation rentals in Dover, one of Vermont’s most beautiful off-the-beaten-path vacation destinations. The day after Thanksgiving, head up to Mount Snow for the Turkey Hangover Hillclimb, a free fun run for the whole family. There are prizes for the best costume, so bring your most imaginative running clothes. On Thanksgiving weekend, watch as skiers form a torchlight parade down the mountain as fireworks explode overhead.
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3. Woodstock
For a classic New England Thanksgiving, look no further than charming Woodstock. The festivities kick off with the Zack’s Place Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot Run/Walk, a laid-back 5K race that welcomes kids, strollers, dogs, and walkers. Later, head to the mouth-watering buffet at the picturesque Woodstock Inn. On the weekend, locals flock to the Billings Farm and Museum for a look at a historic Thanksgiving celebration. Watch as actors portray the harvest, food preparation, and entertainment, and attend fascinating talks about the origins of the holiday in the parlor. Sip a hot cider as you take a wagon ride around the farm, and head to the education room to learn how to make old-world holiday treats.
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4. Brattleboro
Give your legs a workout on Brattleboro’s rolling hills during the Brattleboro Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. The event begins with a short kids’ run, followed by a relaxed 5K. Enjoy a turkey dinner with seasonal sides at The New England House, or get into the giving spirit by volunteering at the lively Brattleboro Community Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. After the holiday, spend the weekend at the Putney Craft Tour, where local artisans open their studios to the public for tours, discussions, and shopping.
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5. Middlebury
The holiday festivities get off to an early start in Middlebury; if you’re in town early, head to Sugarbush Mountain to welcome winter with bonfires, wood-fired pizza, and live music at The Big Kicker. Look out for the Middlebury College Community Chorus’ annual Thanksgiving concert, which features two free performances. On Thanksgiving morning, get your heart pumping on Thanksgiving with at the Middlebury Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble 5K and 10K race. At the end of the course, race organizers host a random drawing for turkeys and gift certificates to local businesses.
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6. Londonderry
Thanksgiving in Londonderry revolves around Stratton Mountain, where a variety of annual events draws visitors and locals. The weekend kicks off with the Gobble Gobble Wobble 5K, a fun race that encourages participants to dress in costume. If you’re not planning to cook dinner, head for Table 43.1 restaurant, where a delicious turkey and prime rib dinner satisfies even the heartiest eaters. Thanksgiving weekend brings the opening of the Magic Mountain tubing hill, which is accessible for everyone in the family. For shopping, spend Black Friday at the Stratton Mountain Village Stroll, which features special sales, a tree lighting, and a variety of raffles.
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7. Killington
Thanksgiving is the ideal time to enjoy the spectacular mountains of Killington. Get a taste of snow the weekend before Thanksgiving, when the Killington ski area hosts the Loaded Turkey Rail Jam competition. On the morning of the holiday, head to The Pickle Barrel for the Killington 5K Turkey Trot; the hilly course is a great way to prepare for a big dinner. If you’re not a runner, grab a cup of coffee and join other casual participants in walking the route. On Thanksgiving weekend, the ski area comes alive with the Audi FIS Women’s Ski World Cup, where some of the best alpine skiers in the world fly through slalom courses.
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8. Stowe
With its dreamy alpine architecture and towering peaks, Stowe offers a postcard-perfect setting for your Thanksgiving. The town gathers the morning of the holiday to run the annual Stowe Turkey Trot. After you complete the 5K course, stick around for the prize drawing and refreshments. The Main Street Dining Room at the Green Mountain Inn serves a spectacular Thanksgiving Day feast in a traditional New England setting; Charlie B’s at the Stoweflake Mountain Resort also offers a fantastic buffet.
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9. Bellows Falls
The holiday season starts the weekend before Thanksgiving in Bellows Falls, with the arrival of the Bellows Falls Santa Express. This Green Mountain Flyer train departs from town and runs to the North Pole, where kids can meet Santa and enjoy a snack. After your Thanksgiving dinner, head up to Windmill Hill to enjoy views of New Hampshire and the Connecticut River from the Main Trail. The weekend after Thanksgiving, downtown Bellows Falls hosts Small Business Saturday, which features treats, music, and holiday sales at local shops.
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