Make the Most of February by Attending the Brattleboro Winter Carnival in Vermont

I can't believe it is already mid-February, and winter 2025 is almost halfway finished. If you are like me and haven't taken full advantage of all the cold-weather fun in Vermont, I'm here to tell you there is still time to go out and embrace the chill. This weekend kicks off a whole week of fun in Southern Vermont as the annual Brattleboro Winter Carnival celebrates its 69th year. 

The carnival begins on Saturday, Feb. 15, and runs until Sunday, Feb. 23. This year's events will feature a mix of longtime favorites and some brand new offerings. The upcoming week is a great time to experience outdoor adventures in Brattleboro, a lovely town roughly 10 miles from the Massachusetts border, and the festival aligns perfectly with many areas' school vacation weeks. 

Saturday, Feb. 15, is the Winter Carnival's Outdoor Fun Day, and the schedule is filled with lots of snowy activities, including $5 skiing and snowboarding, festive sleigh rides, and free snowmobile rides. The popular Sugar-on-Snow event, which combines tasty treats with fresh snow, will take place at noon. I have to say this pairing has me quite intrigued. 

The outdoor fun continues throughout the festival. However, when your fingers start to tingle, and your cheeks get a bit too rosy, head inside for the carnival's indoor events. Warm your soul as you fill up on a delicious meal at the annual pancake breakfast or participate in this year's chili cook-off. Don't miss the incredible performance at the Winter Carnival Concert with the Windham Philharmonic, the adult dodgeball tournament, or the new Y2K Party. There will also be many activities for the kids, including a glow dance and a paint-and-sip night for teens.  

Check out the daily carnival schedule and location of individual events on the Brattleboro Winter Carnival website. You can also learn more about the event highlights and view photos on the Brattleboro Winter Carnival Facebook page.

While visiting Brattleboro, save room for pizza at one of these delicious local restaurants. If you are looking for a family-friendly hotel, book a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brattleboro by IHG, which offers complimentary breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Do you have a favorite winter festival in Vermont? We'd love to hear about it, so please nominate it.