As the calendar flips to 2025, Vermont invites you to immerse yourself in a tapestry of festivities that promise unforgettable moments. From family-friendly events to exhilarating outdoor adventures, discover how towns across this scenic state are gearing up to welcome the new year with flair and tradition.

A Night to Remember: Experience the Best of Vermont’s New Year’s Eve

The Bennington Museum’s Family Celebration

In the heart of Bennington, families gather for a unique Noon Year’s Eve party at the Bennington Museum. This event offers an early countdown experience complete with live music, festive hats, and engaging activities. Ideal for those who prefer not to stay up until midnight, it sets the stage for a joyful start to the new year. Admission is just $5 per child, making it accessible for all.

Bolton Valley’s Skiing Extravaganza

For adrenaline seekers, Bolton Valley Resort presents an evening filled with skiing thrills. Glide down the slopes until 7 p.m., then transition into a torchlight parade followed by a spectacular fireworks display. As night deepens, catch a livestream of Phish performing at Madison Square Garden in the cozy James Moore Tavern. This blend of winter sports and entertainment ensures a memorable night.

Brandon Inn’s Midnight Revelry

The historic Brandon Inn hosts a glamorous New Year’s Eve party from 9:30 p.m. to midnight. Attendees can indulge in cocktails, dance to live music, and celebrate the arrival of 2025 in style. With tickets priced at $25, guests can revel in an atmosphere of elegance and festivity. The inn’s charm adds a touch of nostalgia to the modern celebration.

Brattleboro’s Last Night Festival

Brattleboro’s “Last Night” festival unfolds across multiple venues, offering a day-long series of events. Families enjoy free ice skating, a disc golf tournament, and a lively contra dance. The highlight comes at 8:30 p.m. when the Heart Rose Club hosts a ball drop, symbolizing the transition into the new year. This inclusive celebration caters to all ages, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy.

Burlington’s Highlight Festival

Burlington’s downtown transforms into a hub of excitement during the annual Highlight Festival. Circus performers, live bands, and dazzling fireworks create an electrifying ambiance. A notable tradition is the burning of Champ, a wooden sculpture, at the waterfront. For $18, attendees gain universal access to all events, experiencing the city’s vibrant spirit firsthand.

Londonderry’s Mountain Top Bash

Magic Mountain Ski Area in Londonderry hosts a thrilling evening with live music by the band Granite and a midnight fireworks show. The $20 cover charge grants entry to a night of high-energy performances and breathtaking pyrotechnics. Nestled in the mountains, this venue provides a picturesque backdrop for celebrating the new year under the stars.

Ludlow’s Okemo Mountain Festivities

Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow offers a diverse lineup of activities leading up to a stunning fireworks display. Live music fills the Jackson Gore Courtyard, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests. The Toyota Music Den features performances that set the tone for an unforgettable night. Conclude your evening with a visual spectacle at 8 p.m., marking the dawn of 2025.

East Burke’s Musical Countdown

Burke Mountain Resort welcomes revelers to its ballroom for a night of live music and dancing. Season pass holders enjoy complimentary entry, while others pay a modest $15 cover charge. The ballroom’s elegant setting enhances the celebratory mood, allowing guests to dance into the new year surrounded by friends and family.

Jay Peak’s Sky-High Spectacle

Jay Peak Resort showcases a mesmerizing fireworks display over Tramside, starting at 7 p.m. Following the aerial show, the Foeger Ballroom comes alive with Zach Nugent’s Dead Set, delivering a musical performance that keeps the energy high until midnight. This combination of sky-high visuals and ground-level entertainment makes for a night to remember.

Smugglers’ Notch’s Pirate Party

At Smugglers’ Notch, a pirate-themed celebration begins at 3:30 p.m. Glow tubing, karaoke, and themed parties create a whimsical atmosphere. Adults can unwind in the Bootleggers’ Lounge, where pirate-themed fun extends into the late hours. This imaginative event appeals to both young and old, fostering a sense of adventure as the clock strikes midnight.

Killington’s Fireworks and Festivities

Killington Resort becomes a playground of activities on New Year’s Eve. Mask making, a groomer parade, and live music culminate in a grand fireworks display. Afterward, the Wobbly Barn hosts performances by Krishna Guthrie Band and Sean Patrick and the Alibis, ensuring the night remains vibrant well past midnight. This comprehensive schedule caters to every interest.

Middlebury’s Ice Skating and Fireworks

Middlebury combines traditional elements with modern flair. The evening starts with a fireworks show at the Recreation Field, followed by free ice skating at the Memorial Sports Center. This dual experience allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors while embracing the festive spirit. It’s a perfect way to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.

New Year’s Eve with Joe’s Big Band

The Town Hall Theater in Middlebury hosts a jazz ensemble led by Joe’s Big Band. A 17-piece orchestra performs classics, accompanied by a champagne toast for adults. Guests receive a swing dance lesson before the show, adding an interactive element to the celebration. Tickets at $40 include this immersive musical journey into the new year.

Montpelier’s Drumming Workshops

Lost Nation Theater in Montpelier brings drumming and dance to the forefront. Two workshops kick off the day, followed by a captivating performance by Shidaa Dance and Drum Troupe. This cultural immersion offers a unique way to connect with the community and ring in the new year through rhythm and movement. A suggested donation of $15 supports these enriching activities.

Central Vermont Runners’ Annual 5k

Onion River Outdoors in Montpelier organizes a New Year’s Eve 5k race through downtown streets. Participants can register on race day for $20 or pre-register online for a discounted rate. This invigorating run sets a positive tone for the coming year, promoting health and community spirit. Children receive a special discount, encouraging family participation.

Bent Nails Bistro’s Soulful Sounds

Downtown Montpelier’s Bent Nails Bistro features Dave Keller and his band, known for their soul and blues tunes. A ticketed event ($25) offers two hours of live music, followed by a continuation of the New Year’s Eve festivities with The Nailers. This intimate setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying soulful melodies and welcoming the new year with friends.

North Hero’s Casino Night

North Hero House Inn hosts a casino night fundraiser benefiting Grand Isle Rescue. For $20, guests receive $100 worth of chips to play Texas Hold ‘Em and Blackjack. Light snacks and a full bar complement the gaming experience, creating a festive and charitable atmosphere. This event brings together locals and visitors for a night of luck and generosity.

Montshire Museum’s Family-Friendly Noon Year

The Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich offers a family-oriented celebration starting at 9:30 a.m. Hourly countdowns, crafts, and storytime engage children and parents alike. Tickets at $11 for members and $15 for non-members provide access to a morning filled with educational and entertaining activities. This event caters to families looking for a daytime alternative to midnight celebrations.

St. Johnsbury’s Arts Extravaganza

First Night North in St. Johnsbury showcases a wide array of performances across a dozen venues. Over 70 live shows feature music, dance, and comedy, offering something for everyone. Discounts for students and free entry for preschoolers make this arts-centric celebration accessible to all. It’s a testament to the community’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit.

South Burlington’s Talking Heads Tribute

Higher Ground Ballroom in South Burlington hosts Start Making Sense, a tribute band dedicated to the Talking Heads. Their energetic performance promises to bring the house down musically. Advance tickets at $29.50 and day-of tickets at $35 ensure a packed audience ready to dance into the new year. This concert is a must-see for fans of classic rock and new wave.

New Queers Eve at Higher Ground

Also at Higher Ground, the Showcase Lounge transforms into a hub of drag and burlesque performances hosted by Emoji Nightmare. GAYBAR provides the soundtrack, while a midnight toast completes the celebration. Tickets at $30 in advance and $35 on the day guarantee an inclusive and exhilarating night. This event highlights diversity and creativity in welcoming the new year.

Burlington International Airport’s Bar Crawl

Ring in the new year with a bar crawl starting in South Burlington. For just $5, participants visit various watering holes, each offering its own unique vibe. This casual and social event allows revelers to explore different establishments and celebrate the arrival of 2025 in style. It’s a laid-back yet exciting way to end the year.

Stratton Mountain’s Fireworks Display

Stratton Mountain Resort hosts a 30-minute fireworks show over the southern Greens. The visual feast lights up the night sky, providing a breathtaking conclusion to the year. Attendees gather to witness the colorful explosions, creating lasting memories as they look forward to the opportunities and adventures ahead.

Stowe Mountain Resort’s Ice Skating Performance

Spruce Peak Village at Stowe Mountain Resort presents an enchanting evening of ice skating performances, hot cocoa, and fireworks. The combination of winter activities and festive traditions creates a magical atmosphere. Families and couples alike can enjoy the serene beauty of the resort while partaking in age-old customs that mark the passage of time.

Tunbridge’s Blues Dance Party

Tunbridge Town Hall hosts a high-energy blues dance party starting at 9 p.m. BYOB and food policies add a personal touch to the event, while live music sets the tempo for a night of dancing. Tickets at $25 grant entry to this lively celebration, fostering a sense of community and shared joy as the clock ticks toward midnight.

Vergennes Eagles Club’s Fundraiser

Vergennes Eagles Club organizes a New Year’s Eve party to benefit Vergennes Union Elementary School. DJ Tony Lamoureux spins tunes, light snacks are available, and a cash bar serves drinks. At $15 per person, this event combines fundraising efforts with a festive atmosphere, ensuring a meaningful and enjoyable celebration.

All Brains Belong Virtual Celebration

Join the All Brains Belong virtual New Year’s Eve celebration via Zoom. A slate of activities, including musical performances and a virtual raffle, offers a safe and engaging way to welcome the new year from home. This innovative approach connects people across distances, fostering unity and celebration in a digital space.

Sugarbush Resort’s Winter Wonderland

Sugarbush Resort in Warren provides a full day of activities, including a magician, fireworks, and snowshoe tours. The resort caters to both adults and children with separate New Year’s Eve parties, ensuring everyone has a tailored experience. This comprehensive event captures the essence of winter wonder and the excitement of a fresh beginning.

Mount Snow’s Torchlight Parade

West Dover’s Mount Snow Base Area hosts a torchlight parade followed by a fireworks display. Neon Wave takes the stage afterward, continuing the festivities with live music. The parade’s glowing procession adds a visually stunning element to the celebration, making it a highlight of the evening. This event blends tradition with modern entertainment for a night to remember.